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CarAudioNow is an awarded automotive blog, built by car enthusiasts over a decade ago. Led by our editor, Kameron, with a handpicked team of skilled writers, we’ve rolled up our sleeves to personally install and test a diverse array of car stereos – in cars and on our test bench. We’re not just acquainted with car stereos; we know how they should sound, perform, and which features they need to have to offer value for your hard-earned money. Whether they’re purchased by us or provided by manufacturers – our recommendations are a blend of real-world experiences and extensive research that guides our recommendations.
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In this article: We explore he latest and greatest high-resolution head units for cars and trucks in 2024. We will show you the most accurate information about each product and tell you what makes these car stereo systems special.
High-resolution car audio is becoming increasingly common in the newest vehicles. Once reserved for high-end luxury cars or cinema-quality stereos, audiophile-quality car stereos can be found in numerous mid-range vehicles these days. If you have considered adding high-resolution capabilities to your car or truck, installing an aftermarket head unit is the best solution.
We put our years of experience to work and identified the best-performing high-resolution car stereos available today from the world's best manufacturers. These products exceed expectations for producing crystal-clear and emotive music.
Looking for an incredible amplifier, high-end speakers, and a subwoofer to complete your high-resolution car audio solution? Check out our Best of lists to find the ideal components for your project.
Here Are Our Best Pick High-Res Head Units in 2024
Best Overall High-Res Head Unit
Alpine Status HDS-990
Latest Prices
Why We Picked It
Alpine uses the technology and experience gained from the world’s most impressive high-resolution car audio system, the Alpine F#1, to develop this control unit. You can check out our review of the most recent Alpine F#1 system here. The HDS-990 isn’t exactly a head unit in the classic sense. Rather, it is a control panel that connects to a black box for providing in-car high-resolution audio. Right out of the gate, you should know that this unit doesn’t do a lot of the things most head units today are known for. Instead, this should be seen as a dedicated high-resolution option that can work alongside a typical car stereo.
High-Resolution Playback Capabilities
The Status HDS-990 is the pinnacle of current high-resolution car audio playback. There simply is nothing on the market today quite like it. As you likely know, high-resolution playback requires that a player have the capability to produce high-bitrate data. This unit can handle up to 24bit/ 192 kHz resolution with ease. That means you will get the ultimate in sound quality and you’ll hear the music just the way the artist intended it to sound.
The HDS-990 is compatible with AAC, AIFF, ALAC, APE, DSD, FLAC, LDAC, MP3, M4A, WMA, and WAV files for high-resolution playback. It is also compatible with AAC, aptX/aptX HD, LDAC, and SRC formats for streaming high-resolution audio using a Bluetooth connection.
Built-in two-way and three-way crossovers are ideal for tuning the system to your speakers. The unit also has a built-in 10-band EQ with 10 presets and individual controls for bass/treble and balance/fade. The unit features time alignment technology to tune the timing of each speaker based on your location.
Connectivity Options
The HDS-990 offers a few interesting options for connecting and expanding your car audio system. The unit includes a high-level 4-channel input to connect to a factory or aftermarket head unit. Three USB ports offer plenty of connectivity for a thumb drive or hard drive loaded with high-resolution audio files. Two USB ports are located on the rear of the control box with a third on the front. There is also a digital coaxial and a digital optical output on the control box. A six-channel, 4v RCA output rounds out the connectivity options.
Power and Frequency Specifications
The HDS-990 has a built-in amplifier that provides 25 watts to four channels with a max output of 50 watts per channel. This is a modest amount of power that gives the unit great volume. Upgrading to more powerful amplification is simple by using the 6-channel RCA outputs though if your speaker setup requires more power.
You’ll get an astounding range of frequency production from the HDS-990, well beyond the capabilities of the human ear, so even audiophile listeners are going to love the sound. It can support frequencies from 20 Hz up to 40 kHz.
Screen, Controls, and Function
The control panel is smaller than a traditional single-DIN car stereo and is roughly five inches by two inches. Since it is not meant to be mounted in the dash, you’ll need to find a spot to surface mount the control panel. The panel has six buttons for controlling the playback, a large multifunction dial, and a small, high-resolution screen that displays the artist's information and album artwork.
There are no tuning controls for an AM/FM radio since the HDS-990 does not provide AM/FM reception, nor is the unit compatible with hands-free calling or camera inputs due to the minuscule screen. This is why the HDS-990 is often installed alongside a factory radio. It does have connections for steering wheel controls.
