Are you getting ready to hit the road? If so, investing in the best double din head unit for an RV is a smart move that will make your trips much more fun.
Any RVer will tell you that there’s nothing like driving on the open road while listening to your favorite tunes. After all, half the fun in any road trip is the journey, right?
While a good stereo used to be a luxury for an RV, these days, thanks to technology, it is now almost a necessity. That is why you want to have the best double din head unit for an RV for your next road trip.
Comparison Table
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PRODUCT |
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PRICE |
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Pioneer AVH-X390BS |
Image Source: Amazon |
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Atoto A6Y2710SB |
Image Source: Amazon |
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Kenwood DMX7704S |
Image Source: Amazon |
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Pioneer AVH-1500NEX |
Image Source: Amazon |
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Eonon GA2168K |
Image Source: Amazon |
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Pioneer AVH-210EX |
Image Source: Amazon |
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Crehan Touch Screen GPS |
Image Source: Amazon |
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Pioneer AVH-X490BS |
Image Source: Amazon |
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AuTDYJ Double Din Car Stereo |
Image Source: Amazon |
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
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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
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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
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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.
How We Chose the Best Double Din Head Unit for an RV
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There are hundreds of double din units out there on the market today, so finding the best of the best wasn’t easy.
To start, we compiled a list of products from numerous sources such as RV online forums, articles, websites, social media pages, and videos. We then narrowed our search to the best candidates by reading and watching reviews from both professional critics and customers. Finally, we picked the best double din head unit for an RV based on factors such as features, warranty, value, and ratings.
Our Candidates for Best Double Din Head Unit for an RV
These are our top nine candidates for best double din head unit for an RV. Each system offers Bluetooth and supports both Android and iPhones. Plus, many provide extra services such as Pandora, Siri Radio, and Spotify, as well as built-in GPS. They also offer advanced sound quality customization and backup camera inputs.
Pioneer AVH-X390BS
Image Source: Amazon
The Pioneer AVH-X390BS optimizes music for wherever you are sitting in the RV. Plus, it has MIXTRAX, an innovative Pioneer technology that creates a nonstop mix of your favorite music complete with an array of DJ-inspired effects. Additionally, it supports Andriod and iPhone devices. Even better, it has AppRadio One, which lets you view and control compatible iPhone and Andriod apps.
Also, this model has Bluetooth, includes Spotify, voice control, Siri radio, Pandora, and is navigation ready with the addition of an AVIC-U280 add-on navigation system (not included). It has a power output peak of 50 watts x 4 channels and RMS of 14 watts x 4 channels. Not to mention, it has a 6.2-inch touchscreen and is compatible with backup cameras.
Finally, you can adjust sound quality features such as a built-in Auto EQ, Time Alignment, 13-Band Graphic Equalizer with touch panel swipe settings, and so much more.
Amazon customers rate this product 4.3 out of 5 stars. One customer says this unit is a great radio and works well with his RV’s backup camera. Another RV owner agrees, stating that this system is an excellent value. However, another customer complains that the Bluetooth drops frequently. He also notes that the mic feature is horrible, and the overall quality is poor.
This model includes a one-year warranty.
Atoto A6Y2710SB
Image Source: Amazon
The Atoto A6Y2710SB features support for up to 256 Gigabytes of Micro-SD storage along with continuous firmware updates via built-in Wi-Fi. Even better, developers created this system using the Android Marshmallow OS, allowing for more in-depth customization and more optimized sound quality.
It has a full High-Definition 7-inch 1024 x 600 touchscreen. Plus, it offers lots of vehicle-based features such as a specific FM and AM radio tuner with RDS and a preset max 4 x 45-watt amplifier with higher 4 x 24-watt RMS power out.
This system also supports factory steering wheel control. Additionally, it has dual Bluetooth chips that allow for hands-free control and media streaming. Furthermore, you can use your phone’s Bluetooth tethering to access the internet, send and receive files, and even connect a Bluetooth gamepad, mouse, and other devices.
Also, this model has Google Maps pre-installed, allowing you to download map data of specific areas for offline use. Similarly, it supports TomTom, Waze, and HERE WeGo. Finally, the Atoto A6Y2710SB offers quick booting that allows you to access the system within two seconds of starting your RV.
