Car stereos in our range include car radios and head units with FM, DAB+ and Bluetooth, plus smartphone-connection adapters for cars that already have a built-in screen. They suit drivers replacing an ageing radio or adding phone features to a newer dashboard. Brands include OTTOCAST, CARLINKIT, JVC and Pioneer.
How to choose a car stereo
Head unit or adapter. A head unit replaces the radio in your dashboard, while an adapter plugs into a car that already has a screen and adds smartphone features. If your car has a factory display and you only want wireless phone connection, an adapter is the simpler job. If the radio is old or has no Bluetooth, a new head unit is the better fix.
Radio bands. Most car stereos cover FM, and our range lists FM coverage of 87.5 to 108 MHz on several models. Some also add AM, and a few cover DAB or DAB+ and long, medium or mid-wave bands. Check that DAB+ broadcasts actually reach the roads you drive before paying for it, as FM is the safe baseline. Models in our range store between 24 and 42 preset stations, which matters if you switch between many stations.
Bluetooth features. Hands-free calling is the basic requirement, but profiles decide what else works. A2DP streams music, AVRCP lets you skip tracks from the stereo, and PBAP shows your phone contacts on the display. Our range includes models listing A2DP, AVRCP and PBAP, and others that list codecs such as AAC and SBC.
Discs and older devices. Some stereos in our range play CD, CD-R and CD-RW discs, while others have no disc drive at all. If you still have a CD collection, check the supported disc types. Several models are also marked as iPod ready, which helps if you use a wired older iPhone or iPod.
Fit in the dashboard. Car radios come in single DIN (about 180 x 50 mm) and double DIN (about 180 x 100 mm) sizes. Look at the opening in your car, or at the old radio, before ordering. Some cars also need a mounting kit or wiring adapter.
Car stereo brands we carry
- OTTOCAST: known for wireless adapters that bring CarPlay and Android Auto to cars with a factory screen, and the largest brand in this category in our range.
- CARLINKIT: makes small plug-in adapters and boxes for wireless smartphone connection in the car.
- JVC: a Japanese audio maker with a long history of car receivers, including models with CD playback and Bluetooth.
- Pioneer: one of the best-known car audio names, associated with aftermarket head units for many types of dashboard.
- Navitel: known mainly for navigation software and GPS devices.
Also in our range: PRIME3, MANTA and DENVER.
Car stereo FAQ
What is the difference between a car stereo and a wireless CarPlay adapter?
A car stereo is the radio unit built into your dashboard, and it plays audio, takes calls and often shows navigation. A wireless adapter is a small device that plugs into a car which already has a compatible screen and removes the need for a cable. An adapter does not replace the radio, so it only helps if the car already supports wired smartphone connection.
Do I need DAB+ in a car stereo?
No, DAB+ is optional. FM is available on all the stereos with radio specifications in our range, and it works wherever FM stations broadcast. DAB+ is only worth paying for if digital stations are available on your regular routes.
Will a car stereo fit my car?
It will if the size matches the opening in your dashboard. Most radios are single DIN or double DIN, and you can check which by measuring the old unit. Many cars also need a fitting kit and wiring harness for a clean installation.
Can I still play CDs on a new car stereo?
Only on models with a disc drive. Some stereos in our range play CD, CD-R and CD-RW, while others have no disc support. The supported disc types are listed in the product specifications.
