There’s nothing that can compare with the experience you have driving on a new road listening to the music you like. And when you can stream the music directly from your phone to your head unit, it’s even better.
Double DIN head units look great, and they have large displays. They can connect to your phone through Bluetooth, but they can also use 3.5 mm audio jacks and USB ports. However, finding the best double DIN head unit can be difficult in today’s busy market. That’s why we decided to present the following double DIN head unit reviews. All the models we included in our list are compatible with both Android and iOS devices, and they come at a decent price.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at the top rated double DINs of 2021.
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Alpine CDE-W265BT Double DIN Bluetooth In-Dash Receiver |
| View On Amazon |
 | JVC KW-R920BTS Built-In Double Din Head Unit |
| View On Amazon |
 | Corehan Double Din Android Car Stereo |
| View On Amazon |
 | Pioneer FH-X731BT 2-Din CD Receiver |
| View On Amazon |
 | Kenwood DPX502BT Double-Din CD Receiver |
| View On Amazon |
 | Pioneer FH-X720BT 2-Din CD Receiver |
| View On Amazon |
 | BOSS Audio Systems BV9364B Car Stereo |
| View On Amazon |
 | Pioneer FH-S700BS Double DIN Bluetooth Car Stereo Receiver |
| View On Amazon |
 | Kenwood DPX530BT / NUTEK EARBUDS Double-DIN In-Dash CD |
| View On Amazon |
Best Double Din Head Unit Reviews (Updated List)
1. Alpine CDE-W265BT Double DIN Bluetooth In-Dash Receiver
It’s nice to have a little more room for a larger screen on your car audio head unit and this double din head unit from Alpine gives you exactly that. No more straining to see the small print on your display screen as you are driving. It makes selecting music, and seeing other information on your display screen quick and easy.
Not only is it a larger double din unit but it still enables you to play some great music in your vehicle too. With such outstanding features as its built-in MOSFET amplifier and 9-band equalizer, it’s easy to get your music to sound the way you like it best. It even includes a CD receiver with AM/FM tuner.
You can also select and play the same great music you have on your iPhone or another smart device with it too. It is compatible with all apple smart products and includes advanced Bluetooth technology to help you stream your favorite music the entire time you are in your car.
Pros:
- MOSFET amplifier built in (50 peak watts x4)
- RGB Illumination
- Advanced Bluetooth; iPod, iPhone ready
- 9-band equalizer
- CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
- Front USB port
Cons:
- No rear USB connection
- Almost too bright a display at night
2. JVC KW-R920BTS Built-In Double Din Head Unit
If you’re looking for a high-quality 2-din receiver and you’re not willing to spend too much on it, take a look at the JVC KW-R920BTS. This model comes with a wireless remote control, and it can play most type of music files.
The KW920BTS has a built-in Bluetooth receiver that can connect to both Android and iOS devices. The receiver can be used to stream audio files or to talk on the phone using its hands-free feature.
The receiver has an adjustable display. You can change the display’s colors in three areas on its face, improving its appearance.
Pros
- Good Connectivity – The receiver can connect to most devices. It has a USB port, an AUX input, Bluetooth, flash drive support, and it’s also Pandora-capable
- Included Harness – This model comes with an included harness, so you will have an easier time installing it. The harness will allow you to pair the wires more quickly.
Con
- Slow – The device takes a long time to read the flash drives. Even small flash drives can take up to 10 minutes to initialize.
3. Corehan Double Din Android Car Stereo
The Corehan Double Din Android Car Stereo is equipped with a responsive touch screen. However, you can also use steering wheel control buttons to skip tracks. Installation is not very convenient. Note that the cables and double din frame do not come with the stereo. A good addition to this stereo, however, is the built-in GPS. Together with the multiple channel option, this feature makes the stereo versatile. The model has a sleep mode. When the engine turns off, then on again, the unit has to boot up again. This process could be slow and tedious. The backup camera, however, will turn on automatically.
Pros:
- Screen – The touch screen is responsive. It allows you to change the color of the controls to suit your car. It can display your car logo on the startup menu.
