If you want a double DIN head unit with good sound quality, this article is for you! Sound quality is an important factor for most car owners when they are looking to buy a new double DIN car stereo.
From the clarity of your favorite songs to the crispness of your voice on a phone call, sound quality can be the difference between having great music in your car and just okay music.
Sound quality and ease of use are crucial to any driver, but these days with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start.
To help you out, we have compiled a detailed review of our 10 best double DIN head units for sound quality that you should consider before making a purchase decision!
[wptb id=2596]Top 10 Best Double DIN Head Unit For Sound Quality:
1. Pioneer DEH-1500 NEX Digital Media Receiver
The Pioneer DMH-1500NEX digital media receiver is a high-quality, double DIN head unit. Pioneer made it with the latest digital audio technology to deliver high sound clarity and precision.
This receiver will provide you with crystal clear sound quality. It has an integrated amplifier (MOSFET 50 W x 4), 13 Band customizable graphic equalizer, and bass boost. Plus, its multiple features will please anyone looking for an upgrade to their car audio system.
This receiver will enhance your in-car experience with Pandora compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity (with an A2DP profile & microphone for making hands-free calls), and a USB connector for iPod/iPhone control or charging your device while playing music.
You can also enjoy SiriusXM satellite radio with it (Tuner Sold Separately). Plus, it comes with 18 FM/6 AM presets.
Pioneer equipped this DMH-1500NEX digital media head unit with Alexa to help you control its functions at your convenience. Be informed that you’ll need the Pioneer Vozsis to use the Alexa feature, and it’s only available in the USA. Also, this receiver supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WebLinking, and navigation.
The DMH-1500NEX digital media head unit comes with a fixed 6.95″ WVGA (800 480 pixels) resistive touchscreen monitor for easy control.
You can adjust the screen’s brightness to suit different weather situations. This head unit features three inputs for connecting a backup camera or other audio devices. You can connect it to your steering wheel control for more accessibility, but you need an (adapter sold separately).
Be informed that it is a double-DIN receiver, so it will only fit a double-DIN compatible dashboard. Also, it comes with a wiring harness and user manual to make installation easy.
Benefits
- It produces excellent sound quality.
- It supports Alexa, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, WebLinking, and navigation.
- Thanks to the provided user manual and wire harness, the installation process is simple.
- It features a 7″ touchscreen for ease of use.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t last for long before encountering some issues.
2. Sony XAV-AX5000 Media Receiver
The Sony XAV-AX5000 media receiver is a top-of-the-line option for anyone looking for premium sound quality in their car. With its built-in 4 x 55W amplification, this unit gives an incredible audio experience, making music sound clear even at high volumes. Whether you’re a music lover or a movie fanatic, this receiver is sure to impress.
This receiver supports a wide range of audio formats, has an intuitive interface, and produces clear and powerful sound. With features like Bluetooth connectivity for making hands-free calls, smartphone mirroring, Apple Carplay & Android Auto compatibility, this media receiver can do it all.
Its Apple Carplay and Android Auto features allow you to get directions, make phone calls, send & receive messages, and listen to music while driving.
The Sony XAV-AX5000 media receiver comes with a 6.95″ touchscreen display that makes it simple to manage all of your music, applications, and other features with a few taps on the touch controls. The screen wakes up 2.5 times faster than previous models, making it very responsive. If you’ve got a rear view camera installed, you can view its feed on the screen with parking guidelines.
There are two USB ports for connecting external audio devices to enjoy all of your hit songs. You can also listen to recent music, sports, news, and entertainment by connecting a Sirius XM Radio satellite tuner. Sony also added simple button controls for quick access to essential features like volume, sound settings, and voice control for safe handling on the road.
Despite being a double-DIN, the back chassis is much smaller than standard double-DIN models, making it easy to install.
Benefits
- It supports Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
- It is easy to use and delivers an incredible audio experience.
- The touchscreen of this receiver is very responsive.
- Its back chassis is much smaller than standard double-DIN models, making it easy to install.
Drawbacks
- It develops connectivity issues after a few months of use.
3. Alpine ILX-W650 7″ Mech-Less Receiver
The Alpine ILX-W650 mechless receiver is a high-quality head unit with superb sound. It has a 7″ WVGA touchscreen that offers the ability to use your thumbs or fingers for navigation (volume up, volume down, skip forward, skip back, and pause).
The receiver features Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling & audio streaming. Plus, it has a USB input for connecting an iPod/iPhone or Android for playing music, videos, and viewing pictures.
This head unit also includes Apple CarPlay, which allows iPhone users to make and receive calls, read text messages, listen to music, and get directions while keeping their eyes on the road.
Apple CarPlay may be accessed via the capacitive touch screen or by pressing the mic button to engage Siri via voice command But you need to use an Apple lightning cable to link it with your iPhone successfully.
