The best car radios of 2022: TOP-15 rating

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Often, it is not so easy to choose the best car radio in 2022 . When installing a car audio system, there are several factors to consider in order for it to work properly. The most important part of the music system is the radio. Not only are they affordable, but they have also gained very high quality with the advancement of technology. In today's rating, we looked at the TOP 15 best car radios!

Which radio is better to choose?

In order not to make a mistake when buying a car radio and to understand which radio is better, you should pay attention to the following parameters.

1. Price. Your budget is the most important factor when purchasing a car stereo. By the way, the price range of the models included in the rating is quite diverse. The TOP 15 includes some reliable radios under $100. However, many devices with additional features are beyond this budget. Earphones-Review.ru has selected the best car radios of 2022 in various price categories to give you the opportunity to choose.
2. Bluetooth. Almost all models presented here have Bluetooth functionality. Even almost 5 years ago, the presence of bluetooth in a radio was rare. But nowadays it is quite common. In our ratings of the best radios with Bluetooth, you will get to know these models better.
3. CD support. With the ubiquity and ever-increasing popularity of our smartphones, streaming services and Bluetooth technology, good old CDs are becoming so undesirable that many manufacturers don't even build CD players into their stereos! Some popular car stereos do not offer CD or DVD compatibility, so this point is very important when choosing.
4. Make sure the radio fits your car. Doing this in advance is very important! We recommend literally measuring it, or better yet, measuring it twice. I wouldn’t want to buy a new receiver and find out at the last moment that it’s not suitable for the car!
5. 1 DIN or 2 DIN? This means that you will need to determine what type of mounting kit you will need. The small radios you'll see below have a single DIN (18.28 cm front) and the larger models have a double DIN (18.8 cm front).
6. Additional functions. Touch screen, video, phone call support, voice recognition, USB control, DVD, HDMI inputs and more. For some this may be unnecessary, but for others it is quite significant. What is important to you and is it worth it? Let’s look at the ranking of the best radios.

What is the difference between a processor radio and a regular one?

Not everyone knows how to determine whether a given radio is a processor or a regular one. This can be done by carefully studying the characteristics. These models differ:

• high power – up to 55W;
• the presence of a channel - adjusting the sound on each channel;
• installed graphic equalizer;
• presence of a digital transcoder.

It is these differences that make it possible to align the parameters. The device is equipped with a processor that automatically selects the signal channel, this makes it possible to adjust any settings.

You can distinguish a processor device from a regular one by cost. The first option belongs to the premium class and costs more.

Criteria for choosing processor-based car radios

To get high-quality car audio, it is important to choose a suitable sound-reproducing device. Thanks to online trading, a wide selection of devices is available not only in Moscow, but also in any outback.

A cheap option may not be powerful enough to bring out the full potential of your car's audio system. But a premium model is not always the best option. If the speakers are ordinary and there is no amplifier, then the head unit will not be able to perform as expected.

That is, the first criterion for evaluating a processor radio is its compliance with the installed audio system in terms of power and number of channels.

The next point is the acquisition goals. So, if the driver rarely turns on music, and if he does, he is not particularly versed in the nuances of sound, then you can safely choose a budget option. You just need to make sure that there are connectors for connecting a smartphone and a flash drive. You can find a model with Bluetooth, but the price will be higher.

Audiophiles will need a more functional device. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the characteristics of the processor and the presence of an equalizer.

Rating of the best radios for cars in 2022

TOP 15 radio tape recorders with good sound

Pioneer DEX-P99RS

Our rating of the best radios opens - Pioneer DEX-P99RS . This is an excellent car stereo that offers many high-end features. These include a satellite and HD radio tuner, app mode, Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with Pandora Radio, iPod, and iPhone. Plus, its visual aesthetics are simply gorgeous.

