Upgrade your car stereo with these top-quality double-DIN head units
Guide to Buying the Best Double Din Head Unit. How easy is it to distinguish between these units? We’ll discuss a few more facts to help you gauge what the best value for money will be for you. Comparison: Double Din vs Single Din. The most obvious difference between the double and single din designs is the size. With a single din you only. In general, there are two common types of head units on the market that fit the majority of vehicle dashboards: Single-DIN (SD) and Double-DIN (DD). Double-DIN openings are the larger of the two. If your car has a double-DIN opening you can typically fit both single-DIN and double-DIN units in it.
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A DIN head unit is the multimedia device fitted into the dashboard of your car to control the infotainment system. In contrast to a single-DIN head unit, a double-DIN head unit is twice the size with the ability to give you better control options and extra input capacity. If you're looking for the best double-DIN head unit, check out our in-depth reviews and recommendations.
- This product features a 6.2-inch touchscreen with an installation manual that is easy to follow. It is designed to support all types of audio and video file formats.It comes with Apple CarPlay compatibility and a disc slot that can play both CDs and DVDs. The connectivity can support a USB device, Bluetooth and AUX input. It can connect to satellite radio and AM/FM frequency.The USB port is located at the back of the stereo. Also, it doesn’t support Android Auto.
- Best ValuePioneer MVH-S600BS Double-Din Digital Media ReceiverA budget car stereo that incorporates both traditional and modern design. The display illuminates and can change color to match the interior of your car.It can assist in making hands-free calls via Bluetooth connectivity. The interface allows it to be controlled remotely through a smartphone application, and you can access music via a USB device.It doesn’t feature Apple Carplay or Android Auto. There is no disc slot for CDs or DVDs.
- Honorable MentionA versatile double-DIN head unit that can be connected to backup cameras and steering wheel controls. The 6.75-inch touchscreen is convenient to use.It is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are Bluetooth, USB port, and AUX connectivity options available. The radio is an AM/FM frequency.The manual installation details are sketchy. The USB port is located at the back.
Why Buy A Double-DIN Head Unit?
- Bluetooth connectivity. A double-DIN head unit allows you to connect it to your smartphone, tablet, and other Bluetooth-compatible devices for extensive file sharing. That means if you have a library of songs or audiobooks, you could stream it on the double-DIN head unit.
- Hands-free control. Since you can connect your double-DIN head unit via Bluetooth, you can receive and initiate calls without physically touching the head unit. Also, a passenger seated in the back seat can change the playlist through a phone or tablet.
- Enhanced sound quality. It takes more than just upgrading the speakers to improve the sound quality. In fact, a double-DIN head unit features advanced software that integrates different sound variations.
- Easy screen control. Compared to a single-DIN head unit, a double-DIN head unit comes with a bigger screen that makes it convenient to touch and select the options. Furthermore, the graphics interface is enhanced for better user experience.
- Multiple media connections. A double-DIN head unitgives you the option toaccess multiple media sources such as a USB port, SD card, radio, mp3 player, smartphone, and a CD/DVD player. It is even possible to charge your phone on double-DIN car stereos.
Types
Smartphone Integration Display
Modern technology has made it possible for double-DIN head units to include software that can integrate your smartphone’s operating system. The integration system comes with a touchscreen monitor that enables you to operate your smartphone apps on the head unit interface. In this category, you will either find Apple CarPlay compatibility or Android Auto compatibility.
Non-Integration Double-DIN Head Unit
This type of double-DIN head unit isn’t designed to mirror the apps on your smartphone. In fact, some of them don’t even have a graphic touchscreen display. However, they can still connect to a USB port, SD, Bluetooth, AUX, radio, and even play CDs or DVDs. The main objective of non-integration head units is to keep it simple and avoid distracting the driver.
