Top 7 of the Best Single DIN Head Unit in 2023 (Ranked)

If you’re in the market for a new head unit, then you’re probably wondering what the best single DIN head unit is.

There are a lot of things to think about when making your decision, and it can be hard to figure out what is the best choice for you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best single DIN head units on the market and help you decide which one is right for you. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Top 7 Best Single DIN Head Unit – Reviews

#1. Alpine CDE-172BT —  Best Single Din Head Unit for Sound Quality

The Alpine CDE-172BT is a great single din head unit for anyone looking for a quality sound system in their car.

The built-in Bluetooth is extremely convenient, allowing you to make hands-free calls or stream music wirelessly. The front USB port also makes it easy to charge and play music from your Android or iPhone. In addition, the Alpine includes a 3-band parametric equalizer to ensure that all your music sounds its best.

You can use this receiver to make and receive calls from up to two paired phones. The built-in microphone is designed to reduce noise interference, and you may change the gain for your callers to hear you clearly. Furthermore, thanks to the receiver’s integrated sound processing, streaming music applications or podcasts will have excellent sound quality.

The optional SiriusXM receiver in the Alpine CDE-172BT makes it ideal for any automobile. You may listen to the unrivaled breadth of music, news, sports, and talk programming that follows you wherever you go with this tuner.

The Alpine CDE-172BT’s controls allow you to pick your preferred Pandora stations from your smartphone, as well. If you want to control and display data from other applications on this receiver’s screen using App Direct mode on your connected iPhone, you may.

With its 3-band parametric equalizer, you can adjust the sound to exactly how you like it. The easy-to-read display and variable color illumination make it easy to control, while the high-voltage RCA preamp outputs let you add amplifiers for even more power.

A few quick and easy wiring connections are all that’s needed to get this adapter up and running, and it can be programmed to work with virtually any car and radio model. Plus, you’ll be able to see which adapters are compatible with your vehicle when you add this receiver to your shopping cart.

Pros & Cons

PROS:

• Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and streaming music
• Front USB port for easy charging and music playback
• 3-band parametric equalizer for custom sound adjustment
• SiriusXM receiver for access to a variety of audio content
• Pandora control for easy station selection
• App Direct mode for iPhone compatibility
• High-voltage RCA preamp outputs for adding amplifiers

CONS:

• Not compatible with all car and radio models
• Requires wiring connections for installation

#2. Sony DSX-GS80 – Most Powerful Single DIN Head Unit

When most people think about upgrading their car audio, they think about purchasing a new set of speakers. While this is definitely an option, there are other ways to improve the sound quality in your car. One such way is by investing in a new head unit.

If you’re looking for a head unit that offers power and features beyond what most others offer, then you should consider the Sony DSX-GS80. This unit is packed with features that will make your driving experience more enjoyable. It also has a large, bright display that is easy to read, even in direct sunlight.

45 Watts Continuous Power: The Sony DSX-GS80 offers 45 watts of power per channel. The sound quality of the unit is very good, with clear highs and well-defined lows.

5 Volt RCA pre-amp outputs: The Sony DSX-GS80 also features 5-volt RCA pre-amp outputs. This is a great feature for those who want to connect the unit to an external amplifier. The pre-amp outputs offer a higher signal level, which results in better sound quality.

Built in 10 band equalizer: Another great feature of the Sony DSX-GS80 is the built-in 10-band equalizer. This allows you to fine-tune the sound of the unit to your liking. You can choose from a variety of different settings, including flat, pop, rock, and jazz.

Built-in Dynamic Stage Organizer: The Sony DSX-GS80 also features a built-in Dynamic Stage Organizer. This is a great feature for those who want to improve the sound quality of their car audio system. The DSO adjusts the signal so that music sounds like it’s coming from the dashboard.

No external amp required to drive the subwoofer: The unit offers 100 watts per channel of power and it doesn’t require an external amplifier to drive a subwoofer.

Dual Bluetooth Connectivity: One of the best features of the Sony DSX-GS80 is the fact that it offers dual Bluetooth connectivity. This means that you can connect two smartphones simultaneously. This is great for those who want to be able to use their phone for navigation and music playback at the same time.

