Pioneer TS-MR1640

Pioneer has made vast improvements in its car and home audio speakers, and this marine speaker is proving that they make good speakers all around. With the most impressive frequency response range on our lineup, the Pioneer TS-MR1640 almost delivers as promised. The mid-range and highs are very nice, being plenty crisp and clear, but the speaker lacks a little in the bass compared to our top-rated units. The tweeter sits at a little more than an inch in diameter and has excellent response.

The Poly-Ether Imide (PEI) material used for the tweeter is unique to Pioneer and provides a bright sound without getting too whiny at high volumes. The power handling is not as high as other boat speakers, but the sensitivity rating at 91 dB helps make up for that fact. The speaker, and consequently the tweeter, doesn't have to use as much power to sound good, so the power handling doesn't have to be as high as other speakers with a lower sensitivity rating.

The TS-MR1640 uses a waterproof design, and the basket material is the same material protecting the magnet for extra protection from water intrusion. The speaker comes with its own mounting hardware to make it easier for you to install it in your boat.

The TS-MR1640 comes with a one-year warranty that is standard on most of Pioneer's products. Pioneer has an email contact form that you can fill out to send in questions, or you can choose to send them an email directly. They also have a phone number for general questions and support. There is both a FAQs page and a knowledgebase online, but both are sparse when it comes to marine audio questions. Your best bet would be to contact them directly if you have a question.

The Pioneer TS-MR1640 really excels in the mid to high range frequencies, producing great sound at high volumes. It struggles a bit in the bass range, being a little distorted when underpowered, and the response is not as good as higher-rated speakers. The speaker is made of good, solid materials and is pretty durable. The online support is lacking, but there are other options available to you if you have questions or need help.