Bluetooth-enabled car stereos offer hands-free calling and music streaming, with options like touchscreen ease of use and AV inputs/outputs to consider. Newer models have built-in Bluetooth and additional features like MP3 player integration and A2DP audio streaming. Safety and comfort should be prioritized, and user reviews can help with microphone and sound quality concerns. Multiple auxiliary inputs and outputs for subwoofers and amplifiers, as well as compatibility with high-definition and satellite radio, are also attractive options.
There are several in-dash car stereo systems on the market with Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for hands-free calling via a compatible cell phone while driving. Choosing the best system means making some decisions regarding the myriad options available. Music streaming capability, touchscreen ease of use, and the number of AV inputs and outputs are all options to consider when shopping for a Bluetooth-enabled car stereo.
Older car stereo units require additional external modules to use with Bluetooth, but there are a number of new car stereo models with built-in Bluetooth. Not only do these systems offer hands-free calling, but they have many other options as well. While most have built-in AM/FM radios and CD players, others can also integrate music stored on MP3 players. Some support Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) audio streaming, allowing the user to stream music from other Bluetooth mobile devices. Others even allow one to watch DVDs.
The user interface can be either a touch panel or a touch screen, with the latter appearing to offer the most convenience. Screen size can make a difference to ease of use, and visibility is sometimes a concern, because the screen can be too bright or not bright enough. Screen size and visibility are particularly important if the user plans to view video on the device. Some touch screens are customizable, while others are not.
When using a Bluetooth-enabled car stereo, it’s important to consider safety and comfort. A simple, easy to navigate menu screen is a must, and a consumer may want the touch screen to display imported caller ID and contact information for hands-free calling. Reading professional reviews of these products, as well as user reviews on the Internet, is a good way to determine which devices offer these options. Some car stereos with Bluetooth systems come with microphones that are either behind the faceplate or too small to transmit adequate sound quality, so user reviews will be especially helpful in that regard.
Other attractive options include units that have multiple auxiliary inputs for connecting portable devices like laptops, and outputs that allow the user to connect subwoofers and amplifiers. The location of these connectors is different, with some systems placing one or two at the front for convenience. Some types of Bluetooth-enabled car stereos are also ready to accept high-definition and satellite radio services, if desired. Those who prefer to use the knobs to control volume and selections will be able to find them on some of these car stereos, but not all offer this option.
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