On Amazon, customers gave this product 4.3 out of 5 stars. One RVer says he is impressed by the built-in GPS’s strong signal even inside a steel garage. Plus, he says that it works very well with his mobile router and reproduces outstanding sound quality. That said, another customer complained that the Wi-Fi antenna went out within a few months and that the company has poor customer service.
The warranty for this product lasts for up to one year after purchase.
Kenwood DMX7704S
Image Source: Amazon
The Kenwood DMX7704S features a 13-band graphic EQ with Drive EQ, DSP with digital time alignment, bass boost, and loudness controls, as well as high and low pass filters.
This system is compatible with Kenwood’s DRV-520 dash camera (sold separately.) Plus, it has two camera inputs for dash and rearview cameras. Additionally, it offers parking grid lines for the rear-view camera. It has a 6.95-inch Wide VGA LCD Clear Resistive touchscreen display, built-in Bluetooth, and supports dual phone connections.
Even more, the system has dual USB ports, works with iPhone and Android smartphones, and offers rapid-charging for your devices. Lastly, it features support for iDatalink Maestro RR (sold separately) which connects to your receiver providing an advanced vehicle interface which allows you to access vehicle information, weather, and more.
Amazon customers gave this system 4.4 out of 5 stars. One customer says it is the perfect audio system for his RV. He also notes that he added an additional backup camera and iDatalink Maestro RR the ultimate system. However, one customer remarks that the software is a bit buggy and the Bluetooth cuts out sometimes.
Kenwood offers a one-year warranty on this product.
Pioneer AVH-1500NEX
Image Source: Amazon
The Pioneer AVH-1500NEX features Apple CarPlay compatibility, a DVD player, and built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and streaming. Plus, it is SiriusXM-ready, works with Pandora, includes Spotify, and is AppRadio Mode compatible. Also, it has USB direct control for iPhones. And with AppRadio Mode, you can experience and control your favorite apps directly on your 6.2-inch WVGA touchscreen display.
Similarly, this model comes with the AppRadioLIVE app, which simplifies your drive by combining the vital information you need into a single simple to use interface. Lastly, it’s also WebLink compatible and navigation ready, and includes selectable Parking Assist guidelines, and has a back-up camera input.
This product scored 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon. One satisfied RVer describes the Pioneer AVH-1500NEX one of the best double din head units out there. He also notes that the Apple Play feature works flawlessly. Then again, another customer remarks that playing music via a USB thumb drive is a bit of a pain.
Pioneer offers a one-year warranty with this product.
Eonon GA2168K
Image Source: Amazon
The Pioneer GA2168K features a giant 10.1-inch High-Definition 1024 x 600 display. Even better, the screen is adjustable on a rotating joint that allows you to move it around to avoid screen glare. Plus, it has a split-screen mode which allows you to run two apps side by side. And it provides larger icons for stress-free navigation. Additionally, it has Bluetooth, which will enable you to play music from your iPhone or Android device as well as make hands-free calls while driving.
Not to mention, the Eonon has 30 pre-set radio stations (12 AM and 18 FM), built-in 4 x 45W amplifier output, EQ mode, Video output, a built-in dimmer, as well as both USB and Micro SD support (up to 64 Gigabytes for Micro SD).
The head unit also supports searching for phone contacts quickly and has built-in Wi-Fi. It also features the Android 8.1 Oreo update, allowing your radio to start up faster, with improved notifications, and a new intuitive settings menu. Finally, you can also connect a mobile device or USB flash drive via its USB connection.
Customers on Amazon gave this unit 4.1 out of 5 stars. One customer praises the unit, stating that it looks incredible in the dash of his RV. He also appreciates the large screen size, functionality, and phone compatibility of this system. On the other hand, another customer complains that the unit runs slow, and you can’t trigger the backup camera manually.
This product has a one-year warranty.
Pioneer AVH-210EX
Image Source: Amazon
The Pioneer AVH-210EX features a 6.2 WVGA clear resistive touchscreen with LED Backlight Display. Plus, it has Bluetooth AVRCP 1.6 for hands-free calling and streaming and a built-in DVD player.
