Best music system for cars in India in 2024

In-car entertainment systems have been an essential element of a car’s features for buyers over the years. After all, going down a highway on a nice sunny day listening to your favourite tracks is an exciting thought. A lot of new car buyers are swayed by this idea and to enable it, a banging sound system is a must. Come 2024, in-car entertainment systems are much more than just an audio output device. Buyers now demand a lot more features and functions from these systems including navigation and connectivity. Thus choosing the right music system with all these functionalities is a must.

CARS24 has compiled a selection of the best car audio systems for you to choose from. You can also discuss your choices with audiophiles in the CARS24 auto community, CLUTCH, where there are more interesting automotive topics to talk about.

Types of car music systems

There are different types of car music systems these days. We’ve listed them to help you decide the best combination of components that would suit your needs.

1. Factory-supplied units - These are the stock music systems that come equipped with the car. While some manufacturers will pre-install good sound systems with a feature-rich touchscreen infotainment system; most otherwise are a compromise between price and performance. They may not support high-fidelity audio outputs or even have a touchscreen in the first place. They are also paired with basic speaker units. Some of these systems may also be integrated to the car’s electronics, so changing them may involve splicing wires etc that can void the warranty on replacement of the units. 

2. Single and double DIN audio systems - DIN is an international standard for the size of the head unit. This is more relevant to older cars and the space provided for installing such a unit. These car audio systems may be basic when it comes to comparable features from a touchscreen-equipped unit but are still capable of producing high-quality audio output.

3. Touchscreen multimedia systems - These are systems that are inline with modern trends where a feature-rich touchscreen enables wired or wireless mobile phone connectivity and integration. They usually have a host of features including multimedia playback as well as parking assist systems with rearview cameras. 

4. Speaker systems - To get the most out of a good car audio system, it is advisable to pair it with an equally good speaker system to compliment the performance and get great audio output. Speaker systems consists of -

• Coaxial speakers - These are the most commonly found speaker systems that combine the tweeters and woofers into a single unit. They are great at sound reproduction for budget systems but lack the spatial depth of component speakers.
• Component speakers - that separate tweeters and woofers into separate units for better placement thus resulting in a fuller audio experience.
• Subwoofers - These are separate units that purely concentrate on bass reproduction. They’re the units that recreate the booming audio responses from a soundtrack however, a well-tuned subwoofer again, adds to spatial sound production.

5. Amplifiers - Even referred to as Amps, amplifiers help integrate and regulate the output of the speaker systems in the car. Having an amp to control the speakers ensures optimum clarity and speaker performance. Amplifiers become vital if you add high-wattage speakers and/or a subwoofer. Some speaker systems also come with built-in amplifiers.

Features to look for in a car audio system

Before diving into the list of top systems, there are a few essential features to look for when choosing the best car audio system. These include the latest features that can help you prioritise your requirements from a good stereo system for your car.

1. Screen-size - This will largely depend on the available space in your car. Be sure to measure the available slot in your car’s dashboard to match the sound system screen for an ideal fit. Some systems may use a floating screen design to offer a larger screen in a smaller space. A higher resolution screen will also enhance the user experience.

2. User Interface - Also referred to as UI or UX, a good user-friendly interface will help quicken up the command to output process. One with lesser steps will help you execute a command faster and get the desired results without taking your attention off the road ahead. Here, a responsive touchscreen becomes crucial for convenience.

3. Connectivity - This would be one of the top requirements from a modern user. You should look for the maximum compatibility, which includes connectivity with smartphones via Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

4. Audio quality - An obvious requirement, the best stereo systems for a car wouldn’t be complete without high-quality audio output. Considering the wattage and speaker components will give you a fair idea of the sound quality. This should also correspond to the maximum output of the head unit. It is best practice to match the head unit and speaker brands for maximising compatibility and getting the best audio experience.

5. Navigation accuracy - Dependency on electronic maps is another modern-day requirement. A good sound system in a car should offer precise and up-to-date maps and ideally integrate real-time traffic updates as well. That said, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration also gives you the feasibility of using Google Maps to navigate.

6. Additional features - Look out for features like voice commands as it offers the benefits of hands-free operation, reverse parking camera integration et al.

7. Brand value - Opting for a known brand specialising in automotive audio systems will ensure a quality product that will function reliably. They will be robust for day-to-day usage even if they come at a premium price. Budget options may offer more features on paper but not necessarily be better value for money or good in terms of longevity and reliability.

Best music system for cars In India

Standard music systems with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are mostly limited to the top-tier models. Most modern in-car multimedia and audio systems are surprisingly good out of the box with even high-end brands like Bose and Harman Kardon making their way into affordable hatchbacks. However, there are a number of buyers who may be interested in aftermarket options for better customisation, options and features; especially for lower to mid variant cars that come equipped with basic systems. Most mid-range budget options will offer the best bang for your buck when it comes to the price-to-performance ratio of these car audio systems. 