Key Features:
| Make | Alpine |
| Model | HDS-990 |
| Screen Size | N/A |
| Screen Type | High-resolution, full color (no touchscreen) |
| Chassis Size | N/A (not 1DIN or 2DIN) |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | No/No |
| Camera Input/# | No/0 |
| Equalizer | 10-band (upgradable to 31 w/ HDP-D90) |
| HDMI/AV Input | No |
| Power Output | 25W RMS, 50W Peak x 4 |
| iDatalink Compatible | No |
Reasons to Buy
- The very best-performing high-resolution option available
- Easy tuning and upgradability make this the ideal choice for audiophiles who demand the best
- Works alongside a factory radio
Reasons Not to Buy
- No radio tuner or hands-free abilities
- Won’t fit in dash openings
- Lacks many of the modern features other head units have
Best All Around Value High Resolution Head Unit
Sony XAV-9500ES
Latest Prices
Why We Picked It
Sony’s Mobile ES-series of equipment has been among our favorites in recent years because of the exceptional attention the company puts on ensuring excellent sound quality at an affordable price. We got an opportunity to unbox and test several of the Mobile ES products, including the Sony XAV-9500ES. You can check out our impressions and experiences installing this flagship head unit here. This car stereo is among the most feature-packed you’ll find from any manufacturer at any price. With that said, we think this is not only one of the very best high-resolution stereos, it is also an excellent value.
High-Resolution Playback Capabilities
Sony uses the highest-quality components to transform the already impressive capabilities of Sony’s premium line of car stereos into a high-resolution masterpiece. It all starts with the best-performing digital-to-analog converter possible. This component is what gives the 9500ES the ability to produce sound at a 24-bit/ 94 kHz sampling rate. The DAC uses a unique clocking system that virtually eliminates timing jitter. Timing jitter is a term that describes the slight misalignment in clocking speeds common in car stereos which causes distortion. In fact, every part of the 9500ES, from the built-in amplifier to the audiophile-grade capacitors was selected specifically for producing the highest-quality audio production Sony has ever built.
The 9500ES plays MP3, WMA, AAC, ALAC, FLAC, WAV, and DSD audio files. ALAC, FLAC, WAV, and DSD files are of high-resolution quality. The ability to process LDAC format also means this head unit is capable of streaming high-quality music wirelessly.
High-end components include Sony-designed high-polymer solid electrolytic capacitors and a dedicated choke coil within the power supply block that eliminates harmonic distortion. A dual-layer chassis separates analog and digital circuits to avoid electromagnetic interference. Time alignment, a 14-band graphic equalizer, and an 8-band parametric equalizer offer even more high-resolution tuning capabilities.
One of our favorite features of the 9500ES is the crossover system that is fully customizable and offers both high- and low-pass filters for front speakers and a dedicated low-pass filter for subwoofer tuning.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options are one of the few things that we found to be a bit lacking in this impressive head unit. Specifically, there is just one USB input and it is on the back. When we install this stereo, we route a cable to a USB plug which typically installs in place of the vehicle’s 12v accessory port. On the plus side, it is a USB-C port that allows for high-speed charging at 3 amps.
Three pairs of five-volt pre-outs give you excellent options for adding amplifiers. We highly recommend combining the 9500ES with Sony Mobile ES amplifiers (which we also unboxed and reviewed) to extract the most performance from this car stereo.
Three camera inputs let you add an optional rear camera, a front camera, and a turn signal camera. The cameras are selectable while the vehicle is in motion, but only one camera can be viewed at a time. The head unit is set up with auto-switching, also, so you can hook up the rearview camera to the reverse lights and have it come on automatically when you shift into reverse. Parking guidelines are adjustable on-screen to suit your vehicle's specifications.
Power and Frequency Specifications
Built-in power is respectable at 20 watts to four channels continuous with a peak at 55 watts. Power is supplied through a special Class A/B amplifier that is designed specifically to reduce unwanted noise and distortion. Frequency bandwidth is 20 Hz to 20 kHz, an ideal band to capture all of the frequencies the human ear can hear.
Screen, Controls, and Function
There are few head units with a higher quality touchscreen than the one you find with the 9500ES. It measures in at a monstrous 10.1” and uses a special type of construction that allows for incredible responsiveness. The construction method allows this head unit to have the industry’s best clarity due to the elimination of potential air gaps between the capacitive layer and the glass.
