Head Units Buyers Guide

Axxera - AV6225BH Multimedia ReceiverAxxera
AV6225BH Multimedia Receiver
$269 | axxera.dualav.com

This double-DIN head unit features built-in Bluetooth technology with ID3 Tag, hands-free calling, audio streaming and phonebook profiles. The DualMirror technology mirrors the screen of an Apple or Android smartphone connected via HDMI. Other features include 16 million RGB custom colors, RDS tuner, USB and 3.5-mm aux input, programmable Steering Wheel Control interface, 3 pairs of 4-volt RMS preamp outputs, 6-band graphic and 3-band Parametric EQs and variable subwoofer control.

Axxera - AV7225BH Multimedia ReceiverAxxera
AV7225BH Multimedia Receiver
$279 | axxera.dualav.com

This head unit features built-in Bluetooth technology with ID3 Tag, hands-free calling, audio streaming and phonebook profiles. The DualMirror technology allows mirroring of the screen of an Apple or Android smartphone connected via HDMI. Other features include RDS tuner, USB, SD card and aux input, programmable Steering Wheel Control interface, 3 pairs of 4-volt RMS preamp outputs, 6-band graphic and 3-band Parametric EQs and variable subwoofer control.


Blaupunkt - New York 840 Head UnitBlaupunkt
New York 840 Head Unit
$749.99 | blaupunkt.com

Blaupunkt’s New York 840 head unit features a 6.2-inch double-DIN TFT touch-screen display, Android Music Control, iPod/iPhone direct control, as well as video and audio playback. Bluetooth capability comes courtesy of Parrot for hands-free calling and phone book access. Four-channel preamp and subwoofer outs run at a max power rating of 4 x 50 watts.


Blaupunkt - Philadelphia 845 Head UnitBlaupunkt
Philadelphia 845 Head Unit
$899.99 | blaupunkt.com

Blaupunkt’s new Philadelphia 845 multimedia navigation head unit is tailor-made for selected Volkswagen model years 2003 to the present, with built-in CAN interface supporting climate controls, park assist system with up to four front and four rear sensors, and steering wheel controls. This multi-function, multi-platform head unit includes navigation, Bluetooth, and a seven-inch TFT anti-reflective touch screen display.

Clarion - CZ505 Head UnitClarion
CZ505 Head Unit
$249.99 | clarion.com

The CZ505 audio source unit features more than you would expect from a single-din player. It starts with built-in HD Radio, a 728 variable color screen and Bluetooth with aptX. If that gets your attention, the plethora of connections including a front aux/USB input, Android media playback, and 6-channel/4-volt RCA outputs should show you why this unit shines.


Clarion - NX605 Multimedia Receiver Clarion
NX605 Multimedia Receiver
$1,099 | clarion.com

The NX605 comes to the forefront of navigation units by incorporating Clarion’s exclusive Intelligent VOICE technology which utilizes Google provided POI information to make searching simpler and more effective. New features now allow you to access your Gmail and Google Calendar through natural voice conversation with the NX605. In addition, it is Sirius-XM ready, has a built-in HD Radio tuner, and provides crystal clear 6-channel/4-volt RCA outputs.

JVC - KW-V51BT Multimedia ReceiverJVC
KW-V51BT Multimedia Receiver
$569.95 | jvc.com

The KW-V51BT meets consumer need for a high-quality, touch-enabled unit that can be the center of entertainment for built-in and connected media. The JVC Smartphone Control app, available as a free download from Google Play, allows smartphone apps to be displayed and controlled on the receiver. In addition, the KW-V51BT is fully compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls, rear-view cameras and Bluetooth devices.


Kenwood - DDX9902S Multimedia ReceiverKenwood
DDX9902S Multimedia Receiver
Contact for pricing | kenwood.com

The DDX9902S is Kenwood’s first receiver to include both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The DDX9902S also features Bluetooth integration, built-in control of Pandora and iHeartRadio, HD Radio selection and is SiriusXM-Ready for even more listening options. A rear-view camera is easily added and steering wheel audio controls are also compatible with the device.


Kenwood - DNN992 Multimedia Receiver Kenwood
DNN992 Multimedia Receiver
$1,400 | kenwoodusa.com

In addition to standard features offered by an in-dash radio, the DNN992 uses its Internet access via connected smartphone to deliver next-generation, drive-centric data. The built-in navigation system displays weather, dynamic traffic flow, fuel locations and pricing, and local search for amenities. In addition, the DNN992 is able to play content from iHeartRadio and YouTube, as well as being Bluetooth ready.

Pioneer - NEX Series In-dash ReceiversPioneer
NEX Series In-dash Receivers
$700 to $1,400 | pioneerelectronics.com

This is the second-generation of Networked Entertainment eXperience (NEX) in-dash receivers from Pioneer. Consisting of the AVIC-8100NEX, AVIC-7100NEX, AVIC-6100NEX, AVIC-5100NEX and AVH-4100NEX, these models feature expanded smartphone connectivity and enhanced audio/video capabilities. All models include Apple CarPlay (3 compatible models include Android Auto), Pioneer’s AppRadio Mode, advanced Bluetooth capabilities and much more.

Sony - MEX-XB100BT ReceiverSony
MEX-XB100BT Receiver
$229.99 | sony.com

The MEX-XB100BT is the world’s first CD receiver with a 40 W x 4 CEA RMS high-power built-in amplifier, which delivers external amplifier performance. Featuring MEGA BASS for punchy bass sound, Sound & Color Synchronization for dance club atmosphere, an advanced sound engine to adjust the sound environment, and one-touch Bluetooth connectivity. SongPal and Siri Eyes Free compatible for full smartphone control.

Soundstream - VR-74H2B Multimedia ReceiverSoundstream
VR-74H2B Multimedia Receiver  
$289.95 | soundstream.com

The VR-74H2B 2-DIN GPS navigation source unit with 6.2-inch LCD screen features complete integration with select Android devices. Bluetooth 3.0 enables hands-free calling and playback of MP3 and MP4 files is simple thanks to inputs for DVD, CD, USB, SD and auxiliary. Front and rear pre-amp outputs, variable pre-amp sub output, and 300 watt x 4-channel MOSFET speaker output make sounding good easy, too.

Related Articles

Metra Electronics / Heise LED 6 Gang Switch Panel Metra Electronics / Heise LED 6 Gang Switch Panel
The new 6 Gang Switch Panel with 3 power levels from Heise LED is in stock and shipping now. The HE-SWP6 is durable enough for off-road use and has a...
The 5 Best Automotive Products on Amazon This Month The 5 Best Automotive Products on Amazon This Month
Spring has sprung, and for many enthusiasts who had to sit through the wet and freezing winter months, it's time to clear the dust out of the garage,...
New Trucks for Enthusiasts at CIAS 2024 New Trucks for Enthusiasts at CIAS 2024
The OEM landscape of available trucks changes yearly. The industry is in a state of constant change, and with each new model year, we find ourselves...
The Importance of Keeping a Vehicle Battery Fully Charged The Importance of Keeping a Vehicle Battery Fully Charged
We've all been there. You're ready to head out - be it to hit the open road, or to run errands - and the turning of the key in the ignition delivers a...
How Bad is Ignoring a Tire Pressure Warning Light? How Bad is Ignoring a Tire Pressure Warning Light?
Let's talk about something that might seem like a minor annoyance, but can quickly turn into a major headache: ignoring that tire pressure warning...
2023 Black Friday / Cyber Monday Guide for Enthusiasts 2023 Black Friday / Cyber Monday Guide for Enthusiasts
It's that time of year again! For many enthusiasts, the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals from the automotive world are their chance at the best...