How to Choose a Car Stereo
Here are some hints and tips on some of the things to consider when choosing and buying a car stereo:
What Type of Car Stereo?
There are many types of stereos that you can buy, so you’ll need to decide on the type of set-up that you want. The current trend is to have a CD and MP3 player in your car with a multi-disc changer in the boot, a powerful set of speakers in the front and back of your car and a sub-woofer in the boot.
This can be a fairly expensive transition to make all in one go, but you can always upgrade your car audio system gradually without breaking the bank.
A respectable stereo head unit can start from as little as £60 and will add a touch of class to your current system. If you buy a car stereo MP3 compatible unit, you’ll be able to fit a greater number of songs onto each CD, so this could save you from needing to buy a CD multi-changer straight away. Remember, to use MP3 technology you will need to have access to a computer with the hardware to allow you to create MP3 CDs and, if you want to download music, internet access.
Most car stereos will allow you to pick up FM and MW radio. Some also allow you access to LW stations, and there are now a number of excellent DAB car stereos which allow you to enjoy the superb sound quality and extra choice of stations that digital radio offers.
However, remember that no matter how much you spend on the car stereo, you’ll need some decent speakers in order benefit from it.
In Car Speakers and Subwoofers
In Car Speakers don’t have to be expensive - there are models available with an impressive wattage output (over 200 Watts) for around just £30 per pair, so it’s worth shopping around before you buy.
For optimum performance, you’ll also need a subwoofer. Although some models of subwoofer are expensive, you can find one for as little as £50. Check out our Where to Buy section for details of online stores where you could get a great deal on in car speakers and subwoofers.
Price
With all purchases, have a clear idea of the price you are prepared to spend and stick with it. Be sure to remember that if you are buying a whole new car stereo system, you will have to account for the price of a stereo, speakers and possibly a subwoofer.
It’s easy to get over excited by the range of items available to you if you just spend a few pounds more, so be as disciplined as you can. If you have a limited budget, look for a car stereo that provides you with the basic sound quality and functions that you’re looking for and try not to be distracted by features that aren’t necessary, such as flashy screen displays.
However, if you can afford to spend a little bit more, it’s worth considering the design and style to make sure that it ensure that it both sounds and looks great in your car.
Car Stereo Security
Try to choose a car stereo or CD player that has a removable front fascia, as it will leave your car and stereo less inviting for a thief.
If you’re going to be spending a considerable amount of money on your car stereo system, make sure that you understand what your motor insurance covers. If you aren’t sure, contact your insurance provider and ask them to clarify this, so that you can be safe in the knowledge that, if there’s a mishap or your equipment gets stolen, you are covered.
Check the terms of the guarantee offered by the manufacturer of any car stereo that you are buying, and make sure that you check the refunds and return policy of the website that you are ordering it from to ensure that you’re happy with the terms before buying.
Fitting the Car Stereo
It’s worth finding out how much it will cost for a professional to fit your Car CD player, speakers or sub-woofer if you aren’t skilled to do it yourself before you order. You can then take this into account when budgeting. Some online suppliers offer a free fitting service, so look out for these.
Further Information
To find out where you can get some great deals on car stereos by shopping online, visit our Where to Buy section.
You can learn more about the different types of in-car audio equipment available, visit our Introduction to Car Stereos and In Car Speakers and Subwoofers pages.
For details of some of the car stereos, speakers and subwoofers available from leading manufacturers, visit our Brands section.