Sound and features are the two best reasons for getting a new car stereo. Aftermarket car stereos typically have more powerful amplifiers and better sound-shaping controls than factory stereos. And you'll find plenty of cool features, like Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility, USB and aux inputs, touchscreen controls, navigation, satellite radio compatibility, and much more, depending on the type and model of car stereo you buy.
Our vehicle research team has checked out thousands of cars to find out what will (and won't) work in specific vehicles. We only recommend the best one for you.
Your car may have come with factory-installed options, like satellite radio, navigation, or Bluetooth. In most cases, these are built into the existing factory stereo, or use proprietary protocols which aren't compatible with new aftermarket car stereos, so these features won't work with a new stereo. This can be a complicated issue though, so call or chat with us and we can check out your specific vehicle and features.
One of the most exciting things about new car stereos is the way that they integrate with your smartphone. Almost all models offer USB connection to your phone, letting you access your music files or other stored media from both iOS and Android devices. And if your new stereo has Bluetooth, you'll be able to access your music or streaming services that way too.
Great bass depends on a lot of factors, including what you define as "great bass." Generally though, the increased power of a new car stereo will improve the punch of the low end in your system. But if you really looking to dial in some thump, consider adding a subwoofer with an outboard amplifier, or perhaps a powered subwoofer.
A sensitivity rating doesn’t tell you how good or not so good a speaker sounds. It only indicates how effectively your speakers convert power applied to them into volume—however, the higher, the better.
