6 Best Alpine Head Units In 2023 – Complete Buying Guide

Looking for the best Alpine head units? There are a lot of options when it comes to Alpine head units, but which one is right for you?

Alpine is one of the world’s best brands when it comes to high-end car audio. And their head units are no exception. An Alpine head unit is a type of amplifier that is typically used in cars but can be used in other vehicles as well. The head units are usually designed to fit into the dashboard of your vehicle. There are so many head units to choose from – but not all of them are the same. And the ones that are, are often very expensive.

Alpine has been around since the 1980s, and they have become one of the top manufacturers of car stereos. They’ve made a name for themselves by manufacturing some of the best car audio systems available today. But did you know that Alpine also makes head units for the home? Well, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up the best alpine head units to help you enjoy your favorite music even louder.

So if you are looking for a great head unit to add to your car, here are the best options to consider. We’ve done the research and compiled a list of some of the best Alpine head units in the market today. These are great for every type of music lover, from casual to hardcore audiophiles.

Image Product Feature Price
BEST FOR UNDER BUDGET
Alpine CDE-172BT Bluetooth Receiver
The Alpine CDE-172BT is equipped with a 3-band parametric equalizer, Premium 24-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), high- and low-pass filters with subwoofer level control, and 3-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front, 4-volt rear, and subwoofer). Check On Amazon
HIGHLY RATED
Alpine iLX-W650 7″ Mech-Less Receiver Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
The iLX-W650 is a great all-around receiver that will work well for a wide variety of different audio setups. This receiver is designed to work with other Alpine products and even other brands, so it’s pretty versatile. Check On Amazon
VALUE FOR MONEY
Alpine UTE-73BT Advanced Bluetooth Mech-Less Digital Media Receiver
The Alpine UTE-73BT is a high-performance, high-quality receiver that plays a variety of files, whether streamed from a phone, on a digital player, from your Pandora account, or even from a USB drive Check On Amazon
BEST FOR BUDGET
Alpine CDE-HD149BT Single-Din Bluetooth Car Stereo with HD Radio
If you’re looking for a great car stereo system with Bluetooth capabilities, then the Alpine CDE-HD149BT is a good choice. Check On Amazon
VALUE FOR MONEY
Alpine iLX-407 Shallow Chassis 7 Inch Multimedia Receiver with Apple Carplay
With its sleek design and easy-to-use interface, the Alpine iLX-407 is an attractive choice for those looking for a multimedia receiver that fits comfortably in a compact vehicle. Check On Amazon
BEST CHOICE FOR MONEY
Alpine iLX-F309 HALO 9 9″ AM/FM/audio/video Receiver
The Alpine iLX-F309 is a perfect device for those who want a reliable, easy-to-use solution that provides an excellent user experience, no matter what vehicle they own. Check On Amazon

6 Best Alpine Head Units in 2023

If you have a digital audio amplifier and speakers, you might want to invest in a better head unit. A good head unit is a powerful tool that helps you get the most out of your music collection.

If you’re looking for a great-sounding unit that fits well into your car, we’ve got you covered. We’ve researched and compiled a list of the best Alpine head units available today, and we’ve got one for every budget.

1. Alpine CDE-172BT Bluetooth Receiver

Best Alpine Head Units

One of the best alpine head units The CDE-172BT is a great choice if you’re looking for a compact receiver to add Bluetooth functionality to your existing car audio system. It’s equipped with all of the features that you could need, including Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, Pandora Internet radio control with iPhone and Android, built-in iPod, iPhone, and iPad control, and App Direct mode for iPhone, Siri Eyes Free Control.

The Alpine CDE-172BT is equipped with a 3-band parametric equalizer, Premium 24-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC), high- and low-pass filters with subwoofer level control, and 3-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front, 4-volt rear, and subwoofer).

The USB port can play music files loaded onto a USB thumb drive or a USB flash drive. You can also use an iPod, iPhone, or iPad to control the CDE-172BT, which means that you can play music from any device wirelessly. 

The CDE-172BT is compatible with the SiriusXM satellite radio tuner, so you can listen to the FM band while driving. You can also control Pandora’s Internet radio and stream music from your smartphone using the Bluetooth connection. The CDE-172BT offers built-in Android AOA control and charging of select Android devices using the USB connection.  

