Wow, just when you think you've found a headunit that is perfect, what happens instead? You read some reviews that are written after the user owned it for a short amount of time, and then you discover the problems.
Is there an Android HU that gets good FM/AM reception? Doesn't need to be rebooted? Won't disappoint? I previously got burned on a cheaper model and don't want to repeat that again. Hell - I could have just gotten a Kenwood and avoided all the headache and a $195 install job.
Hi,
I think that depends on your definition of "problems". My definition of a real problem is when there is no solotion on xda developers
OK, first I would recommend that you buy a head unit that was made for your car brand and model if available. I own a 2013 Skoda Rapid (similar to VW Polo / Golf, no "dirty" jokes please lol) and bought a VW specific model ("Autopumpkin" (reseller) 2 DIN for VW, RK3066 processor with Android 4.4.4 @ 800x480px, firmware is KLD2).
Installation: Plug in the quad lock CAN bus and the head unit was ready. Nothing else to do.
AM/FM:
In some cases, your car antenna needs +12V power to work properly. My head unit has a "phantom power adapter" (don't know if this is the right word in english). If you don't connect +12V to antenna, the reception is awful, I only received 4 stations with poor quality. Once the pantom power was connected (in my special case, I also needed a FAKRA adapter to connect the head unit with the car antenna since the plugs from the head unit didn't fit in the car connector), I received 18 stations (more can't be saved) on 88-95MHz (band goes from 88-108 here) using auto scan mode.
"Doesn't need to be rebooted":
I don't know exactly what you mean, would you like to specify that? The head unit can't be always on due to the high power consumption which would kill the battery very fast. Boot time is about 20-30 seconds but it remains about 5 minutes in standby if you pull out the ignition key.
Sound quality:
If sound quality is as important for you as for me, you MAYBE have a problem with those cheap head units but that also depends on what you like to do and to what kind of music you do listen.
On FM, sound quality doesn't matter for me because I use FM only for traffic announcements and news / documentary). The built in EQ is not the best one, at first I was thinking about to send the unit back because of the bad quality. After some days, I tried Poweramp with it's EQ and the difference was HUGE. Sounds better that the original car radio. Later, I tried Viper4Android (EQ app) since the Poweramp EQ only works for Poweramp and I thoght better radio sound quality would not be bad, but AFAIK AM/FM (and Bluetooth) sound output is not processed in Android what means only the build in EQ can influence the sound quality of that parts.
Traffic announcement (TA):
But one thing about TA feature does really drives me crazy: If you have enabled TA and the radio app detects traffic announcements (what happens also if the radio is in "background" respectively not explicit opened), a "modal popup" appears and you can't do anything (you can't skip TA or switch to another app) but vol up / down or disable TA with the "Close" button at all what means that you have to go to the radio app and enable TA again manually.
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth works much better than expected. If I get into the car in the morning, my phone (Sony Xperia Z2 with stock rom) connects with the head unit in seconds. If I press the "Play" button in the head unit's bluetooth app, it almost instantly continues playing my Spotify playlist from the phone (Spotify app doesn't work on my head unit, don't know why...).
3G / Wifi:
About 3G: Sometimes the HU loses connection because the power supplied by the USB ports is not enough. In that case, I have to power off and on the unit again (but "soft" reboot, done in seconds). Wifi (if you use your smartphone as hotspot with teathering) does work very well but not on distances over approx. 10 meters.
About GPS:
The GPS signal fixes very, VERY fast (2-5 seconds, but thats maybe because Android fixes the signal at boot time) and the supplied navigation app (iGO Primo) can calculate a route from south germany to a random forrest in Poland (I tapped on a random place on the map) approximately 1500km away in less than 10 seconds.
Dual way CAN bus:
Does work with my car, I can control radio stations via the buttons of my on-board computer / MFD (Multi Function Display as called by VW, my car doesn't have SWC) and the MFD shows the station frequency. I can also control the Media Player App (next / prev track, not volume), but only the built in one, not Poweramp.
Conclusion: If there is a HU for your specific brand / model, you should not have as much trouble as if you buy a generic one, especially with installation. You should have at least some basic Android, car and technical knowledge and (most important) the will to play around with your device, try out new apps, firmwares and roms, play with the settings etc... If you want a real plug and play solution, you maybe have to pay 1000€ / $ +. You get what you pay for
I hope my reply was helpful.
Nice Text. So it is.
hippelsepp said:
I hope my reply was helpful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It was, thank you. Which HU do you use?
My question is: Is there an American/Japanese/Anywhere else head unit that can do as much as these Chinese head units??
Related
Hi all. I have a 2011 Hyundai Accent that used to run a HuiFei KGL4 Hyundai-specific 7" unit. It's been one rollercoaster ride with that unit, having to deal with the following:
1) Underpowered USB ports (had to solder a voltage step-down converter to amp it up for it to work properly)
2) The latest ROM forces me to wait 30 seconds for the unit to shut down after turning off ignition, otherwise my PKE car alarm won't trigger as all doors are generally closed within that time frame because I've already stepped out of the car. Funny piece is there's no way out of this even if I go back to an older software, or use an MCU that doesn't support sleep
3) Weak FM radio
After messing real bad with #3 above, killing one channel off of my FM radio (only right channel is working now) after breaking the electronic links for one of the caps needed, I decided it's time to let go. Not to mention that the reseller that I've brought it from is no longer responding when it comes to asking for replacement parts and Kai Ge Le doesn't sell parts from products that weren't directly bought from them. Malaysk' great ROM helped me get through the day for a while, but hey, when you want a fully working product, you gotta move some time right?