- Channels – You can connect it to a USB drive, CD/DVD player, or your phone via Bluetooth and Wifi. Even though the Android system does not support IOS systems, you can use the Bluetooth feature to dial and receive calls from your iPhone.
Cons:
- Slow – This stereo lags when it has to boot up.
- Installation – The installation process is not the easiest. You will need to purchase some items separately to complete it.
4. Pioneer FH-X731BT 2-Din CD Receiver
If you’re looking for a new stereo, there’s no reason to buy an outdated model. New models such as the Pioneer FH-X731BT have Bluetooth compatibility and they can connect to your phone. The wireless connection will allow you to make and receive calls, but it can also be used for audio streaming.
The Pioneer FH-X731BT ensures a good call quality reception, so you will be able to talk on the phone without any interference. Two Bluetooth devices can be paired with the stereo at the same time, and they will connect automatically whenever you turn the Bluetooth on.
Pros
- Adjustable Experience – The receiver allows you to change the color of the text as well as the screen’s brightness level. This will improve your experience, adjusting everything to your liking.
- Works With Spotify – This device can control your Spotify content. Once your phone and stereo are paired, you can use the Spotify app directly through the Pioneer controls.
Con
- Instructions Manual Could Be Better – This stereo comes with an instructions manual. Unfortunately, the manual doesn’t provide color coded wiring instructions, so some people might find it difficult to follow.
5. Kenwood DPX502BT Double-Din CD Receiver
There’s no reason to break the bank if you want to change your car’s stereo. The Kenwood DPX502BT provides great features and comes at a decent price. This stereo is capable of playing FLAC/WAV/WMA/AAC/MP3 files, so you will enjoy all the content you have stored on your phone.
The DPX502BT is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, and it even comes with a Rapid Charge feature for Android phones. The USB flash drive and the MP3 playback allows you to connect the receiver with older MP3 players, so you will never lose the tracks you love.
Pros
- Intuitive Menu – The DPX502BT has a simple and intuitive menu, so it’s the perfect choice for older people. Most people won’t even have to read the instructions manual to learn how to use this device.
- Good Bluetooth Connection – This receiver is capable of creating a good Bluetooth connection. The connection will allow you to make or receive calls without experiencing any interference.
Con
- Display Could Be Brighter – The stereo’s display could be brighter. Even though the display is pretty bright, some people might have a difficult time reading the display when it’s sunny outside.
6. Pioneer FH-X720BT 2-Din CD Receiver
There’s nothing like listening to music while you’re driving. And if you could listen to music and talk on the phone hands-free using the same device, everything would be even better. Well, the Pioneer FH-X702BT does exactly that.
This 2-din CD receiver has a built-in Bluetooth receiver that’s compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Not only that, but this receiver comes with integrated controls for iOS devices, so you will be able to control your phone or tablet without taking your eyes off the road.
Pros
- Remote Control – This device comes with a wired remote control, so you will be able to adjust the volume and change the tracks without taking your eyes off the road.
- Bright Backlight – The stereo has a bright backlight, so you won’t have any troubles reading the display, even if it’s very sunny outside.
Con
- Doesn’t Read Sim Contacts – This receiver won’t display any contacts you have saved on your Sim card. The device will only display the contacts you have saved on your phone’s memory.
7. BOSS Audio Systems BV9364B Car Stereo
The next product on our list is the BV9364B Car Stere. With this device, you can make and receive hands-free calls while also listening to music. The product includes a built-in GPS. You will not need to turn the music off because the volume will fade when the GPS gives directions. It is advisable that you go to a local car audio shop to know what kind of gear will suit the connection between your car and the stereo. You will need to purchase a separate antenna adapter, a dash kit, and a wiring harness. Installation should be easy once you have these. The sound is good and loud. The touchscreen is responsive and readable. At night, the lights will dim automatically, not to distract you.
Pros:
- Hands-free calls – The audio of the music itself is great, but the quality of the conversation sound is also satisfying and audible. However, note that if the music volume is up, then the conversation will be very loud as well.
- Connections – Once you mount the unit, you will find that connecting the wires of power and audio is straightforward.
Cons:
- Busy control table – There are many buttons on the unit, which is inconvenient because it is a car stereo and the driver could get distracted.
