Are you wanting to upgrade your car stereo system without spending a fortune? Look no further! Single din head units are an excellent and affordable way to transform your car audio experience. These devices fit into any single-din radio slot and have amazing features like Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and enhanced sound settings. These features allow you to customize the EQ settings according to your preference and support apps like Spotify and Pandora so that you can listen to all of your favorite tunes while driving. This blog post will discuss some of my top picks for the best single din head units on the market today. So buckle up, and let's get going on this journey towards finding the perfect device for improving your audible experience in the car!
Choosing the best single din head unit can be overwhelming with so many models on the market. But don't worry. I'm here to help you make an informed decision. To ensure that you get the most out of your purchase, consider these essential factors before buying a single din head unit:
1. Display Size:
The size of your display is an essential factor to consider when selecting a single din head unit. Look for units that offer large displays or touchscreens for easy navigation. Smaller displays may work well if you prefer simple audio controls and don't need advanced features.
2. Audio Power Output:
Look for a single din head unit that offers an audio power output of at least 30 watts RMS, as this will provide plenty of volume and bass response for most music genres. If you prefer louder or more bass-intensive music, you may want to opt for units with higher power outputs.
3. Sound Quality:
Make sure the single din head unit you choose has good sound quality. Look for features like built-in amplifiers and preamps to ensure clear sound reproduction and adjustable equalization settings to fine-tune your audio experience.
4. Compatibility With Additional Devices:
Many single din head units are compatible with additional devices such as Bluetooth-enabled phones, satellite radio, and USB-enabled media players. Consider your current setup and any potential upgrades you may want to make in the future when selecting a unit.
5. Equalization Features:
Quality single din head units will feature adjustable equalization settings for different music genres. This allows for more control over the frequency response and soundstage of your audio setup.
6. Connectivity Options:
Look for a single din head unit with multiple connectivity options such as Bluetooth, USB, or auxiliary inputs. Having multiple connection points can come in handy if you plan on adding additional devices to your car's audio system in the future.
7. Physical Construction:
The build quality of the single din head unit is important as it affects longevity and overall performance. Look for units with metal or plastic construction for durability, and make sure any buttons are well-labeled and easy to press.
8. Cost:
Consider your budget when selecting a single din head unit. While more expensive units may offer better performance and additional features, a less expensive one can still provide great sound quality. Keep in mind that the installation price is usually separate from the cost of the unit itself.
No matter what type of single din head unit you're looking for, just consider all the above factors before making a purchase. With these tips in mind, you can be sure to find the perfect device that meets your needs and isn't too expensive, either! Good luck with finding the best single din head unit for your vehicle!
Best Rated Single Din Head Units: An Overview
Single din head units are a popular choice for car audio enthusiasts who want to upgrade their sound systems. They offer enhanced power, control, and flexibility on the go.
When selecting a single din head unit, there are many options available. It's important to consider how much power you need, the features and functions you're looking for in a head unit, and any other additional components.
To help simplify the process of selecting a single din head unit, I've rounded up some of the best rated options on the market. Each option has something unique to offer in terms of design, power, and features.
1. Alpine CDE-172BT Bluetooth Receiver
If you are looking for the best single din alpine head unit, it doesn't get much better than Alpine CDE-172BT.
The Alpine CDE-172BT single din bluetooth head unit is the perfect way to upgrade your car stereo system. This receiver allows you to stream music from your Bluetooth-enabled devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. With its built-in amplifier, this receiver provides clear, powerful sound quality.
The CDE-172BT features an intuitive touchscreen display that makes controlling your music easy and fun. Whether you're listening to your favorite tunes or taking a call hands-free, the alpine single din head unit is sure to make every drive more enjoyable.
This e Alpine CDE-172BT Bluetooth Receiver is the best alpine single din head unit. It has a sleek design and comes with built-in navigation so that you can enjoy your tunes without any hassle!
2. Kenwood KMM-BT328 Digital Media Car Stereo
If you want the best single din bluetooth head unit, look no further than Kenwood KMM BT328 Digital Media Car Stereo.
Kenwood has outdone themselves with the KMM BT328 Digital Media Car Stereo! This incredible technology gives you a powerful and dynamic sound, perfect for any music lover.