The next dilemma was: should I go with Joying or any other HuiFei-based Android radio and potentially deal with the same thing? Then I thought... man, it's time to accept I'm not too good with soldering and I can't risk messing another brand new radio just for dealing with the same thing.
Long-story short, I went with a not so known MCU / manufacturer / reseller combo this time around for hopes I'd get different results. It may be a bit of a challenge to get support from the community granted none of my searches yielded any results for the MCU the device is using, but man... with how the ROM of this new unit working fluidly as it is, I'm finally content.
Some distinct differences with HuiFei:
1) Boot-up time. Before upgrading my KGL4 to RK3188, boot-up time was 30 seconds. When I upgraded to RK3188 roughly ~15 seconds. In this unit? I don't even notice waiting for boot. It properly turns off USB connected devices so my battery does not get drained- tried for 5 days now and has been consistently fine.
2) Next / Previous controls. I did not need to install Car Service for Next / Previous to be consistent on non-stock apps (Radio, Music, Video apps). If I press next or previous in my steering wheel on, say, Spotify or PCRadio, the behavior is the same. It goes to the next / previous track as expected, with no additional apps or configuration needed.
3) RADIO - I can't emphasize this enough. In days where I just want to use the radio instead of songs from streaming apps, man, this unit delivers! It subdues the static / hisses well, and clearly picks up the same radio stations that I used to have in my car's factory radio that the KGL4 one struggled to pick-up.
4) Bluetooth function - I was never able to get my KGL4 unit to pair with my OBD2 device, no matter how many times I've back-read in the different threads. In this new unit, it was able to detect and pair with it the first time I tried! The plus part is that the Bluetooth config of this new unit allows you to enter the pair code for devices that requires it - at least on this one I'm sure the HuiFei units cannot prompt for the pairing code of the other device.
5) Support for external hard drives. I was unable to connect a 500GB external drive in my KGL4 before until I did the USB mod. For this new unit, it supports it right off the bat. No mods necessary.
6) There's an actual WIFI antenna!
Another plus for me is the screen size upgrade. The new device has 9" of real-estate. I did lose DVD functionality and potentially not have the option to update the software to 5.1 (runs on 4.4), but I can live with those. If anyone's familiar or has the same MCU as mine, or shares the same software build, let me know. Maybe that will be a good reference for anyone who'd potentially buy units from them. In the meantime, TC Car Audio has a store in AE if you want to inquire (Store ID 1360064). Looks like they also have a couple of 5.1 devices, just not sure if it shares the same MCU / ROM combo.
DISCLAIMER: I do not work for TC car audio. Just passing along the positive experience I have with their product, and hoping to help others see that there are better options out there beyond the more known brands.
MCU: 2016-04-25 10:38:12 KEQ_60_C6R_7706_5006_CAN(DaZhongWC)_Newlap
jrgalang said:
2) Next / Previous controls. I did not need to install Car Service for Next / Previous to be consistent on non-stock apps (Radio, Music, Video apps). If I press next or previous in my steering wheel on, say, Spotify or PCRadio, the behavior is the same. It goes to the next / previous track as expected, with no additional apps or configuration needed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm more interested in this part. I wonder why this works on your unit, but not the majority of Anrdoid head units?
Can you try Pandora or Google Play Music? Does the app have to be open and in the main view for it to work? or will it work while playing in the background. Like say you are watching the Navigation with Pandora playing in the background from a Pandora app on the Android head unit, if you hit a track change with the Navigation app on the screen will it still change tracks?
CadillacMike said:
I'm more interested in this part. I wonder why this works on your unit, but not the majority of Anrdoid head units?
Can you try Pandora or Google Play Music? Does the app have to be open and in the main view for it to work? or will it work while playing in the background. Like say you are watching the Navigation with Pandora playing in the background from a Pandora app on the Android head unit, if you hit a track change with the Navigation app on the screen will it still change tracks?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Microntek head units are using its own "layer" of virtual keys mapping (irkeyDown/up). It is useful from their point of view, because you have possibility to use long press behavior on hard keys. Android has its own definitions of key events and actually it is good habit to use them (in case of developing "steering widgets" and players developing as well). Probably microntek finally started to broadcast Android's defined key events among the system which caused support of many media players .
But that is only my theory .
CadillacMike said:
I'm more interested in this part. I wonder why this works on your unit, but not the majority of Anrdoid head units?
Can you try Pandora or Google Play Music? Does the app have to be open and in the main view for it to work? or will it work while playing in the background. Like say you are watching the Navigation with Pandora playing in the background from a Pandora app on the Android head unit, if you hit a track change with the Navigation app on the screen will it still change tracks?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I couldn't try Pandora given where I'm at. But yeah, Google Play Music works just as same as Spotify. No need to have the app open, I mostly have Car Launcher Pro on screen OR my GPS app and I can hit next / previous even if the music apps are on the background.
jrgalang said:
I couldn't try Pandora given where I'm at. But yeah, Google Play Music works just as same as Spotify. No need to have the app open, I mostly have Car Launcher Pro on screen OR my GPS app and I can hit next / previous even if the music apps are on the background.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wtf, I gotta figure out how to get that on my Joying.