Top Brands
JVC Kenwood
JVC Kenwood is a Japanese company headquartered in Yokohama. Prior to the merger that created the JVC Kenwood brand in 2008, both JVC and Kenwood were reputable for designing and manufacturing consumer electronics for more than 50 years. One of its most popular double-DIN head units is the Kenwood DDX9903S AV Receiver Apple CarPlay.
Pioneer
Popularly known for introducing the world’s first automotive CD player in 1984, Pioneer is a leading innovator of head units. The company is based in Tokyo, Japan. One of its highest selling double-DIN head units is the Pioneer AVH-1300NEX Multimedia Receiver.
Boss Audio
Boss Audio is an American company headquartered in Oxnard, California. It has been innovating audio products for the past 30 years and exporting its products to 130 countries across the world. Its top double-DIN unit is the BOSS Audio BVCP9675A Car Multimedia Player.
Sony
A household name among electronic consumers worldwide, the Sony brand has been designing and manufacturing electronic products for more than half a century. It’s headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Currently, one of its most popular double-DIN stereos is the Sony XAV-AX200 Receiver.
Alpine
A subsidiary of Alps Electrics, the Alpine brand has been dedicated to introducing the best car audio and navigation systems since 1967. The company headquarters is based in Tokyo, Japan. One of its well-renowned double-DIN head units is the Alpine ILX-107.
Pricing
- Under $100: Any double-DIN head unit car stereo in this price range will likely have an internal system that doesn’t integrate with smartphone applications.
- $100 - $300: Most double-DIN stereos sold in this price category feature a graphic touchscreen and an interface that can integrate with your smartphone’s functionality.
- Over $300: There are very few double-DIN head units that are sold for more than $300. However, you can find a couple of top-range products with extra features such as dual OS compatibility, a backup camera, and an advanced navigation system.
Key Features
Pre-Amp Outputs
A quality double-DIN stereo should send a signal to any upgraded speaker system in your car. Hence, you should carefully scrutinize the pre-amp outputs since they determine the signals which affect the sound system. As a general rule, the best double-DIN head unit for sound quality should have multiple pre-amp outputs with high signal voltage to make it possible to expand your sound system.
Compatibility
It’s the streaming era. The best double-DIN units are the ones which can integrate with your smartphone apps through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. It’s even better if you can connect to the internet and access Spotify, iTunes, or Netflix via the graphic touchscreen of the car stereo.
Connectivity
Most drivers need a double-DIN stereo with Bluetooth connectivity that allows them to answer or make phone calls or to stream music without requiring a cable. Keep in mind that the best double-DIN head unit should be able to connect multiple devices at the same time via Bluetooth.
Power
A powerful car stereo ought to play loud or soft music without distorting the sound. How do you make a judgment call to know if the power of a head unit is satisfactory? You simply check the RMS Wattage; the higher the RMS wattage, the more the car stereo can maintain its sound quality and composure for a longer period of time. However, you should avoid looking at head units with peak wattage since they’re often unreliable.
Other Considerations
- Anti-Theft Protection: Most automobile thieves target car stereos since they’re easier to sell and less risky to steal compared to your vehicle. Nevertheless, if you’re living in a high-theft-prone area, you can buy a head unit with a face that can be easily detached and locked up in the glove compartment or the trunk.
- Easy Installation: Most double-DIN head unitsare sold with an instruction manual to guide you through the installation process. Usually, the easiest car stereos to install are the ones with a properly-labeled wiring harness that can be easily distinguished. Also, a wiring loom adapter may be needed to connect with steering wheel controls.
- High-Quality Display: A big display twice the size of a single-DIN head unit will make your user experience better, but there are other factors to consider. For instance, a touchscreen with an automatic brightness display that adjusts to day and night will be less distracting. Additionally, a good display should be easy to read and select the options.
- Navigation: Nowadays, there are double-DIN head units that are sold with an internal GPS navigation system. This is a great feature, especially for those who are driving cars without inbuilt GPS systems. However, a head unit that can mirror a smartphone touchscreen can simulate GPS applications on its touchscreen.