1. JBL Legend | Touchscreen car music system

The Legend by JBL is a great mid-range option that is considered among the best car audio systems. It is packed with features that would fulfil the needs of most users and comes in at a very enticing price range. Wired connectivity will also ensure that your phone is topped up with ample charge on the go while GPS connectivity ensures accurate navigation. It even packs rear camera and steering wheel control support. JBL recommends using its own speakers for the best sound experience. 

Specifications

• 9-inch capacitive touchscreen
• 2 DIN Slim body size
• 50 Watts x 4 speakers max output
• Built-in Bluetooth with hands-free calling, music streaming and phonebook support 
• Built-in GPS + Wi-Fi
• Smartphone charging supported up to 1.5A

Features  

• Supports wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• AM/FM tuner with 30 stations presets
• 10 Band equaliser
• Rear camera input
• Steering wheel control input

2. JBL GTO609C | Component speaker system 

The JBL GTO series is one of the best car speakers in India and the most popular component speaker systems for cars. The best car sound systems usually comprise of component speaker systems and the GTO609C is an ideal match to systems powered with head-unit or even factory-amplifier power levels. This ensures great sound clarity and staging for a superb in-car audio experience.

Specifications

• 6½-inch midrange/woofer drivers
• ¾-inch component tweeters 
• 25-270 Watts RMS output
• 67Hz-21kHz frequency response

Features

• Carbon-injected cones
• Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) frames

3. JBL BassPro SL2 | Subwoofer

Subwoofers can be a bulky addition to even the best car speaker system but JBL BassPro SL2 is a great solution for that. Instead of taking up space in the boot, this compact subwoofer solution can be neatly stowed away under the driver or passenger seat. Despite its compact dimensions, it promises deep bass reproduction.

Specifications

• 8-inch woofer
• 125 Watts RMS output
• 35Hz - 120Hz frequency response

Features  

• Under-seat mounting
• Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) frames
• Built-in Class D digital amplifier

4. Pioneer SPH-C19BT | Single DIN car music system

The Pioneer SPH-C10BT is the perfect modern-day version of the popular single DIN audio system. This is possibly the best upgrade for your older car with a single DIN sound system. It features a phone cradle that is designed both for iPhones and Android phones and integrates the device to act as a touchscreen infotainment. Connectivity is provided via Bluetooth and USB while numerous apps are made available with the Pioneer Smart Sync app. Built-in Alexa functionality further provides hand-free operation while it even boasts of rear parking sensor integration with colour-indicated distance graphics. This is a proper bang-for-your-buck offering for those looking for a modern single DIN car audio system.

Specifications

• 50 Watts x 4 speakers max output
• USB and Bluetooth connectivity 
• 31 band equaliser with app
• 6 band AM/FM
• Smartphone charging supported up to 1.5A

Features

• Smartphone cradle
• iPhone and Android phone compatibility
• Reverse parking sensor compatibility and display
• Can connect up to two phones
• Built-in Alexa support for hands-free operation

5. Pioneer DMH-ZF8550BT | Touchscreen car music system

The high-end Pioneer DMH-ZF8550BT is a unique infotainment system in this list of best car audio systems. It sets itself apart by fusing a single DIN system’s space with a floating 9-inch touchscreen panel. This maximises its compatibility with a wide range of old and new cars. The Pioneer DMH-ZF8550BT offers a plethora of features for its price including wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity as well as Bluetooth and WiFi. 

Specifications

• 9-inch floating display 
• Single DIN chassis
• Android OS
• Built-in GPS + Wi-Fi
• 50 Watts power output x 4 speakers max

Features  

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 13 Band equaliser
• Rear camera input, parking assist guidelines
• Steering wheel control input
• Subwoofer control

6. Pioneer TS-H650C-JM | Component speaker system

We can’t stress enough on the importance of a good speaker system to make up the best car sound systems. The Pioneer TS-H650C-JM is a competitively-priced component speaker system that is rated as one of the best car speakers in India. It is a great value offering with 260 Watts of max output to satisfy the audiophiles among you. A component speaker system can also negate the need for an external subwoofer too, providing good, clear sound reproduction.

Specifications

• 6.3-inch midrange and woofer drivers
• 40-260 Watts RMS output
• 34Hz to 58KHz frequency response

Features

• Injection-moulded carbon cones
• Supports high-res sound source

7. JVC KW-M785BW | Touchscreen car music system

The JVC KW-M785BW can be found online for as low as ₹28,000, massively discounted from its MRP. For that reason it brings great value for people looking for a compact infotainment system. It’s a great valueoption among the best car sound systems especially with its USB-enabled video playback capabilities. It also boasts of wireless Android and Apple connectivity which is a big plus for convenience. It doesn’t however feature GPS capabilities. Although, it does support up to five phones connected full-time via Bluetooth as well as USB and HDMI phone mirroring capabilities. A unique feature for the JVC KW-M785BW is its ability to connect two external cameras for those who desire  forward and rear-facing cameras for parking assistance.