8. Pioneer FH-S700BS Double DIN Bluetooth Car Stereo Receiver
The extra room you get on the face of this Pioneer 2-din head unit enables it to do many nice things to enhance your car audio listening pleasure. We really like the way Pioneer designed this unit. What makes the Pioneer FH-S700BS even better is you get all its nice features at a great price point too. It’s a very affordable double-din head unit for all that it does.
It all starts with 50 peak watts of power per channel that will provide you with a nice volume of non-amplified sound. This Pioneer head unit is also Sirius XM ready and is enabled to be used with iPhone/iPod and Android-equipped devices.
One other really great feature of it is that you and your passenger don’t have to fight over whose cell phone you link to the head unit to use while driving. That’s because the Pioneer FH-S700BS is dual phone connection capable. The included remote control is a nice bonus you get with it too.
Pros:
- 50 peak watts of power (x 4)
- Excellent price point
- Dual phone connection capable
- Sirius XM ready
- iPhone/iPod and Android compatible
- Includes remote control
Cons:
- Changing sound settings is hard to do while driving
- Upper control indicators are not backlit
9. Kenwood DPX530BT / NUTEK EARBUDS Double-DIN In-Dash CD
Here is another really nice Kenwood 2-Din head unit. It’s a very versatile car audio component that will help take your vehicle listening pleasure to a whole new level. Just about anything you could possibly want on a double-din car stereo head unit this one from Kenwood has it. That includes a 13-band graphic equalizer built right into it.
This AM/FM Receiver with Bluetooth is loaded with such outstanding features as its ability to connect to two mobile phones at the same time and you can choose from 20 colors for how you want your display to look. It even had Kenwood’s own Drive EQ road noise-reducing technology.
The Kenwood DPX530BT is not only compatible with any Bluetooth enabled device but it’s also compatible with iPhone/iPod and Android smart devices. One unique characteristic of this Kenwood double-din head unit is you can choose to view the display in Spanish too.
Pros:
- AM/FM Receiver with Bluetooth
- 20-panel illumination color choices
- Dual phone connection capable
- Drive EQ road noise reducing technology
- iPhone/iPod and Android app ready
- Spanish menu option
Cons:
- Screen glare is noticeable in daylight driving conditions
- Owner’s manual could read better
10. Kenwood DPX500BT Double DIN In-Dash Car Stereo Receiver
If you’re looking for a double din receiver that comes at a decent price, you should take a closer look at the Kenwood DPX500BT. This model provides a great audio experience and comes at a fraction of the price other models do.
The receiver is compatible with MP3 files, and it also comes with USB and Aux connections. The built-in Bluetooth feature will allow you to connect to multiple devices, and you will be able to make and receive calls over the stereo.
Pros:
- Phone Control – The stereo’s App mode will disable its integrated control, allowing you or other passengers to control the stereo directly through the phone.
- USB Connection – This receiver comes with a USB port. You can use the USB connection to play music you have stored on external hard disks, USB thumb drives, or other devices.
Cons:
- Uses The Front Speakers – Once you install it, the device will only play audio through the front speakers. This issue can be quickly fixed by changing the settings. If you don’t know which settings to change, you can check the online manual for the solution.
Buying Guide: How to Buy a Double DIN Head Unit
2-DIN or double DIN head units are large and they look nice. In fact, many car manufacturers decide to install double DIN units from the factory because they are more aesthetically pleasing. However, there are a lot of models out there, and finding the best double DIN head unit for your car could be slightly difficult.
In the following section of our article, we present what to look for in a 2-DIN head unit and how to choose the right one for your car.
5 Things to Look for When Buying a Double DIN Head Unit
- Connectivity
A double DIN head unit has to be able to connect to multiple devices. Gone are the days when a head unit only had to play CDs and be considered good. Nowadays, everything is connected. You can start your TV by using your phone, you can even command your washing machine over the Internet.
So it’s only natural to expect to connect to your car’s head unit as well.
Most 2-DIN head units are able to connect to both Android and iOS devices. Even though they will connect to all the popular devices, some head units are specially designed to work better with one operating system or another. They will have quick command buttons or features which will work with only one system, so make sure you choose one that’s compatible with yours.
