Top 7 Best Car Stereo with built-in Amplifier (2024 Updated)

Are you one of those people who absolutely loves music and needs the perfect car audio system to cruise down the highway with, blasting your favorite tunes?

With such a massive array of options now available for in-car entertainment, it can be hard to decide on just one stereo system. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

In this blog post, we’ll be taking a look at the best car stereos with built-in amplifiers that will help turn your ride into your own personal concert hall! So what are you waiting for?

Let’s get rocking and find out which system is going to make your car stand out from all the rest.

Top 7 Best Car Stereo with built-in Amplifier – Tested and Reviewed

Sony DSX-GS80 – The Best car stereo with built-in amp

The Sony DSX-GS80 is a high-power digital media receiver that is perfect for anyone who loves great sound quality and convenience. With dual Bluetooth connectivity, you can pair two smartphones at once and stream music, make hands-free calls, and more.

And with the included 35,000 color choices for two-zone illumination, you can really make this receiver your own. Plus, the subwoofer direct connection with 2-ohm option is great for anyone who wants to add some extra bass to their music.

The sound quality of the Sony DSX-GS80 is truly exceptional. This head unit also features a powerful class-D amplifier that delivers powerful output despite its compact size, so you can expand your sound system without worry.

The class-D amplifier provides clear and powerful audio, even at high volumes, while the dynamic stage organizer ensures that your music is always put front and center. Whether you’re listening to rock, pop, jazz, or any other type of music, this head unit will deliver great sound quality every time.

This head unit features a four-channel amp that delivers plenty of power, along with voice control for easy navigation, messaging, and phone call operation. You’ll also appreciate the easy car audio setup and customization made possible by the Sony Smartphone Integration app.

With 5 Volt RCA pre-amp outputs for external front, rear and subwoofer amplifiers, this receiver delivers powerful sound that will make your music come alive. 

The Bluetooth connectivity on the Sony DSX-GS80 is top-notch. Not only can you pair two smartphones at once, but you can also use voice control with Siri Eyes Free and Android to make hands-free calls, stream music, and more. The dual USB ports also let you connect a smartphone and USB device simultaneously, so you can charge your devices while you’re on the go.

Specifications

45 Watts x 4 channel RMS
35,000 color choices for 2-zone illumination
Subwoofer direct connection with 2-ohm option
5 Volt RCA pre-amp outputs
Bluetooth connectivity lets you pair 2 smartphones simultaneously
Voice control with Siri Eyes Free and Android
Dual USB ports for charging smartphones and other devices
Easy car audio setup and customization using the Sony Smartphone Integration app
Exceptionally high sound quality with dynamic stage organizer and class-D amplifier.
Sleek, compact design that fits easily into any vehicle.
Compatible with SiriusXM Satellite Radio
Warranty: 24 Months

Pros

• 5 Volt RCA pre-amp outputs
• 48 watts rms per channel
• Bluetooth connectivity lets you pair 2 smartphones simultaneously
• Sleek, compact design
• Voice control with Siri Eyes Free and Android
• Dual USB ports for charging smartphones and other devices
• Easy car audio setup and customization using the Sony Smartphone Integration app

Cons

• Bit Expensive compared to other single DIN models

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ATOTO A6 PF – The Best Double DIN Head Unit with built-in Amp

I’ve been using ATOTO A6 PF Head Unit for over two years now, and it’s easily the best aftermarket car stereo I’ve ever experienced.

This Head Unit has a magnificent display. It has a large, vibrant 7-inch HD LCD touchscreen with 1024 x 600 resolution that produces vivid images and text.

The wide viewing angles make the picture look even better, with no distortion or fading of colors when viewed at different angles.

The capacitive multi-touch screen is smooth and responsive, allowing you to navigate through menu options easily.

The sound quality is incredible – clear highs, punchy mids, and serious bass that adds depth to every single track I’ve played through it.

The ATOTO A6 PF Head Unit is equipped with a powerful 4x45W amplifier to ensure distortion-free sound. It also features an advanced DSP (Digital Sound Processor) that allows for precise sound tuning and audio optimization, so you can customize the sound exactly as you like it.

