What is a double DIN media player?
What is a Double DIN Head Unit?
A double DIN head unit refers to a standard sized in-dash car stereo receiver that has dimensions of 180 mm (7 inches) wide by 100 mm (4 inches) tall to fit an oversize radio slot in a vehicle dashboard. These dimensions are double the size of a single DIN head unit, which is defined by the ISO 7736 standard as 180 mm (7 inches) wide by 50 mm (2 inches) tall.
The “DIN” in single and double DIN stands for “Deutsches Institut für Normung” which is a German national organization for standardization. The DIN standard helped to ensure compatibility across car stereo products from different manufacturers.
Double DIN head units allow for a larger screen and more buttons on the receiver, enabling more features and functionality compared to single DIN units. They have room for media playback via CD, DVD, Bluetooth streaming, HD radio tuners, as well as touchscreen displays, GPS navigation, rear view cameras, and app integration.
History and Origins
The double DIN standard was introduced in 1984 as a standardized size for in-car audio head units under ISO 7736. The standard was originally established in Germany by the Deutsches Institut für Normung as DIN 75490, and therefore became known as “double DIN.”
The double DIN standard was created due to the increasing popularity and complexity of in-car audio systems in the early 1980s. As cassette decks, graphic equalizers and other capabilities were integrated into head units, a larger opening was needed in dashboards to accommodate the larger chassis. The double DIN size allowed head unit manufacturers to include more features while standardizing installation across hundreds of different vehicle models.
Typical Features
Double DIN head units typically offer advanced features and larger screen sizes compared to single DIN units. Some of the most common features include:
- Touchscreens: Most double DIN units nowadays come with a built-in capacitive touchscreen display, usually 6.5 to 7 inches diagonally (https://xtrons.com/blog/what-is-a-double-din-stereo/). This allows for an intuitive user interface for controlling settings and accessing media.
- Navigation: Many double DIN units come equipped with built-in GPS navigation systems powered by mapping services like Google Maps and Waze. This enables navigation turn-by-turn directions for routes without needing an additional device.
- Media Playback: Double DIN head units support a wide range of multimedia playback formats including CD, DVD, BluRay, MP3, FLAC, WMA, AAC from media loaded via a disc drive, USB, SD card slot, or smartphone app.
- Bluetooth & Smartphone Integration: Most units include Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, wireless music streaming, and contact/call syncing from a paired smartphone. Many also support screen mirroring apps to display smartphone data.
Benefits Over Single DIN
Many people find that a double DIN head unit offers several advantages over the standard single DIN model. As Crutchfield notes, the most significant difference is that double DIN head units feature a much larger display screen. While single DIN stereos typically come with a 2-inch display screen, double DIN units can have screens as large as 9 inches. This additional space allows for a touchscreen interface, which makes controlling the stereo’s features much more intuitive.
The bigger chassis of a double DIN model also means there’s more room inside for more powerful processors and electronics. Double DIN units can support higher-end features like onboard navigation, built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling, compatibility with smartphone apps over USB or Wi-Fi, HD Radio reception, and high-resolution screens for viewing videos and images from phones or media sources. Most single DIN stereos don’t have the capability or display real estate to handle these kinds of features.
Installation Considerations
Installing a double DIN head unit often requires some dashboard modification to accommodate the larger size. According to this source, you may need to enlarge the dashboard opening and create a mounting bracket for the double DIN unit.
You will also need a wiring harness adapter to connect the new head unit to your vehicle’s electrical system. The wiring harness enables all the necessary functions like speakers, steering wheel controls, backup camera, etc. to work with your double DIN stereo. Proper installation of the wiring harness is crucial for seamless integration and operation.
Popular Double DIN Head Unit Brands
When shopping for a quality double DIN head unit, there are several brands that consistently rise to the top. According to recent reviews, some of the most popular and highest-rated double DIN brands include:
Pioneer
Pioneer is one of the leading manufacturers of car audio equipment and is well-known for making high-performance double DIN units. They offer models with large touchscreens, built-in navigation, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity, hi-res audio capabilities, and more. Some of their latest double DIN head units provide high value and features for the price point. For example, the Pioneer DMH-WC5700NEX features a 6.8” display with wireless CarPlay and built-in Alexa for voice control.
