Car Stereo Buying Guide

Whether you are buying your first car stereo, or upgrading your existing one, there are some fantastic models of car audio system available to buy online. To make it easy for you to find the one that will suit your needs, here are some useful hints and tips for things to consider when choosing a car stereo.

How to Choose a Car Stereo: Introduction

Drivers and passengers have been enjoying the convenience of car audio systems since the 1930s. Over the years, as tastes and technology have developed, car stereos have evolved into high quality audio units, to rival home hi-fi systems. You can now buy everything from simple car radios and cassette players, to MP3-enabled CD players with multi-disc changers and incredibly powerful subwoofer and speaker systems.

Features to Look For When You Buy a Car Stereo

Previously a car stereo would feature a radio and cassette player, linked to stereo speakers around the car, but in recent years CD players have replaced the cassette function, and there is a wider range of speakers and amplifiers to choose from. Although some modern car audio systems can be a big investment, it's also easy to find less expensive models, as long as you bear in mind that prices rise according to the number of features, power, and functionality of the car stereo system.

Car stereos usually come with a CD player, but models of car stereo with a DVD player are becoming increasingly popular. To help you decide what type of car stereo is best for you, here are the key features to look out for:

Radio - Look out for a car stereo that comes with an RDS (Radio Station Display) radio, which displays the name of the radio station you are listening to. FM and AM frequencies are ideal, especially for keeping in touch with traffic news, but it-s worth considering getting a DAB radio car stereo for better reception and a wider range of radio stations.
CD Players - The car stereo CD player function enables you to listen to pre-recorded music on a variety of formats. The best types of CD player are ones which can play MP3 CDs, which can hold around ten times the amount of tracks as standard CDs - ideal for longer journeys! Also look out for CD players that play CD-R and CD-RW discs, and consider getting a multi-disc changer, for even more music storage.
DVD Players - Often with small colour screens, DVD player car stereos are incredibly versatile, playing both audio and video. You can even view photographs on the DVD player car stereo. With a digital optical output, you can connect the car stereo DVD player to monitors, so passengers can view movies while on the move.
USB - Car stereos with a USB port can run USB devices, such as portable music players, by an easy to use connector. Rather than carry bulky discs or DVDs, you can simply plug in your iPod and listen to your favourite songs.
Bluetooth - Bluetooth-enabled car stereos enable you to make telephone calls through your car stereo, using the car stereo screen to manage telephone contacts and manage calls. Bluetooth can also wirelessly play music from your portable music player or telephone through the car stereo.

Choosing a Car Stereo: Fitting Advice

Here are the key points to consider when fitting and installing your car stereo:

Connection - Most cars are now fitted with an ISO connector for easy instalment of car stereos. Make sure you have an ISO connector in your car, as the ISO connector is needed with nearly all new car stereos. If your car is not equipped with an ISO connector you will need to buy a special ISO wiring adaptor.
DIN - Din is the standard dashboard fitting size for car stereos. If you are replacing your standard car stereo and it's built in to the dashboard facia, some of the facia may be removed with the existing car stereo, so you will need to buy a facia adaptor. These are easy to buy and will ensure your new stereo fits perfectly.
Radio reception - Make sure the car stereo radio will connect to your car's aerial. Adaptors are available if yours doesn't have the correct socket.
Speakers - If you are buying new speakers to go with your car stereo, then find out whether your car's existing speakers can be easily removed and replaced; if they can't there are speaker adaptors available.

Do I Need to Buy an Extended Car Stereo Warranty?

It's worth comparing the warranties available on models of car stereo. A warranty covers you for any repairs needed or for replacement of the goods under certain conditions, and is normally included when you buy electrical goods. A warranty can last for around 2 years, but extended warranties are sometimes a good idea when buying more expensive items.

It's easy to spend more money on a car stereo with features that you won't need, so keeping to budget can be a good idea. But by browsing the online retailers, comparing car stereo prices online and taking advantage of special offers and discounts, you might be able to get a better model of car stereo for your money.