What is the best single DIN head unit for classic cars?
A single DIN head unit refers to a standard sized in-dash car stereo receiver that is designed to fit a cutout measuring 2″ high by 7″ wide. This is the most common size for aftermarket car audio receivers. In classic cars, the head unit or radio is often considered the heart of the sound system. Most vehicles from the 50s through the 70s came with simple AM/FM radios, so upgrading to a modern head unit allows classic car owners to significantly improve the audio capabilities.
When choosing the best single DIN head unit for a classic car, key factors to consider include sound quality, ease of installation, appearance, connectivity, durability, and brand reputation. The goal is to find a head unit that provides a major upgrade over the original radio while still looking like it belongs in a classic car. This article compares top options on the market today based on these criteria.
Sound Quality
When evaluating car stereo sound quality, there are a few key factors to consider: sound clarity, frequency range, and equalization. Sound clarity refers to how crisp and distinct the audio sounds across the entire frequency spectrum. The best car audio systems will provide clear highs without sounding harsh or tinny, rich mids that bring out vocals and instruments, and tight, accurate bass. According to Car Audio Now, playing “pink noise” through your system and listening for any resonances or distortions can reveal issues with clarity (https://www.caraudionow.com/evaluating-car-audio-systems/).
Frequency range indicates the stereo’s ability to accurately reproduce sounds from the lowest bass to the highest treble frequencies. Most car experts recommend looking for head units that can handle 20-20,000 Hz for full, balanced sound reproduction. Testing with a variety of music tracks that contain deep bass, bright vocals, and crisp highs makes it easy to audibly assess the frequency range (Edmunds, https://www.edmunds.com/car-technology/car-audio/sound-advice.html).
Equalization allows you to adjust the bass, mid, and treble to optimize the sound for your specific vehicle. The best head units have flexible EQ controls and presets so you can easily tune the sound to your liking. Road & Track suggests listening to familiar test tracks while tweaking the EQ to identify the optimal settings for your car’s interior acoustics (https://www.roadandtrack.com/about/a31230/here-are-the-best-ways-to-test-your-high-end-audio-system/).
Ease of Installation
When upgrading the stereo in a classic car, ease of installation is an important consideration. Many classic cars have unique dash opening sizes that may require modification or an installation kit to fit a modern head unit. Additionally, wiring harness compatibility needs to be checked, as classic cars use different connectors and coloring than modern vehicle manufacturers. According to Handcrafted Car Audio, using an installation kit or having modifications done by a professional installer can ensure proper fitment and full functionality of the new stereo.
As noted by Sweet Sounds, many mechanics lack the specialized experience for vintage car audio installation. Hiring a professional car audio installer familiar with classic vehicles can save time and headaches compared to a DIY approach. They have the expertise to cleanly integrate modern electronics into a classic car without compromising the original aesthetics or functionality.
Appearance
When choosing a head unit for a classic car, you’ll want one that fits the vintage aesthetic. Many companies now offer stereos with a retro look, featuring display screens and control knobs styled after old-school radios. According to Buyer’s Guide – The Best Classic Car Radio, opt for a unit with a simple LED or vacuum fluorescent display rather than a modern digital interface, which can look out of place. Also look for a radio with classic styling like chrome trim or retro knobs and buttons.
The layout and feel of the controls is also important – you want something clean and intuitive that matches the car’s interior. Avoid stereos with small, fiddly buttons and instead look for a simple channel knob and large preset buttons that are easy to use while driving. Brands like Retrosound offer “shaft style” head units with volume and tuning knobs that protrude from the chassis for an authentic old-school look, according to Finding a Stereo for Your Classic Car. Overall, choose a stereo that aesthetically matches your car’s era and has controls tailored for a classic driving experience.
Connectivity
When choosing a stereo for a classic car, having modern connectivity options like Bluetooth, auxiliary input, and USB is key. Many classic car owners want to integrate their smartphones and streaming music services seamlessly into their vintage rides. Bluetooth allows you to make hands-free calls and stream music wirelessly from your phone. An aux input or USB port lets you connect physically to play music directly from devices. According to this MotorTrend article, the RetroSound Model Two radio has Bluetooth, USB, and aux input while maintaining a vintage look. Reddit users also recommend Bluetooth amps to connect modern features to existing classic car wiring. The right stereo should have connectivity options to match your needs without compromising the classic aesthetic.