Besides being able to connect to your phone through Bluetooth, a good head unit will also have a 3.5 mm AUX jack and at least one USB port. The AUX jack and the USB will allow you to connect the head unit with older gadgets such as MP3 players or flash drives. The USB can also be used to recharge your phone if you need to.
- Ease Of Installation
It’s true that you only have to install the head unit once, but why should you spend the better part of the day doing it?
Well, some manufacturers have taken this into account, so they developed head units which are easier to install. If you’re going to install the head unit by yourself, look for models that come with a harness. The harness will separate the wires, making them easier to connect.
Most double DIN head unit will come with an installation manual. The instructions are usually clear enough to follow. If you’re going to install the unit by yourself, try searching for video installation tutorials online. You can usually find a car enthusiast or two on Youtube that installs exactly the same unit as yours. This can be an advantage, as some enthusiasts have previous experience with installing head units, and they can sometimes simplify the installation process. - Good Display
Double DIN car stereos usually have a larger display than single DIN ones, which is always an advantage. Since these stereos are designed to play music and work as a hands-free device, a large display will help you see who’s contacting you and what song you’re listening to.
Some double DIN head units come with adjustable displays. They have multiple changing colors. You can either change the color theme altogether or only in some areas of the display. Some models can even change the display’s colors in tune with the song’s beat, improving your driving experience.
It’s very important to find a head unit that has a bright display. A bright display might light up too much at night forcing you to turn it down a notch, but you won’t have any troubles reading it when it’s sunny outside. A dim display will be hard to read on very bright days, which can be inconvenient. - Ease Of Use
If you’re looking for a good double DIN head unit, you have to search for one that’s easy to use. There’s no point in buying a model just because it looks fancy if you have to spend 6 months to learn how to use all its features.
Some head units have an intuitive menu that allows you to scroll through the playlist and choose the song you’re looking for with ease. They also have quick connect features and will recognize the devices they were previously paired with and automatically connect to them when they’re in range. A very important function for every head unit is the hands-free feature. If your head unit has a good hands-free feature, you’re more likely to use it. If this feature is difficult to set up, chances are you won’t be willing to waste time to do it every time you drive.
Using a unit that has an easy menu is also safer. You won’t have to take your eyes off the road whenever you want to change the song or when you want to pair the head unit with a new device. - App Control
This is a more recent feature manufacturers decided to implement in double DIN head units. The app control feature allows you to control your phone through the head unit, so you won’t have to look at the phone any longer. This is a great feature, and it will allow you to access the phone’s contact list and other features, including internet radio.
What Is a Car Head Unit?
When people say “head unit”, they’re referring to in-dash stereos. These stereos can be different in style and type, but all of them have to be in-dash units. The head unit is, in fact, the central unit of a car, and it can have multiple functions. All head units act as a music player. Most have a radio tuner. Some of them have CD players, auxiliary inputs, amps, and equalizers. A few will also include a GPS system.
A head unit has a display, but the size of the display is directly related to the head unit’s size and model.
What Is a Double DIN Head Unit?
A double DIN head unit is a stereo that’s larger than single DIN models. The DIN stands for Deutsches Institut für Normung. That’s quite a mouthful, isn’t it? Well, the DIN is actually the German standard organization that regulated the size of the head units since they started being implemented in cars.
A standard single DIN head unit is 180 mm long and 50 mm tall. A double DIN head unit is still 180mm long, but it’s 100 mm tall instead of only 50 mm. The larger size allows double DIN models to have larger displays, which makes them more aesthetically pleasing and easier to use.
Single DIN vs Double DIN Head Units
There’s no definitive answer to this question. As we already explained, the DIN actually stands for measures of length or width, not performance. You can certainly find some 1 DIN models that outperform double DIN ones, and there are definitely 2 DIN models which are better than single DIN ones.
2-DIN models are usually preferred by manufacturers because they look better and have wider displays. This allows them to have more functions, increasing the car’s value.
