Car Receivers buying guide

In-Dash Car Receivers

Top Manufacturers

Pioneer

Sony

Kenwood

JVC

Panasonic

Sanyo

Aiwa

Alpine

Clarion

Product Recommendations (C-Net) :

Pioneer DEH-P9600

Kenwood XXV-01D

Clarion ProAudio DXZ845

Sony CDX-R5715X

In-dash receivers come in a variety of styles with different features, such as MP3 support, XM satellite Radio , Sirius Radio , and even a built-in equalizer . Some come with anti-theft removable faceplates. Make sure to consider the sound quality of the receiver if you're interested in getting good clear radio signals. RMS wattage measures power, and if it's not up to snuff, you'll want to invest in an amp and maybe a subwoofer .

Model Types

Depending on the type of media you use most, you'll want to consider the different options available for each combination of audio type.

Want to listen to tapes? CDs? Or maybe both?

Car Cassette Receiver

This type of receiver plays tapes and the radio.

Car CD Receiver

If all you want to play are CDs then this is the way to go. Keep in mind that a CD receiver will only play one CD at a time. However, if you want the ability to load several CDs at once then you will need a car CD changer . Either type listed here will also play the radio as well.

Cassette/CD Combo

If you have both old tapes and new CDs, you will want a combo receiver.

CD/MP3/WMA Receiver

Do you listen mostly to CDs and MP3s? Do you want to be able to hear WAV and WMA files? These receiver will playback different types of music formats.

Do you want to hook up your iPods / MP3 player to the receiver?

iPod ready receivers will allow you to hook up your iPod to your receiver as well as other fun options.
Also look for FM transmitters for MP3 players.

Or are you all about the satellite radio?

Satellite radio receivers by XM or Sirius radio offer commercial free radio both in the car, while out and about or on the road. Read this buying guide to find out more.

What to Look For

Sound Quality

A high signal to noise ratio means better quality sound with less distortion and interference, especially when playing the radio.
For optimum radio play also look for FM sensitivity specifications. The lower the number, the better the reception.

Power

Four-way power comes standard on the majority of in-dash receivers.
Look out for preamp outputs for power expansion (i.e., adding an amplifier and/or subwoofers) so that you can have clear sound with less distortion.
RMS wattage is a power measurement and you want it to be as high as possible.
Keep in mind though that your system's wattage is only as good as the quality of speakers you buy, so you might want to leave room for upgrading.

Tone Controls

Volume control on the interface is a given.
Bass and treble should have their own controls or be accessible from the receiver's menu.
Audiophiles will want additional equalizer functions for super-sharp, precise sound control.
The average consumer will just need the basics and maybe a button for bass boost, which can help fill out the sound even at lower volumes.

Related Buying Guides

Radar Detectors	Satellite Radio	Car Equalizers	Car Speakers	Car DVD Players

External Links

Amazon : a variety of car receivers are available here.
eBay : Check to make sure that the product will fit in your vehicle.
Crutchfield : a great shopping site for car accessories.
eDistiller : Receivers rankings based on user reviews.