1. Sony XAV-AX1000

The XAV-AX1000 is the little brother of the XAV-AX5000. However, this stereo comes in at $100 cheaper. One of the main differences between the two is that it has a 6.2-inch display instead of the 7-inch one on the flagship device. Despite the smaller screen it does open up a little bit more room for a more tactile volume dial instead of the smaller buttons. It also gives you the option for a USB drive on the front of the device and an aux input. However, the one trade off with this device is that it does not come with Android Auto. This stereo is much better for iPhone users because it is still compatible with Apple CarPlay. It also has Bluetooth and it is all packaged in a mechless double din display with a single din installation.

2. JVC KW-V640BT

This JVC stereo is a double din device that is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offers a larger 6.8-inch display and it is Bluetooth enabled. It also has a high-power output of 22W RMS. Another unique feature of this stereo is that it has iDataLink Maestro compatibility. This allows you to adjust climate control, look at vehicle info and even help you with a parking assist feature.

3. Pioneer AVH-1300NEX

This stereo is very comparable to the JVC stereo I just mentioned. The biggest difference is the screen size. It has a 6.2-inch display like in the Sony. Also just like in the Sony, it only supports Apple CarPlay, not Android Auto. However, it does support the iDataLink Maestro which will open you up to a whole new world of features.

4. Boss BVCP9675A

This Boss stereo offers both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility with a 6.8-inch display. It also is Bluetooth enabled and enclosed in a double din mechless receiver. It also has a power output of 20W RMS.

5. Planet Audio PCP9800A

Another affordable device that offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth. It is a very similar head unit to the Boss Stereo I previously mentioned. It too has a 6.8-inch display and outputs 20W RMS power. The only noticeable differences between the two is the button placement and UI. This is another great option for someone who wants some amazing smart features that is compatible with any phone.

The post Top 5 Car Stereos Under $300 appeared first on Sonic Electronix Learning Center and Blog.

Without a doubt the number one car stereo of 2019 has to be the Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309. This innovative aftermarket stereo has floating 9-inch touchscreen. It has a very similar look to something you might see in a C-class Mercedes. This massive screen also offers multiple viewing angles. You can adjust it depending on which vehicle you install it in. It also has some other incredibly useful features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and obviously Bluetooth. This incredible stereo can make almost any car interior look brand new. Another incredible feature of this massive head unit is that it takes that 9-inch screen and allows you to install it in a single din mount.

Sony XAV-AX5000

Another beautiful screen that emulates an infotainment system that you would find in a luxury vehicle. This one offers a 7-inch touchscreen, which is the largest screen Sony has ever made for a head unit. Just like the Halo9, this head unit also offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth. This stereo also fits in a single din mount as well. Another major bonus of this stereo is how simple the UI is to navigate. Also, the general design of this stereo is very clean and minimalistic. This device is also the most affordable device on this list as well.

Pioneer AVIC-W8400NEX

This is the most premium stereo that Pioneer offers. Just like the Sony, it is a 7-inch touchscreen; However, this head unit is offered in the larger Double Din form factor. In addition to the typical features in this category like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth, this stereo has some unique ones. One unique feature that this stereo offers is Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit. Therefore, this unique device can actually control smart home features from just your voice in your car. You could control things in your smart home like the thermostat and lighting so that when you get home, everything will be just as you like.

Kenwood DNX574S

This Kenwood stereo is another double din touchscreen stereo that measures in at 6.8-inches. This is also the only head unit in this category that offers a CD/DVD player. All other stereos in this category are mechless.  This stereo does offer the largest power output out of all of these options however. This device outputs 22W RMS as opposed to some of the others on this list that only output 17W RMS. You will find similar features that you see on the other stereos on this list like Apple Car Play, Android Auto and Bluetooth. It also has some pretty amazing unique features like it is compatible with idataLink Maestro that displays your vehicle status on the stereo. It also has Garmin navigation built in as well as Lane assist. This head unit also features multiple route previews and ecoRoute which calculates your fuel economy and estimates the cost of a trip.

JVC KW-M845BW

This head unit is the same size as the Kenwood model coming in at 6.8 inches. It too has a power output of 22W RMS as well. It has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and built-in Wifi. This is also the second most affordable option behind the Sony after the mail-in rebate. There is also an external microphone to allow for better call quality. Similar to Sony, it has a very simple and clean design that would look good in any dash.

The post Top 5 Car Stereos for 2019 appeared first on Sonic Electronix Learning Center and Blog.

1. Technology in Aftermarket Stereos is Constantly Improving

One of the most distinguishing differences between a $40 stereo and a $2,000 one is the technology that is inside of the stereo itself. $40 stereos do exist, but their capabilities are extremely limiting. Although, both may include USB and Bluetooth connectivity, the usability may not be the same. The cheaper option will typically include outdated technology that makes the connection process slower and at times frustrating. A higher quality stereo will include a newer version of Bluetooth and other options such as Apple Car Play and Android Auto. This makes connecting to your device almost instantaneous. The higher quality radios will also include massive touchscreens which make visibility much better and they often include many hands-free options that allows you to stay focused on the road ahead of you.

2. Your Music Streaming App Could be Killing your Audio Quality

Music streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music are continually growing. People often times don’t realize that they are losing audio quality due to compression. In most cases, like listening to music on basic pair of headphones, the difference is rather unnoticeable; however, once translated to a car stereo, you can lose low and high-frequency information. This causes you to miss out on minor details in the music that will be noticeable on a higher quality audio system. Ensure you use as little compression as possible by downloading the full-size audio files and by utilizing stereos with higher bit rates to ensure the best sound quality possible.

3. Understand the Difference: Single DIN vs. Double DIN

One thing you must consider before purchasing a new head unit is the size of the head unit itself.  Most cars manufactured within the last 15-20 years have Double DIN stereos straight from the factory. Vehicles from the 80s and 90s typically have the smaller Single DIN stereo size. If your vehicle can fit a Double DIN stereo, you actually have the ability to install either size. If you chose the smaller option, you simply have to get the correct cages and brackets to make sure the fitment will be flush with the dash. The biggest advantage to a Double DIN however, is the increase in functionality. You now have access some of the touchscreen features and smart connectivity that I discussed earlier.

4. Aftermarket Stereos can Increase the Sound Quality of your Factory Sound System

Cheap factory stereos can send weak and even, at times, distorted signals to your sound system. This will result in poor sound quality. An aftermarket receiver can make the most of your factory sound system. They send a stronger signal and a slightly amplified power output.

5. Don’t Lose Features like Steering Wheel Controls, Use an Adapter 

It’s a common misconception that if you buy an aftermarket radio you will lose many of your car’s features such as steering wheel controls or back-up cameras; however, all you simply have to do is install an adapter to seamlessly integrate those features into your new aftermarket receiver.

If you followed these 5 facts you should have a better understanding of what technology is currently available to consumers. Now utilize this knowledge to purchase the product that will best fit your needs. If you have any further questions, make sure to check out CAR AUDIO 101: CAR STEREOS or take a look at any of our other articles in our Learning Center.

The post Learn about Car Stereos with These 5 Fast Facts appeared first on Sonic Electronix Learning Center and Blog.