If you’re not certain what type of stereo you have in your car, you can find out by measuring it. If your stereo is roughly 7 inches long and 4 inches tall, it’s a double DIN. If it measures only 7 inches by 2, it’s a single DIN.
If your car has a single DIN head unit, you won’t be able to install a double-DIN model instead of it. If the car has a 2-DIN stereo, you can replace it with another 2-DIN model, but you can also install a single-DIN one instead. The extra space can be used to install a pocket for your phone, as a space to store your CDs, or you can use it to install an equalizer.
The 5 Advantages of Upgrading a Head Unit
Depending on your current head unit, there are many advantages to be gained if you upgrade it. Here’s how upgrading your head unit might help.
- Better Sound Quality – Aftermarket head units are usually better than the units installed by the manufacturer in the factory. They are capable of producing a cleaner sound, so they will improve your driving experience
- Bluetooth Connection – All the double DIN head units we included on our list have a built-in Bluetooth receiver. This will allow you to connect the head unit to your phone or to other Bluetooth-compatible devices.
- Media Streaming – A new head unit can be used to stream media. You won’t have to burn CDs any longer. The music you have stored on your phone can be streamed through the head unit directly.
- Hands-free Operation – The head unit can also be used as a hands-free device. You can make and receive calls when ‘you connect the phone to the head unit via Bluetooth. The person on the other line can hear you using a built-in microphone or the phone’s own microphone, and you can hear them through the speakers.
- Other Media Connections – Head units can connect to other devices using USB ports or AUX jacks. This will allow you to connect the head units to older MP3 players or other devices.
Replacing 2 DIN Car Stereos
So, you found the double DIN stereo you’ve always wanted. Now all you have to do is to install it. But how do you do that? In the following section, we explain how to remove your old double DIN head unit and how to replace it with a new one.
How To Remove a Double DIN Head Unit
If you want to replace your outdated double DIN head unit, you have to remove it first. You will need the stereo keys provided by the manufacturer and a flat and/or Phillips head screwdriver. If you don’t have the stereo keys, you can find them online or in a local electronics store. Here’s how you do it.
- Remove The Faceplate – You should first remove the faceplate. Some stereo models have a button placed in one of their corners that will push the faceplate forward. For other models, you will simply have to grasp the faceplate and pull it off. Make sure you place the faceplate somewhere safe.
- Remove The Trim – Now that you removed the faceplate, you should see the trim ring. The trim ring is the piece of plastic keeping the head unit in place. Grasp the ring and set it aside.
- Find The Key Holes – Now that the trim is gone, you can see the keyholes on either side of the stereo. Insert the keys in the holes until they click in place. Once they click, grasp the keys and pull the stereo out of the dashboard.
- Remove The Wires – Now that you can see the back of the stereo, you will need to unplug it. Make sure the car’s battery is off before beginning this operation. Unplug all the wires from the back of the stereo to take it out completely.
How To Install A Double DIN Head Unit
Now that you removed the old double DIN head unit from the dashboard, you can install the new one in its place. For this operation, you will need a flathead/Philips screwdriver, a wire stripper, and an adjustable wrench. Here’s how you do it.
The whole operation will be easier if you buy a wiring harness beforehand. We strongly suggest you do so, as the harnesses are usually not very expensive, and they simplify the process considerably.
- Wiring The New Unit –
This is the first and most complicated step. Wiring is a difficult process for anyone, but it can seem pretty daunting if you don’t have any previous experience with wiring electronics. This process is made easier if you use a wiring harness. Wiring harnesses are designed specifically for your car, and they’re compatible with certain head units. Make sure you buy one that matches both your vehicle and the head unit.
Once you get the wiring harness, the whole process of wiring your head unit becomes a child’s play. You basically have to plug one end of the harness into the dashboard and the other in the head unit, and you’re all set.
If a harness is not available, or if you’re not willing to buy one, you will first have to search for a wiring diagram for your car. The diagram will show all the wires’ purpose, so you will know what each one does, and where it goes. The head unit comes with its own wire diagram, so you will have to pair the wires and connect them.
Luckily, some aftermarket head units come with a color-coded wire scheme, so you will have an easier time connecting them.
