Rating of car radios by sound quality for 2021: the best powerful touch, processor, multimedia radios in cars for good sound

Driving in the car listening to your favorite music is always more enjoyable. But to get real pleasure, you need a good car radio. There is a large selection on the market, and the quality does not always correspond to the price. Our experts have compiled a rating of car radios with the best characteristics that deserve attention and can be an excellent choice. Check out short reviews of the top models of the current 2021 from various categories.

To a regular place

The top car radios continue with standard-type models. A modern head unit is not just a high-quality audio track player with an integrated radio receiver. This is a real multimedia complex with a set of many functions for your comfort.

Navipilot DROID7L Hyundai Creta 2016+

pros

Easy to install
Reads all modern formats
Built-in navigator
Convenient Android operating system
Touch display with a resolution of 1024x600 pixels
There is Bluetooth
Built-in memory 16GB
USB modem support

Minuses

Not detected

From 21900 ₽

A high-tech radio tape recorder designed specifically for the Hyundai Creta - a FarCar premium device, powered by an 8-core Spreadtrum SC9853i processor. This model has everything you need not only for listening to music in good quality, but also for many other tasks. The device can serve as a GPS navigator, video player, telephone, or Internet access device. This is a whole multifunctional system that can replace several car gadgets at once. Stylish design will enrich the car interior.

MyDean 2018

pros

7" HD touch screen
GPS navigator
Presence of a microSD slot on the front panel
Built-in TV tuner
Bluetooth availability
FM/AM radio
iPhone compatibility
Russified menu

Minuses

None

From 22900 ₽

A multimedia car radio for Toyota RAV4 is a device with which you do not need to install a navigator or a car tablet, since all this is already combined in one model. The latest high-tech STE processor of the ARM Cortex family provides high performance and system speed. With this gadget you can listen to music in excellent quality, watch TV, videos on the Internet, listen to the radio and perform other actions. Installing the device is very simple and you can do it yourself.

Intro AHR-2686

pros

Ideally integrated into the car interior
Multitasking
High quality touch screen
Performance
Built-in navigator
Availability of TV tuner
Bluetooth
Joystick on the steering wheel

Minuses

OS not up to date

From 17600 ₽

This standard head unit, designed for the Subaru Forester, is a multitasking system that includes a music player, video tap, GPS navigator, and tablet. The multimedia center, running on Android 4.1 OS, is fully adapted to work with all internal systems of a Subaru car. It supports USB operation, the original camera and microphone, and also allows you to control the radio from the buttons on the steering wheel. The model includes a bracket for mounting the GPS antenna in a special place in the car.

Sensory

Next, in our top, there are the best radios for a regular car, but with touch screens. They may be suitable for cars of different brands and different model years.

Pioneer AVH-Z9200BT

pros

Large 7 inch screen
Support iPhone, CarPlay, Android Auto
High sound quality
Adjusting the screen tilt
Advanced equalizer
Rich equipment
There is Bluetooth
Huge number of functions

Minuses

There are no

From 46075 ₽

A new generation multimedia device will delight any motorist with its capabilities. The anti-glare touch display has high clarity and excellent brightness. The device has several different outputs for amplifiers, audio/video, rear view camera, etc. An interface is provided for connecting the head unit to the standard audio system control buttons on the steering wheel. Through a special application, the radio can be controlled from a smartphone, both for owners of Android devices and iPhones. Using various system options, you can listen to music, including using streaming services, use navigation, and most importantly, fully control the multimedia system using voice commands.

KENWOOD DMX7017BTS

pros

Stylish design
Bright, large screen
Clear, balanced sound
Lots of settings and options
Availability of Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
Performance
Play HD and FullHD videos without stuttering

Minuses

No built-in navigator
No joystick on the steering wheel

From 21500 ₽

The car player with a large touch screen provides high-quality music and video playback. The built-in radio tuner receives signals from radio stations in the AM and FM bands. Using the Bluetooth module, you can connect 2 mobile devices to the device simultaneously and play any audio and video files from them. Thanks to a powerful processor and RAM, the player works very quickly and is ready after switching on in just a few seconds. The model includes a microphone, installation kit and documentation.

