Custom-made golf cart radio consoles are all the rage currently. They are practical and versatile stereo receivers with plenty of options for audio input. The consoles are made from durable material and are specifically engineered for golf carts, UTVs, trucks and campers. They have full-range speakers with enough muscle to rock your outdoor party when you are out with your golf cart or UTV.
What is Overhead Radio Console For Golf Cart & UTV ?
In simple terms, an overhead radio console for golf cart is a compact soundbar like structure that is used to install a music system on to a golf cart without taking any dashboard storage space. In other words, you can mount the radio on the cart top over your head. This saves dashboard space and gives amplified sound. The manufacturers designed these consoles with tough durable exteriors like water resistant soundbars. They contain slots for speakers and radio / cd player.
These consoles come for different Golf Cart brands like EZGO, Yamaha, Club Car etc. Several golf cart radio kits are available in the market with compatible units. To give you an idea of which console to buy, we are listing down best consoles for different golf cart brands. You can pair these with any universal fit speakers like from Innova, JBL, Aquavibes etc.
We recently did a study on golf cart radio systems. Based on their features and sound quality, we compiled a list of the top overhead consoles. Here it is. Hope it helps shed light on some of the important aspects of golf cart sound systems.
Best Golf Cart Radio Console :
For quick reference you can check the following table to know about the best products. For detailed product review check the later section :
SD PIONEER1KRGB Golf Cart Stereo Radio System by Galena :
The SD PIONEER1KRGB is a big-budget golf cart stereo console made for Honda Pioneer 1000. It is equipped with two pairs of 6 ½ inch Kicker speakers that produce heart-thumping audio.
The device is meant for mounting with factory roll cages and can even fix with a roof. For seamless 2nd party connectivity, it has Bluetooth, a 3.5mm AUX input, and a USB port. As an extended option, it also features a weatherproof radio system.
During day hours, it is just your gold cart stereo, though, during night hours, it turns into a LED light console. Its dome lights with changing colors add an exciting dimension to the music streaming experience.
Universal Radio Stereo BT Soundbar by Galena :
The Universal Radio Stereo BT Soundbar is another overhead stereo by Galena. It is integrated with one pair of 6 ½ inch marine Kicker speakers and a marine radio head unit. Its entire outer body is made up of durable impact-resistant polyethylene and marine-grade material. Its stereo faceplate prevents water and dust from getting inside the radio.
In addition, the polyfill material aids in producing optimal sound reproduction. For seamless 2nd party connectivity, it has Bluetooth, a 3.5mm AUX input, and a USB port. For fresh music, news, and cricket updates, it also has an AM/FM Radio.
For easy Radio navigation, the stereo has a display screen that shows FM frequency and other details. Though installing this Galena soundbar is easy, users have to buy mounting hardware separately.
Comparative Study :
Both SD PIONEER1KRGB Golf Cart Stereo and The Universal Radio Stereo BT Soundbar are products from Galena. However, when compared together, the latter is a more thoughtful purchase. In addition, it is extremely inexpensive when compared to the former device, though it still delivers a thumping and impressive audio performance.
Polaris RZR Razor 1000 2015+ 900 Overhead Stereo Radio :
The Polaris RZR Razor 1000 2015+ 900 is one of the best golf cart radio consoles in the range. It has four 5 ¼ inch marine-grade Kicker speakers that produce ultra-loud and powerful sound. Also, since the speaker boxes are stuffed with polyfill, the audio it produces comes out without any distortion.
Polaris RZR Razor comes with all mounting hardware, and installing it is quite hassle-free. All you need to do is, connect 4 clamps and 2 wires to the battery, fix the device, and you are done. It has a transparent door on the front for protection against dirt, dust, and water.
Lastly, it offers several wireless and wired options for audio input, including Bluetooth and AUX-in ports. It even has a USB slot and FM radio that allows listening to fresh music and news every time.
New REI Roof-Mounted Radio Kit :
The New REI Roof-Mounted Radio Kit is another golf cart radio console. Since majorly its counterparts are quite expensive, this particular model comes in the category of affordable devices. The New REI Roof-Mounted Radio Kit is meant for golf carts, UTVs, RTV, and other vehicles that feature a flat top. It truly is meant for overhead installation.
Mounting the device is so easy, and the best part is the set of included hardware that eases the process. On the audio front, it is integrated with 2 built-In Stereo Speakers that produce loud, clear, and powerful audio. Despite its outdoor usage, it fills the atmosphere with distortion-free music. Since it is a true golf cart radio console, it features a flexible AM/FM antenna W/60 cable (210066). With that, users can stream all the latest music, news, cricket, and much more.
The device has multiple buttons and a small LCD display for easy operations. The operating panel is so sorted out that even novice users can operate it.
GMT Inc. Overhead Radio Console :
The GMT Inc INC Overhead Console is a non-loaded device. Unlike other devices in the range, it does not come with a radio head unit or speakers. However, it is precisely meant for housing any radio and amplifier. It even features cut-outs that match with coaxial as well as component speakers for easy fitting.
