Find the best Tesla Model 3 deals: locally.link/CMNe Read our dedicated audio review of the AWD model: totallyev.net/new-tesla-model-3-audio-review-upgraded-to-17-speakers/ Read our dedicated audio review of the RWD model: totallyev.net/new-tesla-model-3-audio-review-standard-vs-long-range-sound/ Our detailed written review of the new Tesla Model 3: totallyev.net/new-tesla-model-3-review-the-highland-upgrade-or-downgrade/ Video timestamps: Audio configuration: 00:00 Connectivity & EQ: 02:41 Cabin noise: 05:04 Sound demo: 06:12 Bass: 08:36 Treble: 10:15 Soundstage: 11:27 Verdict: 12:26

I really wish they would make the premium audio a separate option for people who like good audio but don't want to spend a ton more money on the LR.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Wouldn't be very Tesla like to do that lol. Tbh, some manufacturers are going down that route too - less options, more pre-set vehicles, lower manufacturing costs.

@BlazingsNL

6 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEV Yeah I don't think they'll ever put this in as an option for reasons you stated. Unfortunately the LR is above government incentive price in my country so it would cost a total of 11k more. Can't justify that kind of money when the extra range and 4WD is something I don't really need. I guess the speakers in the RWD will have to do ;)

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

@BlazingsNL fair enough, the standard model is good in its own right. Enjoy!

@migmigjohnson9351

6 ай бұрын

These aren’t cars. They’re such advanced toys that can be considered cars.

@UndefeatedDeity

5 ай бұрын

There are custom kits done by car audio shops. It takes about 5 seconds with a google search.

Finally someone testing sound system.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Pretty much the only publication that reviews every audio system that comes in a vehicle :)

@prodlime

4 ай бұрын

DM sound also does

@dariokatalinic8967

4 ай бұрын

@@prodlime Thanks!

Wish more car reviewers did audio reviews. Thank you for highlighting the complexity of audio in different cars. As I’ve discovered this year, they are not all the same. Toyota, hope your reading this 😅

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Pleasure, glad you enjoyed the review and the content!

The hero we need with audio review videos😌

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Thank you!

Happy new year ! Thanks for this audio review, and all the details you give like EQ and immersive mode settings ! 😉

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

And to you too! Thank you, glad you enjoyed the review!

You can format the USB drive to do dash cam, music and other things it's detailed in the manual.

I picked up my new LR yesterday and went straight back to this video to apply the EQ settings. I am so happy with the audio quality having come from an Audi RS3 with their “premium” Bang and Olufsen system. The Tesla is miles better.

@TotallyEV

4 ай бұрын

Glad you're enjoying it, and pleased to hear that the settings worked out for you too!

4:50 you can create 2 partitions where one can house the sentry footage and the other can store music files!

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Didn't know this, interesting. But then how does it know where to store or read the files from?

@maccavape2517

5 ай бұрын

I can confirm this setup works, two partitions, one has to be named Teslacam & obviously stores all the camera data (not only sentry mode, all live camera footage is recorded), the other for media can be named anything you want

@Y4vuz12

5 ай бұрын

You format one partition in a specific way for the dashcam (I may be wrong but just creating a folder named "TeslaCam" does it), and it just reads the music from the other one. @@TotallyEV

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

@@Y4vuz12 interesting! Will have a play around next time.

@HaydenCMH

5 ай бұрын

Yup! I do this in my Model 3. Works out great!

Thanks for the review mate. I have a LR on order and good sound is a must for me. Merry Christmas!

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Pleasure, glad it was useful! And thank you, to you too!

You should do a review of the basic version too with 9 speakers

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Yes, hopefully soon! Stay tuned.

I have the previous Gen (2022 Tesla Model 3 Performance). The bass feels quite strong to about the 35hz range. Anything below that frequency and you can hardly hear and feel the bass.

Damn that was some sweet audio

Thanks for the review, we audiophiles are always appreciative. The previous gen Model 3 would start attenuating at the low end from about 45Hz. Would you say the new one is an improvement in that regard?