Voice Assistant for iPhone and Android: Another great feature of the Sony DSX-GS80 is the voice assistant. This is a great feature for those who want to be able to use their voice to control the unit. The voice assistant is compatible with both iPhone and Android devices.

USB input: The Sony DSX-GS80 also features a USB input. This is a great feature for those who want to be able to play music from their iPhone or iPod. You can also use the USB input to charge your devices.

1 year limited warranty: The Sony DSX-GS80 comes with a 1-year limited warranty. This is a great feature for those who want to be able to protect their investment.

Overall, the Sony DSX-GS80 is a great choice if you are looking for a  high-powered, feature-rich head unit. It offers great sound quality and is very easy to use. If you’re looking for a head unit that will offer you a great driving experience, then you should definitely consider the Sony DSX-GS80.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The unit is very easy to install and comes with a variety of different mounting options.
• The unit offers a variety of different sound settings that can be adjusted to your liking.
• The Dual Bluetooth technology allows you to link two devices at once, allowing you to use your phone for navigation and music on the go.
• It is compatible with both Google Assistant and Siri, therefore it may be used with either voice assistant.

Cons:

• This head unit does not come with a CD player.

#3. Pioneer AVH-3500NEX– Best Single Din Touchscreen Head Unit

When it comes to in-car entertainment, the Pioneer AVH-3500NEX is one of the best head units you can get. This head unit is one of the best single din touch stereos on the market, and it offers a wealth of features that are sure to please even the most demanding audiophiles. In addition to its excellent sound quality, the Pioneer head unit also comes with a variety of built-in safety features that will keep you and your loved ones safe while on the road.

7” Touchscreen Display: The Pioneer head unit features a 7-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen display that is both bright and clear. This display is perfect for watching movies or videos, and it also makes it easy to navigate your way through Pioneer’s user-friendly interface. This head unit’s display is fully editable, so you may customize the color scheme to fit your vehicle’s decor.

200 Watts Power Peak: When it comes to power, the Pioneercar stereo delivers. This head unit is rated at 22 watts RMS x 4 channels, and it can handle a maximum power output of 50 watts x 4-channels.

Built-in Amazon Alexa: The Pioneer head unit can be used with Vozsis, an app that allows people to use Amazon Alexa on their Web Link-enabled Pioneer multimedia in-dash receivers. With Vozis tap-to-talk software connects you with Alexa, so you can play music, catch up on the news, get weather reports and control smart home devices–hands free.

Wired Apple Carplay: The Pioneer car stereo comes with the Apple CarPlay feature, which is a safer and smarter way to use your iPhone while driving. CarPlay allows you to make phone calls, use Apple Maps, listen to music, and send and receive iMessages using voice or the touch screen.

Wired Android Auto: The Pioneer head unit is specially designed to work with Android Auto, so you can use your Android phone in the car for a safe and seamless driving experience. Android Auto gives you the ability to access information without needing to search for it, and displays it in an easy-to-read format.

SiriusXM-Ready: The AVH-3500 NEX is SiriusXM-Ready, so you can get over 140 channels, including commercial-free music, plus the best sports and live events, comedy, news, exclusive talk and entertainment. SiriusXM programming is received through the SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner.

13-Band Graphic Equalizer: The AVH-3500NEX features a 13-band graphic equalizer that gives you control over the sound quality in your car. With the graphic equalizer, you can fine-tune the sound to perfectly suit your listening preferences.

Bluetooth wireless Calling and Audio Streaming: With the Pioneer car stereo, you can wirelessly call and stream audio while following hands-free laws. The Pioneer head unit makes it quick and easy to pair a Bluetooth enabled phone to the head unit, so you don’t have to waste time fiddling with settings.

USB Direct Control for iPhone: The Pioneer car stereo has a USB direct control connection for iPhone, which lets you use your phone as a remote without having to go through any complications. With the USB direct control, you can also charge your iPhone while it’s connected to the head unit.

Overall, the Pioneer AVH-3500NEX is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a Touchscreen Stereo with a great deal of features. This head unit offers excellent sound quality, a variety of built-in safety features, and compatibility with both Apple Carplay and Android Auto. If you’re looking for a head unit that has it all, the Pioneer AVH-3500NEX is the perfect choice for you.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Compatible with both Apple Carplay and Android Auto
• Features a 13-band graphic equalizer for great sound quality
• This device includes Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming capabilities.