One of the coolest things about the 9500ES is the level of adjustability you get when installing the unit. The control box is a separate component from the screen and uses a single-DIN mounting hole. The screen then attaches to the source unit via an adjustable bracket. The screen can tilt, slide, and move up or down to accommodate unique dash shapes.
Physical buttons are located along the top of the display and include power, volume, track skip, and voice control. Everything else is done on the touchscreen. An optional infrared remote controller can be added for quick and easy control.
Key Features:
| Make | Sony |
| Model | XAV-9500ES |
| Screen Size | 10.1″ |
| Screen Type | LCD capacitive touchscreen |
| Chassis Size | 1DIN |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Yes/Yes (Wireless) |
| Camera Input/# | Yes/3 |
| Equalizer | 13-band graphic, 8-band parametric |
| HDMI/AV Input | No |
| Power Output | 20W RMS, 55W Peak x 4 |
| iDatalink Compatible | Yes |
Reasons to Buy
- The most impressive looking and sounding car stereo head unit around
- Extensive use of high-end components gives this car stereo home theater quality
- Exceptional value
Reasons Not to Buy
- No AUX input or audio/video port and only one USB port limits the use of thumb drives for storing and playing high-resolution files
- Does not support as many file types as the Alpine HDS-990
Best Multimedia Playing Hi Resolution Car Stereo
JVC KW-Z1000W
Latest Prices
Why We Picked It
This is JVC’s flagship high-resolution receiver. And it is a beast. Boasting a massive floating display and a full-range of highly desirable features, the JVC KW-Z1000W is the perfect choice for audiophile-quality tunes in your car. The shallow-mount double-DIN chassis is perfect for installation in vehicles with limited depth in the dash too.
High-Resolution Playback Capabilities
JVC combines several technologies to offer some of the broadest options for playing high-resolution audio in your car. The built-in processing power of the KW-Z1000W allows for playback at 24-bit/ 192 kHz resolution to play your high-resolution music collection. JVC keeps the actual components secretive so we don’t know a whole lot about what they use. One thing is for sure, in order to produce a stereo that can perform at this level, they used top-of-the-line capacitors and processors.
The KW-Z1000W plays MP3, WMA, and AAC music files along with high-resolution FLAC, WAV, and DSD files. A single USB port on the rear can be routed for playing files from a player or a thumb drive. It is a USB-A drive, so no adapter or special type of drive is required.
The Bluetooth connection functions with LDAC to provide uprated resolution while streaming for a better-than-CD sound. You can even wirelessly stream Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and take advantage of LDAC to improve the audio performance.
One of the really cool features of this stereo is the K2 technology. K2 uses a proprietary algorithm to uprate low-resolution audio to replace clipped frequencies. It significantly improves the way music sounds. The included HD radio tuner is yet another way to get high-resolution audio in your vehicle with the JVC KW-Z1000W.
Connectivity Options
As we mentioned above, there is just one, rear USB-A port. We would have preferred to find a front USB or dual rear USB ports. It has three pairs of 5-volt preouts for expanding the system with aftermarket amplifiers. There is also a mini-AUX plug and a composite and mini audio/ video connections for hooking up a separate CD/DVD player.
If you’re looking for a 360 view of your car, this might be your option. This is one of the only head units around that offers four camera inputs. The high-definition display is ideally suited for connecting a backup camera, a front camera, and dual-side cameras. Each camera is selectable individually.
The star of the show with this head unit though is the Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity that allows hands-free calls, wireless streaming, and all while maintaining excellent sound quality.
Power and Frequency Specifications
Power is rated at 22 watts per channel continuous and 50 watts peak. The KW-Z1000W uses a built-in amplifier to boost the power and maintain distortion-free quality. The frequency is 20 Hz to 20 kHz, while the K2 technology can add frequencies above the 20kHz cut-off.
Screen, Controls, and Function
The screen on the JVC KW-Z1000W has a resolution of 1080×720 and uses a special bonding technique to eliminate the air gap lower-quality screens suffer from that leads to difficult-to-view screens. This head unit has lots of tricks when it comes to adding visuals, including a highly customizable home page with dedicated apps and live wallpapers – something that we personally wished the Sony 9500ES offered.
Physical buttons for volume, power, and voice commands are on the bottom of the display. All other controls are done on screen. Fortunately, the capacitive touch display is one of the best we’ve tried and responds beautifully when called into action. We particularly like the ability to use voice control through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for a truly hands-free, high-resolution experience.
