The car stereos category covers in-car radios with Bluetooth and, in some cases, a CD player, as well as devices that add wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to a car's existing screen. It suits drivers who want to replace an old head unit or use their phone more easily on the road. Most models come from CARLINKIT, OTTOCAST, JVC and Pioneer.
How to choose a car stereo
Type of device. Decide first whether you are replacing the whole head unit or adding to the system you already have. A stereo such as those from JVC or Pioneer takes the place of the factory radio, so check the fitting size (single or double DIN), the connectors and whether you need a wiring adapter. Phone adapters of the kind CARLINKIT and OTTOCAST make plug into the car's USB port and work with the screen already fitted, but the car must support CarPlay or Android Auto.
Radio bands. On stereos with a radio tuner, the FM band covers roughly 87.5-108 MHz. Some models also receive digital DAB or DAB+, and a few add AM, LW and MW. If you listen to a lot of radio, look at the number of preset stations: our range includes models with 24, 30 and 42.
Phone connection. The Bluetooth A2DP profile streams music, AVRCP lets you control tracks from the stereo, and PBAP shows your phone book on the display. Our range includes models with these profiles and with the AAC and SBC audio codecs; AAC is mainly useful for iPhone owners. If you want maps and apps on the screen, choose a device with CarPlay or Android Auto and check that it works with your phone.
Media. Some stereos play CD, CD-R and CD-RW discs, while others have no disc support at all. If you listen to music from your phone, a CD player is not essential. Anyone with an older iPod should look for the Ready for iPod label, which some of our models carry.
Brands we carry
- CARLINKIT: known for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto adapters, and the brand with the most products in our range.
- OTTOCAST: makes similar adapters that plug into the car's USB port, so the phone no longer needs a cable.
- JVC: a Japanese manufacturer known for car stereos with a radio, CD player and Bluetooth.
- Pioneer: a car audio specialist known for both head units and speakers.
Also in our range: NAVITEL.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a car stereo and a CarPlay adapter?
A car stereo is a complete unit that replaces the factory radio, while a CarPlay or Android Auto adapter only turns a wired phone connection into a wireless one. Most such adapters work only if the car already has a screen and wired CarPlay or Android Auto support. If it has neither, you will need to replace the stereo.
Is a car stereo with DAB+ worth it?
It is worth it if digital radio is broadcast on your usual routes, since the sound is cleaner than FM. Check DAB+ coverage in your area before buying. A stereo with an FM tuner only will work wherever FM stations broadcast.
Will a car stereo fit my car?
That depends on the size of the opening and on the wiring connectors. Most stereos are single or double DIN, so measure the opening in your dashboard first. You will often also need a trim frame and a connector adapter for your specific car model.
What do A2DP and AVRCP mean?
A2DP is the Bluetooth profile that streams music from your phone to the stereo, and AVRCP lets you change tracks and adjust volume from the stereo. PBAP is also handy for calls, as it shows your phone book on the display. Our range includes stereos with these profiles.