The A6 PF offers a 36-band built-in graphic equalizer, allowing precise sound tuning and audio optimization. With this feature, you can customize the sound of your music exactly as you like it – whether that’s more bass or treble.

The ATOTO A6 PF Head Unit also includes a built-in microphone to make hands-free phone calls and advanced noise cancellation technology that eliminates background noises. Hence, your conversations are clear and uninterrupted.

The user interface (UI) is just as remarkable. The intuitive, easy-to-navigate menus make it easy to switch between functions quickly and efficiently.

The unit has plenty of ports to connect external devices, such as a USB port, two RCA subwoofer outputs, and an AUX line-in.

The ATOTO A6 PF Head Unit is also equipped with Wireless CarPlay support, so you can connect your iPhone to it and use your vehicle’s display and audio system as an extension of your phone. 

With wireless CarPlay, you can access music and podcasts, get directions with Apple Maps, make calls, and even send and receive messages – all without having to pick up and plug in your phone. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to set up and use with the ATOTO A6 PF Head Unit.

Overall, I’m extremely impressed with the ATOTO A6 PF Head Unit. Its sound quality, user interface, and wireless CarPlay support make it an excellent aftermarket car stereo that I can wholeheartedly recommend to others. This is a great option if you’re in the market for a touchscreen stereo upgrade.

Specifications

Display: 7” Capacitive Touchscreen with 1024 x 600 resolution
Power Wattage: 4 x 45 Watts RMS, 4 x 24 Watts
Equalizer: 36-Band Graphic
Apple CarPlay: Wired and Wireless compatibility
Android Auto: Wired and Wireless compatibility
Mirror Link: Compatible
Backup Camera: Support 720p
Compatible Formats: FLAC, WAV, MP3, AAC, and WMA
Steering Wheel Control: Compatible
USB Port: Single port
Warranty: 1.5 Years
Microphone: Built-in for hands-free calling.

Pros

• Responsive touchscreen.
• Built-in amp with good sound quality.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto supports is provided at a very low price
• The boot time of this head unit is very fast
• Backup Camera is also included in the box

Cons

• No Physical Volume knob, it is recommended to use the Steering wheel control with this unit.
• Can be tricky to initially configure, but tech support is helpful if needed.
• The subwoofer output is a little quiet at max output

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Alpine iLX-W650 Double DIN (Also Great)

The Alpine iLX-W650  is a double din head unit best for anyone who is looking for great quality sound system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. I love the sleek, shallow-mount chassis design which makes it easy to install in any vehicle. 

The 7″ capacitive touchscreen on the Alpine iLX-W650 is truly top-notch. The colors are rich and vibrant and the display is very responsive, making it a pleasure to use. Whether you’re switching between apps or adjusting your settings, the touch screen makes everything easy and intuitive. 

The touch screen swipe controls are really user-friendly. The built-in Bluetooth connectivity works really well and the USB port accommodates various devices and thumb drives, as well as FLAC files. 

Overall, I am really impressed with the sound quality of the Alpine iLX-W650 head unit. The built-in amplifier delivers crystal clear audio with great bass and treble, making it perfect for both listening to music or podcasts and for streaming audiobooks or news.

I also love that I can customize my audio settings using the equalizer and sound presets, which is great for finding the perfect soundscape for my taste.

The design is well thought-out and easy to use, and it works seamlessly with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hands-free control makes it super convenient to access all my favorite apps while on the road, and Siri Eyes Free Control and Google Assistant give me even more options for controlling my music and phone functions. 

I really appreciate that the Alpine iLX-W650 has both rear USB and camera inputs, as well as SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility. This head unit really has everything I could ever want.

The Alpine iLX-W650 also includes a wired connection to the parking brake, which is required to access settings, video display, and other features. This is a great safety feature that I really appreciate. The head unit is also compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required) and comes with an external microphone. 

I think the Alpine iLX-W650 is definitely worth the price tag. It offers great value for anyone looking for a high-quality head unit that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Overall, I am really impressed with the Alpine iLX-W650 head unit. It offers great value for anyone looking for a high-quality head unit that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sound quality is fantastic, the touch screen display is top-notch, and the expandability options are really appreciated.