The Alpine ILX-W650 receiver also supports Android Auto, allowing Android users to listen to music, obtain driving directions to their destination, and respond to text messages – all while driving. To utilize google assistance, connect it through Bluetooth and a USB cord. However, the Android Auto doesn’t connect with all Android phones.
Whether you have an Apple or an Android mobile, you will be able to access Pandora music, Spotify, and SiriusXM-Ready with this head unit. Note that you’ll need an SXV300 to connect a vehicle tuner kit (sold separately) and a SiriusXM subscription to use SiriusXM. The Alpine ILX-W650 receiver is small and lightweight.
It comes with a shallow chassis, making it one of the simplest double-DIN automobile receivers to install in any dashboard that accepts double DIN.
Benefits
- This head unit is user-friendly and very easy to install.
- It supports Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
- Its 7” touchscreen allows you to navigate its functions with fingers.
- It offers excellent audio quality.
Drawbacks
- Android Auto doesn’t connect to all Android phones.
4. Kenwood DDX26BT 6.2″ WVGA DVD Receiver
Kenwood DDX26BT 6.2″ WVGA DVD receiver is an all-in-one solution for anyone looking to replace their factory radio in a car with something more modern and advanced.
It includes excellent Bluetooth connectivity, allowing up to 5 Bluetooth devices to be linked simultaneously, allowing you to enjoy music with your friends and family while driving. The Bluetooth works in conjunction with the integrated microphone to enable you to make hands-free calls.
This car receiver supports SiriusXM Satellite radio, USB port, and has Pandora/Spotify link for iPhone and Android phones.
All you need to do is install Spotify or Pandora apps, then connect it to the receiver to enjoy music playback. For iPhone, you can use either USB or Bluetooth, while for Android, only Bluetooth.
Moreso, it supports a wide range of audio file formats, including high-resolution audio sources like FLAC, WAV, MP3, WMA, to mention a few. Thanks to its 13-Band equalizer and DTA, you can tailor the sound output to your listening preference. Plus, it features a Drive EQ that lowers road noise while driving without affecting music sound quality.
The Kenwood DDX26BT 6.2″ WVGA DVD receiver comes with the ability to play DVDs, CDs, and MP3s. The WVGA clear resistive 6.2” touchscreen with an 800 x 480 resolution allows for full viewing of movies in 1080i HD quality.
There are side buttons around the screen for easy access to some of the receiver’s features. Plus, it has a remote app for controlling its functions via your smartphone. If you have a rear camera, you can see the stream on the receiver’s screen, along with parking guidelines for safe parking.
The Kenwood DDX26BT 6.2″ WVGA DVD Receiver will provide years of entertainment for your car or home stereo system at an affordable price point! Plus, installation is straightforward.
Benefits
- This car stereo is well-built and has superb sound quality.
- Its Bluetooth allows you to pair up to 5 devices at once.
- You can download a remote app on your smartphone to control its functions from the palm of your hands.
- It supports a wide variety of audio formats.
Drawbacks
- None
5. ATOTO A6 Double Din A6G2A7KL Android Car Stereo
ATOTO A6 Double Din A6G2A7KL Android car stereo is one of the most affordable car stereo systems on the market. When you start your car, the head unit boots in less than 2 seconds. It has dual Bluetooth technology, so you can connect two phones at once to listen to music with your friends and family.
The Bluetooth works with the integrated microphone to enable you to make and receive hands-free calls without taking your eyes off the road.
ATOTO equipped this car head unit with a Built-in Max 4 x 45W amplifier to ensure it delivers the best sound quality. The sound will not distort or crackle under any circumstances, which means that you can enjoy your favorite songs without any worries about whether or not they will damage your ears!
It also features a 7” 1024 x 600 capacitive touchscreen display that allows you to control everything its functions conveniently. There are buttons under the screen for increasing/reducing volume and changing music.
Furthermore, this head unit comes with an in-built GPS that accurately tracks where you are at all times, ensuring that you never get lost! It features phone mirroring & phone integration linking with both Apple and Android phones for making phone calls, accessing your music, much.
Plus, it has an ultra external Wi-Fi antenna for a strong Wi-Fi connection. One disadvantage of this receiver is that it becomes quite sluggish after extended usage.
The ATOTO A6 double DIN A6G2A7KL Android car stereo has a built-in FM/AM radio tuner so that users can enjoy listening to the most up-to-date broadcast stations.
It also displays the radio station name on the screen if available. You can use it with the ATOTO AC-HD02LR camera (not included) to provide a Live Rear-View (LRV).