Kenwood
Another reputable brand in the car audio world, Kenwood provides double DIN units with high-powered audio output, customizable EQ settings, and advanced connectivity options. Some of their models also include large HD touch displays and built-in navigation powered by Garmin. The Kenwood eXcelon DMX907S, for example, has a high-resolution 9” capacitive touchscreen, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, HD Radio, and high-voltage preouts for adding amps and subwoofers.
Alpine
Known for their premium sound quality and sleek aesthetics, Alpine makes some of the best-sounding double DIN stereos on the market. They put an emphasis on high-fidelity audio components like built-in amplifiers, digital signal processing, and customizable parametric EQs. The Alpine Halo9 iLX-F309 stands out with its 9-inch floating touch display, 12-channel DSP for fine tuning audio, and high-resolution lossless audio support.
Pricing
Double DIN head units come in a wide range of prices to suit different budgets:
Entry-Level Units
Entry-level double DIN head units typically cost $60-$150. At this price point, expect basic features like Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, AM/FM radio, and a CD player. Brands like Pioneer, JVC and Boss offer budget-friendly options. According to Walmart, double din car stereos from brands like BOSS Audio, Pioneer and others are priced from $107-$139 (1).
Mid-Range
Mid-range double DIN head units cost approximately $150-$400. They build on entry-level features by adding larger touch screens, navigation, DVD playback, smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more audio power and customization. Popular brands in this range include Kenwood, Alpine, Sony, JVC and Pioneer (2).
High-End
Premium double DIN head units from top brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine and JVC can cost $400-$1500. These feature cutting-edge tech like wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, premium materials and build quality, advanced audio tuning and digital signal processing, and extra connectivity options. High-end units cater to audiophiles and tech enthusiasts looking for top-tier sound, convenience and style (3).
(1) Double Din Car Stereos in Car Stereos – Walmart
(2) The best double DIN head units of 2023
(3) Double DIN Car Stereo Receivers
Use Cases
Many people choose to install a double DIN head unit for the extra screen real estate and advanced features. Here are some of the most common use cases:
Cars without modern tech – Older cars often lack the integrated screens and tech features that are common in newer models. Installing a double DIN head unit is a great way to add a touchscreen interface, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, backup cameras, and more conveniences to an older vehicle.
Customized installs – Car enthusiasts frequently replace factory stereos with double DIN units as part of custom audio builds. The larger size allows for source unit and EQ control, while the screen can display graphics equalizers and other advanced settings. Double DIN head units are commonly integrated with amplifiers, subwoofers, upgraded speakers, and other aftermarket gear.
Future Outlook
The future looks bright for double DIN head units, with two key trends emerging: larger screen sizes and more integration with smartphones and electric vehicle systems.
Screen sizes for double DIN units will likely continue to increase, with mainstream models already reaching up to 10 inches. This allows for a more immersive audio and visual experience, with higher resolution displays and split-screen functionality. Brands like Sony and Alpine already offer these mega-sized screens.
Smartphone integration will also improve, allowing users to mirror apps and content from iOS and Android devices. Voice control and hands-free operation through digital assistants like Siri and Google Assistant will enable safer driving. Units may also integrate with electric vehicle data like charge status, range, and efficiency.
While niche currently, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity may become standard. Some brands like Kenwood already offer this cable-free experience.
Overall, the double DIN category will evolve with larger displays, tighter smartphone integration, and new features tailored to emerging vehicle technology like electrification.
Conclusion
In summary, double DIN head units are larger media players designed to replace standard car stereos. They offer more screen real estate and integration capabilities compared to single DIN units. Key features include touchscreens, navigation, smartphone mirroring, DVD playback, and more.
Double DIN units provide more flexibility for adding aftermarket components to your car stereo system. However, they do require a larger installation opening than single DIN. While more expensive, they offer a wider range of options and functionality. Leading brands include Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, Sony, and JVC.
With their advanced capabilities and stylish designs, double DIN head units will likely continue growing in popularity for car stereo upgrades. For those seeking a high-quality infotainment center, these units deliver an exceptional in-vehicle entertainment experience.