Reply
jrgalang said:
Hi all. I have a 2011 Hyundai Accent that used to run a HuiFei KGL4 Hyundai-specific 7" unit. It's been one rollercoaster ride with that unit, having to deal with the following:
1) Underpowered USB ports (had to solder a voltage step-down converter to amp it up for it to work properly)
2) The latest ROM forces me to wait 30 seconds for the unit to shut down after turning off ignition, otherwise my PKE car alarm won't trigger as all doors are generally closed within that time frame because I've already stepped out of the car. Funny piece is there's no way out of this even if I go back to an older software, or use an MCU that doesn't support sleep
3) Weak FM radio
After messing real bad with #3 above, killing one channel off of my FM radio (only right channel is working now) after breaking the electronic links for one of the caps needed, I decided it's time to let go. Not to mention that the reseller that I've brought it from is no longer responding when it comes to asking for replacement parts and Kai Ge Le doesn't sell parts from products that weren't directly bought from them. Malaysk' great ROM helped me get through the day for a while, but hey, when you want a fully working product, you gotta move some time right?
The next dilemma was: should I go with Joying or any other HuiFei-based Android radio and potentially deal with the same thing? Then I thought... man, it's time to accept I'm not too good with soldering and I can't risk messing another brand new radio just for dealing with the same thing.
Long-story short, I went with a not so known MCU / manufacturer / reseller combo this time around for hopes I'd get different results. It may be a bit of a challenge to get support from the community granted none of my searches yielded any results for the MCU the device is using, but man... with how the ROM of this new unit working fluidly as it is, I'm finally content.
Some distinct differences with HuiFei:
1) Boot-up time. Before upgrading my KGL4 to RK3188, boot-up time was 30 seconds. When I upgraded to RK3188 roughly ~15 seconds. In this unit? I don't even notice waiting for boot. It properly turns off USB connected devices so my battery does not get drained- tried for 5 days now and has been consistently fine.
2) Next / Previous controls. I did not need to install Car Service for Next / Previous to be consistent on non-stock apps (Radio, Music, Video apps). If I press next or previous in my steering wheel on, say, Spotify or PCRadio, the behavior is the same. It goes to the next / previous track as expected, with no additional apps or configuration needed.
3) RADIO - I can't emphasize this enough. In days where I just want to use the radio instead of songs from streaming apps, man, this unit delivers! It subdues the static / hisses well, and clearly picks up the same radio stations that I used to have in my car's factory radio that the KGL4 one struggled to pick-up.
4) Bluetooth function - I was never able to get my KGL4 unit to pair with my OBD2 device, no matter how many times I've back-read in the different threads. In this new unit, it was able to detect and pair with it the first time I tried! The plus part is that the Bluetooth config of this new unit allows you to enter the pair code for devices that requires it - at least on this one I'm sure the HuiFei units cannot prompt for the pairing code of the other device.
5) Support for external hard drives. I was unable to connect a 500GB external drive in my KGL4 before until I did the USB mod. For this new unit, it supports it right off the bat. No mods necessary.
6) There's an actual WIFI antenna!
Another plus for me is the screen size upgrade. The new device has 9" of real-estate. I did lose DVD functionality and potentially not have the option to update the software to 5.1 (runs on 4.4), but I can live with those. If anyone's familiar or has the same MCU as mine, or shares the same software build, let me know. Maybe that will be a good reference for anyone who'd potentially buy units from them. In the meantime, TC Car Audio has a store in AE if you want to inquire (Store ID 1360064). Looks like they also have a couple of 5.1 devices, just not sure if it shares the same MCU / ROM combo.
DISCLAIMER: I do not work for TC car audio. Just passing along the positive experience I have with their product, and hoping to help others see that there are better options out there beyond the more known brands.
MCU: 2016-04-25 10:38:12 KEQ_60_C6R_7706_5006_CAN(DaZhongWC)_Newlap
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello friend,
This is Nicole from Kaigele.
Sorry to tell you that,from your posted info and images,this unit is not from our factory.Maybe you need to contact your direct seller to get more help.
thanks
best regards
Nicole
Hi
I am currently using Parrot Asteroid Smart, generally I am satisfied with the unit, sound quality is great, BT and other features works good, but the HW is old and max. Android version is 2.3.
I'm thinking about upgrading to newer android and the only possibility I see is one of chinese 2din HU like Ownice C500.
Does anyone have experience if they are any cons of such change? What is the sound quality of C500 compared to Smart?
Any info would be appreciated.
ee0090 said:
Hi
I am currently using Parrot Asteroid Smart, generally I am satisfied with the unit, sound quality is great, BT and other features works good, but the HW is old and max. Android version is 2.3.
I'm thinking about upgrading to newer android and the only possibility I see is one of chinese 2din HU like Ownice C500.
Does anyone have experience if they are any cons of such change? What is the sound quality of C500 compared to Smart?
Any info would be appreciated.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am in the exact same situation. I was happy with the PAS at first, but it became outdated and frustrating very quickly - the lack of apps supported natively, the lack of ram and storage. Even after rooting and installing Google Play store there are so many apps that can't be run on 2.3. Positives though are that the Bluetooth call quality and voice command is in my opinion unmatched.
I have since bought an Eonon Android unit (rooted and installed Malaysk rom) for my wife's car and the interface is great, the sound is reasonable and the app support is great. The Bluetooth however is terrible, to the point of being unusable, the person on the other end can either not hear or suffers from major delay. This is a known problem with nearly ALL Chinese Android head units and there is a hardware mod but not being very confident in opening the unit and performing the mod properly and potentially voiding warranty is a risk I'm yet to take with it. I also have an issue where the physical volume control knob stops working and sound can only be adjusted on-screen, this is usually fixed with a reboot.
I still have not found a reliable unit to replace the PAS in my car after reading numerous threads that has Bluetooth quality on par with the PAS. Hopefully someone else here can recommend a decent unit?