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! Can't say for certain at what frequency it tails off but it does feel like it extends lower than 45hz. As mentioned, there's still a cut off in the low-end.

Great review! Are you planning on doing a review of the sound system in the RWD Highland?

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Thanks! Hopefully should be getting the RWD model in at some point in 2024, and if so will be doing the audio review! Stay tuned.

Great review thanks, as i expected, could you please review the BYD Seal awd performance dynaudio 12 speaker sound system?

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Thanks! It's unlikely it'll come in for review as it's already been covered, sorry! But if you have any questions about it, just ask. Tl;dr for the Seal: has good bass and highs, but mids are recessed (more than the i4 HK system) and it lacks the soundstage of its competitors. Decent stock system, better than what Hyundai offer, somewhat on par with the Polestar 2 HK setup, but no match to the HK system of the i4, let alone the Tesla one.

@vasil7410

6 ай бұрын

The Tesla audio is better than the Seal. But the Tesla audio is an exceptional benchmark, so you need to keep it in perspective if you have other reasons for buying the Seal.

@pauldoree3967

6 ай бұрын

Not a review as such, but I test drove a Seal last week. The sound system is not nearly as good as the Tesla - and that's compared to my 2019 Model 3 Performance. It's also not nearly as 'integrated' as to how you get to the various sources. Currently no TuneIn radio either, which I use a lot.

Love love love the dedicated audio review

@TotallyEV

3 ай бұрын

Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!

on my 22 M3LR I had to have my passenger rear tail light replaced because the bass from the subwoofer broke the internal indicator, Usually having subs on the rear deck loses bass performance compared to being an enclosed box.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Wasn't the case from my experience!

Great review, @TotallyEV. I will definitely do my own measurements on the audio once mine arrives. Quick question, do you know what DAC used in the M3LR? Also, is the built-in DAC removable in case I want to upgrade?

@TotallyEV

2 ай бұрын

Thanks! No idea, the info wasn't shared - and you won't be able to easily remove the amplifier. Of course, going via an audio specialist and it might be plausible.

Thanks for another solid review. I guess I should really test drive one to experience this set-up. I am sure it's a great EV, I am just no fan of the bare bones interior...

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Thank you for your ongoing support! Can't fault its audio, especially at its price point.

It is easy to format USB stick/SSD disk and have both sentry and hires music on one device.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

So I've now learnt using partitions. Still don't think that's as straight forward for most.

Any chance of detailed review on RWD standard model audio system? Baffling to understand the set up apart from number of speakers, does it even have a subwoofer?

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Specs of the system are to be confirmed by Tesla, and will be included in the written review once that's live - as for a dedicated review, potentially! Looking to hopefully get the RWD model on for review in 2024. Stay tuned. Edit: removed inaccuracy to avoid confusion.

@waidz

6 ай бұрын

Thank you! Really enjoying your reviews, very comprehensive and non biased

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

@waidz thank you, means a lot!

@amnisakkiz6126

6 ай бұрын

I thought RWD didnt have a subwoofer, you mean in the front doors?@@TotallyEV

@TotallyEV

4 ай бұрын

So it would seem Tesla has updated its website and has committed the subwoofer now. Currently have the RWD in and can confirm there's no subwoofer confirm there's no subwoofer in the boot! Will be mentioning this in a dedicated review of the RWD Model 3 audio system, so stay tuned. Have updated the website to reflect this newfound info (you'll also see Tesla previously claiming that it had a subwoofer!): totallyev.net/new-tesla-model-3-audio-review-upgraded-to-17-speakers/

cabin noise is much better in highland. dual pane acoustic windows all around and other improvements make cabin quieter.

Would these settings apply to the RWD? Of not, any recommendation on how to set it up?

@TotallyEV

3 ай бұрын

They don't. Stay tuned for my review of the RWD audio system, coming soon!

I’m experiencing a lot of rattle in the back between the rear windshield and trim that covers the subwoofers. I’ve already taken it in once for them to go at it but I’ve noticed it is still there after a couple days. Maybe it’s certain songs or bad sound damping but how much should the car rattle normally if any at all?

