Dab car radio comparison 2022

The abbreviation DAB stands for "digital audio broadcasting" and refers to the new standard for digital radio transmission. Car radios with DAB already exists in germany since 2001. In the summer of 2011, the manufacturers have again revised the system and now offer it under the label DAB+. Practically all new car radios are now equipped with DAB+ although the older technologies still work.

The best DAB car radios

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JVC KD-DB95BTE USB/CD receiver with DAB tuner

The JVC KD-DB95BTE USB/CD receiver with DAB tuner combines the advantages of the digital radio standard DAB+ and bluetooth. In addition, this 1-DIN-reciver has a first-class DAB tuner as well as the new""digital processing tuner"" for analog radio reception and many useful features more.

Buetooths and great phone settings

Thanks to the bluetooth function can be coupled with the iPhone conveniently listen to the music from this cell phone or you can also call while driving at will and mood. The car radio connects automatically with the smartphone when switched on.

The microphone volume can be adjusted individually. You can also choose if you only want to use the ringtones and message tones from the iphone or the radio’s own tones. The latter can be set according to personal taste. Equally adjustable is also the color of the radio when calling.

With the phone button, calls can be accepted quickly and easily. If you press this for a long time, the voice control of the smartphone can also be used for dialing. This is a great advantage especially while driving.

DAB and FM reception

On the JVC KD-DB95BTE USB / CD receiver with DAB tuner is a DAB button. With this you can, among other things, quickly switch to the DAB function, if you are listening to music or the like. The DAB reception is with the supplied antenna very good and interference-free. If the digital signal for DAB reception is not sufficient, it is automatically switched to FM.

The button can also be used to search for new stations, but this sometimes takes a little time, because DAB can only be used with perfect reception. This is not due to the device. The FM reception goes flawlessly. The 5 memory buttons can be used for radio stations, the 6. button is usable for different display views.

Practical functions and ease of use

Very pleasant is the fact that a front USB is available. Over it, devices can be charged or the music function of the iPhone can be used. With an adapter, the radio can also be controlled from the steering wheel, very convenient during the car ride. Equally practical is the automatic dimming function on the display, so no glaring light in the dark is disturbing.

Thanks to the USB/AUX connections, there are many possibilities for use. For example, many digital or analog sources can be connected, which then provide entertainment in the car. Who the""JVC smart music control"" The user who uses the app especially for android smartphones can even control the DAB car radio directly with the smartphone.

If you read the manual in german, you will have no problem with the complete operation of the JVC KD-DB95BTE USB/CD receiver with DAB tuner. The installation is as quick and easy as the complete handling of the radio. Everything is clearly arranged on the removable display and the buttons are large enough to find them quickly and safely even while driving.

Advantages:

  • interference-free digital radio thanks to dab tuner
  • Automatic switching from DAB to VHF
  • Integrated bluetooth hands-free system
  • Front USB connection
  • Easy installation thanks to the included ISO adapter

Disadvantages:

  • Reading in the USB medium takes a long time with large files
  • unlit power button

Conclusion:

The JVC KD-DB95BTE USB/CD receiver with DAB tuner is equipped with everything a good DAB/USB/CD receiver needs. Above all, the fact that the advantages of DAB+ and bluetooth have been combined for the first time speaks in favor of the purchase. In addition, it is very easy to use and is convincing in sound and the range of functions.

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Pioneer DEH-X6700DAB CD tuner RDS DAB+

With the DEH-X6700DAB, pioneer has launched a modern and stylish car radio with crystal-clear sound and a full 4 x 50 watt MOSFET output power. Through the integrated DAB + tuner can be received digital radio stations in excellent acoustics. The audio device is compatible with ipod/iphone, as well as android smartphones.

Modern optics, individual illumination

If you’re looking for a stylish DAB car radio, take a look at the pioneer DEH-X6700DAB. The device is visually modern and appealing. A special highlight is the illumination of the frame and display. These can be set independently of each other in different lighting colors individually. Every conceivable color combination is possible.

Convincing acoustic performance

The DAB radio has a remarkable sound quality. The equalizer allows the sound to be adjusted according to personal preferences. The integrated DAB+ tuner makes it possible to receive digital radio stations in good quality. However, this requires an antenna, which is not included in the scope of delivery. Interruptions are reduced to a minimum by auto-DAB tuning.

