The Best Double DIN Multimedia Systems
Upgrading a car stereo can breathe new life into an aging vehicle, but picking the right replacement can be tricky. There are plenty of new functions like Bluetooth connection, GPS navigation, and voice command access that would have previously been impossible to implement in older vehicles, but using a double DIN stereo can make it possible. Finding something that fits your car’s layout and has all the modern capabilities can take time, but we’re here to help make it easier. We’ve picked the best double DIN stereos available online, so take a look and see what fits your needs the most.
PLZ MP-800 Car Entertainment Multimedia System
Lights, camera, action
If you’re looking for a quick way to give your car a modern makeover, this multimedia system is sure to do the trick. The MP-800 is compatible with Android and iOS phones and can link via Bluetooth or USB. Not only that, but it can also mirror the screen of your phone for GPS navigation, videos, or anything you would like to present on-screen. It comes with an HD backup camera and all the wiring needed to install it, too.
The LED display color is customizable, so you can be totally in control of your dash view. As far as music goes, it has a 10-band EQ and a built-in subwoofer output. This means you can play music from the apps on your phone, create a custom EQ to make the most of your music, and add onto your car’s existing sound system with amps and subwoofers. It is sleek and modern, but it allows for tons of customization. All things considered, it’s a pretty inexpensive way to make your car a showstopper.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Customizable sound settings
- USB/Bluetooth Connection
Cons:
- No option for CD/DVD
Pioneer Digital Multimedia Receiver
Pioneers of sound
Buying a name brand can be more expensive, but it has its perks. No one chooses a pricier option simply because of its price; rather, they choose it because of its quality. Quality is exactly what you get when you choose Pioneer.
This elegant-looking receiver is designed with ease and simplicity in mind. The built-in support for apps like Spotify and Waze makes it even easier to connect to your favorite services. While other companies offer compatibility to apps like these, not every unit offers direct on-screen access. It’s not overly flashy or bright, but you can still see the crystal clear display in daylight. Generally, this is a high-quality unit, but the best feature may be the sound quality. Simply put, it’s the best in its price range. This is a car stereo, after all. The tech can be convenient, but at the end of the day, this is a machine that’s made for music.
Pros:
- Great sound quality
- User-friendly interface
- Fewer software bugs than competitors
Cons:
- High price
AboutBit Digital Media Car Stereo Receiver
Keep the change
If you want to turn heads but you only have a few bucks to spare, this is the option for you. This double DIN stereo has most of the functions that competing brands offer, as well as a simple, modern design. The difference? This stereo does it for a fraction of the price.
It has all the standard features like Bluetooth capabilities, USB charging, and phone call accessibility. Without the name brand pushing up the price, this diamond in the rough manages to provide quality performance on a budget that most car owners can afford.
Pros:
- Good price
- Has all the basic features
- Includes accessories like a backup camera
Cons:
- Not a recognizable name brand
Atoto A6 Double DIN Android Car Navigation Stereo
Android awareness
Android has been making some big moves lately, and with those advances, there’s been an increase in Android-specific products. Atoto based their system on Android software, so it’s extremely convenient for Android users. It does work with iOS products, too, though it has limited connectivity options.
Aside from all the normal bells and whistles, this stereo has a built-in microphone and an external WiFi antenna. It’s also compatible with plenty of apps, so you can access them directly from the stereo display instead of from a phone. This is designed to be the ultimate easy-to-use accessory for Android users, and the compatibility with the screen means that you spend more time looking at the road and less time on your phone.
Pros:
- Good price
- External WiFi
- Great display functions
Cons:
- Limited functions for IOS users
Boss Audio Systems Radio Receiver
Who's the boss?
If you want to update your car stereo system but you still find yourself clinging to the media of the past, this stereo may offer the best of both worlds. Many people who grew up before the turn of the millennium still have a large collection of CDs and DVDs accumulating dust on a shelf or backseat. If you want to put your collection to good use, it’s important to get a system that hasn’t forgotten physical media entirely.
This stereo from Boss comes with a CD/DVD player, a feature which many competitors have opted out of entirely. And no, this isn’t an ancient stereo; it still has all the modern amenities like hands-free calling, Bluetooth connection, and touch screen usage. You can impress your Gen Z friends, but it’s nice to know you still have the ability to pop in a record and cruise.
Pros:
- CD/DVD capabilities
- Good price
- Hands-free calling
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a rearview camera
Frequently Asked Questions
Will these stereos fit in my car?
In some cases, yes. You’ll need to take some measurements to see if your car is compatible with this type of system. After-market stereos come in two sizes: DIN and double DIN. DIN stereos are thinner, while double DIN stereos are thicker and have more of a rectangular screen. Once you determine what size your current stereo is, then you can choose your replacement.
Do I need a dash kit to install my stereo?
Yes. Some stereos come with a dash kit, but some require a separate purchase. In some cases, the installation can be easy, and the dash kit will only contain several brackets and wires. In other cases, the dash kit could contain entire panels to replaces your car’s current dashboard. This will vary by the year and model of your car, so be sure to do some research before buying. Many mechanics or electricians also offer stereo installation services, so you have other options if you don’t want to install it yourself.