The unit also features a 5-band graphic equalizer, is back-up camera ready, and works with both iPhone and Andriod devices. Furthermore, you can use USB direct control for direct connectivity to your iPhone device and customize the colors on your display.
Amazon reviewers gave this product 4.1 out of 5 stars. One customer describes the radio as a solid unit with Bluetooth pairing. An RV owner similarly mentions the excellent Bluetooth as well as its fantastic backup camera compatibility. However, there were a few complaints. One customer says the unit is slow to sync with his phone and that hands-free calling doesn’t work when it is downloading.
This unit includes a one-year warranty.
Crehan Touch Screen GPS
Image Source: Amazon
The Crehan Touch Screen GPS features a 6.5-inch High Definition 1024 x 600 touchscreen. Plus, it has an ARM Cortex-A9 Quad Core 1.2-Gigahertz processor, 2 Gigabytes of RAM, and 32 Gigabytes of Read-Only Memory (ROM). It also features built-in Bluetooth, built-in Wi-Fi, GPS, steering wheel control, rear camera input, as well as FM and AM radio with Radio Data Storage (RDS).
Speaking of GPS, this stereo supports downloading maps for use offline and has a built-in GPS antenna. Not to mention, the system allows you to download more apps from the Google Play Store. And it supports multiple channels including USB drive and Micro SD cards. And best of all, you can even use this system to help monitor your RVs diagnostics via a Bluetooth OBD II scanner (sold separately).
This model received 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon. A customer proclaimed her love the stereo, noting that it is the best Android-based system you could hope for. Another simply called it a great product and an excellent value while complimenting excellent customer service by the company. But there were, however, a few dissatisfied customers. One purchaser reports that half the Android applications do not work as they should.
Crehan offers a one-year warranty with this system.
Pioneer AVH-X490BS
Image Source: Amazon
The Pioneer AVH-X490BS features Mixtrax, which blends songs DJ-style. It has Time alignment, which optimizes music in every location inside your RV. Plus, It displays CD text and song information on a 7-inch WVGA touch panel display with LED backlight.
This unit has built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth is Back-up camera ready, and features iPhone device compatibility. Even better, it has App Radio One, a one cable connection that lets you control compatible iPhone and Andriod apps easily from your screen. It also includes Pandora and Sirius XM radio, and it’s compatible with the AVIC-U280 add-on navigation system (not included).
You can also modify sound quality features such as the built-in Auto EZ and Time Alignment. And it supports multiple audio codecs including high-quality FLAC codec music files.
The Pioneer AVH-X490BS scores 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon. One RVer bought was so impressed by the stereo that he says he purchased an additional unit for his truck. He also notes that the installation was very straightforward. At the same time, another customer claims the Bluetooth feature cuts out frequently.
A one-year warranty comes with the purchase of this model.
AuTDYJ Double Din Car Stereo
Image Source: Amazon
The AuTDYJ Double Din Car Stereo features a 7-inch 1080p 1024 x 600 High Definition touchscreen and Bluetooth. It also has PhoneLink support for Android and iPhone devices so you can control your devices via the big screen.
Plus, it comes with an AUX-In port, music player, video player, steering wheel control, and backup camera input. Best of all, they throw in a free camera, steering wheel control, and remote control.
This stereo has 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Many customers regard this system as a quality product and say it is an unbelievable value. They especially like the free backup camera and steering wheel controls. On the other hand, another customer calls the system cheap and says the Bluetooth and equalizer are terrible.
The manufacturer backs this product with a one-year warranty.
Double or Nothing: Here Is the Best Double Din Head Unit for an RV
After a long and careful examination of our nine candidates, we managed to find the best double din head unit for an RV.
We chose the Kenwood DMX7704S as our top choice.
This system offers everything you need for a fantastic road trip such as built-in GPS, multiple connections, and advanced sound controls. Plus, it gives you two camera inputs for both your backup and dashboard camera. Not to mention, any audiophile will tell you that Kenwood is one of the most respected brands in the stereo industry.
We hope this guide to the best double din head unit for an RV provided you with helpful information for your search.
Remember always to stay safe and enjoy the journey. And if you have any thoughts or suggestions, please share them in the comments below.
Featured Image Source: Pixabay.com