The console has two 5-inch holes for the speakers. However, users can extend these holes to accommodate 6 ½ inch speakers as and when required. It also has a pre-cut single-DIN radio opening. This GMT Inc INC Overhead Console can fit any vehicle with a flat surface. It ideally installs easily at Arctic Cat, John Deere, Kawasaki Mule, RZR 800, RZR 570, RZR-4, RZR XP1K, Can-Am, and other Yamaha UTVs.
The device is made up of black 3/16-inch ABS plastic, which is 50% just more resistant than similar units. However, it isn’t very bulky (weight or size-wise) and thus provides sufficient overhead space. It is UV-resistant and impact-resistant and can handle multiple outdoor conditions.
Golf Cart UTV Overhead Console with CD Player and Bluetooth :
This Golf Cart UTV overhead console is a product by Thunderbuckets and is one of the golf cart stereo consoles. It is known for its powerful audio output that impresses the most when compared to several other counterparts. It has Bluetooth, an AM/FM radio, an MP3 player, a CD player, a USB flash drive reader, and a TF card reader for audio input.
The list of extended options provides ease of use. The AM/FM Radio has a hidden antenna for a clean setup. Besides how it performs, the console looks extremely appealing as well. Surrounding its entire cabinet, there are bright blue LED lights (with a switch). Not just that, but there is cob-style extra bright white LED map light (with switch).
This unique illumination setup makes up for a small party mode during the night hours. This console from Thundersbucket has a rugged ABS enclosure and a black textured finish. Its fully sealing lid provides protection from knocks and falls.
Comparative Study :
What makes this overhead stereo a great choice is its audio output. The device comes equipped with 6.5-inch three-way-firing Boss CH6530 tweeters, red poly injection cones, and butyl rubber surrounds. This configuration altogether produces full-range audio. It won’t feel abruptly loud but is acoustically optimized, which aids in a better audio listening experience. Its RMS is 150 Watts, and its Max power output is 300 Watts.
EMPTY Golf Cart UTV Overhead Stereo Radio Console :
Another device from Thunderbuckets is this EMPTY Golf Cart UTV, an impressive golf cart radio console. It is basically a cabinet/ enclosure that is meant for the housing speaker system and FM radio. The device is constructed from good quality ABS plastic and has a low-profile frame design. It fits well with flat roof vehicles, closer to the roof without interfering with drivers and passengers.
Though it can also fit with crossbars and roll cages using standard tube straps for extended mounting options. The cabinet is specifically designed to keep internal acoustic components safe from mechanical damage. In addition, it is designed for supporting single DIN stereos.
The cabinet is big enough to house 5.25-inch marine speakers. Also, it has a removable lid that makes installing the speaker and radio-quiet an easy process. Once done with the setup, simply glue, bolt, or use silicon for refixing it.
Madjax Carbon Fiber Golf Cart Universal Overhead Stereo Console :
Madjax Carbon offers another cabinet for housing an entire stereo and console. This super versatile device is made up of heavy-duty carbon fiber that is strong enough to take knocks. Not just that, but the material also protects the speakers and media receiver from impact and vibrations.
It is ideally built for fitting 5.25 inches or 6 inches marine speakers. Though since it has enough room, experimenting with a bigger size is optional. Its super versatile design allows housing a radio with speakers or a CD player with speakers.
Lastly, it has attractive dual-LED dome lights that enhance the entire appearance with illumination.
Speaker and Radio Overhead Console Housing Compatible with Golf Cart
This overhead Radio Console is a non-loaded device that means without a radio head unit or speakers. However, it is meant for housing any radio and amplifier. The device can fit up to 6.5 inches speakers, and users can cut their own opening customizable.
The console is designed to ensure speakers angle right toward the driver and passengers. It is built up of high-grade ABS plastic material and has a desirable textured finish to it. The plastic appears extremely sturdy; however, cutting it with a rotary tool is easy and hassle-free.
The manufacturers offer a 1inch lip around the console for utilizing as many mounting points the users want. And for added support, it comes with a kit of double-sided tape.
Performance Plus Carts Radio Console, Carbon Fiber, Universal
This Radio Console from Performance Plus Carts Store is the last but definitely not the least on our list. Unlike other common plastic consoles, this device is made up of carbon fiber and has a rich look to it. It can fit a Single DIN radio and speakers sizing around 5 ¼ inches the best.
However, users can still try other radio and speakers and can find an ideal fit with this console. The device doesn’t come alone but also has a cap for the back of the console.