Joying 2GB Intel is the way to go
CadillacMike said:
Joying 2GB Intel is the way to go
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why?
look over some of the various threads on XDA, and feel free to check out the official Joying forum - http://forum.carjoying.com/
For the most part i think Joying gets the least amount of negative feedback, they tend to have pretty good customer service, and they seem to so somewhat monthly updates. I have had the older 1gb model and I currently have the newer 2GB of RAM model, and I'm a big fan:
here is a video review
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KzGFDwSFj24&feature=youtu.be
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUP4WGYHIaQ
but dont take my word for it, like I said, if you spend some time reading, you'll see a lot of the other head units have their fair share of bugs and complaints
If you want a fully functional BT interface, go with the Intel 2GB Joying head units. I think they are the only ones with a full stack BT interface available, the other Rockchip based units seem to have a somewhat hacked in BT interface which is limited compared to a full native interface, specially when it comes to how the Android OS can access and control it.
Install the apk from this thread and you have access to the standard Android BT settings screen, it is normally hidden in the Settings app but luckily it's not removed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...elopment/bluetooth-settings-launcher-t3504526
Hilari0 said:
If you want a fully functional BT interface, go with the Intel 2GB Joying head units. I think they are the only ones with a full stack BT interface available, the other Rockchip based units seem to have a somewhat hacked in BT interface which is limited compared to a full native interface, specially when it comes to how the Android OS can access and control it.
Install the apk from this thread and you have access to the standard Android BT settings screen, it is normally hidden in the Settings app but luckily it's not removed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...elopment/bluetooth-settings-launcher-t3504526
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the info
Few questions:
What is the BT handsfree quality with external mic installed?
Does the radio display station names? Does RDS and AF work correctly?
What is the general sound quality?
Does WiFi module connect with 4G router?
I use the head units wifi to connect to my phone as a wifi hotspot. Works great. BT handsfree with external mic is very good, at least according to those I talk to, I haven't been on the "receiving end" yet..
The sound quality is good, I'm still using the OEM speakers and they sound better with this head unit compared to the OEM head unit. Can't confirm on radio as I actually don't use it much... It does have RDS it seems, but don't know if it works or not. (radio where I live is garbage, nonsense content and music seems limited to whatever the top 20 list is...)
Hilari0 said:
I use the head units wifi to connect to my phone as a wifi hotspot. Works great. BT handsfree with external mic is very good, at least according to those I talk to, I haven't been on the "receiving end" yet..
The sound quality is good, I'm still using the OEM speakers and they sound better with this head unit compared to the OEM head unit. Can't confirm on radio as I actually don't use it much... It does have RDS it seems, but don't know if it works or not. (radio where I live is garbage, nonsense content and music seems limited to whatever the top 20 list is...)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for the info. Which version do you use? I can see there are 3 different versions of 7" universal unit with the same hardware. The difference is that two of them have volume knob and the 3rd only touchscreen.
Hilari0 said:
If you want a fully functional BT interface, go with the Intel 2GB Joying head units. I think they are the only ones with a full stack BT interface available, the other Rockchip based units seem to have a somewhat hacked in BT interface which is limited compared to a full native interface, specially when it comes to how the Android OS can access and control it.
Install the apk from this thread and you have access to the standard Android BT settings screen, it is normally hidden in the Settings app but luckily it's not removed.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/an...elopment/bluetooth-settings-launcher-t3504526
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both MTCD and Joying INtel have positive and negative feedbacks....
In terms of BT performance....both have BT Limited to MCU. Even you could pair from the BT standard menu, the functionality is limited. If i am not wront (correct me) both units CAN'T perform CALLS from BT by using google Now. Google Now recognizes correctly the name and it seems to start the call but never is initiated as it can not communicate with the real bluetooth Handsfree on the Headunit.
On the Intel units, the BT and wifi hardware is on the same board as the CPU, Android has full access to it. That is not the reason Google Now can't make calls. This is different on the MTCD units where the BT is a module which is sort of hacked in and Android doesn't have full access to.
I have bought Joying with Intel. BT handsfree works fine, although there are some other problems:
- no voice in Google Maps,
- when listening to the FM radio no voice output from nav apps except of Igo,
- I have connected Alpine active sub to the unit, sub works fine for first few minutes and stops, any idea why and what can be done about it? Sub worked great with Parrot, so it must be some issue with Joying.
ee0090 said:
I have bought Joying with Intel. BT handsfree works fine, although there are some other problems:
- no voice in Google Maps,
- when listening to the FM radio no voice output from nav apps except of Igo,
- I have connected Alpine active sub to the unit, sub works fine for first few minutes and stops, any idea why and what can be done about it? Sub worked great with Parrot, so it must be some issue with Joying.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think if you change default nav app to your preferred one, you'll get voice output in FM radio.
For the sub - is the amp still ON after a few minutes when it stops? I have an active sub on mine and have no issues. I'd check on what your source for "on" signal on your amp is.
Google maps voice output doesn't work no matter what I do. As a default nav app neither.
Sub is powered and it works with very low volume settings, ad soon as I turn the volume up it stops working.
ee0090 said:
Google maps voice output doesn't work no matter what I do. As a default nav app neither.
Sub is powered and it works with very low volume settings, ad soon as I turn the volume up it stops working.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
We got Google voice output working. Look into the forum.
Strange. Maybe I should reset the unit to factory settings. Reinstalling google maps did not help.
Any idea what is wrong with the sub?
ee0090 said:
Strange. Maybe I should reset the unit to factory settings. Reinstalling google maps did not help.
Any idea what is wrong with the sub?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
(have seen a few oem ones) if so it would be hooked up with the sub RCA output ? Is the amp powering down ??
