The 10 Best Car Radios

The Pioneer DEH-S6010BS includes a USB auto-switch function that lets you choose whether it uses your phone as a media input source or if it should just charge it. This seemingly simple feature actually comes in very handy.

The onboard equalizer in the Sony MEX-N4200 BT comes with genre-specific presets, like "Electronica" and "R & B," which emphasize specific frequency ranges that accentuate each style. Its karaoke mode dampens a song's vocal track, so you can steal center stage.

An attractive feature of the Pioneer MVH-S300BT is its compatibility with the company's Advanced Remote Control app, which allows you to manipulate certain parameters directly from the receiver, rather than your phone, including fast-forward, rewind, and album search.

With the Alpine iLX-F309 Halo9 you're not only paying for its excellent mechanical specs, but also for its streamlined simplicity. It boasts a lightning-quick user interface, a beautiful LCD touchscreen, and seamless smartphone integration.

The Pioneer AVH-200EX includes a time alignment feature that delays the sound output of specified speakers based on their distance from the driver's ears. The result, though subtle, is a more synchronized, enveloping listening experience.

The JVC KD-X35MBS allows up to five people to connect via Bluetooth, so that everyone can contribute to the playlist without having to go through the syncing process every time. Its Sound Lift feature boosts the signal to improve the audio from door-mounted speakers.

The Kenwood DPX793BH is a great option if, rather than requiring a touchscreen, your main concern is sound quality. It has a 13-band equalizer, so you can home in on specific frequency ranges you want to adjust, and the built-in HD radio provides crystal-clear reception.

The Boss Audio BV9358B is equipped with a 6.2-inch LED touchscreen that can also be used as a display for a rearview camera. If it is paired with a good amplifier, this system can produce high-quality audio, even if you keep your stock door speakers.

The Advanced Sound Retriever on the Pioneer MVH-1400NEX automatically enhances the fidelity of file formats like MP3 by recreating data lost in the compression process. The increased dynamic range results in tracks that are both more realistic and vibrant.

The abilities of the Kenwood DDX795 exceed what most stock speakers can handle, so it has six preamp outputs (front, rear, and subwoofer) that allow you to expand your audio system. Even without utilizing its full potential, though, you'll find it a powerful unit.