The output power of 4 x 50 watts is impressive. If that’s not enough, the system can be expanded with additional amplifiers or a subwoofer via two cinch outputs. Portable players or a USB stick can be connected to the front USB or aux input. Also transfer of music from ipod/iphone or android smartphone is possible. So nothing stands in the way of the sound experience while driving.

Really android compatible?

Surprisingly, the pioneer radio is actually compatible with android. While this connectivity is limited in other devices or only works with the corresponding apps, this is no problem for the DEH-X6700DAB. However, this applies only to android V 4.0 or higher.

While the music is playing, the smartphone or tablet is being charged at the same time. At the same time, the iphone can be controlled via steering wheel remote control using a separate adapter, which is not included in delivery.

Reflective control panel

Actually the car radio is perfect. However, there is one drawback. The removable, convex control panel of the radio is unfortunately not anti-reflective. During the day, especially in sunlight, the display is almost invisible. Even sticking on a glare foil does not really help. Obviously, savings were made in the wrong place here.

The installation

With a size of 16.5 x 18 x 5 cm, the radio fits, thanks to the supplied adapter, in any DIN radio slot. Within half an hour, the DEH-X6700DAB is quickly installed, even with little technical knowledge. The connection to the steering wheel remote control is just as uncomplicated. Only in new vehicles, the installation should be left to a professional, since these usually no longer meet the DIN standard.

Advantages:

  • Display and button illumination individually adjustable
  • Integrated, powerful dab tuner
  • Apple and android compatible
  • Front USB and aux input

Disadvantages:

  • Mobile front part is not anti-reflective

Conclusion:

For the price, you get a very good DAB car radio that is both technically and acoustically convincing. Even weak radio stations are played back in good quality. The CD drive is designed in such a way that even self-burned silver discs can be played back without interference. A circumstance that is no longer taken for granted today. If it weren’t for the problem of the reflective control panel, the pioneer deh-X6700 DAB could almost be called perfect.,

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Blaupunkt 1011402220001 stockholm 230 car radio DAB+/DAB

The blaupunkt 1011402220001 stockholm 230 car radio DAB+/DAB is the DAB+ car radio of this manufacturer. With the integrated DAB+ antenna, the driver enjoys first-class radio reception without any noise or crackling. By means of bluetooth, even a smartphone can be brought in wirelessly. With it, you can then stream music, for example, or just safely make phone calls.

The installation is really easy

The installation of the blaupunkt 1011402220001 stockholm 230 car radio DAB+/DAB is feasible in any car and should not pose major problems even for the layman. If you want, you can download a complete manual for this car radio online for help.

The angled connectors of the FM antenna are detachable, all connections comply with the DIN standard and the matching DAB+ antenna is also included in the scope of delivery. The DIN connectors can be brought with a DIN extension to the appropriate length, if the connectors are sometimes on the wrong side.

Even the long DAB+ antenna is easy to attach. It is recommended to have the car radio already in operation when installing the antenna and scan the DAB+ stations. Because so it can be easily aligned optimally and if necessary stick on the windshield.

Practical operation and very good reception

All controls are clearly arranged and especially the volume control is large and easy to find, even without a long look. The practical hands-free system allows you to call safely even while driving. The complete handling of this car radio is logical and well thought out.

The coupling with a cell phone works quickly and easily as well as the filing of phone numbers or the transfer of the complete phone book. Numbers that are used frequently can be found again more quickly or you can see immediately who is currently calling.

Noise-free reception and practical SD card slot

DAB promises of course a good reception, which works with the blaupunkt 1011402220001 stockholm 230 car radio DAB+/DAB also very good and noise-free. If the reception is too poor due to the location, then the DAB reception automatically switches to FM. Many channels are offered, such as DAB1, DAB2, FM1, FM2, FMT or even SD and BT-stream.

Very practical is the SD card reader. From the memory card, complete song collections as well as audio books or MP3`s are played with very good sound. Who would rather use USB, is with this car radio also on the right side and will be satisfied.

