Focal 165AC

[Tarance77]

Has anyone used the Focal 165AC speakers in their boat? I have used them before, but on a motorcycle. They are not rated waterproof, but worked fine after being caught in many rainstorms over the years. Great speakers with great sound.

 

[David Analog]

Has anyone used the Focal 165AC speakers in their boat? I have used them before, but on a motorcycle. They are not rated waterproof, but worked fine after being caught in many rainstorms over the years. Great speakers with great sound.

I agree, that's a very good sounding speaker within its price point. And it wouldn't be the first time they were used in a fresh water boat. The front of the speaker is made from materials (cone & surround) that are somewhat resistant to the elements. But metal mesh grills usually get around to rusting and cotton spiders will generally fatigue early. The biggest issue in a fresh water boat is the under-cover storage, humidity, and temperature cycles that lead to corrosion and degradation before the sun and water take their toll. If using a post-mounted tweeter this means the midbass voice coil gap is open to the elements. Also, check the I.D. spec as you may have to trim out the opening a bit versus other coaxials. So taking the above into consideration and assuming those risks....

 

[Tarance77]

I agree, that's a very good sounding speaker within its price point. And it wouldn't be the first time they were used in a fresh water boat. The front of the speaker is made from materials (cone & surround) that are somewhat resistant to the elements. But metal mesh grills usually get around to rusting and cotton spiders will generally fatigue early. The biggest issue in a fresh water boat is the under-cover storage, humidity, and temperature cycles that lead to corrosion and degradation before the sun and water take their toll. If using a post-mounted tweeter this means the midbass voice coil gap is open to the elements. Also, check the I.D. spec as you may have to trim out the opening a bit versus other coaxials. So taking the above into consideration and assuming those risks....

That is a very useful insight sir. Thank you for the info. That makes me think a bit more about going with that style of speaker in my boat.