We recommend it as a good option for true music connoisseurs. There is no need to talk about functionality!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable folding
• Media types: CD, USB drive (rear), iPod/iPhone connection
• Number of stripes: 31
• BassBoost function: yes
• DAC bit size: 24 bit
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 4
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, AAC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: white

Equipment

• Stereo system Pioneer DEX-P99RS
• ISO connector
• Mounting kit
• Documentation

Video review

• This model produces highly accurate, authentic and powerful sound
• Complex setup
• Minimalistic appearance
• Good tuning helps eliminate distracting noise

• Does not fit some models
• Not the most convenient controls

Setting up car audio

Even the highest quality audio system, provided it is installed correctly, does not guarantee you good sound without its high-quality tuning. The result of beautiful sound is always the setup of the audio system. And here it all comes down to a tuning specialist; this person must combine two main qualities - a good ear for music and technical knowledge. Yes, nowadays there are special devices for setting up such systems, but they are intended only to help set up the audio system; the main task still remains with the person.

JVC KD-X165

JVC KD-X165 car player received high-quality sound with a 3-band equalizer. You can control the radio using the steering wheel, but the control panel itself is quite convenient. It also received backlighting: the display is always white, and the buttons can be adjusted and set to different colors. JVC KD-X165 has a 1DIN size. The front panel has line and USB inputs. It is important to note that the radio supports all major audio formats: MP3, WAV, WMA and FLAC.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Short body: yes
• Media types: USB storage (front), Android connection
• Number of stripes: 3
• Number of fixed settings: 15
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 1
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: WAV, MP3, WMA, FLAC
• Tuner bands: FM/MW/LW
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• JVC KD-X165 stereo system
• ISO connector
• Mounting kit
• Documentation

Video review

• USB smartphone support
• Large volume control with mute function when pressed
• Design
• Varied lighting
• Powerful sound

• USB port is only 1A
• Gets very hot
• Slight play in the front panel

How to setup

Setting up a processor radio is a difficult task. It is recommended to use the services of a specialist, although you can do it yourself. It is required to rationally set the delays and correctly position the speakers.

To configure the processor radio, you must complete the following steps:

1. Set delays (superficially). You just need to use a tape measure to measure the distance from the speakers to the selected location (for example, near the steering wheel).
2. Check acoustic phases. It is necessary at this time to listen to melodies and record data. You need to turn off the mid frequencies and listen first only to the upper ones, and then to the lower ones. On the far speaker, it is recommended to refine the phase and listen to everything again.
3. Adjust the level for each speaker. First you need the upper, then the lower frequencies. Then turn on all channels and set the levels. Afterwards, listen only to the left side, and then to the right.
4. Select crossover frequency. During playback, you need to listen to the signal level, record the difference, and then adjust. By default, low bass is lowered, and high bass is raised higher.
5. Adjust delays (more precisely). You need to turn off the mid frequencies and listen to the highs. Make adjustments. Do the same for low frequencies. Then turn on all channels. Set the stage height.
6. Adjust everything using the equalizer. You need to sit down on the left first and adjust everything, then turn on the second side.

Finally, all that remains is to configure the subwoofer.

Pioneer MVH-X460UI

Pioneer MVH-X460UI radio is high-quality and pleasant music with MOSFET amplifiers. For higher power it is possible to use 2 RCA by connecting a subwoofer or an additional amplifier.

The manufacturers of the MVH-X460UI placed a USB port and an AUX input on the front panel. So you can safely connect your phone to the USB receiver and enjoy clear sound. Moreover, your smartphone will be able to charge when connected via a cable!

MIXTRAX EZ technology illuminates the car's dashboard depending on the genre and type of each track.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Short body: yes
• Media types: USB storage (rear), iPod/iPhone connection
• Number of stripes: 5
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 2
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: WMA, MP3, WAV
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Radio Pioneer MVH-X460UI
• Remote control
• ISO connector
• Mounting kit
• Case for removable panel
• Documentation

Video review

• Price
• Simple and stylish design
• Small dimensions and weight
• USB and AUX are located on the rear side
• Remote control included
• Russian language support

• AUX and USB cable not included
• Small selection of backlight colors
• No SD card support

Frequency response measurement

Of course, measuring the frequency response (amplitude-frequency response) provides visual clarity of sound processes and frequency dips, and setting up car audio becomes available to any master who understands the technical side of the process.

