Enhancing your ride: Jeeps’ McIntosh audio systems praised as best sub $100k car audio

Feb 21, 2023 |

Jeep's iconic Grand Cherokee has been getting a lot of attention lately due to its McIntosh-designed audio system. For those who prioritize sound quality over bells and whistles, the McIntosh brand produces some of the best-sounding speakers on the market, and this model is no exception.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee with McIntosh's audio system is often compared to the high-end car audio systems seen in luxury and performance vehicles. In a recent review, CNET writer Kyle Hyatt had the chance to experience the McIntosh audio systems in Jeep's car lineup. He praised them as the "sub-$100K car audio kings", saying "may be the best car audio systems you can get in the sub-$100,000 price range".

McIntosh Sound Systems in the Grand Cherokee L, Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer

The 2022-2023 Grand Wagoneer Series I and Series II can be equipped with either the McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment System or MX950 Entertainment System, while the Grand Wagoneer Series III comes standard with the MX1375 Reference Entertainment System. The Grand Wagoneer was named to the 2022 Wards Auto 10 Best Interiors & UX Winners List "for its high-end materials, thoughtful design touches and being packed with family friendly features and technologies such as a McIntosh Entertainment System."

The 2023 Grand Wagoneer was also named Luxury Vehicle of the Year by the Hispanic Motor Press who noted that its interior, which includes a McIntosh Entertainment System, "represents one of the best luxury interiors in decades, featuring details and craftsmanship that take this SUV to a level once unthinkable in a real 4x4 vehicle."

McIntosh's MX1375 Reference Entertainment System and MX950 Entertainment Systems deliver a high-fidelity sound experience, incorporating the same design language found in their home audio products. Known for its illuminated McIntosh logos, metal ridged control knobs, and aluminum frames, these systems capture the iconic sense of style that has secured McIntosh's international recognition.

jeep mcintosh audio system

McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment System

The McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment System is an impressive audio setup that comes standard on select Jeep Grand Wagoneer models. With 1,375 watts of power distributed over 24 channels to 23 speakers located in 16 different locations throughout the cabin, this system is sure to provide an immersive listening experience.

"The MX1375 sounds accurate and crisp, but it also manages to be extremely easy to listen to and not fatiguing."

The speakers range from 3.5-inch midrange and 1-inch tweeter units arrayed across the dash, to 6x9-inch woofers low in each door, four 2-inch ceiling-mount speakers, and a 12-inch dual-coil subwoofer in the cargo area. This comprehensive setup ensures that every corner of the cabin is filled with sound for a truly cinematic experience. Whether you’re listening to your favorite music or watching a movie on the go, the McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment System will bring it all to life with crystal clear clarity and powerful bass.

McIntosh MX950 Entertainment System

The McIntosh MX950 Entertainment System is a powerful audio system that is available as an option in the Wagoneer Series III and top models of the Grand Cherokee L. It can output up to 950 watts over 17 channels to 19 speakers located in 12 different locations throughout the vehicle. The speakers feature illuminated McIntosh logos, and the volume and tuning knobs have ribbed edging like their home units do. The infotainment screen can also display McIntosh's signature power meters illuminated in blue.

Unlike the MX1375, this system does not include four ceiling speakers; however, it still delivers excellent sound quality to all passengers. Mid-level Grand Cherokee Ls get a nine-speaker Alpine audio system while lower model lines get an unbranded six-speaker setup. Both systems will provide drivers and passengers with a premium audio experience, delivering pristine sound clarity from any position in the vehicle.

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