Increasing numbers of consumers expect to find digital audio compatibility in their car stereo systems. Thus, the newest car stereos must live up to this demand. Other users rely on being able to play CDs as well, and many manufacturers take this into consideration. Most, however, are more focused on implementing USB input for portable audio players. Others forego wired streaming altogether, opting for Bluetooth functionality. The following list includes some of the best performing and most innovative car stereo systems that take all of these features into account.
Pioneer AVIC-Z130BT
The Pioneer AVIC-Z130BT stereo offers a full range of features one would expect in an all-around system, including Bluetooth audio, HD radio, voice-controlled playback, hands-free calling, GPS with turn-by-turn directions and iPhone connectivity. Apps such as Pandora and Aha Radio can be controlled via the system, and the controls that are not controlled by voice are managed on its touchscreen. It features a built-in MOSFET 50 W x 4 amplifier to deliver exceptional sound quality. With all of its exceptional features, the AVIC-Z130BT ranges in the higher end car stereo models. An average price for the unit can be upward of $950.
SEE ALSO: Car Parts That Are Sure To Get You Pulled Over
Sony MEX-GS600BT
The Sony MEX-GS600BT offers a number of features as well. Included with this system are hands-free calling and an App Remote that allows the user to switch between playing media and using smart phone apps with one button. The App Remote even allows users to have personal messages read aloud. The Sony MEX-GS600BT supports a significant selection of digital audio sources and its appearance is that of a small, unobtrusive low-profile box. The average price for this unit is between $150 and $200.
Alpine CDE HD149BT
The Alpine CDE is an in-dash unit with an included CD player. The CD player is located behind the faceplate, and to access it the user must eject the faceplate to expose the CD slot. The detachable feature also acts as a deterrent for thieves. The Alpine CDE HD149BT allows for management of high and low frequencies in sound through crossover adjustments. The system's own TuneIt application allows owners to tune the sound from a smart phone, allowing up to 100 customized settings to be saved. Expect to pay from $250-$350 for the Alpine CDE HD149BT.
JVC Arsenal KD-A95BT
Also featuring a CD player, the JVC Arsenal KD-A95BT provides excellent sound with ample power to get the most out of any speaker. The unit has built-in iPod control with the ability to control Pandora from Android, Apple and Blackberry smart phones. Its Bluetooth capability includes a microphone and 12-foot cable to move it to the most convenient position. Using Bluetooth, audio can be streamed directly from the phone, still allowing the user to make and receive calls. The JVC Arsenal KD-A95BT can be purchased for $250.
Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X997
When it comes to sound quality, the Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X997 surpasses all other units in its class. It offers crisp audio with peak power of 200 watts. The advanced equalizer options enhance the audio experience with 13 bands of tuning adjustment and seven preset curves. The KDC-X997 supports MP3, WMA and AAC files and features a built-in CD player, a built-in HD tuner and Bluetooth capability. The Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X997 starts at $259.
Any of these systems would provide excellent bang for the buck, and the guaranteed satisfaction that comes from trusted brands. The only question left to answer is, “which one is right for you?”
Gracie Gardner
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| Image Credit: cnet |
Pioneer AVIC-Z130BT
The Pioneer AVIC-Z130BT stereo offers a full range of features one would expect in an all-around system, including Bluetooth audio, HD radio, voice-controlled playback, hands-free calling, GPS with turn-by-turn directions and iPhone connectivity. Apps such as Pandora and Aha Radio can be controlled via the system, and the controls that are not controlled by voice are managed on its touchscreen. It features a built-in MOSFET 50 W x 4 amplifier to deliver exceptional sound quality. With all of its exceptional features, the AVIC-Z130BT ranges in the higher end car stereo models. An average price for the unit can be upward of $950.
SEE ALSO: Car Parts That Are Sure To Get You Pulled Over
Sony MEX-GS600BT
The Sony MEX-GS600BT offers a number of features as well. Included with this system are hands-free calling and an App Remote that allows the user to switch between playing media and using smart phone apps with one button. The App Remote even allows users to have personal messages read aloud. The Sony MEX-GS600BT supports a significant selection of digital audio sources and its appearance is that of a small, unobtrusive low-profile box. The average price for this unit is between $150 and $200.
Alpine CDE HD149BT
The Alpine CDE is an in-dash unit with an included CD player. The CD player is located behind the faceplate, and to access it the user must eject the faceplate to expose the CD slot. The detachable feature also acts as a deterrent for thieves. The Alpine CDE HD149BT allows for management of high and low frequencies in sound through crossover adjustments. The system's own TuneIt application allows owners to tune the sound from a smart phone, allowing up to 100 customized settings to be saved. Expect to pay from $250-$350 for the Alpine CDE HD149BT.
JVC Arsenal KD-A95BT
Also featuring a CD player, the JVC Arsenal KD-A95BT provides excellent sound with ample power to get the most out of any speaker. The unit has built-in iPod control with the ability to control Pandora from Android, Apple and Blackberry smart phones. Its Bluetooth capability includes a microphone and 12-foot cable to move it to the most convenient position. Using Bluetooth, audio can be streamed directly from the phone, still allowing the user to make and receive calls. The JVC Arsenal KD-A95BT can be purchased for $250.
Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X997
When it comes to sound quality, the Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X997 surpasses all other units in its class. It offers crisp audio with peak power of 200 watts. The advanced equalizer options enhance the audio experience with 13 bands of tuning adjustment and seven preset curves. The KDC-X997 supports MP3, WMA and AAC files and features a built-in CD player, a built-in HD tuner and Bluetooth capability. The Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X997 starts at $259.
Any of these systems would provide excellent bang for the buck, and the guaranteed satisfaction that comes from trusted brands. The only question left to answer is, “which one is right for you?”
Gracie Gardner
About the Author:
Gracie Gardner is a writer from Tucson, Arizona. She has written articles about interior design, graphic design, car speakers and stereos, and much mor
Gracie Gardner is a writer from Tucson, Arizona. She has written articles about interior design, graphic design, car speakers and stereos, and much mor
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