Over the summer, Sony announced that they were debuting their own after-market head unit that would be compatible with Android Auto. Their offering isn’t the cheapest model out there (that still belongs to JBL with their Legend CP100), but it does offer some impressive audio. That’s something that Sony is known for, so it can’t be too surprising, really. The Sony XAV-AX100 is available for just $499 right now on Amazon. It does also have support for Apple’s CarPlay, in addition to Android Auto. So whether you have an iPhone or an Android smartphone, you’ll be able to use it with the Sony XAV-AX100.
Head units for Android Auto typically cost around $800 or more, without factoring in the price for actually getting it installed into your car. Which can typically cost you another couple hundred or more, depending on the car, and how much labor is needed to get the head unit installed in the car. Like the Sony XAV-AX100, these other head units do also offer up HD radio, satellite radio and much more. Pioneer, JVC/Kenwood and JBL all have options available. However if you are an audiophile, the Sony XAV-AX100 is a much better option.
It does feature a dynamic reality amp, as well as four 55-watt speakers, which can make any existing sound system impressive. The display is a bit smaller, around 6.4-inches than the 7 or 8-inch models offered by other head unit makers right now. The display is also a resistive touch screen, which is similar to the other offerings out there.
For those that are unaware, Android Auto allows you to plug in your phone and basically use your phone on the dashboard, for Google Maps for navigation, as well as streaming music through Spotify, Google Play Music, and many other music streaming services. Android Auto is great because it offers up the same interface in the car as it would on the actual smartphone. You can also take care of your messages, and make and receive phone calls without touching your phone. This way you can focus on the road when driving, instead of looking down at your phone.
Buy the Sony XAV-AX100 Head Unit