The best way to connect the wires is using crimp connectors. You will have to strip the two matching wires, insert them into a connector, and crimp it. Every car has its own color system for the speaker wires, so make sure you read the diagram before you start pairing the wires and crimping them. - Install The Collar –
Most aftermarket head units use a universal collar. You can use this collar in the installation if you need it. Sometimes the car’s dashboard will be a perfect fit for the new head unit, so you won’t need the collar. - Insert The Head Unit –
Now that the head unit is all wired up and the universal collar is in place, you can slide the head unit into the dashboard. Once the unit is in place, use the keys the manufacturer provided to lock it in place. The keys are a safety feature, and they protect against thievery. - Put Back The Trim Ring –
Now that the stereo is in place, put the trim ring back in its place. This ring holds the head unit in its place, so make sure you don’t forget to install it. - Put The Faceplate On – The head unit is now in its proper place, but it’s missing its faceplate. Take the faceplate and press it in place. Once the faceplate clicks in place, you can use the new head unit.
How To Install a Double DIN Stereo In a Single DIN Dashboard
If you want to upgrade your audio system, and you’re thinking about installing a double DIN stereo in a single DIN dashboard, you should expect to pay extra for it.
- Find A New Dash Kit – If your car has a single DIN stereo installed, you will first have to search for a new vehicle-specific dash kit. The kit comes with mounting brackets, holes, and mounting tabs which are specifically designed to fit your vehicle’s frame. If you can’t find a new dash kit, upgrading your head unit from one DIN to two is impossible.
- Remove The Car’s Battery – You’ll be better off if you disconnect the car’s battery before you start the operation. To do this, simply lift the hood and loosen the bolt on top of the negative battery fuse. You can do this using a simple wrench. Disconnecting the battery will prevent blowing a fuse in case you connect something wrong.
- Remove The Old Head Unit – If you want to replace your dash kit, you will have to remove the old head unit first. To do that, you will have to remove the faceplate, the trim rings, use the manufacturer-specific keys, and unplug it.
- Remove The Old Dash Kit – You should pay extra care when you’re removing your dash kit. You don’t want to scratch its surface and do permanent damage to it. To remove the dash kit, you can either search for a video tutorial online, or you can find the information in the new dash kit’s instructions manual. If you have to use screwdrivers to pull the dash kit from the vehicle’s frame, try to cover their heads with cloths to reduce the chances of scratching the kit’s surface.
- Install The New Dash Kit – The new dash kit should match perfectly with your vehicle’s frame. Some manufacturers implement some of the features they used on their newer car models in the replacement dash kits, so you might even get some new buttons and panels. The kits will match the factory look, but they can come in a different finish than your original one. Some kits can be upgraded, so they will have brighter colors and lights.
- Install The Double DIN Head Unit – Now that you changed the dash kit and your new kit allows you to install a 2-DIN head unit, proceed with the installation. Keep in mind that it would be easier to install the new head unit if you buy an electrical wiring harness.
Double DIN Head Unit FAQs
- Is a double DIN head unit better than a single DIN one?
There’s no definitive answer to this question. As a rule of thumb, the DIN is a measurement, so it won’t affect the head unit’s performance. The main advantage of 2-DIN units is that they are larger. The extra space can be used to install better amps and equalizers, but not all manufacturers do so. The extra space is almost always used to install a larger display, so 2-DIN units will generally be easier to use. - Is a double DIN head unit more difficult to install than a single DIN one?
No, it is not. Both single and double DIN units have a similar installation process. The only difference is that one is larger than the other, but that won’t affect the installation. The hardest part of the installation for every head unit is the wiring, and that’s done exactly the same for both units.
Sometimes, a double DIN head unit can also have a GPS function. In this case, the installation process will be more difficult because you will have to use more wires to connect it to the vehicle. - Can A Double DIN Head Unit Connect To My Phone?
Most double DIN head units can connect to various types of Bluetooth-capable devices. Almost all are compatible with both iOS and Android, but you might experience some problems if you have a Windows phone or a Blackberry. It might be better to contact the manufacturer’s customer service before you buy a model to make sure it will be compatible with your phone. - Can A Double DIN Head Unit Play CDs?