@TotallyEV

Ай бұрын

That doesn't sound right, would suggest contacting Tesla!

Can’t you use usb-c drives for the usb-c ports in the center console for music?

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Nope, as far as I'm aware they've always been only used for charging only.

is there a chance to upgrade the audio by yourself or some sound company ? :D i got big woofer in my old bmw (i like when my head bangs) is there a chance to upgrade it like that ? :D

@TotallyEV

4 ай бұрын

Your best bet would be to ask an EV audio specialist that installs systems!

Does the lack of front top speakers (the ones on the upper left and right "A" pillar that were present in the old Model 3 and Y) affect the sound much?

@TotallyEV

Ай бұрын

Audio quality is per the review is better, however, the overall soundstage is affected by the positioning of drivers

My initial impression was that the Highland RWD audio is actually slightly inferior to the previous model 3 and you need to get the Highland LR to get a better system.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Interesting, wonder why you'd think that?

@vasil7410

6 ай бұрын

​@@TotallyEV I have the previous model 3 and test drove the Highland. It was just my subjective assessment. I should also mention I have a late 2021 SR+ built in China, not the LR or Performance.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

@vasil7410 but what part of the audio system did you feel lacked Vs the older generation model? As far as I'm aware they've kept the same setup but upped the ante

@fsckool6894

6 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEVroad noise is 30% lower, that would make difference

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

He is saying the opposite about the audio system...re-read his comment?

The sound system in the Model 3 LR is the best I’ve ever heard or used in a car. None of my previous cars can compete.

@TotallyEV

2 ай бұрын

🙌

In my 2021 LR I could plug a usb drive (with A to C adapter) into one of the c ports in the centre console to play music. Are those USB ports no longer supporting media??

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Thought they removed this a while ago, no?

@danpaul4975

6 ай бұрын

A ridiculous move if that's true

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

If you look online, you'll see that vehicles produced after November 2021 no longer support USB playback via the Type-C ports - both on the Model 3 and Y. Edit, confirmed via the owner's manual: "For some vehicles manufactured after approximately November 1, 2021, the center console USB ports may only support charging devices. Use the USB port inside the glove box for all other functions."

Did you notice any rattles when playing songs with more bass? I picked up mine today and immediately I had a minor rattle during certain songs. Didn't have a chance to check out where it was coming from yet.

@TotallyEV

3 ай бұрын

None whatsoever, or else it would have been mentioned!

@BrianGreenwoodColumbus

2 ай бұрын

I have a significant rattle in the bass however i increased the bass on the eq .. am I wrong to assume that there should not be any rattle despite eq settings?

@WorldXHero

Ай бұрын

I’m noticing rattle as well and have already had them look at it. It is still persisting. Thinking about sending it in again for that issue

What’s the best music streaming app to use here in terms of sound quality in the new m3 LR? Spotify or Apple Music?

@TotallyEV

2 ай бұрын

Either would be good; Tidal would be the best.

@TOPG-be4ri

2 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEV no tidal in my region unfortunately

How does it compare to H&W

In Europe the tesla model Y RWD has the premium soundsystem with 14 speakers, I’m really curious if someone can tell me if it’s comparable or miles ahead of the soundsystem in the Tesla model 3 highland RWD with 9 speakers.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

It's definitely superior, but would suggest waiting for the review of the RWD model; hopefully it won't be long!

@nickv1902

6 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEV Thanks for the quick reply. I'm looking forward for that video :).

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

@nickv1902 thank you!

Having just completed a 45 minute test drive in a Highland, I can say that (subjectively at least) the cabin is way quieter than my 2021 M3.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

So whats the purpose of the roof sound bar then? Any clues from Tesla?

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

According to Tesla, which I don't think want to divulge any more info, as I've asked them twice: it's a control unit.

@Arthur-ri3oi

6 ай бұрын

It houses the sim card according to some teardowns and the grille seems to accommodate a cooling fan

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

@Arthur-ri3oi teardown, already!?

@garycard1826

4 ай бұрын

It's not a speaker, it monitors something in the car...

