I would like to gather opinions on best best sounding speakers to replace factory R53 . Wanting a direct fit.

 

What do you have? Harmon Kardon?

 

I have the base system, I don't know what it is.

 

The base system is easier to swap than the h/K since it doesn't have a separate amp to deal with.

I personally would start with a good sub. It makes a huge difference. If you've already got one then I'd take a look at Crutchfield. They can tell you what fits in the stock location and your budget can help figure what you can get, then ask if anyone here has used any of the particular speakers you're looking at.

I still have the stock head unit and speakers with a JL Stealthbox 10" sub and 300watt amp. I haven't felt the need to go beyond yet, and I run recording studio monitors as my mains in my living room, and have a pair of large format theater speakers in storage right now.

 

The base system is an Alpine system I believe. After looking on Crutchfield I found that nothing is "Direct Fit." All of the speaker setups require and adaptor ring and some drilling to fit. Also beware of speakers blocking the window mechanisms / the window itself in the doors. I would test that shortly after install if possible.

I have not installed my new speakers, but I will because I blew a door speaker somehow. Here is what I got Pioneer-TS-G1644R.

The guy on Crutchfield chat said these are probably best for price without needing an additional power amp. Otherwise it is over $50 per speaker for the OEM Alpine ones. I bet you could find a kit on there that sounds pretty good. It depends on how much bump you want.