A double din head unit is a car stereo that has a standard size of 7 x 4 inches. It can offer various features such as touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone mirroring, navigation, backup camera and more.
Choosing the best double din head unit for your car depends on your preferences, budget and compatibility with your vehicle.
Here are some factors to consider when shopping for a double din head unit:
Smartphone Compatibility
If you want to use your smartphone with your car stereo, you should look for a head unit that supports Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. These are software platforms that let you access your phone’s apps, music, maps, messages and calls on the head unit’s screen. They also enable voice control via Siri or Google Assistant.
Some head units may only support one platform or the other, so make sure you check the compatibility before buying. For example, the Pioneer MVH1400NEX is a great option for Apple users1, but it may not work well with Android devices. On the other hand, the Pioneer DMH-W4660NEX supports both platforms and has a large 9-inch capacitive touchscreen.
Sound Quality
If you care about the sound quality of your car audio system, you should pay attention to the features and specifications of the head unit. Some of these include:
- Built-in amplifier: This is the component that powers the speakers and determines how loud and clear they sound. The power output of the amplifier is measured in watts per channel (WPC) and RMS (root mean square). A higher WPC and RMS rating means more power and less distortion. For example, the Sony XAV-AX7000 has a built-in amplifier with 45 WPC and 100 RMS, which is higher than most head units.
- Preamp outputs: These are the connections that let you add external amplifiers, subwoofers or speakers to your system. The more preamp outputs you have, the more options you have for expanding your sound system. The voltage of the preamp outputs is also important, as a higher voltage means a cleaner signal and less noise. For example, the Kenwood DMX9707S has six preamp outputs with 5 volts each, which is ideal for audiophiles.
- Equalizer: This is a feature that lets you adjust the frequency response of your sound system. You can use it to boost or cut certain frequencies to suit your taste or compensate for your car’s acoustics. Some head units have preset equalizer modes, while others have graphic or parametric equalizers that let you customize each frequency band. For example, the Kenwood DMX9707S has a 13-band graphic equalizer and a two-way active crossover, which gives you more control over your sound quality.
Vehicle Features
Another factor to consider when choosing a double din head unit is how well it integrates with your vehicle’s features. Some of these include:
- Steering wheel controls: If your car has buttons on the steering wheel that let you control the volume, track or mode of your stereo, you may want to keep them functional with your new head unit. To do this, you may need an adapter or a wiring harness that matches your vehicle’s model and year. Some head units may also have built-in support for steering wheel controls.
- Backup camera: If your car has a backup camera or you want to install one, you should look for a head unit that has a camera input and can display the video feed on its screen. Some head units may also have guidelines or parking sensors to help you reverse safely. For example, the Boss BV775BLC Package comes with a backup camera and a license plate mount.
- Navigation: If you want to have GPS navigation on your head unit, you have two options: built-in navigation or smartphone navigation. Built-in navigation means that the head unit has its own maps and software that work independently of your phone. Smartphone navigation means that the head unit uses your phone’s maps and software via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Built-in navigation may be more reliable and accurate, but it may also require updates and subscriptions. Smartphone navigation may be more convenient and up-to-date, but it may also depend on your phone’s battery and signal.
FAQs and answers for How to Choose the Best Double Din Head Unit:
What is a double din head unit?
A double din head unit is a car stereo that has a standard size of 7 x 4 inches. It is twice as tall as a single din head unit, which measures 7 x 2 inches. Double din head units typically have more features and a larger display than single din units.
What are the benefits of upgrading to a double din head unit?
Upgrading to a double din head unit can improve your audio experience and add functionality to your car. Some of the features that you can enjoy with a double din head unit are:
- Touchscreen display
- Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
- Navigation system
- Backup camera
- DVD/CD player
- Bluetooth connectivity
- USB/AUX ports
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- Equalizer and sound customization
How do I know if my car can fit a double din head unit?
The easiest way to check if your car can fit a double din head unit is to measure the size of your existing stereo. If it is 7 x 4 inches or larger, then you can install a double din head unit. However, some cars may require additional installation kits or wiring harnesses to fit certain models. You can also refer to online databases or guides that list compatible head units for different car models.
What are the best brands for double din head units?
There are many brands that offer high-quality and reliable double din head units. Some of the most popular and reputable ones are:
- Pioneer
- Sony
- Kenwood
- Boss Audio Systems
- Alpine
What are the features to look for when choosing a double din head unit?
The features that you should look for when choosing a double din head unit depend on your personal preferences and needs. However, some of the common factors that you should consider are:
- Screen size and resolution
- Smartphone compatibility
- Sound quality and customization
- Navigation system and GPS accuracy
- Backup camera and video inputs
- Ease of installation and use
- Price and warranty
Conclusion
Choosing the best double din head unit for your car depends on your personal preferences, budget and vehicle compatibility. You should look for a head unit that has smartphone compatibility, sound quality and vehicle features that suit your needs. You should also check the reviews and ratings of the head unit before buying it.