Specifications

• 6.8-inch capacitive touchscreen 
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• USB and HDMI screen mirroring
• 50 Watts power output x 4 speakers max
• 2 camera inputs
• Smartphone charging supported up to 1.5A

Features  

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 13 Band equaliser
• On-screen gestures
• Steering wheel control input
• Short chassis

8. Kenwood DMX9720XS | Touchscreen car music system

Spending almost ₹1 lakh rupees on an in-car entertainment system is for serious enthusiasts and Kenwood serves them with a stonker of an option. The Kenwood DMX9720XS ranks among the best automotive audio systems when it comes to ultra high-end options. It offers a 3-way positioning mechanism that the user can adjust in tilt, forward/backward and up/down settings. It also offers a screen size that’s comparable with some factory-fitted high-end infotainment screens, measuring at 10.1 inches.It’s an HD screen with wide viewing angles and split-screen display with widgets. You’d expect nothing less than wireless connectivity for both Apple and Android phones and it even features wireless screen mirroring functions. Wireless functionality is even extended to high-resolution audio reproduction, guaranteeing the best sound quality and output. Kenwood even supplies an optional Around View Monitoring System that enables a 360-degree camera system or a 4 camera input support along with dash-cam input.

Specifications

• 10.1-inch capacitive HD touchscreen
• Floating panel with 3-way positioning mechanism
• Built-in GPS + Wi-Fi 
• Built-in HDMI support
• Wireless screen mirroring for Android
• High-res wireless audio support
• 50 Watts power output x 4 speakers max

Features  

• Supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Parametric equaliser for professional quality audio output
• Full-HD video playback
• 360-degree camera input
• Steering wheel control input

9. Sony XAV-AX5500 | Touchscreen car music system

Sony is a brand synonymous with electronic entertainment components. It’s no surprise then that it features in this list of best car sound systems. Sony, despite being a premium brand, is a tad conservative with its feature list. The highlight of the Sony XAV-AX5500 is its bezel-less design as claimed by Sony. Although there are minimal bezels still visible around the 7-inch touchscreen, it’ll still be an aesthetic addition to your car’s dashboard. The system supports wired Android and Apple connectivity. Being Sony, expect great audio output qualities.

Specifications

• 7-inch capacitive touchscreen
• Bezel-less panel
• 55 Watts power output x 4 speakers max
• Built-in Bluetooth and rear USB inputs 

Features  

• Supports wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 10 Band equaliser
• Rear camera input
• Compact rear chassis

10. Blaupunkt Series 900 | Touchscreen car music system

Blaupunkt is one of the best  German brands when it comes to car audio systems. In this list, the Blaupunkt Series 900 packs the best value and set of features in a big-screen layout. It packs features like a 10.1-inch IPS display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, rear camera input, USB video playback function and much more. All this comes at a very attractive price point and at the time of writing this article, Blaupunkt was also offering a reverse camera for free making the Series 900 incredible value for money.

Specifications

• 10.1-inch capacitive IPS touchscreen
• Built-in Wi-Fi 
• 2 rear USB inputs
• 50 Watts power output x 4 speakers max

Features  

• Supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 10 band equaliser
• Subwoofer output
• Split-screen support
• rear camera input

Conclusion

Choosing the right car audio system will significantly enhance your driving experience. A modern in-car entertainment system will not only provide you with a great audio experience but also features like accurate navigation and seamless mobile connectivity. The best car audio systems offer a range of features at value price points to suit different needs and requirements. Whether you prioritise advanced navigation, higher audio quality or a user-friendly interface, there is a system on this list that will meet your needs. By considering the features and specifications of each system, you can make an informed decision to uplift your driving experience.

FAQs

Q. Which car has the best music system?

This is subjective but high-end cars like Mercedes-Benz come equipped with multiple speaker options and feature brands like Burmester that’s ranked among the best music systems installed straight out of the factory.

Q. What is the best music system setting for a car?

This entirely depends on personal sound preferences however, a balanced setting between treble, bass and mids will offer the best quality sound output in a car. An ideal music system setting for a car should be made up of clear trebles that’s not piercing, smooth mid-range notes and fuller bass that’s not booming.

Q. Which is the No. 1 sound system in cars?

JBL ranks among the top sound system providers in cars. They are known for a well rounded sound output at a relatively affordable price range.

Q. What is the best car audio brand?

Brands like Bose, Rockford Fosgate and Kicker are makers of high quality speakers and automotive audio systems.

Q. Which is better, JBL or Pioneer?

Many users report JBL as a preferred brand due to their bright audio quality while Pioneers offer a bass heavy audio experience in comparison.

Q. What sound system does Rolls-Royce use?

The Bespoke Audio Company supplies Rolls-Royce with specially designed Bespoke Audio components for its various cars.