The CDE-172BT is a great choice if you want to add Bluetooth functionality to your existing car audio system. If you’re looking for a compact receiver, the CDE-172BT is an excellent option. It has an attractive price tag, a compact form factor, and all of the features that you could ever want in a compact receiver.

Pros
  • App Direct mode for iPhone lets you access and control your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad using the CDE-172BT.
  • It’s easy to set up and use, and it offers all of the features that you could want in a compact receiver.
  • The CDE-172BT has a built-in AM/FM tuner and 1-line high-contrast LCD with variable color illumination.
Cons
  • It’s a bit pricey for a compact receiver.
  • The remote control is a bit bulky.

2. Alpine iLX-W650 7″ Mech-Less Receiver Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Best Alpine Head Units

The iLX-W650 is a great all-around receiver that will work well for a wide variety of different audio setups. This receiver is designed to work with other Alpine products and even other brands, so it’s pretty versatile.

The touchscreen control panel is easy to use and comes with a variety of useful features. The buttons and dials are responsive and the control panel has a nice layout. It can be used to play your music or navigate through your phone’s apps, and it even includes a USB port to charge your devices.

There are also some very cool apps for your smartphone, like Spotify and Pandora. If you’re looking for a digital multimedia receiver that works well with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, then this is a great option. The buttons are responsive and the touchscreen is easy to use, so you can access your music apps with ease.

The Alpine iLX-W650 has a USB port that lets you connect external storage devices like thumb drives and memory cards. You can also plug in a wired headset or auxiliary input for better sound quality. The iLX-W650 also has a rear USB port, so you can connect any device to it.

So if you’re looking for a receiver that can play a wide variety of audio sources and can be controlled using your phone or other devices, then this is a great option.

Pros
  • The iLX-W650 will also pair with an Alpine power pack amplifier (coming soon) and that will greatly enhance the audio quality.
  • Easy to use touchscreen control panel.
  • Comes with a variety of useful apps.
Cons
  • The power supply is small and only holds enough power for a short period.
  • The battery is non-replaceable, so you can’t charge it.
  • The sound quality isn’t great.

3. Alpine UTE-73BT Advanced Bluetooth Mech-Less Digital Media Receiver

Best Alpine Head Units

The Alpine UTE-73BT is a high-performance, high-quality receiver that plays a variety of files, whether streamed from a phone, on a digital player, from your Pandora account, or even from a USB drive. It has a 24-Bit DAC, 3-band parametric EQ, and high pass/low pass crossover, which makes it easy to tweak the sound to your liking.

It is one of the best digital media receivers on the market. It’s great for streaming music from a variety of digital sources including digital players, USB drives, and even your smartphone. It’s also great for making phone calls, thanks to its advanced Bluetooth connectivity, and it has a high-contrast display that makes listening to your music much easier.

The UTE-73BT supports FLAC files, so you can play music files in lossless quality and enjoy your music files without losing any data. The 24-bit DAC ensures that you get the best sound quality possible, and the 3-band parametric EQ and high/low pass crossover lets you fine-tune the sound to your liking.

This digital media receiver is also equipped with Android AOA, which provides better sound quality compared to basic Bluetooth streaming.

So if you’re looking for a great-sounding, easy-to-use digital media player, then look no further than the Alpine UTE-73BT. It’ll make you feel satisfied, relaxed, and confident in your investment, and reduce your energy costs too.

Pros
  • Has Android AOA for better sound quality.
  • Easy to pair with Bluetooth devices.
  • You can easily stream music from a variety of digital sources, including USB drives, Bluetooth devices, and even your smartphone.
Cons
  • Some users have complained that the display is a little too dark.
  • It can be a little noisy when connected to a Bluetooth device.

4. Alpine CDE-HD149BT Single-Din Bluetooth Car Stereo with HD Radio

Best Alpine Head Units

If you’re looking for a great car stereo system with Bluetooth capabilities, then the Alpine CDE-HD149BT is one of the best alpine head units. It’s a single-DIN receiver with a detachable faceplate that allows for easy installation and removal. It has a built-in subwoofer preamp that’s perfect for those who want to add a little bass to their music.