When you buy this car stereo, it comes with all the wiring harness you need and a user manual for smooth installation. You’ll get a frame with a minimum 172mm x 97mm front panel dimension, which fits most double-DIN dash. However, an extra frame adapter is included in the package to extend its size to 178mm x 101.5mm.
Benefits
- This car radio has a plethora of features.
- It has Wi-Fi, phone mirroring, and phone integration linking.
- Its Bluetooth allows you to connect two phones at the same time.
- The touchscreen has a high level of responsiveness.
Drawbacks
- It gets slow when used for a long period.
- It doesn’t last for long.
6. Dasaita Android 10.0 Universal Double Din Car Stereo
The Dasaita Android 10.0 Universal double DIN car stereo is a great addition for any vehicle owner looking to replace their current head unit.
It features a 7” ( 178°wide angle, 1024 x 600 high resolution) touch screen and operates on Android 11 OS, making it compatible with all of your favorite apps from google play store like Spotify, Pandora, and more! It also comes equipped with a Rockchip PX4 CPU processor and 2GB RAM+32GBROM for faster operation.
The stereo features a powerful CSR8350 chip that produces clear and low noise levels. It also has a 15-Band EQ that will help you get rid of any distortion in your music by allowing you to adjust frequencies to match your car’s interior acoustics.
This means you can play any genre of music without hearing pops, hisses, or other unwanted noises! You’ll be blown away by this stereo’s ability to play high-definition audio files up to 192 kHz/24-bit, thanks to the built-in 4 x 50 W amplification.
The Dasaita Android 10.0 Universal double DIN car stereo offers other advanced features like Bluetooth pairing capability and a built-in GPS. It supports Wi-Fi, 3G/4G internet, and mirror linking.
Best yet, it comes with free lifetime updates and 24/7 technical support, so if anything goes wrong during installation, you can reach out to support. It will fit any vehicle with a double DIN slot.
However, check to see whether it won’t obstruct your air vents. Be informed that it comes with a Nissan and ISO wiring harness.
Benefits
- It has a super-fast processor and excellent sound quality.
- The wide touchscreen is great and super responsive.
- The car stereo supports Wi-Fi, 3G/4G internet, and mirror linking.
- Dasaita offers 24/7 technical support.
Drawbacks
- It is not reliable and durable.
7. BOSS Audio Systems BVB9364RC Car DVD Player
The BOSS Audio Systems BVB9364RC car DVD has a sleek design, easy-to-use interface, and great audio quality. This car stereo includes a 6.2” LCD screen with touch controls for smooth navigation. If you’ve got a rear camera, you can see the feed through the screen.
It features built-in Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free wireless audio streaming from your smartphone from apps like Spotify/Pandora to your vehicle’s speakers and hands-free phone call capability.
With its built-in DVD player, this head unit can play DVD/CDs. You can listen to the latest news, music, and sports on AM/FM radio stations through your vehicle speakers.
Thanks to the USB port that allows you to charge your phone while driving, you’ll never miss an important call or text.
It also has an SD card slot and an AUX input that accepts music from smartphones and MP3 players. The front, rear, and subwoofer pre-amp outputs are perfect for connecting your speakers.
The Boss Audio Systems BVB9364RC comes with an integrated equalizer to customize how you want to hear your music. Moreso, it has been designed to be compatible with all factory steering wheel controls. However, you’ll need an additional interface (sold separately).
This head unit has a wireless remote control that enables you to control all its functions from the palm of your hands. It comes with a robust 3-year platinum guarantee from the manufacturer, who also recommends a professional installation.
Benefits
- It comes with remote control.
- There’s a three-year warranty from the manufacturer on this car stereo.
- It has a DVD/CD player, USB/SD port, and AUX input.
- It is inexpensive and offers excellent value for money.
Drawbacks
- It is not durable.
8. JVC KW-R940BTS Car Stereo
JVC KW-R940BTS is an affordable double DIN head unit that offers sound quality that’s hard to beat. It has a high-performance amplifier and built-in subwoofer, which provides rich, deep bass sounds.
Furthermore, it has Alexa built-in, so you can use voice commands to play music, make calls, listen to podcasts & news, check the weather, get directions, and more— all while staying focused on driving. To activate Alexa, install the Amazon Alexa companion app (free) on your smartphone and press the Alexa key on the receiver.
This receiver’s Bluetooth lets you connect up to 5 devices at once, so you and your friends can take turns streaming & playing music like a DJ. You can also use Bluetooth for hands-free calling using its in-built microphone.
All you need to do is push a key on the receiver to make/receive calls. This receiver also has automatic Bluetooth connectivity for iPhones, which means that when you insert your iPhone into the USB port, it connects instantly.
The components in the JVC KW-R940BTS Car stereo include CD, AM/FM radio, SiriusXM (subscription required), USB port, and three RCA preamp outputs. It has a 2-line LCD for all of your settings and menus so you can easily navigate through them with ease.