JVC KW-M540BT

pros

Screen with good brightness reserve
High level of smartphone integration into the car audio system
Bluetooth
For the rear view camera, the radio offers its own parking lines
High quality powerful sound
Possibility of connecting a joystick on the steering wheel
Multifunctionality

Minuses

The software does not work with all smartphones
Doesn't work with Weblink app
USB is not on the front panel

From 15600 ₽

The receiver from JVC is made in a classic design for this class of technology. The touchscreen AV recorder supports Bluetooth, allowing you to listen to music or make calls wirelessly. The optional 13-band graphic equalizer allows you to customize the sound in the most subtle nuances. The clear screen does not glare in the sun and has good sensitivity. The USB cable for connecting flash drives is brought out when installed in a place convenient for the driver. It can also serve as a charger for smartphones.

The best versions of car radios with a sound processor from Pioneer, Alpine, Kenwood

The most technically advanced models of car radios are produced by three companies that occupy leading positions in the market. We are talking about Pioneer, Kenwood and Alpine. These brands are preferred by professional audio enthusiasts, since each of the proposed modifications has excellent sound characteristics. Look at the photo to see how the described car radios look in design, this will help you make your choice.

Pioneer car radio

Pioneer, Alpine and Kenwood models use a sound processor to adjust the distorted sound stage in the car interior. JVC also has interesting offers. With such an audio model, you can finely control the sound stage by adjusting the sound output parameters.

If you have questions about how to set up the same Alpine, it is better to contact an experienced technician and only over time do this work yourself. It is better to do this at a dealership of the same JVC, Alpine and Kenwood. Setup is quite expensive, but affordable. In this case, you can get 100% results. You can find a list of available models in the relevant sections.

Alpine processor radio

5 processor radios with an affordable price (list of models) that are worth buying, setting up and learning how to use all the features:

Kenwood KDC-BT53U, the cost of this version is about $200 for the 1din version;
Pioneer MVH 580BT, in the same form factor the cost will be slightly less than the previous version;
The pioneer DEH 5900BT is another high-tech audio system that supports video display and synchronization with Apple devices. Pioneer makes affordable, professional-grade devices that go beyond 2 din;
Alpine UTE92BT is fully compatible with the modern familiar set of functions, supports screens, and is not inferior in class to touch media systems. Synchronizes, without requiring you to configure anything, with mobile devices that support connection parameters, that is, it duplicates the functionality of a 2 din car radio;
Alpine CDA-9887R is a car stereo with professional sound.

Kenwood KDC-BT53U

The advantages include a digital processor. There is support and synchronization with iPhone, iPod, including wireless BlueTooth. The device has a built-in amplifier with 50 W channels (4 channels), a subwoofer, and an amplifier cutoff frequency and balance control. In addition to disks, it also supports music search, etc. Despite the relatively outdated form factor, in terms of its total functions in the 1din format it surpasses its eminent counterparts.

Kenwood KDC-BT53U

Pioneer MVH 580BT

The Pioneer processor radio is one of the best and most cost-effective, not only in professional performance. It is a fully professional version with a progressive sound processor and is in great demand among drivers who are well versed in this topic. The set of characteristics guarantees the highest possible sound quality, there is a low-pass filter and a 12-band graphic equalizer.

Pioneer MVH 580BT

Alpine UTE92BT

In addition to the listed set of features, which are best read in the specifications, the audio device supports saving settings and sharing with other users. Alpine processor radios can be purchased for an average of $200. They are more expensive, but in some cases they are superior in elemental base to Pioneer processor radios.

Alpine UTE92BT

To understand the parameters of media centers for beginners, it is worth contacting a service bureau for professional setup, as well as resources that describe in detail the functionality of car radios with a sound processor.

The most powerful (loudest)

Continuing the comparison of the best car radios, we will not ignore the models with the most powerful sound for those who like it louder.

Prology Retro ONE

pros

Retro style (for lovers)
Excellent sound quality
Front USB
SD connection
Radio tuner
Removable panel

Minuses

For this type of car radio there are no

From 6050 ₽

The 1 din audio system is made in a classic retro style and will fit perfectly into the interior of many cars. Despite its appearance, the device has many modern functions. It can use CD, CD-R, CD-RW discs. The built-in digital PLL tuner stores up to 18 radio stations and supports RDS-EON information display. On the front panel there are USB, SD/MMC connectors for connecting flash drives. It is also possible to additionally connect an external signal source via AUX. The panel is backlit and has convenient control buttons.