Specifications

7″ capacitive touchscreen display
Rear USB and camera inputs
SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility
Wired connection to the parking brake
Compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
External microphone included
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
4 x 50W max power output
4 x 16W RMS
10-band graphic equalizer
3 preamp outputs (4V)
Subwoofer control
High-pass filter, low-pass filter, and bass boost settings
Built-in amplifier with digital time alignment and phase correction technology
USB Ports, Backup Camera Input
12 Months Warranty

Pros

• The touchscreen display is very responsive and easy to use, making it simple to navigate between apps and adjust settings.
• The sound quality is excellent, with clear and crisp audio that sounds great whether you’re listening to music or streaming a podcast.
• The built-in amplifier delivers plenty of power for great sound quality, and the DTA (digital time alignment) and phase correction technologies ensure that your audio is evenly balanced and sounds great no matter where you’re sitting in the car.
• The head unit includes both rear USB and camera inputs, as well as SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility, making it very versatile.
• The Alpine iLX-W650 is very easy to install due to its shallow chassis design.

Cons

• The Alpine iLX-W650 is a bit on the expensive side, which might be a turnoff for some budget-conscious buyers.
• Some users have reported problems with the touch screen freezing or becoming unresponsive, although this appears to be relatively rare.
• The head unit requires a wired connection to the parking brake in order to access settings and video display features, which could be inconvenient for some users.

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Alpine CDE-172BT Single DIN (Also Great)

The Alpine CDE-172BT  Bluetooth Receiver is a great option for those looking for a quality head unit with plenty of features. The receiver includes a CD player, AM/FM tuner, and USB port for MP3, WMA, and FLAC music files. 

Additionally, the unit features Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, Pandora Internet radio control, and Siri Eyes Free Control for compatible iPhones. The built-in iPod, iPhone, and iPad control allows you to easily connect and control these devices, while the built-in Android AOA control makes it easy to charge and control select Androids. 

With its 3-band parametric equalizer, premium 24-bit digital-to-analog converter, and high- and low-pass filters with subwoofer level control, the CDE-172BT offers great sound quality. The unit is also expandable, with compatibility for SiriusXM satellite radio tuners and inputs for a front USB port and auxiliary input.

With its advanced audio features, powerful amplifier, and wide range of connectivity options, the Alpine CDE-172BT Receiver delivers premium sound quality with great versatility. 

Whether you’re streaming music from your smartphone, listening to Pandora radio online, or connecting an iPod or other media device, this receiver provides rich, immersive sound with clear highs and deep bass.  And with its built-in parametric equalizer, you can customize the sound to suit your taste.

Specifications

CD player, AM/FM tuner, and USB port
MP3, WMA, and FLAC music files Supported
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
Pandora Internet radio control
Siri Eyes Free Control for compatible iPhones
iPod, iPhone, and iPad control
Android AOA control
3-band parametric equalizer
Premium 24-bit digital-to-analog converter
High- and low-pass filters with subwoofer level control
Expandable with compatibility for SiriusXM satellite radio tuners and inputs for a front USB port and auxiliary input
Built-in parametric equalizer
Rich, immersive sound with clear highs and deep bass
Customizable sound settings

Pros

• Clear and crisp sound quality typical of Alpine products
• A wealth of features for the price, including Bluetooth connectivity, automatic playback, aux and USB inputs, and the option to purchase satellite radio
• Customizable display and text color
• Blackout feature prevents the head unit from being too bright at night

Cons

• Some users may prefer a more traditional head unit with fewer bells and whistles
• Those with a more advanced car audio setup may find the lack of outputs and inputs limiting

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Pioneer MVH 1400NEX

The Pioneer MVH-1400NEX is an excellent car stereo that offers both high-quality sound and a wealth of useful features. The receiver has built-in Bluetooth so you can easily stream music or make hands-free calls, and Siri Eyes Free lets you access your phone’s features without having to take your eyes off the road. 

The receiver also supports FLAC file playback for high-resolution music, and you can add a SiriusXM tuner for access to satellite radio stations. 