High-quality car radio without too many bells and whistles

The blaupunkt 1011402220001 stockholm 230 car radio DAB+/DAB lacks nothing in terms of functionality. As you know it from blaupunkt, the optics was kept rather simple. The removable control panel protects against theft and can be safely stored in the supplied case.

The brightness of the display can be dimmed, very convenient for night driving. The buttons are illuminated in red. The stockholm 230 car radio DAB+/DAB has a high quality finish, there are no gimmicks in terms of functions or design, which is a good thing, because it should not distract you from driving.

Advantages:

  • Integrated DAB/dab tuner
  • USB on the front
  • SD card reader
  • Bluetooth 2.0 integrated
  • DAB disc antenna

Disadvantages:

  • Display not multiline

Conclusion:

as expected from blaupunkt, the blaupunkt 1011402220001 stockholm 230 car radio DAB+/DAB convinces with solid quality and offers many practical functions. It can also be installed by laymen easily and quickly in any car. The reception is where DAB is possible, very good and interference-free otherwise the device automatically switches to FM. Phone functions are just as convincing as the map memory and USB. There is also nothing to complain about the operability.

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Kenwood KDC-BT73DAB – digital radio with bluetooth handsfree

The kenwood KDC-BT73DAB is a car radio with bluetooth handsfree and integrated DAB+ receiver. With two USB ports (rear/front), the DAB flagship supports music playback via ipod or iphone and offers numerous options for setting the preferred sound experience. In addition, this digital radio gives users free access (aha-radio) to a wide range of radio stations on the Internet.

Simple car radio with flexible display color selection

The DAB kenwood KDC-BT73DAB digital radio features a sleek design and comes with a bluetooth speakerphone or DAB+ (digital audio broadcasting), a range of practical features. The display has been kept relatively small at the expense of readability. Reading the data is made easier by the flexible color selection of the display. For example, red is ideal for driving during the day, while blue improves the reading of music titles, radio stations or setting options in the dark.

Versatile options for individual and good sound

In terms of sound, the kenwood KDC-BT73DAB car radio impresses with good sound quality thanks to a wide range of setting options. Pre-settings for various vehicle models and types are already integrated, which facilitates the setup for a good sound experience. In addition, there are functions such as a multi-level bass, noise reduction or a manually adjustable equalizer.

Further settings can be made with the specification of the installed speakers (mass, number, etc.).) can be made. In addition, the sound effect can be adjusted to genres such as rock, classical or techno. Due to the clear operation with a few buttons and a comfortable rotary control, even inexperienced users will quickly find their way around the menu navigation.

Radio reception and hands-free calling with great sound quality

For a high sound quality and good reception of radio stations provides the DAB + antenna, which is glued by means of film on the A-pillar. In case of reception problems, automatic switching to FM takes place. In addition to the partially commercial-free transmission of music and news, additional information such as interpret or traffic data is shown on the display with DAB+. In addition, the app offers listening to radio stations from the Internet.

Equipped with a bluetooth interface and included microphone, the kenwood radio supports convenient hands-free calling. After scanning the phone numbers, calls can be made using voice commands or keypad operation as desired. Users enjoy good call quality without major delays and with hardly any perceptible feedback. bluetooth audi also enables music playback from mobile devices.

Music enjoyment via gadgets and CD’s

The integrated CD player ensures smooth playback of burned CDs as well as conventional audio and MP3 media. Alternatively, music stored on ipods or iphones can be played back via the two USB ports provided. The reading of the data is fast.

The good overview makes it easy to navigate between the folders even while driving. At the same time, the connected gadgets are charged via the kenwood KDC-BT73DAB.

Advantages:

  • Great sound effect
  • Good radio reception with high sound quality
  • Hands-free system with barely perceptible feedback
  • Uncomplicated menu navigation

Disadvantages:

  • Small display
  • Light noise from the active fan

Conclusion:

the kenwood KDC-BT73DAB – digital radio convinces with an easy to understand operation and a very good sound effect. Due to the integrated setting for different vehicles, no special knowledge is required for good sound quality. Nevertheless, a wide variety of options offers a refinement of the sound. For a device in this price range, consumers will find a recommendable solution with good digital reception (DAB+), a high sound quality when making calls, and a cooler on the back.