Sony DSX-A210UI

pros

High power output
Stylish design
Convenient control
iPhone support
Joystick on the steering wheel
Front panel USB output

Minuses

There is no music search

From 4000 ₽

An ergonomic car radio has all the necessary functions for listening to music in good quality. With EXTRA BASS mode, the bass is twice as powerful, and the 4-channel 55 W amplifier plays audio tracks at high volumes. You can customize your music to your liking with the 10-band graphic equalizer. The USB port is located on the external panel, through which you can connect mobile devices and play files from iPhone and Android smartphones.

Pioneer MVH-280FD

pros

Ease of use
Superior sound quality
Plays cleanly and without distortion at maximum volume
Performance
iPhone support
Remote control
Possibility of connecting a joystick on the steering wheel
Adjusting the backlight brightness

Minuses

Lack of slot for SD or microSD card
Red backlight only

From 5800 ₽

The 1 din car player from Pioneer has a classic design, high-quality and very powerful sound, and ease of use. The volume and frequency of sound are ensured through the use of class FD amplifiers, providing an output power of 4×100 W. The graphic equalizer allows you to make individual sound settings. The radio plays MP3, WAV, FLAC formats via a USB connector and supports connecting mobile devices running Android OS, as well as iPhone and iPod. The model also has a built-in radio tuner supporting FM and CB bands.

Increasingly, car owners prefer not to overpay in regular and online stores, so they order goods directly from China. Take advantage of already proven equipment from our rating of the best car radios from Aliexpress, characterized by good quality and an attractive price.

Pioneer car radios - the best models of 2017-2018

How nice it is, sitting behind the wheel of an “iron horse,” to enjoy the sounds of your favorite melodies. And although modern cars already have sound systems, their quality is often far from perfect. And here the car enthusiast is faced with the question - how to choose the right device?

Pioneer car radios are one of the most popular and in demand. Car enthusiasts appreciated their rich functionality and high-quality assembly. And the Japanese brand inspires confidence.

The variety of devices available is impressive. Let's find out what are the best car radio models for 2017-2018. The rating will help you choose the ideal device suitable for all occasions.

Pioneer 2 DIN car radio - advanced functionality

The size of the model is suitable for any recently released car. The device has advanced functionality and is an ideal choice for those who spend a lot of time on the road driving. The 2017 model is one of the latest, expensive new products from Pioneer. The entire front panel is occupied by a seven-inch screen with mechanical buttons that allow quick dialing to return, volume and other menu options. The main control is a touch screen.

Advantages:

reproduction of the most popular sound formats;
variety of sound, thanks to customizing the audio system with a thirteen-band equalizer;
built-in road map;
a clear, easy-to-use menu that allows you to quickly select everything you need;
a seven-inch screen makes it possible to view a film or clip;
the presence of a function to interact with a smartphone;
connection via Bluetooth technology with playback of melodies from memory cards;
a microphone that turns the model into a speakerphone;
availability of an output for connecting rear view cameras;
viewing SMS messages from a smartphone on the screen.

Pioneer AVH-X4800DVD – luxury model at a reasonable price

The device is attractive due to its versatility and pleasant, discreet design. A rectangular, narrow body with one mechanical button. The controls are predominantly touch-sensitive. On the bottom panel there are touch buttons for switching tracks, sound volume, and display brightness. On the back panel there are many connectors that interact with other devices.

Advantages:

supporting games on consoles (monitor function);
seven-inch screen for watching cartoons and films;
detail, clarity of voice acting;
the ability to connect amplifiers, subwoofers, rear view cameras;
connection to an antenna to watch TV;
sound control with output to the steering wheel;
USB cable output for 2 flash drives;
well-implemented FM tuner; speaker sound settings;
flashing lights to the beat of the musical rhythm;
interaction with the phone.

The undisputed leader in the car radio market, the Pioneer brand, never ceases to delight users with new products. It accounts for about 50% of offers in various price segments.