By the way: recently, more and more often we hear proposals “tuning the audio system using special devices, measuring the frequency response, etc.”, but when the presence of special devices is the main argument of the tuning specialist, as a rule, this is not a very professional tuner, and Your audio system is unlikely to sound the way it should. After all, a flat frequency response, due to the characteristics of human hearing, will not appeal to any listener. This is the same as comparing coffee from a barista and from a coffee machine. In the car audio and auto electronics studio “RePlay Audio” we use all the necessary tools and devices to configure audio systems. But only at certain stages the main task is performed with the help of the “ears and head” of a professional setup specialist, taking into account all the client’s wishes.

Pioneer MVH-S510BT

Pioneer MVH-S510BT car radio is an excellent option for those who value clear sound. The accessory has a 4-channel Mosfet audio amplifier with an output power of 50 W. To work with the speaker system, there are 3 RCA outputs: front, rear, and subwoofer. Moreover, the device recognizes and works clearly with all popular formats MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC.

Thanks to Bluetooth, you can connect to the radio directly from your Android and iOS smartphone (you can pair 2 at once).

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Short body: yes
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Number of stripes: 13
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 3
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: FLAC, MP3, WAV, WMA, ACC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Car radio Pioneer MVH-S510BT
• ISO adapter
• Case for removable front panel
• Bluetooth remote microphone
• Documentation

Video review

• Processor receiver
• 3 pairs RCA
• The navigator button is convenient
• Sound quality
• Loading previously saved settings

• Sometimes it doesn’t see the flash drive the first time
• Difficult to find the power button
• Difficult setup via app

JVC KW-R520

JVC KW-R520 MP3 car radio works with both discs and flash drives, as well as Android phones. And of course there is a radio receiver with AM, FM and VHF frequency bands. Thanks to the powerful amplifier, there is no interference when listening to music loudly. There is support for all audio formats and even FLAC - thanks to this the sound becomes more detailed.

You can connect an additional amplifier or subwoofer to the device via RCA.

Main characteristics

• Size: 2 DIN
• Media types: CD, USB drive (front), Android connection
• Number of stripes: 3
• Number of fixed settings: 12
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 1
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: WAV, MP3, WMA, AAC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Receiver JVC KW-R520
• ISO connector
• Documentation

Video review

• Great sound
• Wide sound settings
• Support from Lossless flash drive
• Rich backlight

• Appearance and dimensions
• Small radiator cooling

Criterias of choice

When selecting a processor radio, you must consider:

• dimensions of the device body;
• presence of a CD player;
• built-in amplifier power;
• Possibility of connecting a subwoofer;
• location of connectors for connecting external devices (on the front panel or rear wall of the case);
• supported song formats;
• the ability to adjust the color of the button illumination;
• the presence of additional functions (for example, a Bluetooth controller).

Alpine CDE-193BT

The TOP 10 ranking of the best car radios opens with Alpine CDE-193BT . It has a standard size of 1 din and the ability to work with CD, CD-R, CD-RW. The accessory works with Bluetooth and AAC, FLAC, MP3, WMA formats from USB. With the Alpine TuneIt App for iOS and Android, you can fine-tune your audio and share it with other Alpine users.

CDE-193BT has 4 audio outputs for car stereo systems. The audio output power for each channel is 50 W.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: CD, USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Number of stripes: 9
• Number of fixed settings: 10
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Remote control: yes
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 3
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: MP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC
• Tuner bands: FM/MW/LW
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Radio Alpine CDE-193BT
• Microphone
• Installation kit
• ISO connector
• Documentation

Video review

• Clear sound
• Compatible with vehicle Start-Stop system
• Clear controls and settings
• Radio reception quality
• Full processor
• Possibility to connect standard resistive buttons on the steering wheel, without an adapter

• Uninformative display on the screen
• Poor Android app
• When a terminal is reset, the delays are reset to zero.
• Price

JVC KD-X155

JVC KD-X155 USB car radio has the ability to work with flash drives and Android phones. The device also received memory for 24 stations and a 3.5 mm port for connecting external devices. Plus you can connect amplifiers, subwoofers, and bring all the controls to the steering wheel.

