Ever feel lost in your car, trying to find the right song or navigate to a new place? Your car’s head unit is like the brain of your car’s entertainment system. But, what happens when that brain is old, slow, or just plain boring? It’s time for an upgrade!
Choosing a new car head unit can be a real headache. There are so many choices! You have to think about sizes, features, and how it all works with your car. You might worry about installation, price, and whether it will even fit! It’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know. You’ll learn about different types of head units, cool features to look for, and how to choose the perfect one for your car and your needs. By the end, you’ll be ready to upgrade your ride and enjoy a much better driving experience. Get ready to turn up the tunes and hit the road with confidence! Let’s dive in and explore the world of car head units!
Our Top 5 Car Head Unit Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Car Head Unit Detailed Reviews
1. Pioneer MVH-S230BT Bluetooth Car Stereo with USB Inputs
Rating: 9.3/10
The Pioneer MVH-S230BT is a Bluetooth car stereo. It lets you play music and make calls. It connects to your phone and other devices. The stereo has USB inputs for easy use. It also has features to make your music sound better.
What We Like:
- Bluetooth Connectivity allows you to connect your phone. You can make calls without touching your phone.
- USB Input lets you play music from your devices. You can also charge your phone.
- Media Playback supports many music file types. You can listen to all your favorite songs.
- Advanced Sound Retriever makes your music sound great. It fixes audio problems from compression.
- Easy Installation is simple with its compact design.
What Could Be Improved:
- The stereo’s user interface could be more intuitive.
- The display could have better visibility in bright sunlight.
The Pioneer MVH-S230BT is a good car stereo. It is easy to use and has many useful features. This stereo is a great choice for anyone who wants to upgrade their car audio.
2. Alpine UTE-73BT Mech-Less Digital Media Receiver with Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
Rating: 8.6/10
The Alpine UTE-73BT is a digital media receiver. It’s a great way to upgrade your car’s audio system. This mech-less receiver plays music from different sources. You can listen to the radio, or play files from a USB drive. It also connects to your phone using Bluetooth.
What We Like:
- It has a built-in AM/FM tuner. It shows RBDS information.
- You can play FLAC, MP3, and WMA audio files from a USB drive.
- It works with your iPod and iPhone.
- It is compatible with Android phones using AOA 2.0.
- You can use Pandora Music with your iPhone and Android phones.
- The Bluetooth connection is easy to set up.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a CD player.
- The display could be brighter in direct sunlight.
The Alpine UTE-73BT is a solid choice for a modern car stereo. It offers many ways to play your music and connects easily to your phone.
3. BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Car Stereo With Bluetooth – Single DIN
Rating: 9.0/10
The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB car stereo is a simple way to upgrade your car’s sound system. This single DIN stereo plays music from your phone with Bluetooth. You can also use USB and AUX inputs. It has AM/FM radio too. The stereo does not have a CD or DVD player. It’s designed to be easy to install and use.
What We Like:
- Bluetooth lets you make calls and play music without wires.
- The USB port lets you play music from a flash drive.
- The AUX input is great for connecting an MP3 player.
- It’s easy to install with the included brackets and harness.
- It comes with a 3-year warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might miss having a CD player.
- The display could be brighter in direct sunlight.
In short, this BOSS car stereo is a solid choice for anyone who wants a modern and affordable way to listen to music in their car. It’s a good upgrade for older cars.
4. PLZ 7″ Wireless Double Din Car Stereo Apple Carplay Radio Screen for Car Audio Receivers
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your car’s sound system with the PLZ 7″ Wireless Double Din Car Stereo! This car stereo has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It connects to your phone wirelessly. You can use voice commands and navigation apps like Google Maps. It also has a great sound system with a built-in DSP and subwoofer outputs. Plus, it has a clear 7-inch touchscreen and steering wheel controls for easy use.
What We Like:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make connecting easy.
- Voice control lets you stay focused on driving.
- The sound quality is great with the DSP and subwoofer outputs.
- The 7-inch touchscreen is clear and easy to see.
- Steering wheel controls allow you to control the stereo without taking your hands off the wheel.
- Bluetooth 5.3 provides a strong connection and clear calls.
What Could Be Improved:
- This stereo does not have a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- You might need extra parts for installation depending on your car.