If so try hooking the remote line on the amp to an 12v acc line instead. (This is no different to the headunit remote 12v output just that if you switch the head unit off the amp is still powered on , this could eliminate a headunit problem ?)
ee0090 said:
Strange. Maybe I should reset the unit to factory settings. Reinstalling google maps did not help.
Any idea what is wrong with the sub?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As wrx216 said. I think it might be bad wiring. try a different SUB "ON" source. For example, I tap in the + wire of my rear speaker as the power on signal for the sub amp.
Google maps voice output still does not work. I did factory reset - it did not help.
I have updated the firmware and google maps voice works fine. But sub does not work at all now.
I have connected remote wire of the sub to constant +12V output (the same as amp. power supply) - it still does not work. I have also tried to change RCA input of the amp. - still nothing.
GrowlAudio have a model specific version for my car (growlaudio.com/nissan-navara) but finding real specs on it seems to be next to impossible.
All the suppliers have been able to tell me:
The units are not upgradable as in OS updates. OS 4.4 is the most stable of the OS available. Yes you can see other units with OS 5 and 6 available from china at a cheaper price but there is a known fault with them that they are unstable and crash a lot.
Price includes Growl unit with built in fascia, all cables and adapters needed for install, GPS antenna and free reverse camera.
Android Head Unit:
OS: Android 4.4
CPU: Quad Core Processor
RAM: DDR3 1Gb
ROM: 8G EMMC
SD: Built - In 16GB
Capable of reading 1TB external Drive
Mobile Connectivity : iOS and Android Devices
VIDEO: RMVB,MKV,MOV,WMV,AVI,MPG
AUDIO: MP3,WMA,WAV,OGG,FLAC
GPS MODULE: Support
GPS Navigation software: Sygic, Waze and other android compatible maps. Capable on connecting to WiFi via Mobile Hotspot or wifi connectivity
Bluetooth Audio and Handsfree Calls: Supported
Steering Wheel controls: Supported
Rear view video: Automatic Backup Camera turn on when reversing
Other users that have purchased and installed the unit seem to think it's the best thing ever, but every video I can find of it is slow to startup (30-40 sec), reverse camera not coming on till full boot. And no one I talk to is able to provide any details on audio quality.
What I am looking for in a HeadUnit:
Required:
* Reverse camera capable of being used within a few seconds of ignition
* Bluetooth hands free with iPhone compatibility
* Music streaming from either iPhone or USB / Flash storage
* Google Maps / GPS compatible
* 3G/4G sim/USB Dongle compatible
* Steering Wheel Control support (CANBUS)
* Audio quality at least equal to or better than stock
* Responsive screen / controls
Optional / Extras
* Multiple camera support
* Side-by-side picture
* Able to connect to iPhone Bluetooth, Internet, OBD Reader/Torque, TPMS at the same time, or at least without having to go into settings and change connected device
Does anyone have any suggestions of a suitable HU?
I've been digging for info on these, reading Amazon reviews, reading threads here, reading marketing on the mfr/reseller websites and was contemplating starting a thread for this. In lieu of starting another thread I figure to just contribute on yours. It all started not long ago when I finally installed a 2-year-sitting-in-closet Pioneer Appradio 3... what a piece of junk!!! (but it does sound good)
Is anyone comparing the pros/cons of these things? It's pretty difficult to compile information on them when there are a ton of brands nobody has heard of combined with new hardware/software coming out all the time. From what I've read there are a few major dealbreakers that make me want to wait, after all who wants to swap their head unit out on any regular basis?
I head not heard about sticking to 4.4, why are 5.1 and 6.0 not good? I read somewhere they aren't as snappy but in any video I've seen they look fine.
I'll put my lists here and maybe others can chime in with what they want/like/dislike so we can paint a bigger picture for these head units.
Here are all the things that make me hesitant to buy one of these right now:
Dealbreakers for me:
No hands-free voice control for things like Android Auto, Google Now, Google Maps, Calling... "OK Google"
Boot times any more than 5 seconds.
Lack of external microphone - I know I can add one but geez is it too much to ask for a jack?
(some may have) independent volume for media/nav/phone/etc
Cons:
No ability to USB tether to use phone's internet connection (someone's probably done this here)
Seemingly weak future update support
Problems that can be handled with apps and mods:
No light sensor for auto dimming
speed dependent master volume change
Here's what I would put on a wishlist:
Must haves:
fast boot time (<5-10 seconds)
voice control
external microphone (or jack so can add)
option resume playing last thing on startup (car start)
Independant volume for Media/nav/phone/etc
Good audio quality
Like to have:
permanent button for Nav app
headlight or auto dimming
speed dependent volume
DVR support for dashcam AND reverse camera input
USB tethering option for data connection
ability to work with aftermarket bluetooth steering wheel remote
full Android Auto support with voice commands
ability to update in the future
Bluetooth 5 with internet connection sharing would be nice (IPSP)
The Newsmy Carpad 4 has some things I love: 4G SIM card capable, 2 camera DVR with ability to act as a car security system and send alerts to your phone, but it costs way too much and will surely come down like every tech does in the near future.
https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=71220653&postcount=24
https://de.aliexpress.com/store/pro...32789646411.html?spm=2114.12010608.0.0.Qi1q42
Also looks like the Onwice C500 has 4G SIM card slot
https://forum.xda-developers.com/android-auto/android-head-units/ownice-c500-released-t3478747
http://www.gearbest.com/car-dvd-player/pp_597322.html
Joying has nice stuff and I've seen reviews that describe their low-power "dormant" mode that keeps the unit ready for a zero-delay startup even after the car is parked for a day (some units seem to only have a short dormant period before they shut down)... dormant time would of course be all dependent on how much power they draw whilst dormant.
