Have you ever been off on a long drive, itching for something to entertain you along those stretches of highway or in the midst of snail-like traffic? One good answer is a proper car entertainment system. There are a ton of different accessories out there that can make your lengthy drives more pleasant. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorites for you to peruse.
Stereos
The stereo is the heart of your entertainment system. It serves to instruct the rest of your sound or entertainment system on what exactly to play. It sends audio signals to the amplifier, which then creates sounds for the speakers. Stereos have evolved a lot over the years, and most now offer tons of other features like CD and USB reading, bluetooth, and radio.
The Massive Audio Car Stereo and other modern stereos are also designed as third-party additions you can install in your vehicle if you’re looking for additional features. They can either replace an existing modern stereo or upgrade a classic car’s older stereo model.
The GenuineXL Radio and CD Player is a good example of a more retro stereo. It keeps things simple with a CD player. Some drivers prefer to stick to the classics and for good reason. As handy as it is, it can be a little odd seeing a multicolored screen in a classic vehicle.
Multipurpose Head Units
While head units are a type of stereo, multipurpose head units specifically have access to different vehicle systems. This is so they can display information as well as entertainment, making multipurpose head units the center of modern infotainment systems. Many of these clever accessories also connect to safety features like cameras with 360-degree views and proximity sensors. Navigation systems are also commonly linked to multipurpose head units, removing the need for a separate GPS device.
The Dorman Information Display Screen is one type of multipurpose head unit with physical knobs and buttons. While modern multipurpose head units have touchscreen controls, there’s still a lot of charm to the tactile feedback from a physical button or knob.
Sound Systems
Once you have the main control center for your sound or entertainment system down, it’s time to look at the specifics. There are many ways you can upgrade your existing entertainment setup. It’s all a matter of research and budgeting. You need to know what sound you want and how much you’re willing to pay for it.
Speakers
While the stereo or head unit is your entertainment system’s brain, the speakers are its voice. If your vehicle’s speakers aren’t in stellar condition, you might just wish you’d left the radio off. Get a good set of speakers that’ll have you bobbing your head to your tunes while on the road. Simply replacing an old set can make all the difference sometimes, but what about upgrades?
Mixing car speakers is definitely doable, so if you like the sound system from one vehicle and want to place it in your own set of wheels, it might be possible. However, you’ll need to check for compatibility. Consult an expert to find out if the new speakers will work with your vehicle. There’s a lot to consider, like whether the new speakers will suit your vehicle’s electrical system and if they’ll work well where your old speakers were situated.
If you want a quick and easy solution to a set of bad speakers though, you can also buy a mobile bluetooth speaker like the BOSS Audio BOLTBLK.
Auxiliary Ports
Some vehicles have what’s called an auxiliary (AUX) port. This has a cord that you can connect to your phone to play music straight from the source. No more fiddling with complicated bluetooth settings or Wi-Fi sharing. It’s a plug and play system that can work very well when it’s available. Some vehicles even have AUX ports that accept USB cables instead of the classic 3.5mm jack for more modern phones.
If you have a classic car and want an AUX port, there are third-party options that you can install like the RetroSound USB Auxiliary Port. This port provides all the conveniences of the AUX port for your timeless ride without sacrificing its retro look.
Infotainment Alternatives
Other than a separate bluetooth speaker, what other alternatives are there to a full infotainment rehaul for your older vehicle? It turns out you might just need a holder or a stand to enjoy the major perks of a dedicated multipurpose head unit like navigation apps and music playing.
Tablet Stands
Many parents have a love-hate relationship with car tablet holders. On one hand, a tablet can keep the kids in the back entertained for hours. On the other hand, it’s another thing for them to fight about on those long cross-country drives.
For people without kids though, tablet stands can still be a big help. On a tablet, it can be easier to see more of the road on a GPS map, and if you need to fiddle with your music while stopped, the buttons are larger and easier to press.
If you want a tablet stand that can stand on your passenger seat, you can pick up the Weathertech Tablet Stand, which also comes in red if you want an extra sporty look. Keep in mind that this particular stand is better suited on flat surfaces though, meaning it might be better on a car table in the back with your more responsible kids.
Cell Phone Holder
Modern cell phones hardly ever leave our side these days. The thing is, they can be a really dangerous distraction on the road. If you plan on getting a car phone holder mount, make sure you’re ready to stay disciplined on the road and only use your cell phone for navigation apps or setting up music before you start on your drive. Also keep track of your state’s local laws. Some states don’t allow you to mount things on your windshield.
Cup holder phone mounts are great for keeping your dash nice and clean. The Armor All Wireless Charging Phone Mount in particular is excellent for keeping your phone’s battery topped up on those lengthy drives.
If your state allows windshield mounts, you might also want to consider the Weathertech Cell Phone Holder, which is adjustable for short, medium, and long dashboards.
Automotive entertainment systems are nothing new. They’ve been around since the car radio made its debut in the 1930s. They’ve come a long way, and we hope this list of handy car accessories can help you have more fun behind the wheel on those long drives. Just remember to always stay alert, with or without the tunes on your car stereo.
Keep Reading: Related Posts
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
