iPod ready Car audio

The Bottom Line: The Sony CDX-GT620IP is a value-for-money iPod-compatible car stereo with good usability and decent sound quality.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-out, Audio line-in

The Bottom Line: The MEX-BT5100 is a good all-in-one option for those thinking of investing in a in a decent stereo and a hands-free speakerphone.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-out, Subwoofer output, System components control bus, Remote control

The Bottom Line: The Alpine CDA-9885 combines attractive styling and an easy-to-use music search interface with a host of expandability options, including HD Radio capability. However, those upgrading to HD Radio will have to deal with a clunky module and a hefty price tag.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-out, Subwoofer output, System components control bus

The Bottom Line: The Sony CDX-GT520 is a decent option for those wanting a reasonably priced stereo to play disc-based audio. While it does support HD Radio, it requires the connection of a clunky add-on module, which is almost more trouble than it's worth.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-in, Audio line-out, Subwoofer output, System components control bus

The Bottom Line: Sony's CDX-GT420IP is an affordable means of taking your iPod library on the road. While its basic user interface lacks the search functionality of some other systems, this is a competitively priced and decent sounding entry-level stereo for the digital-audio age.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-in, Audio line-out, IPod docking

The Bottom Line: The Panasonic CQ-C8305U performs the basic functions of a digital-age car stereo well with great audio-tweaking options, intuitive file and folder navigation, and a worthwhile iPod interface. The stereo's full-motion color display adds little to its usability or attractiveness and its Bluetooth is disappointing.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-in

The Bottom Line: The Jensen MP66312i provides an impressive range of media inputs, standard Bluetooth connectivity, and a usable iPod interface. Its low-rent display lets it down, but its impressive number of features is difficult to beat for the price.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player / SD/MMC digital player / USB flash player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, USB, Audio line-in, Audio line-out

The Bottom Line: The JVC KD-PDR30 looks and sounds good, and its standard iPod connectivity will endear it to those looking to take their iTunes on the road. However, its lack of a decent search mechanism for navigating large iPod lists means that it fails one of its primary usability functions.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-in, Audio line-out

The Bottom Line: The JVC KD HDR1 in-car stereo delivers HD Radio and most other digital-audio playback options for a very competitive price.

Specs: Radio / HD radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio / HD radio tuner, CD / MP3 player

The Bottom Line: The Eclipse CD3100 is a car stereo for drivers interested in fine-tuning their in-cabin acoustics. Its digital-audio playback and navigation features are intuitive and user-friendly. Its turn-by-turn navigation feature is not.

Specs: Radio / CD / MP3 player, Radio tuner, CD / MP3 player, Audio line-out, Subwoofer output, System components control bus