With Bluetooth capabilities, you can easily connect to your smartphone or other device and jam out to your favorite songs. The KMM-BT328 is also compatible with iAP2, so you can always access your favorite stations.
Kenwood KMM BT328 is the best single din head unit with Bluetooth that will give you all the connectivity and entertainment options to enjoy your favorite music.
It has an easy interface which makes it perfect for beginners as well!
3. Pioneer AVH-3500NEX 1-Din 7-Inch Flip Out AV Receiver
Hook up your music and enjoy the ride with the Pioneer DEH S1100UB Single Din In-Dash Car Stereo Receiver! This top-of-the-line receiver provides high-quality sound so you can rock out on your next road trip.
With advanced features like MIXTRAX and built-in Bluetooth, you'll have everything you need to make your journey an enjoyable one. Upgrade your car stereo system today with the Pioneer DEH S1100UB head unit single din!
Pioneer DEH S1100UB is the best single din head unit for sound quality. The system is easy to install, and it's small enough not to be a distraction when driving.
4. BOSS Audio Systems BV9976B Car DVD Player - Single Din
Looking for a car stereo that can do it all? Look no further than the BOSS Audio Systems BV9976B Car DVD Player!
This powerhouse provides clear sound quality and options for multimedia playback, so you can keep yourself entertained on long drives. Whether you're blasting your favorite tunes or watching a movie, the 616UAB is sure to keep you happy.
BOSS BV9976B Car DVD Player is the best budget single din head unit and is an outstanding choice for anyone looking for a budget single din head unit.
It's easy to install, so you can get up and running in no time. Ready to take your audio experience to the next level? Pick up a BOSS Audio Systems BV9976B today!
5. Pyle PLTS78DUB Single DIN Head Unit Receiver
Introducing the Pyle PLTS78DUB Single DIN Head Unit Receiver - perfect for upgrading your car's audio system. This unit delivers high-quality sound performance, with AM/FM radio, USB and SD memory card playback, and aux input jack.
Pyle PLTS78DUB is one of the best things I have ever used. This is the best single din head unit with a screen and has many great features, like Bluetooth capability, and it looks awesome.
The detachable front panel allows for custom installation, and the blue backlit LCD ensures easy viewing day or night. Plus, it comes with wireless remote control for added convenience. Crank up the tunes with the Pyle PLTS78DUB!
6. Pioneer MVH-S310BT Single Din Car Digital Media Receiver
Looking to give your car a serious audio upgrade? Look no further than the Pioneer MVH-S310BT! This best pioneer single din head unit is compatible with Android devices and can work with Pandora and Spotify.
It features built-in Bluetooth, so you can easily stream music from any device. The best part? The USB auto switch feature automatically switches to the USB input when an iPod or iPhone is connected. No more fiddling around with cords! And if that's not enough, the display type is TFT LCD, so you'll be able to see all your song information.
Give your car the sound it deserves with the Pioneer MVH-S310BT!
7. JVC KD-X260BT Digital Media Receiver
The JVC KD-X260BT Digital Media Receiver is your perfect daily driving companion. Its minimalist design keeps distractions to a minimum, while its powerful performance ensures you'll never be bored on long trips.
With Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily access all of your favorite music without ever having to take your hands off the wheel. JVC KD X260BT Digital Media Receiver is the best single din android head unit! It simply provides you with everything you need to play music and more!
Whether you're looking for an everyday audio solution or a way to take your music on the go, the JVC KD-X260BT Digital Media Receiver is up for the task!
8. Alpine UTE-73BT Advanced Bluetooth Digital Media Receiver
Add Alpine quality sound to your vehicle with the UTE-73BT Advanced Bluetooth Digital Media Receiver. This top-of-the-line receiver offers the superior sound quality, thanks to its built-in amplifier and advanced Bluetooth technology.
That Alpine UTE-73BT is the best stereo system ever. It has good sound, it's easy to use, and it's cheap! It's also equipped with a USB port and auxiliary input, allowing you to connect your favorite devices easily.
The UTE 73BT is SiriusXM Ready so that you can enjoy all your favorite channels on the go. With its sleek design and intuitive controls, the Alpine UTE 73BT is the best bluetooth single din head unit for any music lover.