ATOTO claim they can handle voice commands: http://www.myatoto.com/index.php?m=content&c=index&a=show&catid=15&id=5
This is just the tip of the iceberg, I know. I can never seem to find one that does everything I/we all want, and that means time to wait. Anyone compiled up-to-date info so we can make an informed decision?
RedbeardPete said:
Dealbreakers for me:
Boot times any more than 5 seconds.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
From what I've been able to read, you will not get this in any pure Android head unit. Its simply not possible. Do you know Android phone/tablet that is capable of powering on in less than 5 sec?
Sure they can all 'wake' in that time frame, but that's because they are running from a battery. Yes the car has a battery, but the constant drain from the head unit being in sleep mode will likely flatten the battery if the car is not started in 3-5 days.
Your demands list is something more inline with an Alpine/Kenwood/Non-PureAndroid head unit.
The fairly new Joying Intel Sofia Head Units do go into a deep sleep and only draw about 10 mAh once the vehicle has been shut off for five minutes or so. To clarify, my JY-UL134N2 unit only takes a second or two to start up after being off for days, and it begins playing music from the Sandisk 200GB micro sdxc card in a few seconds. It will also display the reverse camera instantly like the older rk3066 and rk3188 units. Please note that this HU is in a spare vehicle that only gets used every few days or on weekends, and the battery drain has not been an issue at all. Please also note that if the system is shut down completely (not in dormancy mode), the boot time is 15 seconds to a minute depending on how loaded up the system is with apps etc...
Anyway, regardless of the start up time, I doubt you will find any Chinese Android Head Units that will check all or even most of the boxes on your wish list out of the box. To date, they all appear to need software and or hardware mods in order to work half way decent and even then they are far from perfect. For sound quality, Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, or Sony would be far better out of box. The bottom line is that for the cost, the Chinese Android Head Units can be fun to tinker with and decent with work, but you get what you pay for when it comes to sound quality (IMHO).
Best of luck,
R
rhacy said:
The fairly new Joying Intel Sofia Head Units do go into a deep sleep and only draw about 10 mAh once the vehicle has been shut off for five minutes or so. To clarify, my JY-UL134N2 unit only takes a second or two to start up after being off for days, and it begins playing music from the Sandisk 200GB micro sdxc card in a few seconds. It will also display the reverse camera instantly like the older rk3066 and rk3188 units. Please note that this HU is in a spare vehicle that only gets used every few days or on weekends, and the battery drain has not been an issue at all. Please also note that if the system is shut down completely (not in dormancy mode), the boot time is 15 seconds to a minute depending on how loaded up the system is with apps etc...
Anyway, regardless of the start up time, I doubt you will find any Chinese Android Head Units that will check all or even most of the boxes on your wish list out of the box. To date, they all appear to need software and or hardware mods in order to work half way decent and even then they are far from perfect. For sound quality, Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer, or Sony would be far better out of box. The bottom line is that for the cost, the Chinese Android Head Units can be fun to tinker with and decent with work, but you get what you pay for when it comes to sound quality (IMHO).
Best of luck,
R
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is what I'm looking for! How do you find the HU? Would you recommend it to aynone?
Google for Joying, they have a fairly decent website. I definitely noticed that feature mentioned and demonstrated in some YouTube videos of newer Joying units and seems like a winner... Boot time is my biggest gripe (without having ever owned one of these). I'm not sure of the downsides for Joying units although I think they don't have external mic jack, will look into that and report back.
I should have been more specific, a usable dormant fast-boot mode that can do 24 hours before shutdown/draining top much battery would be totally usable... That way the daily driver fires up the head unit right away.
So what head unit do you guys think checks off the most boxes for you?
Here's an initial review for the Ownice K1 (2gb ram/ 16gb Rom android 8 version) and from what I can tell, the first one to appear in English.
Background: This is Ownice's new budget model. No built in 4G support, no DVD slot, 4 core processor, slightly lower internal components (Amplifier, Tuner), TFT screen.
I ordered it on the 11.11 sale for about $200 with DHL shipping and added another 9$ for an external Mic. I ordered the version customized for Ford Mondeo/Galaxy/ S-Max.
Also ordered from other vendors: Ownice TPMS system (has not arrived) , Huawei E8372 4G wingle (arrived shortly after the K1 was installed), and reverse camera that replaces license plate light
Ownice shipped it three days later and it arrived in LA four days after that. From there it was brought to Israel by my kind brother.
Initial Impressions: came well packaged with protective film on the screen. Construction seems good. This is a slim unit and nearly all the connectors are breakouts from proprietary pin-outs on the back.
Installation:
Installation into a 2013-14 S-Max was quite easy as it simply uses the same mounting holes as the OEM unit, and the included connector is wired for the Ford quadlock harness. That said, it included no documentation whatsoever.
1) Connect three rear break-out connections to the back (Quadlock harness, A/V in/out cables, External mic input) and plug the included canbus decoder into the harness
1a) Notice that on harness wiring there is a wire that has a locking connector in the middle that comes disconnected. Assume this is for the reverse camera and connect it
2) Connect quadlock, revers camera RCA. External Mic, GPS antenna, and radio antenna
2a) Notice that they did not include a correct antenna adapter, run to local car audio guy and overpay for an adapter
3) (Spend next six hours wiring in a reverse camera through hatchback (not so easy!)
4) Shove all the wiring behind the unit (plenty of room there) and screw it in, replace trim, voila.
