Car Stereos: what is the difference??, pioneer speakers, pioneer 6x9

Question
Hello Scott,

I am wondering what is the difference with 2 way speakers and 3 way or even 4 way speaker?? Does it mean that it produces more power with the more ways?? Also i am considering on buy 2 pairs of pioneer 6x9 but cant chose. i can get the pioneer speakers 2-way 6x9" 360 Watt for the same price as the pioneer speakers 5 way 6x9" 460 Watt max. Which speakers would you recommend to get loudest sound and clarity?? Also what do you recommend as a good amplifier to run these speakers of??

Answer
Ali, Sorry for the delay.  2-way, 3-way, 5-way, etc., refers to how many speakers are in the unit.  So, if you are looking at a 2-way 6x9, it has a 6x9, and a small 1" tweeter in front of the 6x9.  Or a 5-way has a 6x9, 3" upfront, 2" upfront, 1" tweeter, and another 1" tweeter all up in front of the 6x9.  The more sizes of speakers, the better the sound quality (supposedly).  It is arguable sometimes.  Anyways, when deciding on speakers for power output, you must only look at the "rms" watts that the speakers are rated at.  The "rms" rating is based on labratory studies to determine power handling.  The max watts is just a imaginary number made up by the manufacturers.  When choosing a matching amp, the "rms" watts should match your speakers' "rms" watts or less.  If the amp is more powerful, it may blow the speakers.  Hope this helps, Scott