The Pioneer MVH-1400NEX also offers compatibility with the iDatalink Maestro module, which lets you keep factory features in a wide selection of vehicles.This is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality car stereo with a wealth of features.

 Specifications

Built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and streaming music
Siri Eyes Free compatibility for access to phone’s features without taking eyes off road
FLAC file playback for high-resolution music
SiriusXM tuner compatibility for access to satellite radio stations
iDatalink Maestro module compatibility for retaining factory features in a wide range of vehicles
13-band equalizer for customizable sound
Powerful amplifier and versatile 13-band equalizer for high-quality audio performance
Integrated backlit capacitive touchscreen display with multi-color illumination 
Includes USB and aux inputs for easy connectivity with a wide range of devices 
Rear camera input for improved visibility and safety when reversing 
3 sets of 4-volt preamp outputs for adding external amplifiers or powered subwoofers.

Pros

• Excellent sound quality
• A wealth of features, including Bluetooth and Siri Eyes Free
• Compatibility with the iDatalink Maestro module
• FLAC file playback for high-resolution music

Cons

• The graphic when you are listening to the radio is annoying.
• Spotify sometimes just doesn’t work.

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Sony XAV-AX8000 (Single DIN Touchscreen Stereo)

The Sony XAV-AX8000 comes with a large 8.95-inch display that is perfect for seamlessly integrating into your dashboard and its sturdy mount can be adjusted in three directions, making it perfect for a variety of vehicles. 

With an 8.95″ screen and seamless interface, it’s easy to access all of your favorite music and apps. And with updated support for smartphones, you’ll have safer and easier access to your music and navigation while on the go. 

You’ll appreciate the large  touchscreen display with easy-to-use controls, and the built-in amplifier delivers powerful sound quality to keep you entertained mile after mile. With 5-volt preamp outputs and a 10-band graphic EQ, you’ll be able to fine-tune your sound until it’s just perfect. On top of that, the EXTRA BASS feature will give your music some extra punch, making for an unforgettable listening experience.

Plus, with Sir-powered voice control, you can easily stay connected while on the go. And thanks to Android Auto, any Android user will feel right at home behind the wheel.

This multimedia receiver features Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and streaming music from your smartphone, as well as voice control for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The integrated rear-view camera input and distance guidance display, this unit makes it easy to keep an eye on what’s going on behind you. 

The XAV-AX8000 also supports SiriusXM satellite radio so you can always have access to your favorite music, sports, and entertainment wherever you go.

This unit provides a 10-band graphic EQ, two levels of Bass Boost, and a host of other sound-sculpting tools to help you create the perfect listening experience. 

Specifications

9″ Capacitive Touchscreen display
5-volt preamp outputs
10-band graphic EQ
EXTRA BASS feature
8.95″ screen
Sir-powered voice control
Android Auto support
Bluetooth connectivity
Rearview camera input with distance guidance display
SiriusXM satellite radio support
10-band graphic EQ
2 levels of Bass Boost

Pros

• Large 9-inch display is perfect for integrating into your dashboard
• Sturdy mount can be adjusted in three directions, making it perfect for a variety of vehicles
• Built-in amplifier delivers powerful sound quality
• 5-volt preamp outputs and 10-band graphic EQ allow you to fine-tune your sound
• EXTRA BASS feature gives your music some extra punch

Cons

• Screen can be difficult to see in daylight
• Screen is susceptible to fingerprints
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support may not be consistent
• SiriusXM satellite radio subscription required for use

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Kenwood DMX706S (Premium Pick)

The Kenwood DMX706S is one of the best car stereo head units on the market. It has built-in support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to use your smartphone safely while driving.

The touch screen is large and easy to use, and the sound quality is excellent. Installation is quick and easy, and the unit supports up to 5 Bluetooth devices at once.

This receiver gives you two video inputs for front- and rear-view cameras, so you can always keep an eye on what’s happening around your car. The electronic angle adjustment also ensures that the screen’s contrast is perfect no matter where in your vehicle you decide to mount it. Plus, when you’re parked, this Kenwood plays videos in bright, clear detail.

