The car stereo may not seem like a major car accessory until when it is not functioning properly or missing. The car stereo defines you, the music and other infotainment you will get in the car and the ambiance you manage to create. You must check a few things before making your decision, and some of them will depend on your desires while others are depending on the options your car gives you. If you find yourself in need of a replacement for a car stereo, then you will need to apply the tips shared in this article to give yourself the chances of getting the right fit for your needs.
Consider Whether You Are Upgrading
Upgrading a car stereo will force you to think outside the box and take a futuristic view. Replacing what was already there only needs you to find the OEM dealer or seller to get the replacement part you need. Sometimes the car gets old before it needs a replacement and that makes things complicated when you cannot find an exact match in the market. The better idea is to go for an upgrade with the latest technologies and present day features.
The Vertical Size of the Stereo Unit
Cars have either single DIN or double DIN slots on their dash, and they allow you to fit a matching sized radio. You can opt for a single DIN with a sliding touch interface that will give you the same functionality as the double DIN unit, about 7-inch touchscreen interface. The important thing is to know the space available before going shopping.
Confirm Your Audio Sources
You have numerous ways of getting audio into your car stereo unlike in the past. Think of your passengers and your preferred ways of listening to sound. Ask yourself where you store most of the files. If your answer is your smartphone, then you will need to have a stereo that lets you plug the phone or at least connect to it wirelessly. If that is the case, then you want the connection to be sufficient even when you are moving about roughly. Audio sources also imply the file formats you will be playing. Make sure your stereo is going to support them all.
Common Audio File Types
The most common file types are MP3, AAC, and WMA. MP4 audio is also gaining popularity because of its small sized files. Most stereo systems give you the capability of playing back all these and about a dozen other formats.
Accessories & Options
Your car stereo should not just do one thing. You can upgrade the interior of your car and its functionality by hooking back cameras to your stereo’s screen so that you get reverse visibility. You should also consider going for a stereo system that offers navigation. Practical models will run a version of Android or iOS to give you smartphone services in your car including access to cloud or satellite radio.
Connectivity
The most preferred connectivity options would be Bluetooth and the 3.5mm analog auxiliary input. You can then buy conversion connectors for other types of input or output methods such as USB type C that you might use occasionally.