Processor

The rating of the best processor-based car radios in terms of sound quality for the car continues.

KENWOOD KMM-304Y

pros

Lots of settings
Processor system
RGB backlight
Great sound
Easy USB/AUX connection
3 pairs RCA
Ability to control the standard joystick via Remote wire

Minuses

There is no mute key
The panel scratches very easily

From 4000 ₽

At a relatively budget price, this car radio has a full-fledged built-in processor with delays and filters and a full set of linear outputs. The player produces a frequency range from 20 to 20,000 Hz. Its rated power is 88 W, and its maximum is 200 W. All buttons are pressed very softly, with a good informative response, operating the device is a real pleasure. The audio system uses a 13-band equalizer, so the user can easily adapt the sound reproduction to suit themselves. The keys and display have multi-color backlighting, making it easier to interact with the device at night.

JVCKD-X361BT

pros

Processor system with rich sound settings
Excellent quality and high sound power
Bluetooth wireless technology
Ability to connect up to 5 audio devices via Bluetooth
iPhone compatibility
High-speed USB charging
Control via JVC Remote Control app

Minuses

None

From 4500 ₽

A media receiver with Bluetooth wireless technology, 2 preamplifier output connectors and channel-by-channel speaker connections is a functional and modern solution for motorists who prefer high-quality sound. A highly sensitive FM tuner allows you to listen to radio stations on the go. The device reads audio formats MP3, WMA, FLAC. The monochrome display consumes little power and has excellent brightness. The convenient location of the USB port on the front panel allows you to connect various devices and can serve as a charging source.

TOP 10 processor-based car radios

Kenwood KDC BT53U

Kenwood KDC BT53U is an example of high quality among products that fall into the middle category. Let's list the main functions:

The car radio plays audio tracks from any media. It can read audio files from a disk, flash drive or player.
It is possible to read all files, regardless of the format in which they are recorded.
Thanks to the Bluetooth module, the driver can wirelessly connect various equipment (for example, a mobile phone).

For control in the dark, the housing is equipped with a backlight. Settings are made using buttons.

Pioneer FH X380UB

The manufacturer produces a model with a housing made in 2 DIN format. It is equipped with a CD player, a monochrome display, and reads audio tracks from USB flash drives. The car radio body is black.

Multi-colored backlight makes it easy to set up the system in the dark and twilight. The built-in equalizer has several settings to choose from. FH X380UB comes with a remote control.

Alpine CDE 180RR

CDE 180RR also belongs to the budget category. The manufacturer has chosen as an addition a digital tuner that allows you to quickly search for radio stations. Due to the memory capacity, you can save up to three dozen user points.

You can listen to music from CDs and USB drives. The device has a classic design; durable black plastic is used to produce the 1 DIN housing. The package does not include a remote control.

Sony CDX G3100UE

You can also choose a car radio with good sound from the Sony brand line. CDX The G3100UE has a digital tuner and disc player. The design is standard.

There is an extended list of settings. The power of each channel is 50 W. The device is capable of playing songs in several audio formats.

There is a media connector on the front panel. However, there is no wireless connection option. The remote control is not included in the package.

JVC KD X150EE

The audio system belongs to the premium segment and its sound quality compares favorably with many other car radios on the market. A car enthusiast can connect a flash card to the equipment. It is possible to play audio files of different formats, including compressed ones.

Through the Bluetooth module you can connect third-party devices. The screen backlight is easy to adjust and turns on automatically. However, the JVC KD X150EE does not have a CD reader.

Alpine CDE 193BT

The CDE-193BT combines various functions, for example, the car radio is compatible with the Alpine TuneIt App (an application for smartphones that run on the Android platform).

Due to this, you can adjust the sound and exchange ready-made settings with someone who also has this application installed.

It also sends notifications about incoming messages to Facebook messenger.

If the car is equipped with a Start/Stop system, which turns off the engine in order to save gasoline when it is turned off, then this radio will continue to work (for example, when stopping at a traffic light).

Aura AMH 66 DSP

The AMH 66 DSP is equipped with a DSP processor. The developers also supplemented the technology with 25-band parametric equalizers. The following modes are provided for crossover operation:

2-WAY (subwoofer, rear, front);
3-WAY (channel connection of acoustics).