Future items:
5*) 4G wingle arrived a day later so I have only used it with the K1 in hotspot mode, which works fine. I have not gotten around to attaching it directly via USB
6*)TPMS system ordered from DX.com has not arrived yet.
In Use: In the realm of chinese android head units it is no faint praise to say that a unit simply works as one would expect it to, and this unit really does just work 99% as it should. I'll only point out some highlights and a few small disappointments:
+Unit powers on as soon as key is in ignition, stays on after car is shut down until door is opened (just like OEM)
+The reverse camera comes on BEFORE the unit is fully booted (right after the splash screen) so no significant delay there (this was a very pleasant surprise)
+No need to attach extra reverse wiring from reverse camera to car wiring, reverse is already wired via quad-lock
+Steering wheel controls work as they did with OEM unit (but mode button cycles through all inputs, even if they are not installed)
+My existing BAFX bluetooth OBD2 connected fine and works with the included version of torque
+Sound quality with OEM speakers is fine, at least on par with OEM head unit (despite what I've read about ST TDA7388)
+External mic is sensitive enough to work installed in hidden OEM mic location (grill behind map light)
+GPS reception/accuracy is better than my phone's
+Screen splitting works, and is useful
+Push the right knob in and the screen goes blank
-Radio tuner is not as good as the oem unit (I expected this)
-Bluetooth popup to answer calls does not appear for whatsapp calls
-Touchscreen could be a tad more sensitive
-built in media player does not seem to support WMA (thanks to yahoo music (RIP) I have a lot of WMAs) so I mostly use VLC
-No printed manual, onboard manual app does not work, and I can't find any manual online, so it took some futzing and going through the C500 manual to figure a few things out.
That's about it. I don't spend that much time driving these days so haven't gotten around to exploring all the settings and features, but so far I'm quite satisfied.
I appreciate the review; some follow-up questions...
Please tell me if steering wheel controls (up/down track) work on all music apps or just the stock one. Also let me know if you hear any background clicks/pops/noise when WiFi is being accessed. How is the Bluetooth calling quality - can callers hear you ok? Finally can the stock radio and Bluetooth apps be used split screen?
Thanks!
Jeff
twokidsandaphone said:
I appreciate the review; some follow-up questions...
Please tell me if steering wheel controls (up/down track) work on all music apps or just the stock one. Also let me know if you hear any background clicks/pops/noise when WiFi is being accessed. How is the Bluetooth calling quality - can callers hear you ok? Finally can the stock radio and Bluetooth apps be used split screen?
Thanks!
Jeff
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1) Steering wheel controls work with all aps.
2) Haven't heard any noises caused by wifi
3) Bluetooth call quality is good, definitely go with the external mic
4) Yes, those apps and most others work in split screen.
Doncres said:
1) Steering wheel controls work with all aps.
2) Haven't heard any noises caused by wifi
3) Bluetooth call quality is good, definitely go with the external mic
4) Yes, those apps and most others work in split screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the answers. One more question, sorry. Does Ok Google work, and/or can you use Google to initiate a call just using voice or microphone button plus voice? Many units "understand" the request to call but fail to be able to put through the call.
Thanks again!
Jeff
Follow -up notes
twokidsandaphone said:
Thanks for the answers. One more question, sorry. Does Ok Google work, and/or can you use Google to initiate a call just using voice or microphone button plus voice? Many units "understand" the request to call but fail to be able to put through the call.
Thanks again!
Jeff
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for the delay in replying.
As far as OK google calls, since the head unit's Bluetooth functionality works as a microphone/speaker, when you run a google now command on the HU, it thinks you want to make a call using the HU, but it has no phone function of it's own, so it cannot place the call. What would be needed is a button on the HU that activates the phone's google now listening. I don't keep my phone in constant listening mode, so not sure how it would work in that situation. Hope that helps.
Here's a few more observations, not entirely good:
1) The steering wheel next and previous track buttons are reversed.
2) There is a problem resuming Bluetooth streaming from my phone. If you push the play button on the HU Bluetooth app after a restart it will freeze and force a reboot.
3) GPS reception is generally excellent with very quick fix, but occasionally for no apparent reason upon startup it will take 5 or so minutes.
4) Even disabling all of automatic time setting, the unit will inexplicably get an hour ahead when booted and then correct a few minutes later.
5) I can't figure out if there is a way to get the Huawei 4G USB router I bought to function as a modem or only as a hotspot.
Hi Doncres,
I've just finished installing my own Ownice K1/G10 unit for my Hyundai Santa Fe.
Installation was a little bit trickier since in order to use the car's original gps antenna, microphone and rear camera I had to cut some wires and change connectors, as well as installing a stepdown DC-DC converter to get the weird 6.5v power required by the original rear camera.
I've been playing a little bit myself with the unit and, given that I'm quite satisfied with it, I would like to know whether you experienced any of the following little annoying problems:
- handsfree call via bluetooth: remote party is always complaining about a small amount of echo
- general audio volume low even at maximum volume (+30), especially for bluetooth phone calls
- the bluetooth active call popup rectangle gets always in the way, even when the rear camera is triggered by the reverse gear, giving some troubles when parking the car and talking to the phone
- Netflix app not working: I had to install an old 2015 version targeting Android 4.4
- parking assistant lines on the rear camera view have wrong perspective angle in comparison to my camera's viewing angle, thus resulting in a projected trapezium rather than a projected rectangle (i.e. the lines are not parallel to actual parking lines); I know I can disable them, however I'd like to change their perspective angle to match the camera
I read somewhere that there are two hidden service menus on Ownice units: the first is accessible via car settings (the "1260" menu) and this works on my unit
The other should be accessible by dialling a specific string in the phone app, however it seems I cannot start the phone app since the K1/G10 comes with no 3G/4G hardware. Any idea on how to enter such menu?
