2021 JBL sound system volume low.

Maybe? Couldnt tell ya, but ya its def noticeable difference in the systems, I think Toyota cheapened out by saying look lets upcharge the premium package and include JBL standard with it while saving on the components. I remember sitting in my new 19 Cement on the lot and changing out everything at delivery and being like WTF why is this system weak compared to my 17 with JBL, same with my 20.

 

I don’t have JBL in my 21 OR but I do notice a difference in volume between using Bluetooth and plugging it in hardwire to the CarPlay. Not sure if you all are using Bluetooth or hardwire but worth a look I suppose

 

I have a BMW with Harmon Karden I know what a good sound system should sound like and my new truck is not it.

 

I tried both ways to no avail

 

JBL sucks in my truck too.

 

I am not saying you don’t, I agree the system sucks

 

Replaced all of the speakers in my 21 JBL system and volume is much better.
I was surprised at how much better it is.
Got the speakers form OEM Audio.

 

It’s just how the system is. It def sucks. Is not audible with windows cracked at anything over 50mph. The built in dsp cuts everything. The only highs come out of the 2.5” dash speakers. And everything else is muddy. My helmet speakers are far more clear at 100mph on my Harley with no windshield. I’ve changed the oem speakers and sub to others. But outside of gutting and redoing. There isn’ta decent option. My Bluetooth jbl charge speaker is louder and clearer than the oem setup. Also toyo/jbl should be sued for saying this is a 440watt system. I had a base rav 4 s as a rental and was clearer and louder at volume level 25 vs 45 in the truck

 

I use Spotify and messed with the equalizer settings within the Spotify app to work best with my JBL system. I too thought the JBL’s weren’t loud enough.

 

I must have a unicorn JBL in my 2021 Offroad. It’s plenty loud.

 

Did you have a 16-17 JBL prior? There's a def difference, I can get mine loud in my 20 playing with some settings on spotify and the system, but the sound still sucks compared to my 17's JBL system, but def better than my non JBL trucks were.

 

I use Android Auto/Spotify in my 2020 w/JBL. I first tried using just the Bluetooth, and the volume was super low. When I plugged into Android Auto, it was giving me a lot of skipping like a scratched up CD would. Somewhere I had read that sometimes Android Auto or Carplay don't play nice with Bluetooth. Turning off the Bluetooth connection to my truck fixed all of my complaints and I just use AA now. I can drive down the freeway with the windows open and volume set to 30 and it is loud enough to be clear.

I agree that the JBL system is not a great system (difficult to upgrade, crossover points are a mess), but for now I'm happy since I turned off bluetooth.

 

I came from a 2010 TRD sport with JBL and I don't think I ever turned it up past 30. My 21 OR JBL is trash compared to my old taco. I don't use bluetooth just apple carplay but its still not good. Seems like XM radio sounds better or at least louder so the system has the capability to sound better but is pretty awful with bluetooth/apple carplay. I have noticed the last several weeks that my audio seems to sound better in the morning on my way to work then on my way home when its usually 108+ degrees out. I have even played the same song at the same volume just to make sure I'm not fooling myself. My sub is almost non existent on the way home compared to the mornings. Anyone else experience this?

 

I think JBL was always a low end brand.. if you guys youtube tacomabeast for the audio factory upgrade or check the website to purchase, theres an upgraded amp you can buy along with subs, too. I recommend Checking out the youtube video i just mentioned.. it is a bit pricey, but its completely “factory”

https://youtu.be/W5cIhUI4tsc

 

So is the non JBL system better than the JBL? That would make no sense if it is…..

 

I can't speak for non jbl but I can tell you my 2nd gen JBL kicked ass compared to this 21 JBL. When I test drove it sounded decent with satellite radio and I naturally assumed since it was a new taco it would be the same or better than my previous.

 

It is not, its even more trash (Ive had 3rd gens with both).

 

Ok, that’s what I expected. That sucks you spend the extra money for a premium sound system and it’s garbage! Wtf?

 

I guess it is a question of how you define "better". I think the JBL system is better in stock form, mainly for the extra bass that you get from the Sub. However, the non JBL systems can be upgraded for a $200-300 to easily sound better than the JBL. From what I've read on here, the JBL needs to be gutted and replaced, or use something like OEM Audio Plus ($2200+)

The JBL system is not an option that I think a lot of people upgraded to get. My priority was a sunroof, LED headlights, and leather, in that order. Which meant unless you get a MT, it comes with the JBL system.

 

Prior to 2018, the tech/prem package was separate from JBL and the JBL in those trucks (my 17 and 15) were leaps and bounds better sounding than the now bundled premium package that has it. I'm guessing this was a way for Toyota to streamline packages and save for the bean counters by having a cheaper version of the JBL and slight upgrade still from stock. Even my fiance's new Rav4 XSE hybrid's JBL is loads louder and better sounding.