Well, most of them can. However, CDs are slowly disappearing from the market and some manufacturers decide not to implement a CD player in their newer models. - Can A New Double DIN Head Unit Connect To My Steering Wheel Controls?
It can, but you might have to use an adapter to do so. A steering wheel adapter is not very expensive, but they are manufactured differently for most car models, so make sure you find one that’s compatible with both your car and the head unit before buying it. - Why Do Double DIN Head Units Need Both USB And AUX Connections?
Both the USB and the AUX connections can be used to stream music. However, the 3.5 mm can transmit some background noise, and you have to actively use your phone to change the volume and the tracks which might not be safe. The USB connection does not transmit any background noise, and it can also be used to recharge your phone. - My New Double DIN Head Unit Only Uses The Front Speakers. Why?
Well, one of the reasons might be that you connected the wires wrong. If you didn’t use a wire harness, chances are you missed the cables that control your rear speakers.
Another reason might be the new unit’s factory setting. Some models only use your front speakers as a default. If you want it to use the rear ones as well, you will have to change the unit’s settings.
Also, check out which touch screen car stereos are best?
Best Double Din Head Unit Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | PRICE | DIMENSIONS | WEIGHT | POWER | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenwood DPX501BT 2-DIN CD Receiver | $$$ | 6.7 x 5.9 x 3.1" | 4.4 pounds | 50 peak watts x4 | Multi-color panel illumination Bluetooth/Pandora Front USB port and auxiliary socket |
| JVC KW-R920BTS Built-In Double Din Head Unit | $$ | 6.5 x 7.2 x 4.4" | 2.43 pounds | 22 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 | Wireless remote Built-in Bluetooth |
| Pioneer FH-X731BT 2-Din CD Receiver | $$$ | 9.4 x 10.6 x 5.9" | 3.78 pounds | 50 W x 4 | Built-in Bluetooth Wireless connection |
| Kenwood DPX530BT / NUTEK EARBUDS Double-DIN In-Dash CD | $$ | 12 x 10 x 4" | 4.75 pounds | 22W RMS/50W peak x 4 | 20-panel illumination color iPhone/iPod and Android app |
| Alpine CDE-W265BT Double DIN Bluetooth In-Dash CD/AM/FM Receiver | $$$$ | 6.4 x 7 x 3.9" | 4.08 pounds | 50 peak watts x4 | Advanced Bluetooth; iPod, iPhone CD receiver with AM/FM tuner Front USB port |
| Pioneer FH-S700BS Double DIN In-Dash CD/AM/FM Bluetooth Car Stereo Receiver | $$ | 11 x 6 x 10" | 3.2 pounds | 50 peak watts x4 | Dual phone connection Sirius XM iPhone/iPod and Android compatible |
| Pioneer FH-X720BT 2-Din CD Receiver | $$$ | 7 x 7 x 7" | 4 pounds | 50W x 4 | Built-in Bluetooth iOS device controls Front USB Port and AUX Input |
| Kenwood DPX502BT Double-Din CD Receiver | $ | 3 x 3 x 3" | 4 pounds | 50W x 4 | iOS and Android Intuitive Menu |
| Kenwood DPX500BT Double DIN In-Dash Car Stereo Receiver | $$ | 6.1 x 7.2 x 4.4" | 3. 4 pounds | 22W RMS/50W peak x 4 | Bluetooth Hands-Free USB and Aux connections |
| Sony WX900BT 2-DIN Head Unit | $$ | 9.8 x 9.5 x 9" | 4.45 pounds | 55 watts x4 | One Touch Communication 35,000 different colors Integrated Bluetooth technology |
Wrap Up
Nowadays, every gadget you own has to be connected to another. And that’s true with your car’s audio system as well. As you could see from our double DIN head unit reviews, these devices have built-in Bluetooth receptors that will pair them with your phones or tablets. You can use the connection to stream media, or you can use it as a hands-free feature for your phone.
Finding the best double DIN head unit is not hard when you know what to look for, so make sure you take a look at the comprehensive buying guide we prepared. Keep in mind that when it comes to double DIN head units, expensive units are not necessarily the best ones.