Thanks,
Alberto
agpastore said:
Hi Doncres,
I've just finished installing my own Ownice K1/G10 unit for my Hyundai Santa Fe.
Installation was a little bit trickier since in order to use the car's original gps antenna, microphone and rear camera I had to cut some wires and change connectors, as well as installing a stepdown DC-DC converter to get the weird 6.5v power required by the original rear camera.
I've been playing a little bit myself with the unit and, given that I'm quite satisfied with it, I would like to know whether you experienced any of the following little annoying problems:
- handsfree call via bluetooth: remote party is always complaining about a small amount of echo
- general audio volume low even at maximum volume (+30), especially for bluetooth phone calls
- the bluetooth active call popup rectangle gets always in the way, even when the rear camera is triggered by the reverse gear, giving some troubles when parking the car and talking to the phone
- Netflix app not working: I had to install an old 2015 version targeting Android 4.4
- parking assistant lines on the rear camera view have wrong perspective angle in comparison to my camera's viewing angle, thus resulting in a projected trapezium rather than a projected rectangle (i.e. the lines are not parallel to actual parking lines); I know I can disable them, however I'd like to change their perspective angle to match the camera
I read somewhere that there are two hidden service menus on Ownice units: the first is accessible via car settings (the "1260" menu) and this works on my unit
The other should be accessible by dialling a specific string in the phone app, however it seems I cannot start the phone app since the K1/G10 comes with no 3G/4G hardware. Any idea on how to enter such menu?
Thanks,
Alberto
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi, I'm not sure I can really help other than to confirm a few of the the issues.
-Don't think I have an echo issue, but there seems to be a delay until a caller first hears me.
- I get very good volume. I would assume this is an issue of whether the built in amp is a good match for the speakers. Could be an issue with the impedance.
-Yeah, the call button overlay is sometimes annoying, it can block nav screen as well and no way to hide
-I noticed that Netflix was no showing in the app store, but not a big use for me
-the camera I bought has built in guidelines so I disabled them.
-no idea bout the service menu
The only issues that really bother me are:
-the occasional GPS not acquiring satellites, which I now think may be from a defective antenna. I ordered a replacement and we'll see if that helps.
-the fact that if I have an app like stitcher playing, i then get in the car and it stops it when it connects to the BT, but when I go to the BT music app it will either resume fine or if I pres play it will crash the entire device and force a reboot. Mostly I just run streaming apps on the Unit so not much BT streaming anyway.
Also, my TPMS unit finally showed up 2 months after ordering it from DX.com. Looking forward to installing that some time in the next couple of weeks.
Hi.
I am newbie, and i may be wrong in posting the question.
I got 2 din touch Android for Nissan Murano 2018 - model K1, 2 / 16 GB. Ownice 8227L.
On the manufacturer's website, the model has not been supported by software updates for a long time.
Last owner tried to update it with different firmware versions, including those downloaded from this site, and from 4pda. initially did not save the software that was on it from the factory. Now - it has a version of Android installed in which the radio does not work. Everything works, sound files from usb card play, except the radio.
Help me please, where can I get the firmware on it to make the radio work?
So I purchased this head unit
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/8-8-NAVI...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
i also picked up the dab and the carplay/android auto dongle(this is a must other wise it is mirroring and that does not allow touch control on screen or allow you to lock your phone like aa does)
The fitting was easy and all plug and play (did not fit the camera yet)
So how did it peform?
When they supplied the head unit the software which was needed to use the android auto was not installed(link which was cam up with not licensed) and way installed AutoPlayBox and connected fine and works a treat
Good points
Andoid auto works just plug in phone and after a short 30 secs delay the HU boots fine and goes into AA quite quickly.
The android seem quick and not laggy
There is a EQ on the HU but if you turn it up to far it distorts all the audio really badly. but turned up to 4-6 it plays very well with lots of presets.
talks to can bus so you can see your speed / rev / mpg etc etc#
Can get back to the bmw main menu really easy and back to android
Wish i had not bought the dab receiver as i am playing via tuned in or amazon music through AA
Now here are the bad points(NOW BE AWARE I AM VERY HAPPY WITH THE DEVICE WHEN RUNNING ANDROID AUTO IT WORKS VERY WELL)
Bad points
DID NOT COME WITH ANY INSTRUCTIONS IN THE BOX , HAD TO GO FIND THEM ONLINE
the dab app is terrible it plays but you press back or try and start another app with audio ie maps , and it crashes
If selecting navigation from the main menu it kept minimizing all the time (seems to have stopped today so fingers crossed).
the music app built into to interface is lets say terrible, cannot find a way play play lists , stop and start the music etc etc.
The device some time starts with the bmw screen instead on the android screen(no brainer to swop it back over ) just a pain
the wifi on the device is truly bad, sat in the car with my phone on my knee , my phone gets 4 bars , the head unit cannot even get a signal, putting my phone on hotspot and sitting it right above the HU is the only way for me to get a wifi signal (but using only android auto from my phone so no great loss)
the gps puck they supply is quite bad ( i use lots of gps pucks for small models) it seems to want to fix and unfix position all time not very good quality i would say
Would i purchase again
yes i would
but would not buy the dab receiver and would not fit the gps on the HU (even though it come with it as a waste if your using carplay or Andoid auto)
its was easy to fit which was good and works well
Hi, can you please provide me the link for the autoplaybox app as I can’t find it online
Thanks