Stereo FAQS

In-Dash Receivers

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where can I get a used stereo cheap?

A: Try your local salvage yard for a good aftermarket radio. Salvage yard's can get a good price for a factory stereo, but aftermarket stereos aren't as much of a demand with auto salvage. Usually you'll find aftermarket radios on a shelf for an inexpensive price. You can also find amplifiers occasionally as well.

Q: Can my factory speakers handle a high-powered head unit?

A: Your factory speakers should have no problem at all handling the output from one of our high-powered in-dash units. However, since speaker performance is so critical to listening enjoyment, we do recommend adding quality, aftermarket speakers as soon as you can, so that you can really take advantage of the rich sound your new receiver has to offer.

Q: How much power does my factory system have?

A: While we don't have exact power ratings for the systems in specific vehicles, we can tell you that factory systems have traditionally been lower power units of about 3 to 5 watts RMS (continuous) power. In recent years, however, we have seen more and more higher-powered factory stereos.

Bear in mind that, for example, the 100-watt factory system described by your car dealer probably consists of 4 channels of 25 watts peak power. This translates to roughly 10 watts RMS (continuous) watts x 4 substantial power, but a far cry from the power ratings of most current aftermarket receivers.

But even if your factory system seems relatively powerful, there are still benefits to going with an aftermarket head unit. These advantages typically include improved FM reception, easier (and less expensive) integration with equipment such as disc changers and amplifiers, and the enhanced reliability you can expect from a recognized audio brand name.

Q: How can I be sure the radio I want will fit into my dash?

A: You can count on Crutchfield to have stereo fit information for just about every car, truck and van on the road today. Our Research and Development department has gathered data on over 5,750 vehicles, and your car or truck is probably one of them.

When you call to place an order we check our one-of-a-kind installation database to make sure what you want will fit. When you're visiting our website, you even get to check this info yourself. And when you place your order, your stereo will ship with a FREE installation kit (if your vehicle needs one), a FREE wiring harness, and even FREE step-by-step instructions for your vehicle.

Q: Can I purchase an in-dash cassette and CD player in the same unit?

A: Yes, you can. We now offer several receivers that give you the versatility you've been asking for cassette and CD in one, easy-fit in-dash unit. The Pioneer FH-P8800, and the JVC KW-XC770 are designed to fit in a 4-inch tall, double-DIN opening (size DD). The Jensen CM715K is a perfect fit for the GM/Chrysler DIN-and-a-half (3-inch tall) dash opening (size CG). Sanyo now offers CD and cassette in their DIN-size (2-inch tall) EXCD-1000 receiver.

And even if your dash can't accommodate a double-DIN (DD) or GM/Chrysler-size (CG) head unit, you can still can enjoy CDs and tapes in the same vehicle. The compact disc changers and changer controlling receivers you'll find on our site give you instant access to playback of a single tape and multiple CDs, all from a perfectly matched package that we can help you install yourself.

Thousands of Crutchfield customers who have selected this option now enjoy a great-sounding, long-playing system with the added advantage of the CD changer being installed safely out of sight.

Q: How difficult is it to install a new radio?

A: Helping you install your own gear is our specialty. Over the twenty-five years we've been in business, Crutchfield has helped hundreds of thousands of first-time installers put a new radio in their dash, and get the job done right.

With your new radio, you'll receive our exclusive FREE step-by-step instructions for your vehicle, along with a FREE wiring harness that lets you plug right into your factory wiring, as well as a FREE installation kit if your vehicle needs one.

Plus, you're able to take advantage of our friendly, toll-free technical support, seven days a week, sixteen hours a day. It's like having a pro looking over your shoulder while you work! For some more install information visit the Installing an in-dash receiver page on this site.

Q: What's the best way to connect the free Crutchfield wiring harness to my new receiver's harness?

A: The most important factor here is getting a tight connection that won't come loose over time. Simply twisting the wires together and taping them with electrician's tape won't give you a strong connection. We recommend either soldering or crimping wires together. Neither of these methods is very difficult, and both will ensure a strong bond between the wires and a clean signal path to your speakers. You'll find soldering kits along with crimp tools and connectors in the installation tools section of our online Accessories Store.

Resource - Crutchfield