Supports FLAC, AAC, WAV, MP3 and APE formats.

Pioneer FH X730BT

FH-X370BT is a high-tech car audio system. The tuner is designed to be compatible with Spotify.

All you need to do is connect your mobile phone via Android or iOS and turn on a playlist, album, song or artist. The system recognizes FLAC files, it is equipped with a 13-band amplifier and a graphic equalizer.

AURA AMH 77DSP BLACK EDITION

This model has multi-color backlit keys. ISO connector included.

Supported audio formats: FLAC and MP3. The device has Bluetooth, a USB connector, and a liquid crystal display. Communication with iPod and iPhone is possible.

Kenwood KMM BT306

On the Kenwood audio system, settings can be controlled in the Remote App. It is installed on mobile phones for free. KMM BT306 supports Music Mix and Amazon Alexa ready. Multi-color backlit keys produce a sound when pressed.

Model size – 1 DIN. The body is made in black. The front panel is easily removed. Supported audio formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC. There is a USB connector on the front panel. Kenwood KMM BT306 can communicate with iPod/iPhone.

On Android OS

This category presents car media players running on the Android operating system.

Wide Media WM-VS7A706-OC-2/32 Audi

pros

New OS Android 8.0+
Built-in memory 32 GB
Bluetooth availability
micro SD support
GPS navigator
Reads most modern formats
Produces clear, loud sound
Input for connecting a rear view camera

Minuses

From 20900 ₽

The stock radio for Audi is a high-tech device that has a whole range of functions and a rich set of equipment. The device is equipped with an 8-core Allwinner T8 processor and runs on the latest Android. Performance is very important for driving in a car and the system fully meets these requirements. With this media player you can enjoy your favorite music, videos, use a navigator, connect a rear view camera, make and answer calls, and use the Internet. If necessary, you can expand the memory of the device and store even more useful and necessary information on it.

FarCar S170 L819 2DIN Universal Android (L819)

pros

Controlling the radio from the steering wheel
Native USB support
Built-in memory 16 GB
Two microSD(SD) slots
Navigation software
Supports all modern audio and video formats
Excellent sound output quality
Widescreen display (1024x800 pixels)

Minuses

Not found

From 19000 ₽

A premium media device will make your car journey more interesting and comfortable. With this multitasking device, you can listen to music from various media, watch videos, connect to the Internet and much more. The device is installed in the original mounting location of the machine and does not require adapter frames. The FarCar model is equipped with a frost-resistant, high-brightness Multi-touch screen with HD resolution for excellent multimedia playback. The monitor can serve as a navigator and rear view video camera.

Parafar 4G/LTE Toyota DVD Android 7.1.1 (PF071D)

pros

Multitasking
Functionality
High quality audio and video playback
Availability of built-in GPS, GLONASS
iPhone support
Bluetooth, A2DP
Built-in 4G/LTE SIM module
OS Android 7.1.1

Minuses

None

From 32000 ₽

The standard radio fits perfectly into the design of a Toyota car and is fully integrated with all vehicle systems. The frost-resistant IPS multi-touch display has high clarity and anti-glare coating. The built-in 4G/LTE SIM module has the ability to connect two remote antennas with MIMO technology, which increases the data transfer speed by 30-70%. The Android operating system allows you to use all Play Market applications useful for motorists. The model is equipped with all the necessary cables and adapters, which makes its installation and operation instant and convenient.

The best Pioneer car radios with Apple CarPlay

The car radio, equipped with Apple CarPlay technology, allows you to use your iPhone in the car as comfortably as possible.

The creators call this technology the ideal navigator, with the help of which the driver can get directions, make calls, send and receive messages, listen to music without being distracted from the road.

Pioneer AVH-Z9200BT

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

The flagship multimedia navigation system AVH-Z9200BT provides the ability to wirelessly use applications, file libraries and music collections from iPhone or Android smartphones.

The 7-inch resistive 24-bit True Color screen with support for Clear Type technology allows for scrolling and recognizes multi-touch gestures. The average cost of the model is 44 thousand rubles.