9. Sony XAV-AX8000 1DIN Media Receiver
The Sony XAV-AX8000 1DIN Media Receiver is the perfect way to enjoy your music and smartphone connectivity while driving. This is the best single din touchscreen head unit. It has a high-quality screen and excellent sound, along with an easy to use interface.
The large 8.95-inch display hovers over your dashboard, making it easy to see and use, while the sturdy mount can be adjusted in three directions for a custom fit. With updated support for smartphones, you'll enjoy safer and easier driving.
The Sony XAV-AX8000 is one of the best touchscreen head units available. It has great sound quality and many features, including Bluetooth for hands-free calling and wireless music streaming.
10. BOSS Audio Systems BV9986BI Car DVD Player
Introducing the BOSS Audio BV9986BI Car DVD Player - the perfect way to get your vehicle rocking with all your favorite audio options.
With the BOSS BV9986BI 1din head unit, you can keep your family entertained on long road trips. This player features a built-in DVD player and monitor, as well as a USB port and SD card slot for playback of your favorite media files.
It also includes an FM transmitter to send audio signals wirelessly to your car stereo. The BOSS Audio Systems BV9986BI Car DVD Player is the perfect way to keep everyone happy on the go.
I think the BOSS Audio Systems is the best single din navigation head unit and is a great choice for anyone looking to buy an aftermarket in-dash radio. It's affordable, sounds good, and can connect your phone easily with Bluetooth.
11. Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX 1-DIN Digital Media Receiver
Pioneer's DMH-WT7600NEX Receiver is a 1-DIN wonder that lets you enjoy all of your digital media in one place. With built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this receiver makes it easy to keep your music and navigation on track while you're on the go.
Pioneer DMH WT7600NEX is the best single din flip out head unit with an excellent listening experience with its high quality speakers and sound system. It also has many other great features, such as hands-free calling capabilities so you can drive without worrying about holding your phone or interacting with others around you unsafely!
The Pioneer 1 DIN receiver will provide clear reception even if there are several obstructions in between yourself & radio waves.
With its powerful amplifier and superior sound quality, the Pioneer DMH-WT7600NEX will keep you entertained for hours on end.
12. STINGER HEIGH10 10" Universal Multimedia Car Stereo Head Unit (UN1810)
The Stinger HEIGH10 Universal Multimedia Car Stereo Head Unit is the ultimate entertainment and convenience for your car. This head unit has a large, easy-to-read screen that makes it simple to navigate through your device's various functions and settings.
It can be used with or without steering wheel controls, so you always have total control of your music and phone calls. The most powerful single din head unit also includes an SD card slot so you can play MP3s right off of a memory card. Easy to install, this multimedia head unit is compatible.
This car stereo is a great choice if you're looking to install an android system in your vehicle. This is the best single din head unit for android. This single din android head unit has everything from radio, navigation, and voice control within one screen!
The 10" display makes it easy for drivers of any age or skill level to see what they need when using this device which also means less eye strain, so enjoy them safely on the road ahead.
What is a single din head unit?
A single din head unit is a car audio system that fits in the dashboard and provides an amplifier, speakers, and a touchscreen display. Alpine introduced the first single-DIN (Double Inline) head units in 1997 for use in Europe. These compact units had two sets of inputs; one for CDs or cassettes and another for AM/FM radio presets. As with most automotive things these days, there are now numerous makes & models on the market from all different brands - some more expensive than others! One thing they all seem to have in common, though, is Bluetooth capability which allows you to wirelessly stream your music from your phone onto this digital device via WiFi or 3G internet connection is available.
What is a din in regards to a single din head unit?
Din is the standard measurement of car stereo head units. A single-din head unit measures 7 inches wide by 2 inches high. A double-din head unit measures 7 inches wide by 4 inches high.
