The Top Picks That You Should Consider for Your Upcoming Installation

So, you finally decided to upgrade your car stereo, eh?

Well, we’re here to tell you that we fully support this idea. In fact, we support it so much that we’re going to help you figure out which car stereo options are the best on the market.

By the time this is over, you’ll have at least some of the top pick in car stereos that include all the latest features, the best sound quality, and an incredible user experience.

Let’s dive in.

Pick #1 – Pioneer AVH-1300NEX Multimedia DVD Receiver with 6.2″ WVGA Display

We’re big fans of the pioneer brand over here, and the AVH-1300NEX doesn’t disappoint. For starters, it can play DVDs which will make those long road trips in the car more tolerable for your passengers. It features a double DIN 6.2” VGA touchscreen, which gives you plenty of digital real estate for video and menu navigation.

We really love the look and feel of this receiver. The orderly composition of tiles makes everything easily accessible, even while driving. It also features Apple CarPlay, which means iPhone users will be able to mirror their phones on the screen and have access to their favorite apps, messaging, maps, and more.

Of course, you can count on Pioneer to have all those modern favorites integrated such as AppRadio Mode, Spotify, Pandora, and SiriusXM (with subscription).

This car stereo packs a power output of 50 watts (peak) and 22 watts RMS. It features four channels, which is perfect if you plan on expanding your customized sound system with speakers, subs, and an amp.

This receiver runs around $629, and you should be able to find it in any shop that sells car audio in San Diego.

Pick #2 – BOSS Audio Systems BV9358B Radio Receiver

The thing we love about this BOSS receiver if you get a whole lot of stereo for a small price tag. This receiver runs under $150, but don’t let the price make you think you’re getting a cheap car stereo. Far from it.

The double DIN BOSS plays CDs, DVDs, WMA files, MP3, SD cards, and, of course, will seamlessly pair with your smartphone via Bluetooth for streaming your favorite services. Everything is beautifully displayed on a 6.2” LCD touchscreen with low profile buttons trimming the left-hand side of the screen.

The BOSS puts out 80 watts x 4 max power, so it’s recommended you throw in an amplifier to get the full effect of this stereo. Additionally, the BOSS comes with an EQ for further customizing your listening preferences.

Pick #3 – Sony XAV-AX8100 Digital Multimedia Receiver

The Sony XAV-AX8100 model runs a pretty penny, but we can promise you it’s worth it. This multimedia receiver comes with a whopping 8.95” touchscreen (800 x 480 resolution); however, it only uses a single-DIN chassis. Huge screen with minimal install space!

The Sony receiver comes with all the essentials such as Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, and WebLink Cast for phone mirroring, which allows you to access all of your apps – not just the ones supported by Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. We also love the fact that this stereo includes rear USB port, HDMI input, and a rear-view camera input.

A big reason why the Sony cost more than the previous two stereos we talked about is the built-in internal amp. It provides 20 watts RMS CTA-2006/55 watts peak x 4 channels. It also includes a 10-band graphic EQ for customizing your sound to your exact specifications.

For those that are wanting to do a component speaker set-up with the rest of your vehicle, the Sony receiver offers 5-channel preamp outputs, so you can expand to your heart’s content.

The Sony XAV-AX8100 digital multimedia receiver runs approximately $750 – which may sound a tad high – but this should be the last receiver your vehicle ever needs. At least, for the next decade or so.

Our advice? Go check it out in person at your local car audio shop so you can try before you buy. Make sure to play a few tracks of your own music on it. If that doesn’t sell you, we don’t know what will.

Check Out More Stereos at a Local Car Audio Shop Near You

Although it’s tempting to buy online, we implore you to go to your local car audio shop so you can test out these stereos in person. When it comes to car audio, you HAVE to hear it to believe it. Don’t fork over your hard-earned cash until you hear the stereo that makes your head nod.

Another tip: most car stereo places offer some type of financing deal. If you see a bunch of car audio products you like but don’t have the cash on you – no problem! These people in the shop can usually get you set up with financing.

Go pay them a visit today and check out the three stereos we mentioned. We can assure you, you’ll be impressed.