Cons:

• Glitches occasionally with Apple Carplay Screen could be more responsive

#4. PIONEER SPH10BT Single-DIN Mechless Smart Sync Receiver

If you’re in the market for a quality mechless single din radio, the Pioneer SPH10BT is a great option. This head unit offers many features that are perfect for any car audio enthusiast. With its built-in Bluetooth capabilities, you can easily stream music from your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled device. Plus, the textured black finish will look great in any car. If you’re looking for an affordable and high-quality mechless single din radio, the Pioneer SPH10BT is definitely worth considering.

6.2″ Touchscreen Display: The Pioneer SPH10BT features a 6.2″ touchscreen display, which is perfect for viewing all of your favorite media content. Whether you’re listening to music, watching a video, or accessing apps, the SPH10BT’s large display makes it easy to see what’s going on. And with its intuitive controls, you can easily navigate through all of your head unit’s features.

Power Output: The SPH10BT head unit is capable of continuous power output of 22 watts x 4 channels. With its built-in amplifier, this head unit is sure to provide plenty of power for your car audio system.

13 band Customizable Graphic Equalizer: One of the best things about the Pioneer SPH10BT is its 13 band customizable graphic equalizer. This feature allows you to fine-tune the sound of your music to perfectly suit your taste. You can also save your EQ settings for each individual song, so you can always enjoy your music the way you want it to sound.

Hands-Free Calling : The Pioneer SPH10BT has a few key features, but one of the best is its Bluetooth connectivity. This feature allows you to wirelessly stream music from your phone or other Bluetooth-enabled device. You can also use the Bluetooth hands-free calling feature to make and receive calls without ever having to take your phone out of your pocket.

Pandora Radio App Built-in: If you’re a Pandora Radio fan, you’ll love the fact that this head unit has the Pandora app built right in. This means that you can easily access your favorite stations and playlists with just a few taps on the screen. Plus, the Pandora app makes it easy to create new stations based on your favorite artists and songs.

Smart Sync App Pioneer: The Pioneer  software, available on iOS and Android, uses the capabilities of a linked smartphone to enhance the functions and user interface on Pioneer in-dash receivers is easy to use.

The Pioneer SPH10BT is compatible with a variety of popular apps, so you can easily access your favorite content. With just a few touches, With Pioneer software, you get apps such as:

• Alexa Built-in
• Maps
• Voice Messaging
• Music
• Monitor Vehicle Performance

Pioneer Smart Sync gives you the ability to use your smartphone to control many functions of the head unit, making it easier than ever to stay connected and entertained while on the go.

Support Android Music : One of the great things about the Pioneer SPH10BT is that it offers support for Android music . This means that you can connect your Android smartphone to the head unit and access your music files without having to use an app. It required a usb cable, which plugs into your phone’s micro USB port.

Control your iPhone with USB : The Pioneer SPH10BT also features USB control for iPhone. This allows you to connect your iPhone to the head unit via a USB cable and access your music files without having to use an app. It is compatible with the iPhone 5 or newer models and, while it performs well in general, your unit’s performance might vary based on what iOS version you have installed.

Support FLAC Codec : The Pioneer SPH10BT also supports the FLAC codec, so you can enjoy high-quality audio playback. FLAC is a lossless audio codec that doesn’t compress or alter your music files, meaning it preserves all the audio data. This results in better sound quality than MP3 or AAC files, which are lossy codecs.

Backup Sensors: The Pioneer SPH10BT is also compatible with backup sensors. This means that you can add sensors to your vehicle’s rear bumper in order to make reversing safer. The head unit will display images from the sensors on the screen, so you can see what’s behind you as you’re backing up.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Pandora app built-in for easy access to favorite stations
• Pioneer Smart Sync app enhances the functions and user interface
• Compatible with popular apps like Alexa, Maps, and Voice Messaging
• Android music support for easy access to music files
• Support FLAC codec for high-quality audio playback

Cons:

• Requires USB cable for Android music support
• May have compatibility issues with some iPhones

#5. Sony DSX-A410BT Single Din Bluetooth Radio

The Sony DSX-A410BT is a single DIN stereo that delivers quality sound at an affordable price. The EQ3 sound parameters let you personalize the sound to your taste, and your music will sound wonderful. The DSX-A410BT also includes a front AUX input , making it easy to connect your portable music player. Plus, it’s backed by Sony’s legendary reputation for quality and durability.