There is support for popular audio file formats, including FLAC. The MOSFET transistor circuit allows you to listen to even the most complex musical compositions without interference and at any volume.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), Android connection
• Number of stripes: 3
• Number of fixed settings: 15
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 1
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: WAV, MP3, WMA, FLAC
• Tuner bands: FM/MW/LW
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Car radio JVC KD-X155
• Case for removable front panel
• Installation kit
• ISO connector
• Documentation

Video review

• Ideal for price/quality
• Sound quality
• Backlight Variations
• Variety of settings

• The volume control sticks out a lot
• Sometimes it gets very hot

Pioneer MVH-S520BT

Pioneer MVH-S520BT processor-based car radio is a multifunctional stereo system for any car. The installation size of the radio is 1 DIN. The ability to work with Bluetooth makes control and playback control much easier.

The MVH-S520BT also features a multi-color RGB screen. The design is simple and laconic, so it will look great in any brand of car. The USB port allows you to use different music media + there is an audio jack for a subwoofer.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Short body: yes
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Number of stripes: 13
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• DSP processor: yes
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 3
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: FLAC, MP3, WAV, WMA, ACC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Radio Pioneer MVH-S520BT
• Front cover
• Installation kit
• ISO connector
• Documentation

Video review

• Clear, detailed sound
• Speakerphone works well
• Quickly turn on and connect to the phone
• Wide functionality
• 3 pairs RCA

• Confusing and awkward controls
• Different volume levels in different modes

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.

DIGMA DCR-350G

DIGMA DCR-350G car radio has a standard size of 1 DIN. The black body and green backlight look great in a car at night. Manufacturers also took care of USB playback (on the front panel). Moreover, there is support for working with SD and MMC - a special slot is allocated for this.

There is A2DP and Bluetooth with incoming call indication. The screen is monochrome, and the power is 45 W per amplifier.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Media types: microSD, USB drive (front)
• Number of stripes: 3
• Power per channel: 45 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 1
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: WMA, MP3
• Tuner bands: FM/AW
• Backlight: green

Equipment

• Receiver DIGMA DCR-350G
• ISO connector
• Documentation

• Durable body and panel
• Low cost
• Dimensions and weight
• Good equalizer

• No automatic Bluetooth connection when getting into the car
• Volume varies depending on connection
• Too many flashing elements

Models up to 2000 rubles

Digma DCR-400B

pros

• good equalizer
• nice lighting
• loud noise
• low price

Minuses

• small screen
• no tone control

From 1400 ₽

Digma DCR-400B is a small radio with limited functionality. The model has a slot for a memory card, an amplifier and an equalizer. Supports music in MP3 format, FM range.

SoundMAX SM-CCR3055F

pros

• low price
• convenient button placement
• supports current formats

Minuses

• Sound volume is average
• old fashioned design

From 1100 ₽

A very affordable and moderate quality model. Supports music in MP3, WMA, WMV audio formats. Equipped with a monochrome display and a long-range tuner. The front part of the model is non-removable. The user can use a memory card.

SWAT MEX-1029BT

pros

• multicolor display
• low price
• Bluetooth support
• There is tone control

Minuses

• bad backlight
• gets very hot

From 1500 ₽

SWAT MEX-1029BT is another budget model with good sound and average technical characteristics. Equipped with a multi-color display and convenient push-button switches. The model has a digital radio tuner, amplifier and equalizer, and memory card support.

Alpine UTE-92BT

Alpine UTE-92BT is a simple USB car radio that can provide premium sound. The device has USB and a 3.5 mm audio input on the front panel. Bluetooth support makes it easy to listen to music from your phone and also allows for hands-free calling.

