Head unit discussion & Android 8.X HU Specs
 

I have a project that’s about to start and guess what I have a decision that I need to make...What head unit do I pick?

I did some searching and could not find much useful info so I decided I would ask since my criteria is different.

My wants in order or priority:

1) Functionality (aka Android style unit with tons of options, cameras, etc)
2) Looks
3) Sound quality (I hate putting this in third place cause its so important...but it it sounds better then stock Bose and bass hits harder I guess 3rd place it is)
4) Apple CarPlay (newer android units now have it)
5) Price (Less then $600)

Other factors to consider:

1) I picked JL Audio C1-690 (6x9) components - recommended by crutchfield
2) Rockford Fosgate P300x2 amp
3) Cerwin-Vega VPAS12ST spare tire powered sub (check it out :yum: it fits on the spare tire and replaces the Bose pos sub)
4) Rear speakers will be disabled due to keeping cost down

My Car: Touring Sport Bose no Navi

My thoughts: I am concerned that the droid units don’t have good sound quality. I am eying the Seicane droid unit but just want to be sure. It does everything I want but I don’t know jack about picking a good sounding unit. There is so much to choose from that its easy to get lost and confused. Hell maybe this helps someone else find what they are looking for... :tiphat:


Big Edit:

I decided to share my research with the community to save others time that I clearly invested way to much of looking into the right setup. Here is some data I accumulated while comparing all the Android OS based head units. Note I was only looking for head units with Android 8 or above & I leaned towards the units with no buttons when available due to ascetics so this is not an end all be all list.

Note: the following head units have the following in common unless otherwise pointed out...Android 8, DVR & Reverse Camera options, OBD scan tool option, iPhone Mirror, 4 GB of Ram, WiFi Hot spot, Resolution of 1024x600, and RGB Buttons.

1) Xtrons TE706PL:
- Audio Frequency Response 30-15000Hz
- 4 volt PreOut UNKNOWN
- Split screen multitasking
- 2 yrs of warranty
- NO 5 GHz WiFi
- External DVD option UNKNOWN
- Reviews (Amazon 3.5 stars)

2) Seicane H203G:
- Audio Frequency Response 42-20000Hz
- 4 volt PreOut UNKNOWN
- NO Split screen multitasking
- Warranty UNKNOWN
- 5 GHz WiFi UNKNOWN
- External DVD option
- Reviews...None I would consider reliable

3) Pumkin ND0289B:
- Audio Frequency Response UNKNOWN
- 4 volt PreOut UNKNOWN
- UNKNOWN Split screen multitasking
- Warranty UNKNOWN
- 5 GHz WiFi UNKNOWN
- NO External DVD option
- Reviews (Amazon averages between 3.5 & 4 starts)

4) iDoing HTTY031:
- Audio Frequency Response UNKNOWN
- 4 volt PreOut UNKNOWN
- Split screen multitasking
- Warranty UNKNOWN
- 5 GHz WiFi UNKNOWN
- UNKNOWN External DVD option
- Reviews...None I would consider reliable

5) ATOTO A6YPro-G (Model number truncated):
- Audio Frequency Response UNKNOWN
- Only unit to CONFIRM 4 volt PreOut
- Only 2 GB of RAM
- UNKNOWN Split screen multitasking
- Warranty UNKNOWN
- 5 GHz WiFi CONFIRMED
- UNKNOWN External DVD option
- Only unit to have gesture controls
- Reviews Amazon 4 stars

6) Android AutoShop XV8 7 inch:
- Audio Frequency Response UNKNOWN
- 4 volt PreOut UNKNOWN
- Split screen multitasking
- Warranty 1 yr
- 5 GHz WiFi UNKNOWN
- UNKNOWN External DVD option
- Dedicate DSP chip
- Reviews...None I would consider reliable but they run out of Europe and source Chinese head units

7) Eonon GA2171S:
- Audio Frequency Response UNKNOWN
- 4 volt PreOut UNKNOWN
- Split screen multitasking & Picture in Picture
- Warranty 2 yrs & 60 day money back guarantee
- 5 GHz WiFi UNKNOWN
- NO External DVD option
- Dedicate DSP chip
- Reviews Amazon 4 stars

8) Joying JY-UO128N4G:
- Audio Frequency Response UNKNOWN
- 4 volt PreOut: Note some of the units state 2 volts & a youtuber tested one of the new 10 inch models and actually got 1.2 volts
- Split screen multitasking
- Warranty 2 yrs
- 5 GHz WiFi UNKNOWN
- NO External DVD option
- Dedicate DSP chip
- Reviews Amazon 4.5 stars

It is also worth noting that Joying has come out with some new units with SPDIF interfaces for better sound quality & intel processors but those units would need to be ordered directly from the China warehouse.

What you see above is a combination of whats on various websites and even some emails to the vendors. It may not be 100% accurate but it's the only place you will see all this info in one spot as far as I am aware. If any of the info is incorrect please let me know and I will correct it on this page but make sure to post a link to the info for reference.

Thanks!