The Alpine CDE-HD149BT has a lot of features for your vehicle, including an auxiliary input jack for smartphones and tablets, a USB input for connecting your iPhone or iPod, an FM tuner, AM/FM radio, and RDS tuner, and more. You can use it to stream audio from your phone or tablet too. It also has an RCA output for the front speakers, and you can connect the subwoofer using the included RUE-4202 accessory.

It has a built-in equalizer and 9-band parametric equalizer so you can customize the sound of your music. You can also switch between presets for easy listening. The built-in microphone allows you to answer calls and navigate your car with ease, and you can even use this as a hands-free speakerphone with your phone or tablet.

You can listen to your favorite CDs, MP3s, or even playback of your USB thumb drive. The Alpine CDE-HD149BT supports CD-R and CD-RW discs, so you can use them to listen to your music collection.

You can also download the free Music Manager app for iOS or Android to help you organize your music, and it’s compatible with your iPhone or iPod.

The Alpine CDE-HD149BT is a good choice for those who want a reliable car stereo that’s easy to install and remove, and it’s great for listening to your favorite music.

Pros
  • Compatible with iPhone, iPod, and Android devices.
  • Supports CD-R and CD-RW discs.
  • Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free speakerphone.
  • 9-band parametric equalizer.
  • Equalizer and parametric equalizer presets.
Cons
  • It has a lower sound quality than some other car stereos.
  • The installation instructions are hard to follow.

5. Alpine iLX-407 Shallow Chassis 7 Inch Multimedia Receiver with Apple Carplay

Best Alpine Head Units

With its sleek design and easy-to-use interface, the Alpine iLX-407 is an attractive choice for those looking for a multimedia receiver that fits comfortably in a compact vehicle.

It comes with the KTA-200M Mono Power Pack Amplifier, which offers 4 true 4V preamp outputs that can be used for any power amplifier you want. It also has the ability to provide a stereo signal to the KTA-450 4-channel amplifier, which allows for greater flexibility and more powerful sound.

The iLX-407 has a five-band graphic equalizer and six-channel time correction tool to help you get the most out of your music. Drag-and-drop motions with your finger allow you to add, remove, or move over 29 available widgets on the screen.

It has a built-in Bluetooth receiver that connects to your phone and has a range of up to 30 feet. You can even use it as a speakerphone to make and receive calls hands-free.

The iLX-407 also supports Android Auto, so you can access Google Assistant to play your favorite music, get driving directions to your destination, interact with smart home devices, and reply to text messages without having to take your eyes off the road.

The Alpine iLX-407 is a great choice for those who want to add a little bit of audio fun to their vehicles. So if you’re looking for a compact multimedia receiver that fits into a small space, then check out the Alpine iLX-407 this is the best alpine head units.

Pros
  • It’s compatible with KTA-450 4-channel amplifiers and KTA-200M Mono Power Pack Amplifiers.
  • The iLX-407 has three sets of true 4V preamp outputs so you can add additional amplifiers if you want more power.
  • 5 band graphic equalizer and 6 channel time correction tool.
  • Bluetooth receiver that connects to your phone and has a range of up to 30 feet.
Cons
  • Does not have a rear-view camera.
  • Not as powerful as other receivers.

6. Alpine iLX-F309 HALO 9 9″ AM/FM/audio/video Receiver

Best Alpine Head Units

The Alpine iLX-F309 is a perfect device for those who want a reliable, easy-to-use solution that provides an excellent user experience, no matter what vehicle they own.

The iLX-F309 comes from Alpine Electronics, which is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of automotive audio and video products. It’s also known for creating some of the most iconic brands in the industry, including JVC, Pioneer, Kenwood, and more.

This AM/FM/audio/video receiver is a 9-inch touch screen with Bluetooth streaming, HD Radio tuner, and SiriusXM Ready. It uses a 1-DIN chassis for installation but the screen “hovers” in front of the vehicle’s dash, allowing the oversize screen to be added to a variety of vehicles without the need for custom installation.

It’s built to last and offers a long-lasting battery life. It comes with the ability to connect to a variety of devices through Bluetooth and audio streaming. It also has a suite of features to ensure a reliable connection to any vehicle.