This receiver supports high-res playback of music files stored on a USB drive, so you can enjoy your favorite tunes in crystal-clear quality. Plus, with Pandora and Spotify support, you can listen to your favorite stations and playlists no matter where you go. 

The 13-band equalizer lets you tailor the sound to your specific taste, while the deep crossover settings allow you to customize the way different frequencies are handled. And for digital music sources, the built-in digital time alignment ensures that all the elements come together for a clean, clear sound. If your car speakers are located down low in the doors, the receiver’s Stage EQ feature can “raise” them virtually for better imaging and a more natural sound.

This premium receiver includes features like three pairs of 4-volt gold-plated RCA preamp outputs and next-level crossover capability – perfect for building an amazing sounding 3-way system in your vehicle.

Specifications

7″ WVGA Capacitive Touchscreen Display
Bluetooth Hands-Free Calling and Audio Streaming
Built-in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
2 Video Inputs for Front and Rear View Cameras
Electronic Angle Adjustment
High Resolution Audio Playback
Pandora and Spotify Support
13-Band Equalizer
Deep Crossover Settings
Digital Time Alignment
3 Pairs of 4-Volt Gold-Plated RCA Preamp Outputs
Next Level Crossover Capability
Stage EQ for Improved Sound Imaging
Easy Installation and Setup
12 Months Warranty

Pros

• Large, easy to use touchscreen display
• Excellent sound quality and audio features
• Built-in support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it safe and convenient to use your smartphone while driving
• Quick and easy installation process with clear, detailed instructions
• Supports up to 5 Bluetooth devices simultaneously, allowing you to easily connect multiple devices for streaming music or making calls on the go
• Advanced equalizer settings and crossover capabilities allow you to customize the sound output exactly to your liking
• Great support for streaming music services like Pandora and Spotify, as well as high resolution audio files stored on USB drives

Cons

• The touch screen can be somewhat sensitive at times, leading to accidental inputs
• Does not include a physical volume knob or other dedicated buttons for commonly used functions, which can take some getting used to
• The default settings for the equalizer may not be ideal for all types of music, so you may need to spend some time adjusting it to get the perfect sound

FAQs

Do aftermarket car stereos have built in amplifiers?

Yes, some aftermarket car stereos do have built in amplifiers. However, not all aftermarket car stereos include this feature so it is important to check before making a purchase.

Who makes the best sounding car stereo?

There isn’t really a definitive answer to this question as it is subjective. Some people prefer the sound of one car stereo over another, while others might think that another car stereo sounds better. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.

Do you really need an amp for car speakers?

If you’re looking to improve the sound quality of your car’s audio system, then you might be wondering if you need an amplifier for your car speakers. The simple answer is that it depends on what you’re looking to achieve. If you’re just looking to make your music sound a little louder, then you probably won’t need an amp. However, if you’re looking to get the most out of your car speakers and improve the overall sound quality, then an amp can definitely help.

Does adding an amp improve sound quality?

Yes, An amplifier boosts the signal from your audio source (like a turntable, smartphone, or computer) to make it louder and clearer. It also can improve the sound quality of digital music by reducing distortion. If you’re using passive speakers, you’ll need an amplifier to power them.

How does an amplifier work?

Amplifiers take a small signal from your audio source and make it bigger, or more powerful. There are two main types of amplifiers:

Class A amplifiers provide the best sound quality but are less efficient than other types. This means that they generate a lot of heat and use a lot of power.

Class D amplifiers are much more efficient than Class A amplifiers, so they don’t generate as much heat and use less power. However, they aren’t quite as good at reproducing sound quality.

Do I need an amplifier?

If you’re using passive speakers, then you’ll need an amplifier to power them. Active speakers have a built-in amplifier, so you don’t need an external one.

If you’re looking to improve the sound quality of your car’s audio system, then you might be wondering if you need an amplifier for your car speakers. The simple answer is that it depends on what you’re looking to achieve. If you’re just looking to make your music sound a little louder, then you probably won’t need an amp. However, if you’re looking to get the most out of your car speakers and improve the overall sound quality, then an amp can definitely help.