The rear speakers can make a big difference. Even if you are not using them now, I'd go ahead and install any extra wiring and other parts that may be required if you decide to use them later (after installing new drivers). YMMV

The droid units are janky af tbh. I looked down that route and ultimately decided on a Sony android auto / carplay unit (XAV-AX100). Not sure what more I'd want it to do. Looks factory, sounds fantastic. Supports cameras.

I have the Cerwin Vega unit coming in this weekend, so maybe I'll let you know how it is with a similar setup.

For the components, I'm running Hertz esk 165.5's (100 watts RMS, 300 peak each). Currently off headunit and sound amazing due to their sensitivity (93.5 db), though I can tell they'd like more power when I crank it on bass heavy songs. Going to see if relieving them of the lower frequencies with the sub makes me happy. If not, I'll be throwing a Hertz HDP 4 at them.

The Z is a tiny space, so it really doesn't take much. I have zero desire to add the rears.

Yeah I’ve seen mixed feelings on here regarding the rears. One of the pro guys said more or less they are a preference thing but does nothing to improve the sound stage. Considering this is a tight budget for me I’ve opted to leave them out. In the future if I want to add them it’s a simple amplifier change and 2 speaker wires to be added.

Until then the JL Audio components I picked have a sensitivity rating of 94db’s which is very good and a frequency response of 33hz to 20,000. Plenty of flexibility and power.

As far as the droid units I’ve seen good reviews on the seicane unit but does it sound better quality wise then stock?

I would say it’s missing the functionality of having a backup camera plus a dvr camera. Also I would prefer a screen with smaller bezels. IE bigger screen preferably boarderless.

Edit: oh and it would be nice if it could play CD’s when I want better sound quality.

I have a nice Chinese Android unit.
http://www.the370z.com/audio-video/1...ml#post3539116

Works great the only limitation on my unit is system memory, installing/running too much stuff can slow it down. But it's also 3 years old so that's not too unexpected.

Joying was the best brand at the time and I think they are still pretty good.

Honestly whatever head unit you want. The big two are kenwood and pioneer, sadly alpine is kind of lacking now a days. Try to make sure it has at least 4 Volt pre out, 2 volt is okay but you have a higher risk of getting noise in your signal to your amps.
Me personally I would go kenwood. But then again, with my G I'm going with this baby.

https://www.phoenixautomotiveinc.com...r-infiniti-g37

All audio is subjective. Many people think rear speakers add to their listening enjoyment; some folks don't. If they don't do anything for you and your ears, no need for rear speakers.

I like rear speakers but it ain't my car. :)

:excited::eek::icon14::yum::eekdance:
That’s what I really wanted but only workshop12 has anything close to that and it just seems like it’s not fully figured out yet. I wish I could get something that cool.

What about the other Driod headunits out there any opinions? Sound quality?

I honestly think I would like it but it’s getting 86’ed due to budget.

I've only dealth with a handful of android head unit. Quality from what I've seen is good. I'm going to try and use a toshlink adapter for my unit to go fiber directly to my DAC to allow it to decode the audio signal.

As for rear fill I've pulled it out of almost ever vehicle I've owned sedans and SUV's included.

Your strengthening the case to buy a Seicane android unit due to the following: COST...if I get a Kenwood unit that cost let’s say $500 the cameras that work with that unit cost like $300 + a peace 🤯🤮🤬. I mean I’ll never do it simply out of principle cause those cameras do no warrant that cost. Now if I get a Seicane the endevour is much cheaper not only for the cam’s But also the head unit.

What do you think: https://www.seicane.com/en/android-a...-s166226g#desc

Not that I would do this but they even have a module to connect 4 cameras for a 360 deg view around your car plus another module for blind spot monitoring these guys are quazy...if it would look more factory and the cams would be hidden then I would be all over it but I’m not jerry rigging cams on my doors lol!

Looks good, however it won't fit because of the side flares look at a 2 din or double din. If you can get one with 4 GB of ram go for it, it'll help when you're running multiple programs.

Also you don't have to spend 300 for a reverse camera. The Ryden cameras are cheap and are great quality,

Let us know how that subwoofer is! Might be an option for me to add a bit more bass without sacrificing space. The price is right as well.

Sent from my SM-G955W using Tapatalk

Yeah I e-mailed them asking which radio will work. They aren’t labeled on the website but I know for a fact one fits. YouTuber has one installed.

link to youtube?

anyone see this??
im super excited for it.

i would def consider it over a regular head unit.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHuycbT8rbI

It's just a custom plastic piece for an android tablet and a headunit'ish android launcher.

I would totally go with something like this, just as soon as they come up with a native solution for handsfree calling using a tablet like this.

I'm doing it now, and its a huge pain in the ***. Just working on getting good sound out of the tablet and my rear camera to work has been enough for me to want to throw it all in the trash and buy a standard head unit and be done with it.

It's definitely an integration project.

I wish these new chinese units would come as a 2DIN box with no face and a cable attached 10" or 12" touchscreen to be installed separately.