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Pioneer MVH-270DAB car radio DAB+

The pioneer MVH-270DAB car radio DAB+ is a modern car radio of the latest generation. The device does not have a CD drive, which means it has only a shallow depth. An uncomplicated installation is thus guaranteed. In addition to digital radio reception and a USB/AUX port, the car radio can also be controlled directly from iPhones and iPods.

Modern car radio with all important functions

The pioneer MVH-270DAB car radio DAB+ offers everything that a modern car radio should offer. A USB port lets the user listen to hundreds of different favorite songs as well as audio books while driving. Crystal clear sound ensures a great listening experience.
The digital radio reception is excellent, even in areas with weak reception. Precise transmitter tuning is possible.

The device can be easily controlled by iphone or ipad, so every listener can transfer his favorite music directly from apple smartphone without tedious connection.

Easy installation

The pioneer MVH-270DAB car radio DAB+ does not have a CD drive, which is no longer in keeping with the times. This makes the device easier to insert into radio slots in all car models. When installing the radio, please note that the dimensions of the radio correspond to the usual standard dimensions for car radios, but the bulky CD drive is omitted.

If you’re tech-savvy, you can, for example, combine the digital radio and FM antennas, and you’ll still get clear radio reception everywhere.

Simple operation

The control buttons, as well as the display are processed high quality. The buttons are easy to use, the display is large enough, well illuminated and shows all titles and radio stations legibly.
The control display is self-explanatory, and can be operated effortlessly while driving.

USB devices are recognized quickly and accurately, and the last track is played back at the same position after switching on again. Even after removing the USB stick and then reconnecting it, the last piece of music is played back at the point where it was interrupted.
Since there are no unnecessary technical bells and whistles, the radio can provide good performance exactly where it is needed.

Advantages:

  • Excellent reception
  • Complication-free playback from USB stick
  • High-quality workmanship, especially of the control buttons
  • Easy to use
  • Great sound

Disadvantages:

  • An antenna splitter is not included in the scope of delivery

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for a car radio with great technology and no unnecessary bells and whistles, the pioneer MVH-270DAB car radio DAB+ is exactly what you need. Good digital radio reception, great sound, easy operation and hassle-free installation provide a true radio experience. The USB stick and the iphone, the ipod replace the old, interference-prone CD. This means that a much larger playlist is available, even on longer journeys there is no need to stow numerous cds in the car, a small USB stick is sufficient for a varied listening experience. This is the ideal car radio for technology fans who value high-quality workmanship, good sound and easy operation.

Guidebook

Both DAB and DAB+ have replaced the previously used analog transmission of radio signals, which was usually connected to a FM receiver was paired in the car radio. The technological innovation is linked to numerous advantages. It has a much better reception quality than analog broadcasting technology and a much wider broadcasting spectrum. In addition, it is to be expected that the analog channels will cease service completely in the foreseeable future.

The advantages in detail

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For buyers of newer vehicles, the question of whether or not to purchase a DAB car radio does not arise. You will usually find such a device already in your car. But for owners of older cars that still have an analog radio, it is definitely worth switching to the more modern system.

Larger broadcast spectrum

First of all, the transmission band of a DAB car radio is much wider than that of older FM radios. The DAB frequency range ranges from 30 mhz to 3 ghz. VHF only covers the spectrum between 79.5 and 108 mhz.

On top of that, the reception is frequency independent. This means you don’t have to keep looking for a new frequency when you hit a new transmitter mast after driving a few kilometers. Because on each frequency there is room for several stations at the same time.

In theory, it no longer matters whether you are in the SWR or WDR broadcasting area to receive the channel. Even local stations can be received nationwide, regardless of where they are located. Previously, this was only possible via cable reception, satellite or internet radio.

But in practice the legislator has something against these unlimited possibilities. The public stations, for example, may only be received within the federal state for which they are responsible for the basic service.

In addition, completely new reception blocks have been developed for DAB+. That’s why the DAB car radio covers a much wider range of frequencies wider bandwidth of stations and program formats, which are simply not available with a simple FM receiver.

