Sony and Alpine became leading brands for their high-quality car stereo systems. But Sony vs Alpine car stereo is better in quality and performance?
There are several factors to decide the better car stereo between Sony and Alpine. Sound quality, features, compatibility and price, are common things to consider.
This guide will explain Sony vs alpine car stereo specs, features, conveniences and downsides of both Sony and Alpine car stereos. This discussion would be great to decide on one specific car stereo. So, let’s start!
Contents
Brief History of Sony Car Stereo
Sony started their business mainly with electronic products in 1946 in Tokyo. But later in the twentieth century they produced car stereos for the first time. In the meantime, they have been producing car speakers, subwoofers and amplifiers.
Even Sony improved their production with Bluetooth connectivity, Android integration and advanced sound quality. Sony stereo is compatible with various audio sources like smartphones, USB drives and CDs.
Brief History of Alpine Car Stereo
Alpine car stereo brand was established in 1967 in Tokyo. This brand started its production with car stereos and stereo-related products. However, in 1982, Alpine surprised audio enthusiasts by producing the car stereo with a graphic equalizer.
Another innovation of Alpine is its 7272-model stereo with built-in CD players, produced in 1984. Besides, alpine has produced several advanced navigational systems, speakers and amplifiers. Moreover, this brand upgraded its production with Bluetooth connection, touchscreen display and smartphone integration.
Detailed Comparison on Sony vs Alpine Car Stereo
We have researched both Sony vs Alpine stereo. So, here are the core comparison factors between these stereos.
Sound-quality
Both brands are so well-reputed for high-quality sound systems that we can’t pick a winner here. However, you can taste the tuning alignment of each audio stereo. A pre-tasting can help you to know your preference.
Connectivity
Sony car stereo comes with Bluetooth connectivity and USB port connectivity. Besides, it is compatible to integrate with various Android models like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Similarly, Alpine stereo is designed with multiple connectivity like USB port, Bluetooth and smartphone integration.
User accessibility
Sony car stereo has automatic control features that make it easy to access. Besides, high-quality models have come with touch-controlling screens. A touch-controlling display is far more convenient to navigate.
On the other hand, most of the alpine stereo comes with ergonomic design. But these are praiseworthy for easy-to-access functions. In some models, you will get a touch screen and special interfaces for customization.
Compatibility with other devices
You can prolong the audio system in Sony car stereo because it has a preamp output setting. It is compatible with additional speakers, subwoofers and amplifiers. By contrast, Alpine offers a high-voltage preamp output setting that is amazing for a wide range of audio settings. Here’s who will win: the Alpine.
Features and installation
Sony car stereo features a vibrant display, customizable color schemes and great Resolution. Note that installing a Sony stereo is possible with simple wiring steps. Therefore, beginners can easily install it.
Alpine stereo is featured on a larger touchscreen display and quick responsive functions. Generally, alpine stereo has an easy installation guide with a user manual. So, installation is easier for beginners.
Reputation
Sony is mostly reputed for producing a wide range of electronic products. As well as they are reliable to the customer for excellent customer support. But Alpine is mostly reputed for producing the best car audio system. This brand becomes reliable in the automotive industry.
Price
You will get both budget-friendly and expensive models in the Sony brand. But most of the stereo of Alpine brands are expensive because they are dedicated to making car stereos.
Sony vs Alpine Stereo: Which Is Better?
We already know that Sony and Alpine are similar in quality and performance. Since there is no major difference between them, it isn’t easy to declare one as the winner. But there are some subtleties in them. It would be better to analyze their features and convenience precisely.
But if you consider the budget, then Sony would be good because they have affordable and expensive models. On the other hand, alpine offers fairly expensive models.
Read More: What is the difference between Kenwood and Alpine car stereo.
What Is the Best Sony Car Audio Unit?
Since Sony car stereos are available in both affordable and pricy budgets so we are describing two models.
Sony XAV-9500ES (high-quality but expensive)
Features
- Sony XAV-9500ES comes with a 10.1″ larger and HD anti-glare touchscreen.
- The four-way adjustable mounting system makes installation easier.
- It has a digital multimedia receiver.
- High-resolution audio quality is impressive for various types of music.
- It has a wireless LDAC audio system with maximum Resolution.
- wireless compatibility for Apple CarPlay and wired/wireless compatibility for Android.
Sony MEX-N5300BT (medium quality and affordable)
Features
- It offers dual-zone and detachable face.
- You will get a variable color illumination with this system.
- It offers Bluetooth connectivity from dual phone and hands-free calling.
- It is possible to use with SiriusXM satellite radio tuner.
What Is the Best Alpine Car Stereo Unit?
Although most of the alpine models are expensive, there are few affordable models. So, let’s know about the most expensive and affordable Alpine model.
Alpine Halo9 iLX-F409 (Expensive)
Features
- It has come with a Digital multimedia receiver.
- 9″ capacitive touchscreen is easy to navigate and control.
- It has a vertical mounting system and unique viewing angles.
- It has built-in Bluetooth that is compatible with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite.
Alpine ilx-w650 (relatively affordable)
Features
- It has a digital media receiver.
- Alpine ilx-w650 is designed with shallow-mount.
- It has a touchscreen controlling display.
- Compatible with CarPlay and Android Auto.
- An automatic controlling system with voice.
Sony vs Alpine Car Stereo Reddit
As per the Reddit user experience, alpine and Sony are reliable stereos. However, some users have said Alpine is superior to Sony because of its quality and bigger display. On the other hand, some users have said Sony is a better choice because Alpine is expensive. Moreover, some users explained their experience about alpine and pioneer car stereo too and they prefer to purchase alpine.
Final Words
We hope you understand the comparison between Sony vs alpine car stereos. Both car stereos become reliable with their high-quality features. But there are some precise differences between them. So, consider the features and conveniences of each stereo before choosing one.