Really? Other than having to remove/redo the wiring from my Pioneer, the install was extremely simple. For the sound, I have an aftermarket amp (if you don't already have one) and but one of my friends recommended a crossover to completely split the channels; the sound coming from the tablet using the 3.5mm to RCA is terrible. I assumed I would be able to get decent sound using only my amp (Polk DA4000.4) and it was just that: decent. However, there needs to be better separation between the front/sub channels.

I thought they mentioned something about rear camera support sometime in the future, but not sure when. However, for phone integration (as Jayhovah mentioned), they're working on adding that in one of the next updates. Version 3 is supposed to come out this week and they usually have updates every other month give/take.

Ya, coming out of the 3.5 sucked. A lot of ground noise, even with the gains for the highs turned down. No bass compared to my oem unit going to my pioneer sub, and I had those gains cranked all the way up. After ordering a signal processor, I just said screw it and ordered a multimedia headunit to handle the signal processing. This will then give me phone and steering wheel integration along with FM radio (if I ever need it). The receiver has an app to control it, so I can tweak all the settings from the tablet. Only issue I have right now with the backup cam is finding a good stable app. The one everyone recommends doesn’t work on Oreo and the developer abandoned the app. So. The one I have working now launches when i put the car in reverse, but I have to manually close the app to go back to the interface.

Hopefully the upcoming version has the andrino support, as I have my relays all wired up for my demon eyes, vdc controller. I asked for their andrino code, but they said they are holding off releasing it until the new app is stable.

NorthStyle, I have a brand new in box signal processor that just got delivered today if you’re interested. Has front, rear, and sub separation along with bass knob. Bluetooth connectivity with support for Android and Apple. Model is Axxera BEQ25BT. $50.

Is there anything i should buy now to make it easier on my end? i just bought the tablet and will be buying the molds soon. I'd prefer to keep decent sound quality but this ground noise issue i keep hearing about is throwing me off lol.

i was told this should help with the sound quality aspect. https://www.audioquest.com/dacs/dragonfly/dragonfly-red

I bought a PAC ground loop isolator that’s for the RCA connectors, but never got around to installing it. Came with my first Crutchfield order today. I’ve seen on a few other forums that says it helps. When I was running off the factory bose amp, I didn’t have much noise but then again at full volume it was like 1/3 the volume of the stock radio. Once I installed an amp for my fronts is when the noise was amplified. Had perfect grounds, good RCA cables, etc. From what I heard it’s the 3.5 jack that causes the noise. You may be able to go USB audio out and have better luck. I’m going to try that with the headunit I’m putting in tomorrow.

You’ll need 3.5 to RCA cables, and then a Y splitter off those if you’re running into 2 separate amps. If you have a 4/5 channel then you may get away without having to split the signal a second time and just run 1 RCA to your amp. You’ll also the 3.5 to be a 90 degree jack, otherwise you’ll have to trim the plastics.

ANY of the double dins will fit aka (2 din) just make sure they aren't over sized ;).

When I had planned a tablet build a while back, I had planned to use a USB DAC for the audio out instead of the 3.5mm jack.

You all might like this. I emailed Tim from workshop 12/Brainiac and this is the email...

Thanks, however I went with the Hifonics HFXR.

What you need will depend on what system you have? Base, Bose, aftermarket? As for the ground loop interference, I've always used Knukonceptz wires/accessories (including their 3.5 to RCA) and I haven't experienced any of the same issues everyone else has. But, it could be a number of things causing it.

I've been meaning to check out the JoyCon... I'm still in the habit of trying to adjust the volume using the steering controls. However, I haven't found (or really looked hard) at how to wire it.

I've got the sport/touring so Bose system non-nav. Im looking to do a USB Audio out as its much better quality, if thats possible, i hear its finicky with OTG cables charging/data etc.. i know i'll need an amp and i may or may not get a subwoofer.. haven't decided yet

I'm having a wonderful time getting seicane to give me the correct head unit for my car. I will let everyone know once I get a confirmation.

Do you think this will fit? Would we need the Metra kit for a 2 din radio?

https://www.seicane.com/2-din-univer...ntrol-s181015e

Frustrated...I posted a link to a guy that installed a seicane unit in his car but seicane is saying they don’t make one for my car:

Attachment 134489

lol what? Double DIN is universal.

Seicane is only a good option if your head unit is unique in terms of the trim and shape.

For our 370z, our stock head units are pretty simple and square. Plus the dash kits are available if you find theres too much of a gap.

We are lucky that we can pretty much slap any double din head unit into our cars and it will fit.

You can find a better/cheaper alternative if you want a Android HU.

as others have said - you just need the plain 2DIN version. The link the guy posted in the youtube video had a vehicle specific bezel. I imagine he either removed that bezel or linked the wrong one.

I have yet to see a better unit then the seicanes so please share.

To be honest I wasn’t entirely sure if “universal” would work so I was double checking...I had a feeling though.

I’m looking at getting this (cool thing is you can get a usb CD PLAYER option if you want to play CD’s that way you have more screen):

Head Unit Link