Advantages:

Wi-Fi module;
Waze navigator;
HDMI input for duplicating images on a smartphone;
Dual USB connectors;
reader for SD Card.

Flaws:

no Toslink optical output.

The AVH-Z9200BT car radio provides for the connection of two external video cameras at once, which makes it possible to monitor the area around the car on the device screen, park safely, reverse or control a trailer in motion.

Pioneer SPH-DA240BT

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

91%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The SPH-DA240BT car radio can be used to play music from USB devices and reads all popular audio and video formats.

The device is capable of playing video with Full HD resolution, provides the ability to connect a rearview camera with setting parking lines, is equipped with two AV inputs and an AM/FM radio. The average cost of the device is 24.5 thousand rubles.

Advantages:

built-in GPS;
DSP processor;
Bluetooth;
Flac format support;
Waze navigator.

Flaws:

no CD/DVD drive.

Almost the entire front panel of the SPH-DA240BT radio is occupied by a 7-inch WVGA Clear Type Resistive anti-glare touch screen with a high response speed. The user can independently select a screen saver from among the available ones.

New items

For those who are only interested in new products in the field of car audio systems, the following models are presented to your attention.

ROXIMO 4G RX-1126 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado 150, 2021 (Android 6.0)

pros

Large widescreen IPS multi-touch display
Performance
GPS
A huge number of user settings
Built-in 4G/LTE module
Equipped with a large number of different interfaces
The kit contains everything needed for integration with the car
Built-in Video player, FM/AM tuner and digital TV tuner

Minuses

Price

From 28500 ₽

A modern high-tech media device is designed for installation in a standard location of a Toyota car. This is a new generation device that has functions that replace several gadgets that previously had to be purchased separately. A huge number of individual user settings, such as equalizer, multilingual, all-format, changing the logo, screensavers, customizing desktops and widgets, will allow any user to customize the operation of the Android 6.0-based radio to their own preferences.

Redpower 51001IPS DSP

pros

Operating system OS Android 7
HD display
GPS + Glonass navigation module and antenna
2 USB ports for Flash drives
Hi-Fi sound
Multi-format
Radio module HD Radio NXP 6686
3G/4G, Wi-Fi connectivity

Minuses

Not detected

From 32400 ₽

The new audio system in the standard place of Nissan is dressed in a stylish design that will enrich the interior of your car. This multitasking ergonomic device contains several modules at once. You will be able to listen to your favorite music, watch clips and videos, use many applications, make calls, go online, and use a navigator. The model also provides the ability to connect a DVR. A powerful processor and 4Gb of RAM are responsible for the performance.

The best manufacturers

And finally – the top best manufacturers of car acoustics that have won the trust of consumers around the world.

Pioneer

The Pioneer brand is one of the leaders in the modern market for the production of automotive electronics. The history of the company begins in 1937, in Japan, with the creation of the first car stereo system. Over the years of development, the manufacturer managed to conquer the world market. Many major experts believe that it is Pioneer products that determine the development trends of the market as a whole. Today in the company’s line one could find televisions and other types of household appliances. All Pioneer radios are assembled exclusively in Thailand or China. But do not worry about the quality of the products - it is always under strict control and strict culling regulations, because the brand will not allow itself to lose such a high reputation.

JVC

The Japanese company JVC (Japan's Victor Company) was founded in 1927 and today is one of the world's leading manufacturers of audio and video products. It all started with the production of records and gramophones. Now the JVC brand produces various high-tech audio and video systems in different categories. Over its more than 75-year history, the JVC brand has become a symbol of the highest quality consumer and professional technology. It is worth noting that all this time the company maintained an ideal balance between the quality of its products and price.

KENWOOD

Kenwood Corporation is one of the largest and most successful Japanese electronics manufacturers. The brand dates back to 1946. The company's product range includes modern and high-tech car receivers, car speakers, amplifiers, accessories, music and speaker systems, portable players.

Do not confuse the Japanese electronics brand with the British home appliance company of the same name - these are different brands.

The continuous introduction of fundamentally new technologies, functions, and the creation of new designs allows Kenwood not only to maintain its leading position in the market, but also to influence the general direction of development of world electronics.