Best Double-DIN Head Unit Reviews & Recommendations 2019
Best Double-DIN Head Unit Overall: Pioneer AVH-1300NEX Multimedia Receiver
The Pioneer AVH-1300NEX includes all the features that you would expect from a top-quality car stereo. Even though the 6.2-inch touchscreen is slightly smaller compared to other double-DIN head units, it is very responsive and easy to operate. Also, the installation is straight-forward since the instruction manual is very detailed to the extent of adding diagrams to make it simple to understand.
It supports Apple CarPlay, making it convenient to integrate with Apple products. Besides that, it can still play CDs and DVDs. When it comes to connectivity, it can be linked to Bluetooth, a USB port, and an extra AUX input. The radio option offers both AM/FM and Sirius XM connectivity. Apart from the diverse music streaming alternatives, it can also support almost every video file format.
The biggest downside of the Pioneer AVH-1300NEX Multimedia Receiver is that it isn’t compatible with Android Auto. Regardless, Android users can still connect their phones to the native interface and use the touchscreen to access their favorite Android apps. Another slight disadvantage is the USB port is positioned on the backside, which will require an extension cable.
Best Value Double-DIN Head Unit: Pioneer MVH-S600BS Double-Din Digital Media Receiver
The MVH-S600BS Double-Din Digital Media Receiver is pocket-friendly with a minimalist approach in its design. Since we’re no longer in the era of CDs, the designers of this product forgot about the disc slot altogether. On the face, it features a rotary dial and a unique illuminating display that blends both traditional and modern car stereos.
Since the Pioneer MVH-S600BS Double-Din Digital Media Receiver doesn’t have CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility, it is modified to be remotely controlled by an iPhone or Android phone through the ARC app. Alternatively, you can still make or receive your calls hands-free through a Bluetooth connection and stream music via a USB cable using your smartphone. The stereo can support MP3, FLAC, WMA, WAV, and AAC audio files.
The most noticeable shortcoming of this car stereo is that it doesn’t feature a graphics touchscreen that plays videos. Beyond that, you can’t access your favorite smartphone applications on this double-DIN head unit.
Best Double-DIN Head Unit Honorable Mention: BOSS Audio BVCP9675A Car Multimedia Player
If you’re looking for the best double-DIN head unit for Android and iOS compatibility, the Boss Audio BVCP9675A Car Multimedia Player is a top contender. The device can also be integrated with steering wheel controls and backup cameras.
The touchscreen is precisely 6.75 inches, making it an ideal size that is not too big and not too small. If you want to stream music, there are plenty of connectivity options from Bluetooth, USB port to Aux connector. Of course, you can also listen to AM/FM radio and answer those hands-free phone calls.
The major drawback of this car stereo is the lack of a well-detailed instruction manual. Other than that, you will need an extension cable to connect to the USB port since it is located in the back. The missing CD/DVD slot isn’t much of a disappointment considering other types of data storage are now more prevalent in everyday use.
Tips & Advice
- When removing or installing a double-DIN head unit, make sure you disconnect the car battery to avoid exposing yourself to a live wire or popping a fuse. If the car battery is activated during installation, you risk damaging the car stereo.
- Most car stereos with only Apple CarPlay compatibility can still be connected to an Android device via the USB port. Even though such head units can’t fully integrate Android Auto, they can open files from an Android device.
- If your car has steering wheel controls, you will need an extra wiring harness to connect it with a double-DIN stereo. Most head unit manufacturers sell spare wiring loom separately.
- If your double-DIN head unit features a graphic touchscreen with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility, you don't really need to pay extra for a stereo with built-in GPS navigation. Instead, you can access your location straight from Google or Apple Maps.
FAQs
Q: Will a double-DIN head unit fit in my dashboard?
A: Most modern cars being sold today have an extra space in the dash for a double-DIN car stereo. If you're having trouble trying to fit in a double-DIN head unit, you can buy a faceplate that can accommodate it.
Q: Can my double-DIN stereo work without an antenna?