But even the programs that were previously only available via medium wave have broadcast, draw their benefit from the DAB car radio. So far the reception was everything else than a pleasure. the medium wave reception was often noisy and creaky. Now you can hear the channels in crystal clear sound.

Reception quality

The second key quality feature of DAB is its consistently good reception reception quality. When you receive radio via FM, you are confronted with the typical fluctuations of a weaker broadcast signal. Because one is permanently in motion with the car, one has to do constantly with this problem. But with a DAB receiver, annoying noise and crackling are a thing of the past.

But not only is the reception signal more stable, the sound quality is also noticeably better than with FM reception. It corresponds CD sound quality. However, it must be taken into account that the sound is largely dependent on the CODEC used and its compression rate.

The DAB car radio is also equipped with error correction. Interference during reception is virtually masked out. And in the unlikely event that the DAB signal is too weak, the DAB car radio has a plan B up its sleeve. Because then the radio switches to the built-in FM receiver and receives the station in the conventional way.

The DAB car radio also has an added value compared to radio with RDS function. DAB can read out even more data on the digital transmission path than RDS. For example, complete song lyrics or album covers can be displayed if the files contain this information. DAB also improves the use of traffic warnings and weather services+.

Differences between DAB and DAB+

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If you are already using a car radio with DAB, you are probably wondering whether it makes sense to switch to a model with DAB+. Often, however, it is not even necessary to replace the entire car radio, as there are also DAB+ adapter, with which older devices can be retrofitted.

DAB+ offers all the functions of DAB, plus a few extras. In essence, the two systems differ in terms of the audio coding. DAB+ relies on MPEG-4 HE-AAC v2. This is considered the most efficient audio compression currently available. The normal DAB, on the other hand, has the somewhat outdated MPEG-1 layer-2 in use.

DAB+ gets a lot of quality out of even the lowest bitrate music. With high-resolution music, DAB+ achieves finer separation of the signals. The individual instruments in a song, for example, can be heard precisely and do not blur into an undefined sound mush.

In addition, the data transmission rate for DAB+ is significantly higher. This allows about twice as many programs to be received on each frequency. At the moment up to 18 devices.

Control options

Since all DAB car radios have a broader broadcast spectrum and better reception quality, the differences in quality between the various devices are mainly due to their features. For example, ease of use plays a particularly important role for modern car radios, but also a more traditional value such as music performance.

Power

One of the first features that many users are interested in is the maximum wattage. Here there are no differences to the old car radios. DAB+ uses a different reception technique. However, the music will still be played using conventional methods.

DAB car radios are usually equipped with a preamplifier. DAB+ is also supported 5.1-space sound. With the right speakers, you can easily turn your car into a rolling parking lot disco. The more wattage the system has to offer, the more money you usually have to spend.

Setting options on the display

Today’s possibilities of digital technology are almost unlimited. These are also disadvantages that one sometimes encounters with the displays. The front of the car radio’s housing has limited space. Some manufacturers overdo it and try to cram in too many controls.

That’s why a large, easy-to-reach main switch and an easy-to-read display are essential for any DAB car radio. Most devices are now color-coded and naturally illuminated when the light is on. Some manufacturers can score points here with an interchangeable frame for the front of the housing, so that you can adapt the design to your own taste at any time. In addition, the color settings of the display can be changed.

Operation via steering wheel control

In today’s vehicles, the basic control options such as volume level and station selection can usually be controlled via integrated buttons in the steering wheel. This requires that the DAB car radio is compatible.

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However, there may be a conflict if you use other external devices such as a smartphone, a handsfree or a navigation device would like to control via the steering wheel. In this case, it is an advantage if the car radio has suitable connections for these devices and takes over coordination. For example, when a call comes in, the DAB car radio automatically dims the music so that you can talk undisturbed.

The connection options

If you want to upgrade your music system a bit, you need connections for a power amplifier, a separate subwoofer or a complete high-quality speaker system. But also smartphones, MP3 player and computer can in principle be connected to a DAB car radio. However, since all devices use different types of connectors and different data transmission, it is important that the radio has appropriate connectivity:

  • AUX connection
  • Iphone
  • smartphone
  • Bluetooth
  • Hands-free kit

AUX connection

The AUX connector on a DAB car radio is one of the most important connections. The analog stereo input is compatible with most available audio sources. This is how you can connect to the line inputs Distortion-free connection of CD and DVD players, sound cards and MP3 players via a jack plug. There are also AUX adapter for ipods or laptops.