How to Install a Stereo in a Golf Cart? A stereo in your golf cart can transform your golfing experience. All you need is a good quality stereo/radio/receiver, a pair of speakers, wiring, a mounting unit and the necessary tools. In the following steps we are going to walk you through the process of installing a radio system on a golf cart. Step 1: Picking the right gear A golf cart is an open vehicle. Its interiors are constantly exposed to the sun, rain and dust. Hence, the radio and the speakers have to be weatherproof. Step 2: Mounting the radio The best place for the radio is the glove compartment as it affords protection against the elements. Make a rectangular hole in the door of the glove box so that the deck slides in and rests securely with its face flush. Now mount the radio to the inside of the dash cover using the mounting brackets. Before you do this, however, make sure there is enough space behind the deck to connect speaker and battery wires. If not, wire the system first and then install it. If the cart has a drink and center console that lacks space for a radio, you might have to remove it to screw in a new console with a pre-molded space for a radio. Such dash kits either have a gauge-style or single-DIN opening for the receiver and two 6 ½ inch holes on either side for the speakers. They also have pre-cut openings for the steering shaft, ignition key and USB/AUX jacks. Another option is a custom dash console with a pre-loaded stereo system complete with radio and speakers. These dash kits are available with high-quality audio devices from Rockford Fosgate, Boss, Pyle Audio, etc. They make your job easy and you just have to remove the old dash and fit in the new one and you are all set. Step 3: Mounting the speakers There are two ways to do this. You can either go for an overhead installation or a recessed installation in the kick panel below the seat. In the first case, the best location for the speakers is underneath the canopy in the rear corners (mounted box speakers). Drill holes in the canopy and use silicone around each bolt to prevent water seepage. If you are using a custom unloaded overhead radio console, the space for the speakers is already assigned. You just have to mount the speakers in their cut-outs and make sure there are no gaps. For a recessed installation on the kick panels, cut holes in the center of each surface. There must be sufficient space for the magnets inside and the speaker to lie flush. Please note that bracket-mounted speakers are not suitable for underseat placement as they might reduce the legroom. Regular six-by-nine speakers are recommended for this kind of installation. Step 4: Wiring Run a ground wire (black) from your radio to a bolt on the frame or chassis of your golf cart, preferably behind the dash panel. This is crucial for system safety. Be sure this wire is tightly attached to the bolt. Next run the power wire (red) to the battery or nearest wiring harness. Connect each speaker wire to the right slot on the back of the radio and solder it. If the speakers are mounted to the roof, run wires along the frame of the roof to each speaker and secure it with plastic ties. You might want to use a wire stripper to expose enough wire to wrap around the speaker terminals. Solder each connection with care. If the speakers are on the kick panel, run wires from the back of the deck, underneath the cart and up through each speaker cut-out. Step 5: Test the system Once you have completed the wiring, turn on the radio and test your system. If it works, secure all nuts and bolts and take the cart out for a test ride to check for loose connections and knocking sounds. If everything is perfect, the installation is complete. Can I connect my phone to the overhead stereo console and play music? Yes, of course you can. There are two ways to do this: Bluetooth and AUX. If the stereo has built-in Bluetooth, you can pair your phone with it and enjoy wireless music streaming. You can also connect your phone to the overhead stereo using an AUX cable. Here you need to insert one end of the cable into the AUX output port of the phone and the other into the 3.5mm AUX input port of the stereo. What is the best Bluetooth speaker system with FM for golf carts? Here are some of our recommendations for Bluetooth speaker system with FM for golf carts. Pyle PLMRKT46BK Marine Receiver Speaker Kit This radio cum speaker kit has the best ratings on online shopping portals. It includes a marine receiver and a pair of 2-way 5 ¼ inch marine speakers with a peak power of 300 watts. There are 4 modes for playing music: Bluetooth, AUX, USB flash drive and SD card. For radio lovers, there’s AM/FM radio. A built-in mic allows hands-free calls and a remote control makes managing settings easy. BOSS Audio Systems MCK632WB.64 Marine Stereo Package The MCK632WB.64 by BOSS Audio Systems is a top-selling weatherproof stereo package for golf carts, ATVs and boats. It includes one marine receiver and four 6 ½ inch full-range marine speakers with a max power handling of 50 watts x 4. With AM/FM radio and a switchable US and Europe tuner, you can enjoy music and news from around the world. For input there are 4 options: Bluetooth, AUX, USB flash drive and SD card. It is also packed with features like built-in pre-set EQ, pre-amp outputs, hands-free calling and USB charging. Herdio Marine Round Audio Stereo System Kit The Herdio stereo kit has unbeatable marine construction. It has an IPX6 waterproof, rustproof, UV-tolerant enclosure built with ASTM 117 salt/fog standards. The package includes a round marine headunit and two self-contained pod/box speakers with swivel brackets. Maximum power of the system is 120 watts. It has AM/FM radio, Bluetooth, AUX input, USB pen drive reader and RCA output. If you want to install box speakers at the rear corners of your canopy, this Herdio bundle is a good option.
Golf carts are also being personalized, customized, and modified by owners who want a cart that’s unique. And there are some that they added bluetooth speakers for golf cart.
Yes Gary. I do agree your point. I think if you love music then a golf cart speaker is a cool option to have. But if you are too serious about music quality then adding a soundbar for golfing is a better choice any day.
Sam