The screen is a WVGA touch screen, so you can navigate through your favorite apps and games. The iLX-F309 also features a 1-DIN chassis that allows it to be installed in a variety of vehicles. It’s also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The iLX-F309 has a suite of entertainment features. Its mech-less design is suited for smartphone compatibility through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with the Google Assistant. The iLX-F309 is perfect for those who want a reliable, easy-to-use solution that provides an excellent user experience, no matter what vehicle they own. It’s also easy to install and maintain and can be used for years to come.

Pros
    Cons

      Buying Guide – Best Alpine Head Units

      A good headset can make a huge difference in your overall sound quality. But which one is right for you? There are a lot of options out there – some even with hundreds of reviews and ratings. And they all look great on paper.

      Alpine head units are great for those who want to add some more features to their car audio system but don’t want to spend a fortune on the equipment. They are often less expensive than Alpine receivers, and they offer a wide variety of features that you can install in your vehicle. 

      But how do you know which one is the right one for you? That’s why we constructed an extensive buying guide for the best Alpine head units on the market today. It covers all the things you’ll need to know to find the best Alpine head unit.

      Things To Consider Before Purchasing The Best Alpine Head Units

      Head units are the heart of your sound system, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for before you buy. Here are some of the most common questions you’ll likely have when buying a head unit for your car.

      What Type Are You Looking For?

      There are two types of head units: wired and wireless. Wired head units typically use a USB or AUX connection to connect to your audio source. Wireless head units are more popular because they don’t require a physical connection and can be easily moved from car to car. 

      However, they tend to be more expensive, require more space, and don’t offer as much control over your volume level or bass response. When it comes to head units, there are two major categories you’ll see on the market: amp-integrated and separate.

      The first category is the amp-integrated model, which integrates an amplifier with a head unit. These are more expensive than their separate counterparts, but they have several advantages over a separate head unit.

      First of all, they usually offer higher-quality materials, which will make them last longer. Also, they offer better volume control, as they don’t require an external amplifier. The downside to this style of the head unit is that it’s typically not compatible with aftermarket subwoofers.

      Separate models are what we’ll be discussing in this guide. They’re usually less expensive than their integrated counterparts, and some even come with a subwoofer pre-installed. These are great for those who are looking to build a custom system or simply want a little more volume.

      If you’re looking for a head unit for your Alpine stereo, you’ll need to consider the size, type, durability, range, resolution, and volume. Here’s what you need to know about each of these.

      Wired vs. Wireless

      You’ll need to decide whether you want a wired or wireless head unit based on the number of speakers you plan on adding to your sound system. If you have a single-speaker system, you won’t need a wireless head unit. If you’re looking at adding a second speaker, a wired model is probably the way to go.

      Consider the Size

      You may be wondering why the size of a head unit matters so much. After all, most people can fit in a head unit that’s too small. The answer is that the size of your head unit will determine how loud it can play. You can’t expect to get the same volume level from a smaller head unit as you can from a larger one. Also, if you have a smaller head unit, it will be harder to control volume levels using a remote.

      The good news is that there are head units out there that are designed for smaller speakers. For instance, if you have an Alpine 4-channel speaker system, you’ll probably want to look into a head unit that has at least four inputs.

      Speaker Design

      There are many different types of speaker designs available, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for before you start shopping. For example, some people prefer a more open design with a wide dispersion pattern, while others prefer a more closed design that is focused and more powerful.

      Noise Level

      You may be wondering if there are any differences in noise levels between different speaker models. In general, most speakers fall into one of two categories:

      The first category is those that produce less noise, which usually has a wider dispersion pattern. They’re often smaller and have a closed design. The second category is those that produce more noise, which usually has a narrower dispersion pattern. These speakers are typically larger and produce a more powerful sound.

      Durability

      When you’re building a custom system, you want to make sure that your components last as long as possible. That means you’ll want to choose a head unit that has a long warranty. You should also look into how the manufacturer handles their products. Does the company stand behind its products? Do they offer a warranty on the head unit itself? Is the head unit covered by a one-year warranty?

      The warranty on your speakers is important, so make sure you choose a pair that has a long warranty. If a manufacturer has a reputation for providing good customer service, it’s also important to consider this when buying.