Powerful Sound Quality: The Sony DSX-A410BT’s 4x55W amplification is more than enough to fill your car with rich, clear sound. You can also use the EXTRA BASS feature to boost the bass levels and really bring out the dynamics in your music.

Dual Bluetooth Connectivity: The DSX-A410BT features dual Bluetooth connectivity, so you can pair two phones and stay connected while on the go. This is perfect for making hands-free calls or streaming music from your favorite apps.

10-Band Customize Digital Equalizer: The 10-band digital equalizer lets you fine-tune the sound to your liking. You can also use the karaoke mode to quieten vocal tracks, so you can sing along without being distracted.

FLAC compatibility: The DSX-A410BT is also compatible with FLAC files, so you can enjoy lossless audio playback.

High-Contrast LCD Display: The high-contrast LCD display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight. Plus, the optimized viewing angle ensures that you’ll always have a clear view of your settings.

Voice Assistant for iPhone and Android: The DSX-A410BT is compatible with Siri and Google Now, so you can use your voice to control music playback, navigation, and more. This is a great feature for keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

USB Input for iPhone and Android: The USB input lets you play music from your IOS devices . By connecting a USB cable, you can control essential playback functions and view track information on the display.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Delivers quality sound at an affordable price
• Features dual Bluetooth connectivity
• 10-band digital equalizer lets you fine-tune the sound
• Compatible with FLAC files for lossless audio playback
• High-contrast LCD display is easy to read
• USB input lets you play music from your iPhone or Android devices

Cons:

• May not be the best choice for those looking for a high-end stereo
• Does not include a CD player

#6. BOSS 616UAB Multimedia Car Stereo

The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit is a great product for those who are looking for a quality head unit and a ton of features for an unbeatable price. This head unit offers a great sound quality, and is easy to install and use. The unit also comes with a detachable faceplate, making it easy to clean and maintain.

200 Watts Power Peak: The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit is a powerful head unit, with 50 Watts x 4 Max of peak power. This unit can easily power your speakers, and gives you the ability to crank up the volume without distortion.

Seven Band Built-in EQ:  The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit comes with a built-in equalizer, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to your liking. You can choose from a variety of presets, or create your own custom EQ settings.

Bluetooth connectivity: The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit offers Bluetooth connectivity, so you can stream your music wirelessly from your smartphone or other compatible devices. You can also use the Bluetooth hands-free calling feature to make and receive calls without ever having to take your phone out of your pocket.

Auxiliary input: The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit also features an auxiliary input, so you can connect any external audio devices and play them through the head unit.

USB port: The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit also comes with a USB port, so you can charge your smartphone or other USB-powered devices while you’re on the go.

Wireless Remote Control: The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit also comes with a wireless remote control, so you can control the head unit from anywhere within range.

Dual Pre-Amp Output: The BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB Head Unit also features dual pre-amp outputs, so you can connect two amplifiers to the head unit and really pump up the volume.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• External audio devices can be connected via an auxiliary input.
• USB port for charging your devices
• A remote control is included with this Head Unit.
• Dual pre-amp outputs

Cons:

• Some people say the display is not bright.

#7. KENWOOD KMM-BT328U Single Din Car Stereo

The Kenwood Kmm-bt328u is a digital media receiver with Bluetooth that gives you a lot of features in a small package.

With this device, you can easily stream music from your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled device.

You can also use it to access music stored on your computer or other connected devices. Plus, the built-in amplifier provides clear sound quality and plenty of power for any event.

Display: The Kenwood Kmm-BT328U has a 1.5″ LCD display that shows information such as track title, artist name, and album art. The display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight.On-LCD display menu is now accessible in Spanish and French.