Durability
When selecting a head unit for a classic car, durability is a key consideration. The head unit needs to be able to withstand the rigors of being installed in an older vehicle. Two important factors to consider are resistance to heat/cold and vibration.
Since classic cars lack the climate control systems of modern vehicles, the head unit needs to function properly across a wide temperature range. Look for units that specifically advertise operating temperatures between -20°C to 70°C or wider. This cold/heat resistance ensures the head unit won’t fail due to seasonal temperature swings [1].
Vibration resistance is also critical in a classic car installation. Older vehicles have more mechanical engine components and less sound dampening materials than new cars. Make sure to select head units that specifically advertise vibration resistance and durability testing. Units made with quality plastics, protective circuit boards, and sturdy faceplate mounts can better withstand engine vibration over time [2].
Brand Reputation
When selecting a single DIN head unit for a classic car, it’s important to choose a brand with a strong reputation for quality and reliability. Some of the most trusted brands in vintage car audio include Custom Autosound, Retrosound, and American International. Custom Autosound has been making car stereos since 1977 and is known for their unique designs that mimic vintage styling while integrating modern technology. Their USA-230 model is frequently recommended as one of the best single DIN units for classic cars. Retrosound is another respected brand that specializes in retro-looking head units with high-end sound. Models like their Newport II have Bluetooth and other latest features while maintaining a classic analog display. Lastly, American International has built a reputation over 40+ years for quality components that match OEM factory stereos in appearance and performance.
When buying a stereo for a classic car, it’s advisable to stick with a proven brand known for attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and fidelity to vintage designs. This helps ensure years of enjoyment from the audio system and preservation of the car’s original character and charm.
Top Product Options
When choosing the best head unit for your classic car, a few models stand out as top contenders based on sound quality, ease of installation, connectivity, and more. Here are some of the most recommended options:
Pioneer DEH-80PRS
The Pioneer DEH-80PRS is a top pick for its audiophile-grade sound quality, with a built-in high-voltage 4-channel amplifier and high-resolution 24-bit D/A converter. It has a customizable color display and supports playback of lossless audio files. Installation is straightforward with a classic ISO standard DIN chassis.
Kenwood Excelon DMX906S
With a 6.95″ display, the Kenwood Excelon DMX906S is designed for classic car dashboards. It has a 13-band EQ and FLAC support for excellent sound. The unit is SiriusXM ready and has a dedicated button to launch Spotify. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration provide seamless smartphone connectivity.
JVC KW-M740BT
The JVC KW-M740BT balances vintage styling with modern features like a touchscreen, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The display can be customized to match your dash lights. With built-in amps, subwoofer control, and high-res audio support, it delivers crisp, powerful sound. The CD/DVD player is a plus for classics without auxiliary inputs.
The Winner
After reviewing the top products on the market, the Pioneer DEH-S6220BS stands out as the best single DIN head unit for classic cars.
Here are the key pros and cons of this product:
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality with built-in amplifiers and EQ presets
- Front auxiliary input makes connecting devices easy
- Supports playback of lossless audio files
- Easy to install with wiring harness adapter
- Classic black design looks great in vintage cars
Cons:
- Lacks built-in navigation
- Doesn’t support some newer audio formats
- Display can be hard to read in sunlight
Overall, the Pioneer DEH-S6220BS delivers premium sound, seamless smartphone integration, and an aesthetic that matches the vintage style of classic cars. For audiophiles looking to upgrade their ride’s sound system while maintaining the retro look, this reasonably priced head unit is a perfect choice.
Conclusion
In summary, there are several key factors to consider when choosing the best single DIN head unit for a classic car:
Buyer’s Guide – The Best Classic Car Radio – Sound quality, ease of installation, appearance, connectivity, durability, and brand reputation are all important. You’ll want a head unit that provides good audio fidelity while also fitting the aesthetic of your classic car’s interior. Modern features like Bluetooth and USB connectivity should be balanced with a vintage look. And opting for a reputable brand known for reliability helps ensure years of enjoyment.
Test driving different models and reading reviews from other classic car owners can help narrow down the selection. High-rated single DIN stereos like the Car stereo buying guide Pioneer, Kenwood, and JVC units mentioned earlier combine great sound with easy installation and the connectivity options most owners want. And their traditional styling blends right into a classic car’s interior.
Whichever single DIN head unit you choose, replacing the factory stereo provides a big upgrade in sound. With today’s options it’s possible to have a modern listening experience that respects your ride’s classic style.