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3 Car Stereo Systems the Auto Enthusiast in Your Life Will Love
The head unit is undoubtedly one of the most important parts of a car stereo system. It’s where all the magic happens. With so many manufacturers and units to choose from, it can be hard to know which head unit to gift the auto enthusiast in your life. And if you don’t know a whole lot about cars, it can be even more of a challenge. Don’t resort to a gift card just yet - we can help!
At Stereo Depot, we specialize in making car audio systems the best they can be. With car audio installation, we’re able to completely transform a car stereo system and customize it to the driver’s personal definition of a “perfect sound.” We offer some of the best head units on the market and can help you decide which one to purchase for your loved one this holiday season.
Don’t sweat it if you aren’t familiar with car audio yourself. You can still give that person in your life an awesome gift they’ll love.
What is a Car Stereo Head Unit?
So, what is a car stereo head unit, anyway? Think of it as the heart and brain of your car audio system. Also known as the receiver, it allows you to communicate with your system from behind the wheel.
Choosing an aftermarket head unit to install into your ride is a big decision. Which one you select will determine the audio sources, features, and expandability of the rest of your audio system.
What You’ll Need to Know
There are a few things to keep in mind while picking out a head unit. First, the “best” for one driver may not look the same for another. It really comes down to what the system will be used for and what vehicle it will be installed in. There are a few no-brainers for what drivers want in a head unit, like Bluetooth capabilities, AUX, and at least one USB port. Additionally, there are other capabilities that a driver might consider as essential in their system.
Make sure to find out what your driver prioritizes from a car stereo system. Are they looking for smartphone integration? Do they want to improve their audio quality? Do they need a GPS and navigation system? The answers to these questions will help you decide which head unit will suit them best.
It’s also important to know the size of the driver’s dash. Without this information, you won’t be able to get very far in your quest for the perfect gift. There are two common types of head units that fit most dashboards: Single-DIN (SD) and Double-DIN (DD). Double-DIN openings are the largest, and you should be able to fit both types of units in it. If your driver has a single-DIN, you can only fit a single-DIN unit.
3 Car Stereo Head Units to Consider This Holiday Season
As we previously mentioned, there isn’t just one head unit that is better than the rest. You’ll want to find out what your driver is looking to get out of their car stereo system. In this gift guide, we’ve included some of our favorite units that vary in their size and capabilities. You’re sure to find the perfect one for the auto enthusiast in your life.
1. Pioneer DMH-C5500NEX
Pioneer’s Single-DIN DMH-C5500NEX is one of the most innovative touch screen head units on today’s market. With its screen measuring a whopping eight inches, you’ll have no problem using Android Auto or AppleCarplay, among many other apps.
Controlling the system is easy. Just tap and swipe the screen, like you would a smartphone or tablet, and you’re in for an intuitive user experience.
This unit is great for any driver looking to bring the capabilities of their smartphone to the driver’s seat. It’s a must-have for anyone that wants to integrate a touchscreen car stereo into their ride.
2. Kenwood Excelon KMM-X704
The Excelon KMM-X704 is best for anyone looking to fine-tune their sound. This digital receiver is jam packed with awesome features that will change the way you listen to your favorite tunes. Complete with front and rear USB ports, AUX input, Bluetooth, AM/FM radio, and Sirius XM, this unit is ready for any way you want to jam. It also features a built-in Amazon Alexa for easy voice-controlled access!
As for audio features, drive EQ can improve your sound and compensate for any exterior road noise. This unit also contains a 13-band equalizer and low-pass filter and sub level control.
The Excelon KMM-X704 is the perfect gift for drivers who really care about their sound, and are looking for a way to make it even better. With Bluetooth and Amazon Alexa, you’re able to make any command hands-free while you stay focused on the road.
3. Kenwood Excelon DNX997XR 6.8”
If you’re looking for the whole package, the Excelon DNX997XR can do it all and is fully-loaded with every feature you can imagine. Looking for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay? It’s got it. Navigation? Yep. Sound tuning capabilities? Yes, it has that, too!
In addition to its touch panel control, this head unit also includes built-in Bluetooth, HD Radio, and WiFi. It can also reproduce high-resolution music to be crystal clear.
This unit is a great gift for the driver that wants it all. Complete with smartphone connectivity, GPS and navigation, and sound tuning, the Excelon DNX997XR is the best head unit to take your car stereo system to the next level.
Shop These Car Stereo Head Units and More at Stereo Depot!
At Stereo Depot, we offer car stereo installation near you for an unbeatable price! Shop the hottest car stereo head units on today’s market and other accessories to revamp your ride. To guarantee utmost quality, we only carry the most-trusted brands, like Kenwood, Pioneer, Alpine, and more!
Don’t wait! Snag one of these car stereo units before they’re gone. Visit one of our locations in San Diego or El Cajon to get started.
If you have any questions about car audio installation, don’t hesitate to send us a message online.