Maximum Power: The Kenwood Kmm-BT328U provides 50 watts of power to each of its four channels. This is more than enough power for most events, and it will provide clear sound quality even at high volumes.

13-Band EQ: The built-in 13-band EQ allows you to fine-tune the sound of your music to suit your taste. You can also use the equalizer to compensate for the acoustics of your car.

Bluetooth streaming: The Bluetooth streaming feature allows you to wirelessly stream music with a smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled device. You can also use this feature to make hands-free phone calls.

Drive EQ: The Drive EQ raises certain frequencies in the audio to cancel out the noise from outside. This is especially useful when you’re driving on the highway.

FLAC support: The Kenwood Kmm-BT328U supports the FLAC audio format, which is a lossless compression format that delivers excellent sound quality.

Amazon Alexa support: The Kmm-BT328U is compatible with Amazon Alexa, so you can use your voice to control the head unit. The Alexa Built-in allows you to do many things including ask for music, place calls, listen to audiobooks, hear the news, check the weather and more.

Color Illumination: You can choose from 3 different color options to illuminate the buttons on the Kenwood Kmm-BT328U. This feature is especially useful when driving at night.

Front AUX and USB Input: The front AUX and USB input allows you to connect your smartphone or other USB-enabled device. This is a great way to charge your device while you’re on the go. You can also use the AUX input to connect an external audio source.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The built-in amplifier generates loud, clear sound.
• The equalizer allows you to fine-tune the sound of your music.
• The Bluetooth streaming feature lets you wirelessly stream music with smartphone.
• The Kmm-BT328U is compatible with Amazon Alexa for voice control.
• You can choose from 3 different color options to illuminate the buttons.
• The front AUX and USB input lets you connect your smartphone or other USB-enabled device.

Cons:

• The SiriusXM Radio Ready feature requires an optional SiriusXM tuner (sold separately).
• You might have to fiddle with the settings to get the sound quality just right.

How we picked  these Single Din Head Units

To narrow down your options, we looked at a variety of features that are important in a quality head unit. We considered the following:

•  Sound quality
•  Ease of use
•  Connectivity options
•  Display quality
•  Power output

After considering all these factors, we narrowed our list down to the best single din head units of 2023.

Sound quality:

When selecting a head unit, the first thing you should think about is sound quality. You’ll want to make sure the device you choose can give clear, concise audio. Features like an equalizer or built-in amplifier are good ways to ensure that you’re getting excellent sound quality.

Ease of use:

You don’t want to be rummaging around with your head unit while on the road. Look for a head unit with simple, clear buttons. A big screen is also beneficial since it will make viewing what you’re doing easier.

Connectivity options:

These days, it’s important to have a head unit that can connect to your smartphone or other devices. Look for features like Bluetooth or USB connectivity to make sure you can always stay connected.

Display quality:

The display on your head unit is vital for two reasons: first, you’ll want to be able to see it while driving. Second, a high-resolution display will make your head unit look better as a whole. For the best results, search for a unit with a high-resolution display.

Power output:

If you want to power speakers or other devices with your head unit, make sure it can provide enough power. If you intend on utilizing your head unit to power anything besides your car stereo, look for one with a high wattage output.

After considering all these factors, we’ve put together a list of the 10 best single din head units of 2023. Read on to see which one is right for you.

FAQs

Are aftermarket head units worth the money?

It depends on what you mean by “aftermarket head units”. If you’re referring to the replacement of the original factory-installed head unit, then oftentimes they are not worth it. Usually, the sound quality and music playback from an aftermarket head unit is significantly better than what you would get from the factory-installed head unit. However, installation of an aftermarket head unit can be a bit more complicated and time consuming, so it’s not always worth it depending on your level of expertise and experience with car audio systems.

How many watts should a car stereo have?

At a bare minimum, you should be looking for a car stereo system that has at least 20 RMS watts per channel. This will give you good sound quality and volume. If you want even better sound quality, then you should look for a system that has more than 50 RMS watts per channel.

Will a new head unit improve sound?

A new head unit typically has better sound processing and amplification components, which will improve the sound quality. However, it’s important to make sure that the new head unit is compatible with your car’s speaker system and that you have the correct wiring harnesses in order to get the best sound possible.

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