10 Advantages of Having a Single Din Head Unit in Your Car
Do you have a single din head unit in your car? If not, then you're missing out on some great advantages. Here are just a few of them:
1. Perfect integration with your car's interior
You'll notice that many cars (especially older models) come with a single din head unit in the front dashboard, usually placed at the very center of it. Most cars are built to fit this head unit perfectly and best integrate with any car. The materials used for these kinds of head units are designed to match well with what's usually available in your average car, like plastic or wood. Nowadays, however, some automakers start experimenting with different head units - metal-faced ones, in particular, look pretty cool when combined with other metals in the dash, like chrome bits and steel panels.
2. Easy replacement
This might not be something you'd want if you're not the tinkering type, but single din head units are very easy to replace. If your current one starts acting up, it's faster and less expensive to buy another one than getting it fixed or having it repaired.
3. No loss of features
This has got to be the biggest advantage you'll get when using a replacement head unit as opposed to a new car -- you won't lose any of those neat features you've paid for! Nowadays, many cars come with some nifty technology, including navigation capability and even bluetooth streaming, all powered by a single head unit in the dash. Replacing this with an aftermarket model will give you all those features back without needing to pay anything else extra on top of what you bought your car for.
4. No need to upgrade
With how fast technology changes these days, you might feel compelled to replace your head unit every so often so that you can get the latest features or gadgets available in them. There's no need to do that with a replacement single din head unit since it will give you everything you want and more than what an aftermarket head unit can offer, at half the cost! And if it breaks down -- well, just buy another one instead of fixing this one. That's not something you'll have to worry about when getting a replacement single din head unit.
5. It Doesn't block legroom
Single din head units take up much less space compared to double din ones, making them perfect for small cars or those with smaller dashboard sizes. They still look good, though, so you don't have to worry about losing out on aesthetics.
6. Looks normal
With how much the world has been transitioning towards having an iPhone (or pretty much any smartphone), it can be baffling why car companies are still sticking to single din head units instead of upgrading them into double din ones that will match these sleek devices better. One reason might be because most people like the classic look of a single-din head unit, and they want their cars to look normal (classic) as well. After all, there's nothing more embarrassing than driving around in a luxury-looking sports car only to open up your dashboard and reveal its ugly old head unit.
7. Can be easily installed by yourself
Since single din head units don't take up much space and are easy to replace, what could go wrong if you try installing them yourself? With an aftermarket head unit, it's always best to ask for help from someone with experience in the field just so they can guide you through the process, but as long as you know your way around tools and such (and enough about wiring), then this should be a breeze. The hard part is that first step, which is getting out the old head unit - after that, it becomes really simple since all you have to do is plug and play!
8. Looks good on other double din cars
Some people like to have cars that match according to brand. By double din head units, they mean the built-in ones - you won't see any aftermarket ones on factory dashboards because these are custom-made just for that particular car model! If your goal is to have a car with a factory-looking dashboard, getting an aftermarket single din head unit will help since it looks identical to what you'd find if they were included in the production line. You might still want to ask someone who's done this before if you're not sure about how this works, though - no point trying something out if there's even the slightest chance it could damage your precious ride!
9. No need for installation kits
This doesn't apply to everyone since some aftermarket head units will come with installation kits while others don't, but you'll still save a lot by not needing to pay for one when getting an aftermarket model. Installation kits can be costly, especially if you're just starting - the last thing you want to do is spend more money on something that was supposed to help you cut costs!
10. Lighter and thinner
Since single din head units have only a single row of controls and buttons compared to double din models, which feature two -- there's no need for a front panel where all the extra stuff gets hidden in! This makes them lighter and slimmer, which is perfect if your car has limited space at the dash and doesn't have any.
Single din head units are a lot better choice when you want to replace your current one, but don't think they're the only type of aftermarket models out there! There's no way they can beat double din ones in terms of features and functionality, but if you need that single row of controls, then they're definitely something worth looking into.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a New Single Din Head Unit
Installing a new car radio can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 and up, depending on the model and parts required. The exact price of replacing a head unit will depend on factors like:
- Whether an installation kit is needed (if you're changing out your existing one)
- How much labor the job requires (you could do it yourself or pay someone else to do it for you)
There are many different types of vehicles and head units available, which account for the wide range in price. Some options even include Bluetooth capability, auxiliary inputs, and USB slots, as well as other high-end features.
