Standard Features in the Best Double Din Head Unit for an RV
The days when a high-quality stereo system was only good for listening to music or broadcasts are long gone. These days, the best double din head unit for an RV can do so much more.
Now you can do things like check real-time weather forecasts, navigate routes, and use hands-free calling. Here are just a few things you should look for in the best double din head unit for an RV.
Installation
Let's face it: You have better things to do than spend hours installing a stereo system. The best double din head unit for an RV should offer straightforward installation that anyone can do in under an hour.
Best of all, there are numerous online step-by-step tutorials to guide you. And you can also find a lot of YouTube videos that can show you how to replace your old system with your new double din unit.
However, if you don't feel comfortable installing your new system, there are a lot of places that offer professional service at a reasonable price.
Operating system
You don't have to be a technology expert to understand the value of an easy-to-use interface. The best double din head unit for an RV should allow you to access features quickly and efficiently while you drive.
With this in mind, one of the best operating systems for double din stereos is Android. Using this type of interface is similar to using an Android phone. The Icons are big and bright, plus the system updates much smoother than some other operating systems.
Of course, Rv'ers who are more tech-savvy can probably implement their own software and apps. However, you should only do this if you know what you are doing.
Display
Having a large display with easy-to-read icons is another vital factor in choosing a double din head unit for your RV. The last thing you want to do is squint to see information on your display, especially while driving.
Fortunately, these days, most displays are High Definition, which allows you to see things in greater detail. A good standard to look for in the best double din head unit for an RV is a display with at least 1024 x 600 resolution. At this resolution, you should be able to see much greater detail, which really comes in handy when using on-screen navigation or searching for your favorite song.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
The best double din head unit for an RV must either have fast Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Many units offer both. These features are essential because they allow you to connect to your phone or mobile router to access real-time information.
Bluetooth not only allows you to connect to your smart devices, but it also allows you to conduct hands-free calls while driving.
Voice control
Another great feature found in the best double din head unit for an RV is voice control. You can access this feature one of two ways -- either through a built-in program or via your smart device connection.
Having the freedom to speak your commands without taking your hands off the wheel is a great safety feature. You can speak commands to find routes, songs, programs, phone contacts, and more. Plus, the fact that it makes you feel like you are driving a futuristic starship doesn't hurt either.
Built-in navigation
Another must-have feature in the best double din head unit for an RV is built-in navigation.
While there are still a few advantages to using a dedicated navigation system such as TomTom or Rand McNally, those advantages are disappearing year by year with newer double dins closing ground.
The ideal double din for your RV will make navigation easier and safer. It will also allow you to access new maps via download or in real time if you have a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection.
The best navigation programs will allow you to do things such as reverse directions and see information such as exit signs clearly on the map. Plus, they should steer you clear of things like construction and road accidents, when possible. Some of the fancier programs also give you elevation information and overpass clearances. And of course, they should offer turn-by-turn voice directions.
Camera
One of the best new technologies to hit the market in recent years for RVs is the rear-view camera. These days quality High-Definition backup cameras were relatively inexpensive compared to their cost a few years ago. So, you want to make sure your new double din stereo has an input for a backup camera.
Another cool feature offered in some models is parking assist for your backup camera. This feature allows you to see parking lines when backing up your RV, thus guiding you to the perfect parking angle. Some units also include inputs for a dashboard camera as well.
Dashboard cameras are great tools for recording trips and can prove useful in court in case of an accident.
Output channels
Most stereo systems that come with RVs don't have many output channels. If you plan on installing things such as powerful subwoofers or high-performance speakers, you'll need a double din with extra channels.
Fortunately, most newer stereo systems on the market today offer at least four extra channels for this purpose.
Understanding output peak and Root Mean Power (RMS)
Output peak and Root mean power are two values used to measure wattage (watts) in speakers. RMS (sometimes called mean power) refers to how much continuous power your speaker can handle. The output peak value refers to the maximum power level your speaker can handle in short bursts.
For example, a speaker with a 30-Watt RMS rating but a peak rating of 60 Watts means that the speaker can comfortably run on 30 Watts of continuous power, with occasional bursts of up to 60 watts.
You'll find that many speaker manufacturers include information on both values with their speakers.
Other connectivity
Another feature you'll find in the best double din head unit for an RV are multiple connections that allow you to connect to your favorite devices. Many newer models will enable you to use physical connections such as USB, AUX, and Micro-SD cards. Some also offer connections such as Micro-USB and Lightning (iPhone) that allows you to connect your phones directly to your unit.
