Choosing the right car CD player for your car audio system is probably one of the most important aspects of your entire car audio system. It’s like getting a haircut, if it’s not what you want, you’re bound to be disappointed. After all, it is the brain of your system. Your CD drive plays what you’ll hear on your entire system. There are many different options to choose from, and you will need to choose the CD player that best suits your needs.
Here are a few different options to look for:
LCD Graphic Display – If you like to look cool (and we all do), many car CD drives offer detailed LCD graphic displays. These LCD screens will display the song title, menu options for ease of use and control, a graphic equalizer, and more.
Front Auxiliary Input: Inexpensive MP3 players and iPods are the most popular and widespread portable audio devices in the world. Anyone can own their massive collection of songs stored on a compact audio device. The best part about this is that you can connect directly to your car’s player if it has a front 3.5mm aux input. You’ll be able to take your massive collection of songs on the road and play them through your car’s audio system.
MP3 CD Compatibility: Of course, all cheap car CD receivers will play any regular store-bought CD. However, if you have a nice collection of burned CDs with all your favorite MP3 songs downloaded from the Internet, you will need a car player that will allow you to play MP3 CDs. Most cheap car audio receivers include this feature.
HD Radio – If you want your car radio to receive HD radio stations, just make sure that HD radio stations are available in your area.
iPod Control – If you’re looking for a car radio player that offers iPod control, make sure the product details for the CD player you’re interested in says it has iPod controls. Some CD players will require an additional control cable, purchased separately, but inexpensive.
Preamp Outputs: This tends to be a “big”. If you’re looking to add an amplifier to your system, your CD player should come with pre-outs to send the audio signal to the amplifier. The more preamp outputs your CD player has, the more elaborate your amplifier setup will be.
Remember, if you don’t have enough options to listen to what you want, how much are you going to enjoy it?
These are just a few of the important features you’ll look for when choosing your cheap car audio CD player. It’s always nice to have a remote control included with your purchase. It’s similar to a TV remote, once you’ve gotten used to it for a short period of time, you won’t have to take your eyes off the road when changing songs etc.
Now you’re ready to start looking for your new car receiver and take the necessary steps to choose the right CD player that not only meets your needs, but gives you the options you need and want.