The make and model of the car matter when figuring how much it costs to install a new head unit and the existing equipment you are replacing. If your vehicle has an older head unit that requires special adapters to install, costs can go up significantly. Or you might install a new head unit yourself, only to find out later that it doesn't work with your car's wires correctly, so you have to pay someone else to give it another try. The last thing you want is for the installation process to be more expensive than the price of just buying a new radio first place!
If cost is an issue and you're looking for an inexpensive way to get into modern technology, there are options available under $100, including all necessary parts and labor required. So before spending big money on up-front costs for high-end functions, consider other options.
Whatever you do, don't forget to factor in the cost of a new antenna adaptor if needed!
How to wire an amp from a single din head unit using RCA cables?
When it comes to car audio, you can never have too much power. But if you are putting together the system piece by piece, buying a subwoofer amp for your subwoofers and speakers without pre-existing components can be expensive. Luckily, there is a way around this problem that requires only an old head unit and some RCA cables.
The first thing you will need is to disconnect your negative battery terminal. It does not hurt to take out the positive cable as well. Next, take out the single DIN head unit from your car, but be sure to take off all of its plastic panels first. Once this is done, locate the amplifier inside the stereo's body. On my particular Pioneer deck, a green amplifier board was connected to the bottom of my head unit.
Once you find your amp, take a picture and label it if this is your first time disassembling a car stereo. This way, you can remember exactly how everything goes back together. After you disassemble the amp, remove all of its screws and unplug all the wires from it. Be sure to save as much wire as possible, so you do not have to buy extra parts such as speaker wire or power wires for amps.
Now connect one end of an RCA cable (the red and white plugs) into each channel of your amp: front left/right, rear left/right, and subwoofer if applicable. If there is no sub output on your deck, you will want to buy RCA Y-adapters. After this is done, connect the free end of each RCA cable into the corresponding colored port on your new subwoofer amp.
Now take another set of RCA cables and run them from the sub out on your deck to one of your subwoofers. You can use regular speaker wire if you don't have extra RCA cables. Just hook up the red plug into the positive terminal and white into the negative. Now that all of your components are connected install the head unit back in the car and turn it on. Play an audio source and adjust the volume for each channel as desired. This method may not be as effective as a traditional amp installation, but it should work well enough to give you a decent amount of bass and power.
If the sound on your new subwoofer amp does not measure up, try turning its gain (input sensitivity) knob down until it sounds right. This is better than turning the deck's volume up because your deck will distort before your subwoofer amp does. Also, if you plan to run an amplifier for speakers and a sub, hook them up at the end, not by themselves first. If you hook up each one separately and then connect them both, you will have no way to adjust the deck's speaker output independent of the sub.
Now that everything is hooked up and sounding good go out and enjoy some deep bass! People may stare at your deck while you are at stoplights asking it questions, but who cares? You won't be able to hear them anyway if you have the volume cranked up.
Hope this helps! Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions or problems with wiring an amp from single din head units using RCA cables.
Are there any aftermarket single din head units with separate touchscreens?
A few aftermarket single din head units with separate touchscreens on the market but they can be quite expensive. A good option is to search for a used or refurbished unit. Alternatively, some people have successfully modified a car stereo to fit into a single din slot by using a universal faceplate and cutting away part of the metal casing.
If you're looking for an affordable option, there are some decent double din head units with touchscreens that come in at around $100-$200. Just do your research before purchasing to make sure the unit has the features you need.
Why do aftermarket stereo interfaces suck so much (a rant)?
It depends on what you're comparing them to. If you're upgrading from a factory stereo, then they almost always suck because the factory stereo is usually terrible.
But if you're upgrading from an aftermarket stereo, they often suck because the audio quality and features are usually worse than what was already in your car. And most aftermarket stereos don't have a built-in navigation system, which is a big downside compared to the factory stereo.
So it depends on your perspective. If you're coming from a bad stock stereo, then any aftermarket interface will be an improvement. But if you're upgrading from another aftermarket stereo, then you might be disappointed with the results.
Final Words
Picking the best single din head unit for your car can be tough, but I hope my reviews and buyer's guide have helped point you in the right direction. Whether you're looking for the best overall value, performance, or features, a head unit on my list will suit your needs. Thanks for reading, and happy shopping!