The DAB audio radios differ in where they place the plugs. An AUX connection on the back of the unit is awkward to use. If the connector strip is located on the front of the device, it is much easier to operate. In addition, some radios also offer a USB connection or a SD/MMC card slot.

Iphone

The DAB car radio can serve as a hands-free device for the iphone, but also as a music and video player or navigation device. However, in this case you have to look very carefully at the product description. because quite a few car radios are designed for only one of these uses.

Apple devices use their own connection standard. The DAB car radio must therefore be designed for this system. In the ideal case it has a docking station, into which you simply plug in the iphone. docking stations that can be closed when not in use are particularly convenient.

But beware: the DAB car radios are not upward compatible with regard to iphones. if the product description states that the device is intended for an iphone 4, it will not work with an iphone 5.

Smartphone

With the android smartphones a similar problem arises. Here, too, you have to make sure that the DAB car radio is compatible with the latest android version. Incidentally, the newer car radios can easily cope with the older standards.

However, the trend among manufacturers of DAB car radios is clearly moving in the direction of providing suitable connections for both iPhone and android devices. In the end, they have to bow to market conditions. Many users change their cell phones every two years and then naturally want them to still work with the car radio.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth provides a solution to connect android and iphone devices to the DAB car radio at the same time. Wireless transmission is currently the most reliable radio standard and offers clean quality. Above all, more and more computer and audio devices master bluetooth.

This means that data can be streamed to the car radio not only from smartphones and iPhones, but also from notebooks, tablets and MP3 players. Accordingly, most DAB car radios today are already equipped with bluetooth. Where it is missing, it can be retrofitted relatively easily and inexpensively with an adapter.

Hands-free kit

For the joint use of a hands-free kit with a DAB car radio, two alternatives exist. Either the radio offers the possibility to connect an already existing handsfree set. Or the car radio takes over this task itself and saves you the purchase of another device.

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If you decide for the second solution, you get a microphone supplied. This is usually equipped with a clip that can be attached to a shirt, T-shirt or jacket. Some DAB car radios also feature a voice recorder, turning the car radio into a digital voice recorder.

Additional equipment

You can expect a high-quality DAB car radio to be able to connect modern peripheral devices to it. But a well-equipped radio offers a few more playback options and extras. These include, for example:

  • CD player
  • DVD player
  • Double DIN car radio

CD player

Cds are technically outdated, but a CD player but is still part of the equipment of many DAB car radios. This is due to the listening habits of the users.

It’s true: many people now store their music collections on hard disks and MP3 players. But people over the age of 30 still have large CD collections at home. And it is precisely this group that makes up the largest proportion of car drivers.

The CD is not inferior to modern storage media in terms of sound quality. on the contrary, if you have extremely compressed your music tracks on hard disk to save space, the quality is much worse than from a CD. Besides, cds do not take up too much space.

DVD player

The DVD player on the DAB car radio is not a must, because dvds have never established themselves as a storage medium for music. Nevertheless, a number of radios are now equipped with this playback option, sometimes also with a combination of CD and DVD player.

The real reason: with the DVD player, the car radio is transformed into a fully functional multimedia device. Such devices are also equipped with an LCD display, which can usually be conveniently operated using a touchscreen.

Thanks to the large display, the car radio can then be used both as a navigation device and as a small television set. A screen diagonals from 6 to 7 inches is standard here. If necessary, the system can be upgraded with additional screens that can be attached to the back of the headrests.

This equipment is particularly attractive for families. Because the longer the journey, the more cranky the offspring usually become. An entertaining DVD movie during the car ride is therefore equally easy on the nerves of the children and the parents.

Double DIN car radio

However, such DAB devices with large screens for playing back films and navigation instructions simply do not fit into the normal DIN frame intended for the car radio. That is why in this case we speak of so-called dual DIN car radios, two times the height of an ordinary car radio.