A: The radio reception will be weaker without the antenna. However, if you’re connecting to the radio through the internet, your car stereo will still stream radio. Alternatively, you can switch on your smartphone radio and connect it to the car stereo via Bluetooth.
Q: What is the difference between a single-DIN and a double-DIN head unit?
A: In the automotive industry, the single-DIN is a standard opening measuring at least 7 x 2 inches where a typical car stereo can fit. On the other hand, the measurement for a double-DIN size opening is 7 x 4 inches.
Final Thoughts
Our top pick for the best double-DIN head unit is the Pioneer AVH-1300NEX Multimedia Receiver. It is user-friendly and, whether you want to stream music or watch videos from a CD/DVD, USB flash disk, or a smartphone, you can still utilize the same device.
For a close second pick if you are on a tight budget, consider the Pioneer MVH-S600BS Double-Din Digital Media Receiver.
Do you want to install a double-DIN head unit in your car? You can start or join the discussion in the comment section.
Upgrade your car’s sounds and technology with a single-DIN car stereo
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Technology advances rapidly, which means that unless you have a newer model car, your audio system is likely outdated. Older decks lack Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you can’t sync your smartphone to stream music or talk hands-free. To remedy this inconvenience, we’ve sorted out the crowded field to help you choose the best single-DIN car stereo for your vehicle.
- JVC KD-X350BTS 1-Din Car Digital Media Bluetooth ReceiverReliable Bluetooth connectivity, CD player, and a high-performing EQ tuner firmly solidify this stereo’s top billing.No detachable faceplate, no problem. This stereo supports Android music playback, Siri Eyes Free, and a Bluetooth that can be paired with two phones.The LCD screen may glare in bright sun. Also, this unit requires an external microphone to make hands-free phone calls.
- Best ValueOne of the cheapest but feature-rich decks anywhere. Bluetooth, EQ tuner, AUX, and USB are all here.Solid max power output specs, an EQ tuner, and wireless remote control are included. The three-year manufacturer’s warranty is also a very affirming feature.A small LCD screen, flimsy build, and unreliable performance are among the weaknesses of this single-DIN Bluetooth stereo.
- Honorable MentionHigh-quality construction, affordable price, and a slew of features (including CD player) are among this unit’s highlights.A robust equalizer helps produce top-notch sound quality, while the 13-digit LCD display can be customized with multiple colors.This deck’s shortcomings include a complicated menu to adjust sound settings and the need for a separate cable for Android playback.
Why Buy a Single-DIN Car Stereo?
- Add Bluetooth. Bluetooth wireless technology became standard in cars only several years ago, which means older cars, and their factory stereo decks, simply don’t have it. If you install a single-DIN Bluetooth car stereo, you can sync your iPhone or Android smartphone to stream music, play audio files, and talk hands-free.
- Upgrade the aesthetics in your car. Think about installing a new stereo deck as a facelift: It significantly increases the visual appeal for you and your passengers. Top car stereos are sleek and technologically advanced, so you’ll be able to customize various settings, including colors on the display.
- Replace a broken deck. If your car stereo has worn out due to normal wear and tear, or just stopped working out of the blue, it’s time to get a new one. With an upgrade, you can resume listening to the radio, streaming music, and talking on the phone.
- Create more room. Most new cars come with display screens that take up the entire double-DIN in the car’s dashboard. By installing asingle-DIN car Bluetooth stereo, you can effectively create a small storage bin under the unit with the right console plate.
Types of Single-DIN Car Stereos
Detachable Faceplate Stereos
For a modest price, the best single-DIN head unit you can choose is one with a detachable face. This is a feature that’s a throwback to the past when aftermarket stereo decks were expensive and prone to attract burglars. Today, it may still be convenient to remove the faceplate when you leave the car for security.
Motorized Display Stereos
The drawback of a single-DIN car stereo is its smaller than the double-DIN kind, which can have an embedded 6-inch-or-larger display (touchscreen or not). However, some single-DIN decks are equipped with motorized displays that can pop out with the push of a button, and then retract back. These stereos effectively give you an infotainment system without taking up extra console space.