The welcome screen can be customized - just enter any word as a welcome word, but no more than 10 characters.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Number of stripes: 9
• Number of fixed settings: 10
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 3
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: MP3, WMA, ACC, FLAC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Stereo Alpine UTE-92BT
• Microphone
• Connection cable
• Mounting frame
• Carrying case
• Documentation

Video review

• Detailed, pleasant sound
• Possibility of configuration from the mobile application
• Three-way crossover
• Good and multifunctional VT, works with Android and iOS

• Old fashioned display
• Difficult setup for beginners
• For that amount of money you could make a remote control

Pioneer DEH-S5000BT

The TOP 5 rating of the best car radios opens with a CD receiver with an AM/FM tuner, Bluetooth and USB - Pioneer DEH-S5000BT . The built-in sound processor makes it possible to connect acoustics channel by channel. Additionally, it has 3 RCA connectors for amplifiers. Thanks to the Karaoke function, you can connect a microphone via AUX and sing. You can adjust the music volume in the Pioneer ARC app.

The Bluetooth module will allow you to listen to music from your smartphone on iOS or Android. If you wish, you can even connect two phones at once.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Number of stripes: 13
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• DSP processor: yes
• Remote control: yes
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 3
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, AAC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• CD radio PIONEER DEH-S5000BT
• Connection cable
• Plastic case
• Microphone
• Documentation

Video review

• Spectacular sound and bass
• Many lighting options
• Lots of functionality and settings
• Karaoke function

• Bugs when setting up Bluetooth
• No remote control included

Configuring the Time Lag Processor

After carrying out the preparatory procedures, the first thing you need to do is configure the time delay processor (DSP). Why? Take a look at the arrangement of the emitters in the “eight”: the distance from the left tweeter to the listener is 65 cm, from the left midbass - 82 cm, from the right tweeter - 101 cm, from the right midbass - 118 cm. As can be seen from the given values, each component are removed from the listener at different distances, which means that the sound waves from them will not reach the driver’s ears simultaneously, but with a certain delay. The consequences of this are very dire. But if you can still put up with the violation of the geometry of the sound stage, then the phase mismatch between the tweeter and midwoofer in each channel is a serious problem, leading to a loss of integrity and purity of sound, and this cannot be underestimated.

Before we move on to describing the process of tuning the processor, let us allow ourselves one more small digression regarding two points. Firstly, you have probably already noticed that in our system the tweeters are oriented towards partial reflection from the windshield. In the case of a processor-free audio system, this installation is practiced very often, but if your system has a head unit with a processor, then there is no need to mount the tweeters this way, and moreover, working with reflection can create quite a headache during setup. Give preference, for example, to the option with cross orientation - the left tweeter is on the passenger, the right tweeter is on the driver. Secondly, if the audio system does not have a time delay processor, then it is very important to correctly position the tweeter relative to the bass/midrange head in each channel. In this case, the starting point should be the rule: the distance from each channel component to the listener should be the same, and the differences in distance from the speakers of the right and left channels should be as small as possible. In addition, when selecting the installation location for the emitters of a separate channel, you should not rely entirely on a tape measure: move the tweeter (and midrange) - it is quite possible that by moving it a centimeter in one direction or another, you will get a noticeably better result. To configure the time delay processor, we will use the “IASC A Setup&Test” test disc. The Pioneer DEH-P8600MP CD-receiver has a 6-channel time delay processor, data for which is entered in centimeters in increments of 2.5 cm. So, we follow the instructions and enter the measured distance to each speaker. There are five speakers in total: a pair of high-frequency heads, a pair of low-frequency/mid-range heads and a low-frequency subwoofer head. We begin further setup with the bass/midrange heads, turning off the tweeters and the bass head. Using a track with the voice of the announcer describing his location on the sound stage (center), we begin to center the sound image. The location for the central image can be selected either based on the geometry of the cabin - then it will be the middle of the windshield, or based on the parameters of the reproduced stereo image - that is, at an equal distance from its left and right edges. Having found out where the desired point is, we begin to adjust the time delay for the bass/mid head of the left channel: change the value until the speaker’s image moves to the center of the sound stage. The next step is phasing the emitters in each channel. Using the example of the left channel of the front speakers, it looks like this: by connecting only the midwoofer and tweeter, we change the delay value in the tweeter channel until the combined sound of these two heads becomes harmonious. To carry out this operation, you can use track number five from the above-mentioned disc or a piece of music that is well known to you. By the way, during this procedure it’s a good idea to try to reverse the phase of the RF head by 180°, especially if we are talking about second-order filters. After finishing work with the spruce channel, similar actions must be performed with the right channel, and then it will be the subwoofer’s turn. Change the delay value until the bass sounds are clear and concentrated at the front of the cabin.