The PLZ car stereo is a good choice for anyone who wants a better car audio system with modern features. It is easy to use and provides a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
5. BOSS Audio Systems 611UAB Car Stereo System – Single Din
Rating: 8.8/10
The BOSS Audio Systems 611UAB is a single-DIN car stereo that packs a lot of features. It allows you to make hands-free calls with Bluetooth. You can also stream music from your phone. The stereo supports USB and AUX inputs for more ways to listen. Plus, it has an AM/FM radio and pre-amp outputs for your speakers. It’s a modern upgrade for your car audio.
What We Like:
- Bluetooth lets you answer calls and play music without wires.
- The USB port and AUX input give you many music options.
- You can listen to your favorite AM/FM radio stations.
- The pre-amp outputs let you connect speakers.
- The 3-year warranty offers peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- You might need an amplifier for best sound.
- Professional installation is recommended.
Overall, the BOSS Audio Systems 611UAB is a good choice for anyone wanting a simple upgrade. It gives you many features at a good price.
Upgrade Your Ride: A Car Head Unit Buying Guide
Thinking about sprucing up your car’s sound system? A new car head unit is a great place to start! This guide will help you choose the right one.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy a car head unit, you want to make sure it has the features you need. Here are some key things to consider:
- Screen Size and Type: Bigger screens can be easier to see. Touchscreens are common. Consider a screen that fits your car’s dashboard.
- Smartphone Integration: Does it work with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto? These features let you use your phone’s apps on the head unit.
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth lets you play music and make calls hands-free. This feature is very important.
- USB and AUX Inputs: These allow you to connect devices like USB drives or MP3 players.
- Radio Tuner: Make sure it has a good radio tuner for FM and AM stations. Some units also offer satellite radio.
- Audio Quality: Look for features like an equalizer to adjust the sound to your liking.
- Navigation: Some head units have built-in GPS navigation. This is useful if your car doesn’t have it.
- Backup Camera Compatibility: If you have a backup camera, make sure the head unit can display the feed.
- CD/DVD Player (Optional): Some people still like to listen to CDs or watch DVDs.
Important Materials
The materials used in a head unit can affect its durability.
- Screen: The screen is usually made of plastic or glass. Glass screens are often more scratch-resistant.
- Frame and Chassis: The frame might be made of plastic or metal. Metal frames are usually more durable.
- Buttons and Knobs: These are often plastic. Good-quality plastic will last longer.
- Wiring: Look for good-quality wiring to ensure the unit lasts.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is very important when you buy a head unit. Here’s what to think about:
- Brand Reputation: Buy from a well-known brand. These brands often make high-quality products.
- Customer Reviews: Read reviews from other buyers. They can tell you about the unit’s performance.
- Build Quality: A well-built unit will last longer. Check for solid construction.
- Sound Quality: Better sound quality usually means a better amplifier and better speakers.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface makes it easier to control the unit.
- Warranty: A longer warranty often means the manufacturer trusts their product.
- Installation: Professional installation might be needed for some units.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use your new head unit? Here are some ideas:
- Listening to Music: Stream music from your phone, listen to the radio, or play CDs.
- Making Calls: Use Bluetooth to make and receive calls hands-free. This is safer!
- Navigation: Use the built-in GPS or connect to your phone’s navigation apps.
- Watching Videos (If Equipped): Some units let you watch videos while parked.
- Using Apps: Access apps like Spotify or Pandora through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Improving Sound: A new head unit can make your car’s sound system sound much better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about car head units:
Q: What is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
A: These features let you connect your smartphone to your head unit and use apps.
Q: Do I need a professional to install a head unit?
A: It depends. Some installations are easy. Others require more expertise.
Q: What is the difference between a single-DIN and double-DIN head unit?
A: Double-DIN units are taller and have more features. Single-DIN units are smaller.
Q: What is Bluetooth used for?
A: Bluetooth lets you play music and make calls wirelessly.
Q: What is an equalizer?
A: An equalizer lets you adjust the sound settings to your liking.
Q: What is the best screen size?
A: It depends on your car and your preferences. Bigger screens are easier to see.
Q: What is the difference between FM and AM radio?
A: FM radio usually has better sound quality. AM radio can reach farther distances.
Q: What are the benefits of a backup camera?
A: A backup camera helps you see behind your car when parking.
Q: What is a head unit’s warranty?
A: The warranty protects you if the head unit has any problems. It covers repairs or replacements.
Q: How do I choose the right head unit for my car?
A: Consider your car’s size, your budget, and the features you need.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!