Top Brands of Single-DIN Car Stereos
Alpine
Alpine is a well-established brand in the car audio industry, known for its high-quality receivers and speakers. In business since 1967, it’s a subsidiary of Japanese electronics manufacturer Alps Electric and operates factories across the globe. Among its popular products is the Alpine CDE-175BT CD/USB Receiver with Advanced Bluetooth.
JVC & Kenwood
Headquartered in Tokyo, Kenwood Corporation was founded in Japan in 1946. Through a merger with JVC, the company (JVC & Kenwood) became a consumer electronics juggernaut that offers car audio and home audio products. Its bestsellers include the JVC KD-X350BTS 1-Din Car Digital Media Bluetooth Receiver.
Pioneer
Pioneer Corporation started as a radio and speaker repair shop in Japan in 1938. Today, it’s a multinational corporation producing many lines of digital entertainment products, from car audio to DJ equipment. One of its most popular products is the Pioneer AVH-3400NEX 7' Display Single-Din In-Dash NEX DVD Receiver.
Single-DIN Car Stereo Pricing
- $25-$100: The bargain range features mostly single-DIN receivers with one- or two-line displays. These budget decks may lack one or more of the sought-after features found in the mid-range, particularly a CD or DVD player and Bluetooth connectivity.
- $100-$200: There’s no shortage of value and quality among the picks within this range. In fact, you’ll probably find the best car deck for the money here. In addition to staples such as USB and Bluetooth connectivity, these receivers may also feature a CD player and a detachable faceplate. Add-ons, such as headphones, a remote or a Bluetooth speaker, could be included as a sales incentive.
- $200 and up: At this premium range, you can expect to find top car radios that include a DVD receiver, along with larger, multi-color displays, including touchscreens. These decks also include multiple preamp outputs and video input to accommodate a rear-view camera.
Key Features
CD Receiver
It seems everything is streaming these days, but a compelling case can be made that the best car stereo receiver must also accommodate media from the past. Most budget decks no longer feature a CD player, but a few CD-capable models still exist.
Equalizer
One way to assess if you have the best car receiver is to look up the number of bands in its built-in equalizer. With more EQ bands, the deck can customize the frequencies to your ears. Most car stereos come with preset frequencies that you can choose based on the genre of music that you’re listening to (jazz, hip-hop, rock, etc.)
Display
The lower-priced single-DIN stereos are 7 inches by 2 inches and usually feature a black, plastic face, the brand’s logo, and some color accents. If you’re looking for something closer to an iPad-sized display, possibly with a DVD player and maps, there are more than a few contenders for the best single-din touchscreen head unit.
Power Output
You don’t have to be an audiophile to be on the hunt for the most powerful car stereo head unit. The max power output of a given deck essentially tells you its sound limit, which means that unless you plan to add an external amplifier, your audio power will be limited. The more important rating is the RMS, or continuous power output, which quantifies the amount of power the car stereo can reach at a constant rate.
Other Considerations
- HD and XM Radio: Some, but not all, decks are XM-ready and have HD radio capability. SiriusXM is a paid subscription, and you can always install an adapter later. With HD radio, you get the higher-quality radio transmission with metadata, which allows you to view artist names and song titles on your deck.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: It’s one thing to ‘pair’ your iPhone or Android-based phone with your car stereo and another to have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration. Decks that offer these state-of-the-art features allow you to experience a familiar interface right on your dashboard. These decks do come at a premium price.
Best Single-DIN Car Stereos: Reviews & Recommendations 2019
Best Single-DIN Car Stereo Overall: JVC KD-X350BTS 1-Din Car Digital Media Bluetooth Receiver
With reliable Bluetooth connectivity and dynamic EQ presets and customization options, this inexpensive JVC unit is one of the best single-DIN radio Bluetooth options available. Boosting its stock is support for Android music playback and dual phone connection.