The tuning process is a task with many variables. Having dealt with the gain levels in each channel, phase matching and tonal balance, we got a good sound result

—~ but the potential of the stereo system has not yet been fully revealed

Having applied the above-described technology for tuning the processor, we obtained very interesting figures, which differ in many respects from those specified at the first stage of working with the processor, when delays were set only based on their distances from the listener to the emitters. For example, in the case of the left channel tweeter, the distance value increased to 102.5 cm, while for the midwoofer, on the contrary, it decreased to 77.5 cm. In other words, trust your ears, not the tape measure. As for the sound stage itself, we managed to use the processor to place the performers in their places, although, by and large, some aspects still need fine-tuning. In particular, at this stage, we rate the focusing of images in the center of the picture, to the left and right of the center, as no more than a four with a minus. This area of ​​the scene still needs some work. But there are also positive aspects. First of all, this is good localization of images and fairly good separation. In terms of the geometric characteristics of the scene, the situation turned out to be quite expected. The picture does not go beyond the boundaries of the car and is located at eye level, although the latter mainly applies to its central part, because there is a slight decrease in height at the edges. The latter circumstance is due to the location of the bass/midrange heads in the doors.

Sony DSX-A210UI

Sony DSX-A210UI car radio (without CD) has the ability to work with both Android and iOS. Thanks to several connectors (including USB), you can freely connect your phone, player or tablet. And what about without RCA - amplifiers can be connected without problems. The tuner works with signals in the frequency range 87.5-108 MHz. The power here is slightly higher than other models - 55 W for each amplifier.

The equalizer allows you to intelligently and personally customize the sound depending on individual preferences. Additionally there is an Extra Bass key. It will create a richer and more powerful sound. The 1 DIN size device can be controlled using the red backlit buttons on the front panel.

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection
• Number of stripes: 10
• Number of fixed settings: 10
• Power per channel: 55 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 1
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: MP3, WMA, FLAC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM and VHF
• Backlight: red

Equipment

• Radio Sony DSX-A210UI
• ISO connector
• Documentation
• Mounting kit

Video review

• Nice price
• Fast connection and reading of files
• Stylish design
• Good FM/AM connection
• Powerful Bass
• Simple controls

• Inconvenient switch button
• There is no music search
• There may be problems connecting the Galaxy

Pioneer MVH-280FD

The third place in the rating of car radios was taken by the most powerful receiver Pioneer MVH-280FD . The USB car radio received a 100 W per channel amplifier! Accordingly, exceptional clear and rich sound is guaranteed.

Of course, you can use not only flash drives, but also smartphones on Android and iOS. Plus you can play all known audio formats, including FLAC. And Advanced Sound Retriever technology will help improve the quality and detail of sound in MP3.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Number of stripes: 5
• Number of fixed settings: 7
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 100 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 2
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: red

Equipment

• Stereo system Pioneer MVH-280FD
• Installation kit
• Front panel case
• ISO connector
• Remote control
• Documentation

Video review

• Loud and clear sound
• Customizable subwoofer
• Rich amplifier software settings
• Incredible power
• Fast work with any file format

• I would like more than 5 bands for the equalizer
• Green backlight only
• Controls take some getting used to

JVC KD-X33MBTE

One of the best car radios in our rating was JVC KD-X33MBTE . This is a digital media receiver with Bluetooth wireless technology, front panel USB and AUX inputs, 4 x 50 W MOSFET amplifier, MP3, WMA, WAV and FLAC playback with Russian language tagging.

