Searching for a Car Stereo

Searching for a car stereo? Here are some things to consider.

Brands: 

Be wary of the white box or brown box with no brand name on them. In our experience those models never fit the installation kits and are made with the cheapest components available.

Single Din or double din:

Most of todays current domestic and foreign cars and trucks are double din openings. Which simply means it’s twice as big as a single din and most name brand touchscreens will fit these openings. 

Do you need a backup camera?

If you’re in the market for a new head unit you may want to consider adding a backup camera as well. There are still millions of automobiles on the road without cameras installed in them. Cameras are a great safety feature and can give an older car or truck that new car feeling (without the monthly payment 😊). Side cameras and front cameras are also something to consider.

Bluetooth audio streaming and Handsfree calling:

It’s pretty much a given that if you buy a new, brand name car stereo it’s going to have the Bluetooth feature. You’ll be able to stream music from your favorite music apps and for the ultimate safety feature handsfree calling. Bluetooth chips vary in quality. The cheaper brands tend to use the cheapest Bluetooth chip available where the name brands like Kenwood and Pioneer use the better more expensive Bluetooth chips. This obviously adds to the retail price of the brand name models.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto:

A lot has changed in the car stereo industry over the years. The smart phone has had a big impact on the industry for the last couple of years. Now you can display your google maps, text messages, and contacts on your radio’s display. When you see this feature, you’ll have to have it. 

Installation:

When looking for a new car stereo and installation, keep in mind cheap is not quality and quality is not cheap. Today’s automobiles are very sophisticated computers on wheels and most require digital harnesses to communicate with the vehicles computers system so be sure to choose a shop that has a good reputation and has the tools and experience to complete the job for you.

A great car audio system can enhance the driving experience for everyone. We wish you the best