In order to be able to install this type of DAB radio, the vehicle must have an appropriate plug-in frame in the cockpit area. The six- or seven-inch device diagonal requires space.

The main difference between the double-DIN car radios is whether or not they have a DVD player navigation device is already installed. In some cases, they are also equipped with extras such as a DVD burner to provide more space. This is certainly not a must for a DAB car radio, but in some situations this feature can be quite handy.

Manufacturer

DAB car radios have been available since the turn of the millennium. But initially, the well-known brand-name manufacturers of car radios were noticeably reticent about production or completely disregarded this brand segment.

However, since it became clear that analog radio was being phased out, the mood among manufacturers has completely changed. Now the major brands are once again dominating the market for DAB car radios. Among the best-known names in this field are:

  • JVC
  • Kenwood
  • Blaupunkt
  • Pioneer
  • Sony

JVC belongs to the premium brands and is therefore located in the middle and upper price segment. Although the company also offers models with reduced equipment, it has specialized primarily in the double-DIN range.

The customer gets a 6.1-inch widescreen monitor with touchscreen and all the connectivity options his heart desires. MP3 players, smartphones, iPods and iPhones can be connected either via USB or bluetooth. a dual AUX input is also available. DVD and CD players are included in the standard offer.

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In addition, the JVC devices score points with a sensibly solved theft protection. The front panel can be removed and stored in a conveniently transportable box. the JVC car radios also have a function that automatically dims the display while driving at night.

Kenwood

At kenwood, you will find the entire product range, from bargains to high-quality double-DIN car radios. The devices are equipped with USB and bluetooth, but also offer an integrated SD card slot. kenwood also attaches great importance to compatibility with ipod and iphone.

In addition to DAB+, the Kenwood devices also support the conventional FM system. special extra here: if the reception quality weakens, the car radio independently searches for a better receivable frequency of the same transmitter. In addition, the units are equipped with removable front housings for the purpose of theft protection.

Blaupunkt

Blaupunkt has meanwhile shifted most of its production to asia, but still knows how to shine with quality. Nice side effect: even the higher-quality devices are available at a comparatively affordable price.

The entry-level model from blaupunkt offers an MP3-capable DAB car radio that also has USB in addition to a card reader. The higher-quality blaupunkt devices are equipped with GPS navigation system, touchscreen display and USB flash player. However, if you want a wireless hands-free system, you’ll have to go for the more expensive models.

Pioneer

the basic model from pioneer is available either as a dAB car radio with cd player or as a usB radio with connections on the front panel. An external microphone, which can be used to make calls with a smartphone or iphone, is already included in the scope of delivery.

The better equipped devices from pioneer also offer bluetooth. Special highlight: the pre-installed software MIXTRAX EZ mixes each piece of music individually on request. Turning the car into a mobile discotheque.

All pionier models also work with a so-called DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) system advanced sound retriever. This system is used to digitally post-process and optimize poor quality mp3s. This allows an acceptable sound experience even with poor output quality.

The large double-DIN car radios from pioneer have adjustable RGB lighting, which can be used to create a uniform look for the display and dashboards. The generous 7-inch screen is a particularly positive feature.

Sony scores particularly well in the field of DAB car radios with integrated DVD/CD player. for here the japanese manufacturer offers outstanding 5.1-surround sound. The tuner of the car radio is also superior to the competition. Thanks to the digital-clarity-systems even better results are achieved here in the sound reproduction of FM stations.

Otherwise, the sony models offer a superior range of functions. They are equipped with bluetooth, USB, external microphone, hands-free system and touchscreen. A nice touch: a so-called sensme technology selects music tracks according to the driver’s mood. This ensures a good mood on every journey!

Conclusion

For those who don’t yet have DAB+, it’s time to upgrade your car. a concrete switch-off date for analog transmission technology has not yet been set, but this is surely only a matter of time. So if you don’t want to suddenly find yourself without reception, you should take precautions.

But regardless of the technical reasons, the switch is worthwhile simply because of the better sound quality and features of DAB car radios. The main advantage of modern devices is that they can receive radio, play music or movies, and serve as a hands-free system and navigation device at the same time.

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Christina Cherry
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