Are you looking for a good single DIN stereo? You might be, and not even realize it. Typically, only two types of people even know what single DIN means: car audio geeks, or those who have actively shopped for a single DIN stereo. It certainly doesn’t help that the acronym DIN stands for a German term: Deutsches Institut für Normung.
That mouthful translates to German Institute for Standardization, the organization that originally created the standard size for in-dash car stereo receivers, now used by all car manufacturers. In other words, single DIN refers to the size and shape the hole in the dashboard should be to slot a receiver into: about seven inches wide, and two inches high.
In the days of old, before in-dash touchscreens became commonplace, virtually all receivers were single DIN radios. These days, double DIN receivers, which are four inches high to make room for touchscreens, are more common. But whether your dashboard only has a two-inch slot for a single DIN radio, or you prefer to lower the profile of a single DIN radio, Car Audio City can help you find plenty of terrific single DIN options. It’s just a matter of knowing what makes a good single DIN radio.
The basic model: Pioneer DEH-S1100UB
Any online search for a good single DIN radio will undoubtedly lead you to the Pioneer DEH-S1100UB. It combines a 50 watt amplifier with an easy to use, backlit interface, and many features standard to a single DIN receiver. It still plays CDs and CD-ROMS, including various audio files, and can also play audio through USB or auxiliary connectors. It’s a good single DIN radio, but you might miss functions including wireless Bluetooth compatibility.
For the modern user: Kenwood KMM-BT325 + ALPHA
A more updated example of a good single DIN radio is this Kenwood model. Though this digital source unit has done away with the CD player, it likewise offers 50 watts of power and both USB and auxiliary inputs. But this Kenwood also boasts Bluetooth connectivity as well as better support connecting to smart phones, whether iPhone or Android. Or both, as it turns out. This unique single DIN receiver will actually connect two phones at once via Bluetooth, allowing you to make and receive calls from, say, both the driver’s and passenger’s phone. Or, you may use this feature to switch between each phone as an audio source, which means the driver may accept incoming calls while the passenger creates the perfect playlist.
The next step up: Pyle PLTS78DUB
Just because you need a single DIN radio, doesn’t mean you have to give on the dream of an in-dash touchscreen display. The Pyle PLTS78DUB single DIN radio can behave like a double DIN receiver thanks to a retractable, 7-inch touchscreen display that slides out from the single DIN slot to pop up above the receiver. This provides a more intuitive interface for a receiver with both smart phone and Bluetooth compatibility, including effective navigation as well as audio and video playback.
Get the best single DIN radio at Car Audio City in San Diego
Contact Car Audio City today, and our experts will guide you to the perfect single DIN radio that fulfills all of your needs.
Here are some of the best car subwoofer and amp packages, depending on how much room your vehicle might provide for a dedicated subwoofer and amp.
When it comes to consumer awareness, Pioneer may have the edge. But when it comes to car audio quality, is Kenwood better than Pioneer?
Why are people talking about Skar Audio? From reports of durability to quality to great bang for your buck price – Is Skar Audio a good brand?
Are you looking for a good single DIN stereo? Car Audio City can help you find plenty of terrific single DIN options. See our picks here.
Many of the best head units focus on wringing the most detail and control out of your car’s audio. Here are the best head units for sound quality.
Pioneer has always been a good brand for car audio, and shows no sign of stopping any time soon… and here’s why.
In the hands of an expert, tuning your car audio can make your music playback sound much, much better. The following expert tips will give you an idea of what you’re dealing with.
Finding the best sound setting for a car equalizer is an often overlooked part of upgrading your car’s audio and entertainment system. Learn how here.
Here are some of the ways a car amplifier can affect sound quality and equip your ride for a more premium audio experience.
When you are shopping for car audio installation, helps to know the names of everything, starting with the difference between a car stereo and a receiver. Learn more here.