Can connect 2 external devices at once. This can be a flash drive or smartphones on Android and iOS. The maximum output power is a fairly standard 50 W for 4 channels.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Number of stripes: 13
• Number of fixed settings: 8
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 3
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: WAV, MP3, WMA, FLAC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: blue

Equipment

• Radio JVC KD-X33MBTE
• Microphone
• ISO connector
• Documentation

• The best radio according to price/quality criteria
• Many different settings
• Beautiful appearance
• Detailed sound
• Processor player
• Soft shifting

• Difficult to connect to steering wheel
• When calling, the sound is muffled for the caller

What does processor radio mean?

Listening to good music will help brighten up your trip. However, a car interior is not a concert hall with precise acoustics. The driver and each passenger are at different distances from the speakers, this creates a certain imbalance, so it can be difficult to assess the sound quality.

A processor radio is an electronic device that can evenly distribute sound throughout the cabin, concentrating it at one point. This ensures the same experience for everyone inside the machine.

Pioneer SPH-10BT

And the best car radio in the TOP-15 ranking of 2022 is the Pioneer SPH-10BT ! The device works with iPhone and Android gadgets. A convenient holder is provided to secure your smartphone. There is an option to connect parking sensors, which is a big plus in modern realities.

With the Pioneer Smart Sync app, you can control the lighting, settings, and audio functions. And the Mixtrax function creates an endless mix based on the owner’s audio library, complementing it with DJ effects and bright club lighting music.

To learn more!

Main characteristics

• Size: 1 DIN
• Panel: removable
• Media types: USB storage (front), iPod/iPhone connection, Android connection
• Parking sensor connection: yes
• Number of stripes: 13
• BassBoost function: yes
• Power per channel: 50 W (4 channels)
• Control: touch
• Speaker connection: ISO/RCA
• Line out: 2
• AUX: yes
• Audio formats: MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, ACC
• Tuner bands: FM/AM
• Backlight: RGB (can be selected)

Equipment

• Stereo Pioneer SPH-10BT
• Microphone
• ISO connector
• Front panel case
• Documentation

INTERFACE

The interface of the device is ergonomic, intuitive, and overall everything is convenient. Large dedicated buttons for the phone and switching signal sources are very useful.

The color scheme is cheerful - you can use iridescent colors, you can choose a fixed one

To call up the settings menu, press the encoder. The first item in it is the sound settings. If you press the encoder in this position for a few seconds, you can select the system configuration - two- or three-way. The system configuration is saved in non-volatile memory and does not respond to battery disconnection.

The remaining sound settings can be divided into two groups: long-term, performed during the initial setup of the system (crossover, delays), and operational, determining the nature of the sound (equalizer, loudness, bass boost, fader, balance). A shortcut to long-term settings is to rotate the encoder counterclockwise. When rotating clockwise, the first item is a 25-band graphic equalizer with switchable quality factor and presets for music genres. Next on the list are five levels of bass boost, two-level loudness compensation and subwoofer control. All menus are Russified, the adjustments are intuitive.

“Car selection” is intended for “lazy” system setup - approximate DSP settings (delays and signal levels) will be substituted, they will only need to be adjusted if necessary. However, you can immediately go to the crossover and delay settings; there are five options for positioning listeners: driver, front passenger, left rear, right rear (VIP in kind) and “equally for everyone”

We will analyze the sound path settings in detail during measurements; the graphs in the measurements section will tell you about this much better than menu photographs and pages of text.

But navigating through the menu using an encoder is not very convenient. This is, if not the last century, then certainly the last decade; now there is an application for a smartphone for this - it allows you to configure and control the head unit faster and more clearly. Bluetooth channel is used.

DSP settings are divided into four groups: equalizer, listening position, sound field adjustment (delays and levels), crossover

Normal heroes begin setting up the system by setting up the crossover. Here, for the sake of clarity, the “front-rear-sub” option is shown with shelf level correction of the tweeters: the left one, the driver’s one, is muted more than the right one. In the three-strip version the picture is no less beautiful