The front panel lighting may be divided into two color zones. There are 50 preset patterns (49 colors + 1 user color preset) for you to choose from. Plus, it comes with ten different color animation patterns to experience dynamic illumination.
The JVC KW-R940BTS car stereo is easy to install because it comes with all you will need and instructions on how to wire it up correctly! JVC equipped it with K2 (JVC original technology) that adjusts music sound to match your car’s interior.
There’s also the auto time alignment, which calibrates the speaker levels to arrive at the same time. Plus, it has a 13-Band equalizer to adjust the sound to your listening preference.
To operate its functions remotely, you can download the remote control app on your smartphone. Or, purchase the JVC (RM-RK52) remote control.
Benefits
- It comes with ten different color animation patterns to experience dynamic illumination.
- This receiver Bluetooth allows you to connect up to 5 phones simultaneously.
- It comes with a built-in Alexa.
- It features JVC K2 that produces original master sound remarkably.
Drawbacks
- The LCD screen is a bit difficult to see during the day.
- It doesn’t keep time on the clock.
- There is no off switch.
9. P.L.Z MP-800 Double Din Car Stereo
The P.L.Z MP-800 double DIN car stereo is perfect for anyone who wants to improve their vehicle audio experience without sacrificing sound quality at any point in the process.
It can connect to your phone, tablet, or laptop to play music from Spotify or google play music through your car speakers via Bluetooth or AUX cable. However, the Bluetooth skips.
You can as well use Bluetooth connectivity for making hands-free calls. However, the microphone on this unit malfunctions, so the caller on the other end will not hear you properly.
That said, this receiver has a full-color, high-definition 7” touchscreen interface that is responsive. It also comes with a 170° ultra-wide viewing angle HD back camera with night vision and fully waterproof housing. When reversing, the receiver screen displays what the camera sees.
You can watch movies or read maps on the screen by connecting your Android or IOS devices via the USB port. It also offers mirror linking, which works with most Android phones and iPhones starting with the iPhone 8+ to the latest model. This head unit is perfect for playing a broad range of music types, thanks to the built-in preset EQ and user-customized ten-band settings.
P.L.Z equipped it with a Philips TEA6851 chip FM receiver that is unaffected by weather conditions, ensuring that you don’t miss any of your favorite stations while driving. Unlike other car stereos, this one does not require the purchase of an extra adapter to use the steering wheel controls.
Its packaging box includes everything you will need to install. However, you may need to purchase an external harness if your car model doesn’t fit the harness it comes with.
Benefits
- It bangs for the buck.
- You don’t need an external adapter for you to connect your steering wheel controls to the head unit.
- The touchscreen is snappy and simple to use.
- It comes with an HD rear camera.
Drawbacks
- When making calls, the caller at the other end can’t hear you properly.
- The Bluetooth skips.
- It may not last up to a year.
10. Sound Storm Laboratories DD988ACP Car Stereo
The last product on our list is the Sound Storm Laboratories DD988ACP car stereo. This double DIN unit comes with Bluetooth, HD Radio, and a USB port so you can plug your phone to charge it while you listen to music! The Bluetooth allows you to make hands-free calls and play music from apps like Spotify or Pandora.
This head unit supports both Apple Carplay and Android Auto. So, you can use Siri or Google Assistant to play music, view maps, send text messages, listen to radio stations, podcasts, or audiobooks.
It has a big 6.75” capacitive touchscreen monitor that allows you to easily operate all its functions without being distracted. If your vehicle has a backup camera, you can use the screen to view feed for safer parking or reversing.
In terms of audio quality, this head unit sounds great. It has built-in EQ presets for different types of music like rock, pop, country, with custom settings where you can adjust bass levels.
Provided that your vehicle has a double-DIN compliant dashboard, you shouldn’t have any problems installing it. Sound Storm Laboratories sells it with a wiring harness and a user manual to guide you through the installation process.
Benefits
- It supports Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
- It is easy to install.
- The sound quality is commendable.
- It offers great value for money.
Drawbacks
- Apple Carplay randomly stops working.
Read Also:
- Best Flip Out Car Stereo
- Best Budget Car Stereo
- Best Car Stereo with Backup Camera
- Best Single DIN Head Unit
Final Verdict
It’s not always easy to find a double DIN head unit that will provide superb sound quality. However, the 10 double DIN head units we have reviewed are all excellent choices that will take your car music listening experience to the next level.
Whether you’re looking to replace your factory-installed unit or just want an upgrade, these double DIN head units offer enough variety and power to satisfy any audiophile’s needs.
In conclusion, we hope our list has helped you narrow down your options! With our help, finding your ideal audio system should be as simple as possible. So, select one of the head units we have reviewed and make a purchase today!
