In-Dash Receivers
Most factory car stereo systems are designed with economy, not sound quality, in mind. The typical factory radio just
can't keep up with the features and sound quality of an aftermarket receiver. Plus, even the best factory radios look boring compared to the latest
aftermarket receivers.
Upgrading to a feature-rich, high power car stereo doesn't have to cost a fortune. Even CarDomain's selection of entry-level aftermarket receivers offer
high quality CD playback, bright and colorful displays, and powerful built-in amplifiers to drive front and rear speakers.
Basic Features
Although the options for receiver features and accessories are virtually limitless, here are a few enhancements that may
be important to you.
- More Power. An aftermarket receiver will usually produce more output power than your factory unit, but keep in mind that no receiver can match the
power and sound quality of an outboard amplifier.
- Better AM/FM Reception. For even greater listening choices, look for a receiver with satellite
radio capability.
- Better CD Playback.Most aftermarket CD players are able to track even badly scratched discs. Some feature electronic skip protection, allowing the
player to read ahead on the CD to ensure skip-free playback. Audiophiles will want to look for high-end D/A converters for the absolute best sound quality.
- Remote Control. Some vehicles have a less-than-ideal stereo location which makes having a remote control a convenient bonus.
Advanced Features
Every CD player listed in the CarDomain catalog includes an AM/FM radio and clock, but many models offer upgraded
functionality.
- CD-R/RW compatibility. Most aftermarket CD players will play CD-R discs, but a few won't play CD-RW (rewriteable) discs. This may be important if
you burn your own audio CDs or CD-RWs.
- MP3 playback. MP3 files offer near-CD quality sound at a fraction of the file size. Your own burned CD full of MP3 files can contain as much as 10
regular CDs worth of music. All MP3 compatible CD players will play CD-R and CD-RW discs. Some of the newest receivers also play WMA (Windows Media Audio)
files.
- ID3 Tag. Most CD/MP3 players display MP3 track information (ID3 Tags) such as title, album, and artist. Most players will scroll this information
across the display screen. This is handy for finding your favorite track among all the folders and files of an MP3 encoded CD.
- Equalization/Sound Controls. Your factory radio may have basic treble and bass controls, but these are hardly enough to compensate for the
acoustics of the open road. Many aftermarket receivers feature built-in equalization with presets to precisely tailor the sound to match your personal taste.
- Satellite Radio. Broadcasters (XM or Sirius) transmit digital signals via satellites for crystal-clear reception from coast to coast. There is a
small monthly fee for service, but each carrier provides dozens of channels with a huge variety of content. "Sirius Ready" or "XM Ready" means an optional
satellite tuner can be added to a receiver to enable digital reception.
- Changer Control. A CD changer is an addition to your receiver that enables you to keep six or more CDs playing through your stereo-a traveling CD
jukebox! If you plan on adding a CD changer to your system, make sure the receiver you purchase includes changer control. Most receivers with CD changer
control only work with changers from the same manufacturer.
Expandable and Flexible
While all in-dash receivers will have high power outputs to connect to your front and rear speakers, other connections
offer expanded listening options and upgrade flexibility.
- Preamp Outputs. These outputs send a signal to external amplifiers. A separate amplifier will sound better than the built-in amp, and play louder
too. Most receivers offer at least one preamp output, but many have two or three.
- Subwoofer Output. Some receivers have a separate preamp output for a dedicated subwoofer amplifier. Adding a subwoofer is one of the most
effective ways of improving overall sound quality in your vehicle. A dedicated subwoofer output from your receiver provides the optimal connection and best
bass control.
- Auxiliary Input. You can connect a portable MP3 player or even a video source to some receivers. The most common type of connection is rear RCA
inputs, but some in-dash receivers have a mini-jack in the front.
Theft Deterrence and Displays
Mid to high-end receivers have eye-catching displays that add an extra level of excitement to your dash. Many models
allow you to change the illumination color or customize the display to match your interior or your mood. To make sure your new receiver stays yours, almost
all in-dash receivers feature some sort of theft deterrence.
- Removable Faceplate. Most aftermarket receivers have a removable front panel. Take the faceplate with you, and your in-dash receiver is disabled.
Anyone peering through your window will see only a plain blank panel.
- Self-Hiding(Stealth) Faceplate. When turned off, this type of receiver appears to be a blank panel in your dash. Touch a button (or use the remote
control) and the faceplate comes to life. The large display flips down to reveal hidden controls and a CD loading slot.
- High-Resolution Display. Today's modern electronics and clever packaging allow for incredible displays. Some feature intense colors, detailed
images and even full-motion video, right in your dash. Even basic receivers have bright, easy-to-read displays with lots of useful information.
What's going on back there?
Car Stereos