I too would love to see the review of the "highland" model 3 RWD Base model audio as that's what I've ordered. I was looking at the AWD Long Range model but the incentive rebate offered by the government(s) here in Canada is much less on the AWD version of the 3, although it's not on the Y! Go figure.

@TotallyEV

4 ай бұрын

Ha, that's odd! And can now confirm it's in the pipeline, stay tuned!

How much better would you say this sound system is compared to previous gen

@TotallyEV

4 ай бұрын

Watch the video or read the review, it's all in there.

If it's not a speaker in the roof support structure, what is it?

@TotallyEV

3 ай бұрын

A control unit, that's all that Tesla was able to share.

To get better sound you have to sound Dampening the model3 then buy these 2 speaker systems speakers heppa king alpine system and light harmonic speaker system combine both you will have the best system

Question: iPhone supports only AAC it means iPhone get better bluetooth quality than samsung?

@TotallyEV

Ай бұрын

Would be the same, unless certain (older) Android phones have issues with AAC. Almost every modern Android phone also supports AAC without issues. Good question though!

I was so surprised when I sat in a Model Y the first time and heard the stereo. Embarrasses so many other so called premium and branded in car systems.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Indeed!

1:50 the grill could be a microphone for audio cancellation?

@TotallyEV

4 ай бұрын

Potentially, but as mentioned Tesla mentioned it's not part of the audio system which should indicate that wouldn't be the case.

@BrianGreenwoodColumbus

2 ай бұрын

Anyone ever figure out what it is?

Can you test Cybertruck 19 speakers?

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Won't be happening, sorry! As it's not available in the UK.

Isn’t there a discussion regarding Apple’s AirPlay being available soon with an over-the-air update? I believe this uses WiFi and is of a high quality…

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Well that would be interesting. Might explain the removal of the AAC codec. But until I see it, it's not there lol. Plus, I'm on Android, so still the same issue if only carplay is supported. Should note, that while wireless AA is good on most cars, plugging in your phone will always give you higher fidelity audio playback.

First thing i’ll do in my tesla is to taste a capuccino listening to jericho - iniko … bunch of walls had to crumble in my mind so I could get this car

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Haha

How do you play Spotify without premium connectivity?

@reigor8185

6 ай бұрын

you can connect your bluetooth via phone and listen via phone

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

This.

This makes me sad 😭 i love the audio out of my Model Y but i just hate that it feels like all the sound is coming from the dash. It drives me crazy. Hearing you say there is no dedicated tweeters in the back row makes so much sense to that. I am really looking forward to the Refresh Model Y MAINLY because of the speaker upgrade. But hearing you say still no tweeters from the back row makes me fear it will be the same "all sound from dashboard" feel again 😭 My last car was a 2008 Jeep Limited. And putting the volume to 40% would make me feel so immersed. The music, instruments, and vocals come from all around me. So much so, that it felt like it was coming from thin air just above the center console. In my MYLR i have to crank the volume up to almost 90% to TRY to mimic that sensation. But obvi that volume level just hurts my ears so i do not even bother. And again the main thing is just that all sound is coming from the dash!! 😭😭 i cant stand that! Still love my car regardless though 🥰

@TotallyEV

2 ай бұрын

Let us know what you make of it!

A bit disappointed with the test song... In my home setup, the song is sonically boring with almost nothing activating the subs (crossed over at 60). And model 3 sounded still boomy with your settings when compared to how the song should actually sound.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Can't please everyone. Plus, rather promote a song for a friend rather than get copyrighted and demonized for pleasing certain viewers. Ultimately, audio demos on KZread aren't going to give you an accurate reproduction.

@pauli2753

6 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEV Suspected as much when noticed the same artist on all the videos. As an engineer, I would probably prefer listening to white noise, but understandable if you won't be doing that. 😅

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

@pauli2753 yeah, that won't be happening!

What about Atmos??? Big disappointment to have no immersive with Apple Music.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Doesn't have it, nor does any in-car audio system that I've reviewed.

oh interesting. In US here, highland RWD also comes with 15 speakers. and btw Tesla just sneakily downgraded model Y RWD to just 7 speakers (no subwoofer) in US and Canada.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

You sure the RWD in the US has the upgraded system? As that wasn't the case in the past, was it? And yes, aware of the Model Y news - quite a shame but expected.