      Power Requirements

      When you’re choosing speakers, you’ll want to make sure they have the right amount of power for your system. For example, if you’re using a subwoofer, you’ll want to make sure your speakers can handle the extra power.

      Input Connections

      The type of input you connect your head unit to also affects your decision. If you plan on connecting your head unit to your audio source via AUX, you’ll likely be limited to using the wired option. If you plan on using Bluetooth, you can use a wireless head unit.

      Consider Your Budget And The Types Of Music You Play

      If you want to enjoy your music through your car’s speakers, it’s important to consider your budget. If you’re looking at spending less than $100, you’ll probably want to stick with a single-speaker setup. If you’re planning on spending more than $100, you’ll probably want a five-speaker setup.

      Consider The Number Of Speakers

      The number of speakers you add to your sound system will also affect your choice. If you have a single-speaker system, you may not need a head unit. If you have a five-speaker setup, you’ll probably want a head unit that offers Bluetooth streaming, a USB connection, and a subwoofer. If you’re looking at a six-speaker setup, you’ll want a head unit with Bluetooth streaming and USB connections.

      Consider Your Budget

      When it comes to home audio systems, you may be wondering how much you can spend and still get quality speakers. After all, you don’t want to end up spending too much and regretting the purchase later.

      Look For Bonus Features That Excite You

      You’ll want to consider what features excite you when choosing a head unit. If you’re looking for a unit that offers a large selection of songs and playlists, you’ll want to consider a unit that offers Bluetooth streaming and USB connections. If you’re looking for a unit that offers Bluetooth streaming and subwoofer capabilities, you’ll want to look for a unit with a USB connection.

      Frequently Asked Questions – Best Alpine Head Units

      Which is the best Alpine double DIN head unit?

      Alpine’s CDE-172BT is a great choice if you want a simple yet effective solution to wirelessly connect your speakers and headphones to your mobile devices, computers, and TV. It works with all popular audio formats like MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC, and AIFF, and it also supports AirPlay and DLNA streaming, so you can stream music from any device to your home entertainment system. 

      What’s better – Alpine or Pioneer?

      Alpine and Pioneer are two of the best brands in audio electronics and home entertainment systems, but they both have their pros and cons. Both offer great performance and are affordable and easy to set up. If you’re looking for a quality audio system, then we recommend going with either one of these.

      Are aftermarket head units worth it?

      Aftermarket head units are definitely worth it, but only if you don’t have a stock unit. It’s not necessary to spend thousands of dollars on an aftermarket head unit, but you should at least get one that has all the basic features like Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and voice control. Some models also include a touch screen, while others come with a steering wheel interface.
      If you don’t have a stock unit, then you should consider buying a universal remote instead. These allow you to control your car’s audio system, lights, and many other devices from a single remote. 

      Do head units improve sound quality?

      No, they don’t. Head units only serve as an interface between your stereo and the speakers in your car. They don’t improve the sound quality of the music you play. They usually introduce unwanted noise and distortion. But if you want to enjoy high-quality sound, you would need an external speaker system or even a subwoofer.

      Does changing factory speakers make a difference?

      Yes, they do. Factory speakers are designed to perform well in a certain range of frequencies, and you may notice a difference when you change them out for better ones. In general, high-quality drivers will give you better sound quality, but they won’t necessarily affect the sound of your car.

      Wrapping Up

      Alpine head units are a good choice for an audio system. They come in a variety of models, and some have an extensive collection of virtual instruments and samples to enhance your music experience. They allow you to connect all of the speakers to create a cohesive, unified sound system.

      After you’ve considered the options available, you’ll be able to choose the head unit that’s right for you. If you’re looking for a unit that offers a large selection of songs and playlists, you’ll want to consider a unit that offers Bluetooth streaming and USB connections. If you’re looking for a unit that offers Bluetooth streaming and subwoofer capabilities, you’ll want to look for a unit with a USB connection.

      There are many things to consider when choosing a head unit. Make sure you take the time to do some research and find a unit that’s right for you. Hopefully, this article on “Best Alpine Head Units” addressed all your queries. Do you have any questions or comments about Alpine car stereos? Let us know in the comments section below.

      Thanks for reading!

      William R. Keen