This JVC deck doesn’t have a detachable faceplate nor does the face change colors, but it does have a lot going for it. The black and red trim is visually appealing, and the deck includes support for Siri Eyes Free and voice recognition dialing. The unit comes with a wireless remote control and a pair of Alphasonik earbuds. It has front AUX and USB inputs, as well as a max power output of 50 watts in each of the four channels.
This stereo deck’s downsides include the need for an external microphone, which must be installed in order to make calls. Some confusion can occur when you’re listening to music and want to initiate a call, requiring selecting “JVC” on the phone to sync the call. Another issue is the LCD screen’s maximum brightness, making it harder to read the display on bright sunny days.
Best Value Single-DIN Car Stereo: BOSS Audio 616UAB Multimedia Car Stereo
As one of the cheapest products of its kind, this BOSS Audio Systems deck is a surprising contender for the best single-DIN radio. It’s not lacking for most popular features, packing Bluetooth with hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB, SD, and AUX inputs. It checks many other boxes and features preamp inputs on the front panel.
This BOSS Audio unit has a max power output of 50 watts x 4 and a built-in equalizer with balance, fader, bass, and treble controls. The EQ can be controlled with buttons on the faceplate or via an included wireless remote control. The manufacturer’s warranty is for three years from the date of purchase.
The downside of purchasing this cheap deck is that it has a very flimsy construction compared to other decks with just a slightly higher price. It’s also possible that it may malfunction or perform unreliably. Other shortcomings include the lack of subwoofer and iPod controls.
Best Single-DIN Car Stereo Honorable Mention: Kenwood KDC-MP372BT Car Stereo
There’s a nearly perfect mix of features and value offered in this Kenwood single-DIN radio Bluetooth unit. It includes a CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth connectivity, and is iPod- and iPhone-compatible. It also features front USB and AUX inputs and an equalizer that has been embraced by discerning audiophiles.
Crafted with high-quality materials, this receiver features a 13-digit LCD display on the detachable faceplate, which also has multiple color illumination to match your car’s interior. It features an EQ tuner with a built-in crossover that significantly boosts the sound quality.
The biggest issue with this Kenwood unit is that it does have a rather complicated menu, which will require some getting used to in order to make tuning adjustments. Also, for Android audio playback, a separate USB-to-micro-USB cable is needed.
Tips & Advice for Single-DIN Car Stereos
- A distinguishing feature when choosing the best car head unit should include the LED pixel count. The higher the count, the more you’ll be able to control the deck’s brightness and color.
- Some vehicles have multiple screens that interlink with the factory stereo. Do some research to find out whether installing a new head unit will affect how these function. There are many adapters that can allow you to add features such as an AUX input or Bluetooth without replacing the stereo.
- Various playback modes make it easier and seamless to stream music from your Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and other music and radio apps.
FAQs
Q: Will I lose any features or functions in my vehicle if I install an aftermarket single-DIN Bluetooth head unit?
A: The factory head unit may control a number of functions in your car, from the horn to the automatic locks. There’s always a risk that you will disable a function when you upgrade your deck. Consult your driver’s manual and do some research before you proceed with a new stereo deck installation.
Q: What is the downside of buying a single-DIN stereo with a CD player?
A: Most single-DIN Bluetoothstereos skip the CD player because it’s simply a redundant feature. The complicated and sensitive technology involved may also contribute to the poor performance of the unit.
Final Thoughts
Our top pick for the best single-DIN car stereo is the JVC KD-X350BTS 1-Din Car Digital Media Bluetooth Receiver. It’s affordable and packs all of the desirable features, like Bluetooth and AUX input. This aftermarket deck is an all-in-one solution.
For an ultra-cheap deck that offers many of the same features, consider the BOSS Audio 616UAB Multimedia Car Stereo. It’s more than a serviceable alternative to higher-priced stereos.
What factored into your decision to upgrade your car stereo? Join the conversation by commenting below.