A huge bonus is the ability to use the free JVC app to control the stereo. We hate having to buy optional stuff like remote controls, and the convenience of using the app for a remote is just a treat.
Key Features:
| Make | JVC |
| Model | KW-Z1000W |
| Screen Size | 10.1″ |
| Screen Type | LCD capacitive touchscreen |
| Chassis Size | 2DIN |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Yes/Yes (Wireless) |
| Camera Input/# | Yes/4 |
| Equalizer | 13-band graphic |
| HDMI/AV Input | Yes (Mini) |
| Power Output | 22W RMS, 50W Peak x 4 |
| iDatalink Compatible | Yes |
Reasons to Buy
- The combination of high-resolution quality with dedicated technology that enhances even low-res files makes this head unit unique
- Customizable installation options and a live screen make this an attractive and functional car stereo upgrade
Reasons Not to Buy
- A single USB port limits the opportunities to connect thumb drives
- The double-DIN chassis and oversized screen can make installation in certain vehicles tough
Best DVD/CD High Resolution Head Unit
Kenwood Excelon DNX997XR
Latest Prices
Why We Picked It
Kenwood’s top-of-the-line Excelon DNX997XR is the latest incarnation of the legendary Reference car stereo head units and it is by far the best yet in our opinion. This head unit combines powerful technology with sophisticated ways to get the most out of your favorite music and even adds HD Radio and High-Resolution audio capabilities to its impressive specs list.
High-Resolution Playback Capabilities
The DNX997R offers high-resolution playback of files with up to 24-bit /94 kHz resolution including FLAC and WAV files and is also compatible with MP3, WMA, and AAC file types. Built-in HD Radio tuning adds to the abilities of this head unit to bring the best possible sound quality to your car audio system.
An option that is missing though is LDAC for improving wireless streaming audio quality. However, it does offer Bluetooth connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 13-band graphic equalizer and a simple-to-use timing adjuster make it a snap to tune the DNX997XR specifically for your vehicle’s interior and speaker locations and frequency curves.
A three-way crossover network and high- and low-pass filters also make it simple to tune your system directly from the head unit instead of via a separate DSP or directly on your aftermarket amp. Kenwood went overboard making sure that every bit of the system is optimized for excellent sound quality, even adding gold-plated RCA terminals for the six preouts.
Connectivity Options
We love the fact that this head unit provides dual USB ports, both on the rear. Dual USB is ideal for hooking up a thumb drive or a media player while simultaneously charging a phone. Every head unit should have dual USB ports and we were thrilled to see Kenwood get it right.
Three pairs of gold-plated RCA terminals are for connecting amplifiers. There is also an SD card slot on the front for music files and navigation updates. There is a mini A/V jack on the back, an AUX jack, and four camera inputs, including one designated for HD camera feeds. An included GPS antenna hooks up to provide access to Garmin’s award-winning navigation maps.
Power and Frequency Specifications
Kenwood rates the KNX997R at 22 watts for four channels with a peak output of 50 watts. An onboard Digital Signal Processor provides excellent sonic accuracy across the entire frequency range. A digital time alignment feature allows for customization to meet the needs of your particular installation as well. Frequency capabilities within the powerband run from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Screen, Controls, and Function
The high-resolution screen is a treat. It is a capacitive touch design that is smooth and responsive. The motorized tilt function is a uniquely Kenwood design that improves viewing angles with ease and allows the screen to pivot out of the way to load CDs and DVDs. The KNX997R features convenient screen mirroring for Apple and Android devices that lets you put your smartphone right on the screen to reduce distractions when driving and add functionality.
Physical control buttons are located along the bottom frame of the screen and give you quick control of virtually every necessary feature. The row of buttons includes a quick link to the navigation screen, a menu button to pull up options, an app page button, a source, and up and down buttons that are multifunctional depending on the current menu option on the screen.