@GenzhPuff

5 ай бұрын

ah you were right. I double checked the US web site, RWD has 9 speakers indeed.

Can we get a dual motor audio in binureal?? I think that speaker on the top roof it’ll unlock Dolby Atmos soon What I would do to those two subwoofers is immediately swapped for phat magnet Alpines yessssss 🔥 🔥 🔥

@TotallyEV

2 ай бұрын

As mentioned, it's not part of the audio system, at least according to Tesla UK.

So Tesla now sells premium speakers?

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

Always has done imo

A more dynamic, less ghetto track would be a better demo. Pop music tends to not be audiophile quality; too much "loudness."

@TotallyEV

2 ай бұрын

Can't please everyone!

Still no Android Auto or Carplay with the lowest BT codec.. what a joke, I imagine this is to keep their subscription numbers for internet up

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Yup, disappointing!

Best of luck adapting to not having driver controls that were, apparently, too costly to continue with………right ?.

you cannot compare the stereo of a BMW 7 series to a Tesla Model 3

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

It's our benchmark, as mentioned in the video.

Totally not True, in my opinion the new Bass is less agressive and much more Soft then the Old Singe Subwoofer. Not upgrade worthy

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Odd you found that to be the case.

@teslafynn

5 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEVjust compare it.. i have both models

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

You're welcome to your own opinion!

@christopherrmcg

Ай бұрын

If you look at the recommended EQ settings he posts for all of the vehicles he tests he doesn’t like bass and can’t really test an audio system outside of his own preferences

The sound is not on a par with my JBL Go.

@TotallyEV

6 ай бұрын

I hope you're joking!

The model Y standard range sounds way more nicer than the new Highland awd.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Not at all, sorry.

@bcrerste

5 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEV the standard range model Y has the same premium audio set up as the long range and performance. Starting with 2023 they implemented an update on Y (better seats, better materials some changes to the suspensions and probably they did something to the Audio also). I am an audiophile and I went and test them both; the model Y Soundsystem sounds a lot punchier and the bass goes in the lower frequencies. Also, it gets louder so in terms of power again model Y wins. In my ears, there wasn’t only a marginal difference between the two; model Y won by a long shot.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

@bcrerste they haven't. Well aware of the systems, I'm among a select few to have reviewed them all.

@bcrerste

5 ай бұрын

@@TotallyEV a Tesla representative confirmed that in the model 3 they did some cost cutting (compared to Y). Premium in the model Y means something else than premium in the model 3. it’s the same thing in the higher models. You cannot compare model S premium Soundsystem with the one in the model Y. It’s a matter of taste and opinion, of course, but I think the Y sounds better than the M3H (and I own Highland not Y).

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

@bcrerste you're welcome to believe who you want, but I got information from Tesla itself, not a rep.

Please review also the rwd. No one cares about dual motor…

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Hopefully soon, stay tuned!

White words over white seats you can’t read that.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

Not an issue here. Feel free to pause or even read the review!

@TotallyEV Hoe many watts stereo ? I have B&W in Volvo v90 1500w rms. Amazing audio. But I change my car and gonna buy tesla 3 LR. I’m afraid that stereo is just worse than B&W.

@TotallyEV

5 ай бұрын

The B&W system is hard to beat, especially the one found in the Volvo. Wattage claims haven't been provided by the manufacturer.

@garycard1826

4 ай бұрын

Pretty hard to beat B&W. I’ve owned their Home Speakers. Best mid-range ever but Chris says the Tesla also does a great job of mids & highs! Hopefully the RWD model comes with 1 subwoofer in Canada.

@kamilk6241

4 ай бұрын

@@garycard1826 i had test drive with tesla 3 LR few days ago. Unfortunately audio system is really bad. So for example B&W Volvo v90 is another level.

@TotallyEV

4 ай бұрын

Really bad? Okay, lol.