Key Features:
| Make | Kenwood |
| Model | KNX997R |
| Screen Size | 6.75″ |
| Screen Type | LCD capacitive touchscreen |
| Chassis Size | 2DIN |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Yes/Yes (Wireless) |
| Camera Input/# | Yes/4 (1 HD) |
| Equalizer | 13-band graphic |
| HDMI/AV Input | Yes |
| Power Output | 22W RMS, 50W Peak x 4 |
| iDatalink Compatible | No |
Reasons to Buy
- The motorized tilt screen offers some of the best controls for adjusting the display to accommodate odd dash shapes
- Built-in navigation and quad-camera capabilities along with a high-resolution screen take the high-resolution capabilities over the top
Reasons Not to Buy
- The lack of LDAC wireless streaming capabilities limits wireless audio to low-resolution
- May be a hassle to install in vehicles with integrated controls due to the lack of iDataLink Maestro compatibility
Best Touchscreen High-Res Car Stereo
Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX
Latest Prices
Why We Picked It
The Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX is one of our favorites on our list and ranks as our top pick for touchscreen head units in 2024. The screen really is beautiful, and the frameless design has an ultra-sleek and modern look. This stereo uses a single-DIN chassis and a multi-angle adjustable bracket for convenient installation in a range of dash shapes.
High-Resolution Playback Capabilities
High-resolution formats include MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, and high-resolution FLAC and DSD music files for the ultimate in-car listening experience. The WT8600NEX can handle formats at 24-bit/ 192 kHz resolution for excellent high-resolution quality. It has excellent Bluetooth connectivity options but lacks the ability to process LDAC formats, which means you’ll be stuck streaming low-res music when going wireless.
HD radio tuning capabilities are a nice addition to increase the quality of over-the-air signals. A 13-band EQ and digital time alignment mode help to improve the sound by offering tuning capabilities. It includes a crossover network and high- and low-pass filters.
Connectivity Options
The DMH-8600NEX has six four-volt preouts for adding amplifiers to the front, rear, and subwoofer. There is also an RCA out for connecting to a headrest monitor. Inputs include a single rear USB-C port, a micro-HDMI port, and a mini-A/V input to connect a DVD or CD player. There are dual camera inputs for front and rear camera feeds.
Power and Frequency Specifications
Power is rated at 22 watts on four channels RMS and a max of 50 watts. Frequency specifications for this car stereo are between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. An internal MOSFET amplifier supplies power while keeping the audio signal clean and free of distortion.
Screen, Controls, and Function
The 10.1” screen on the DMH-8600NEX is one of our all-time favorites. The design is clean and looks like a high-end screen should. It also has an excellent resolution of 1280×720. Pioneer provides a number of preset colors and backgrounds. Custom backgrounds can also be loaded via USB.
There are buttons on the left side that are part of the capacitive touch screen. This keeps the sleek look of the display but isn’t always the best solution for drivers since looking at the screen to see the buttons might be a distraction.
The screen mounts to a single-DIN chassis and can be adjusted horizontally, vertically, and for depth. The bracket also allows for the screen to tilt forward and back to make room for dash vents and buttons or odd shapes.
Key Features:
| Make | Pioneer |
| Model | DMH-8600NEX |
| Screen Size | 10.1″ |
| Screen Type | LCD capacitive touchscreen |
| Chassis Size | 1DIN |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Yes/Yes (Wireless) |
| Camera Input/# | Yes/2 |
| Equalizer | 13-band graphic |
| HDMI/AV Input | Yes/Yes |
| Power Output | 22W RMS, 50W Peak x 4 |
| iDatalink Compatible | Yes |
Reasons to Buy
- One of the most impressive screens in car audio today
- The chassis design makes installation easy for a variety of vehicles
Reasons Not to Buy
- Lacks LDAC format processing
- Limited connectivity options due to a single rear USB-C port
What is High-Resolution Audio?
High-resolution audio retains all of the original information that was originally produced when the music was recorded, without compression or degraded quality. Most formats for playing music use a compression system to make the file sizes smaller. This is the case for most of the common file formats we use today, including CDs. High-resolution receivers have the ability to play files that use high recording speeds with lots of data and can faithfully reproduce music the way it was originally intended to be heard.
Why Do I Want High-Resolution Audio in My Car?
For many years, manufacturers believed that producing high-resolution audio systems for cars was simply not practical. Between road noise, engine noise, and the reality that most car interiors offer poor speaker locations, the thought was that listeners would not be able to enjoy the full range of frequencies. Manufacturing head units that could provide high-resolution audio was viewed as exorbitantly expensive for a market that hadn’t shown much interest.
This all began to change just a few years ago. Vehicles today are much quieter than in decades past due to advances in sound deadening and consumer demands that vehicles be quieter to operate. With the introduction of hybrid and electric vehicles, car interiors are even quieter and can now take advantage of high-resolution quality that was once reserved for home theater.
We’ve been tracking the trend and shift towards hi-res stereos, which prompted us to put together our own recommended list of high resolution aftermarket stereos and head units for your car.
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