Like from regular radio? Is that even possible? I know Satellite radio like sirus can do that but what about a headunit that could do it from standard radio?

 

Its called RDS, or Radio Data System. Some aftermarket decks have this feature, but it is more popular in the OEM world in factory HUs.

Kirk R

 

HD radio also does it, but I'm not sure if it will show song names on non-HD stations.

And in case you didn't know, HD radio is free -- you just need a receiver for it (some car audio decks have it built in, or you can get an adapter). It is broadcast just like regular radio, on the same stations, just a different format (with data)

 

Oh, nice, I'll look into it. Can you recommend me one that has RDS/HD radio reciever built in?(preferabbly one that can display multiple lines of text at once, or at least can display a lot of text without scrolling. To me, thats just annoying) So would you say that most major/big radio stations (say like 94.5 The Buzz in Houston, offers HD as well?)

Oh and what does HU stand for?

 

head unit

 

Check out higher end kenwood hu's.

 

x2
i think my cousins does this.
ill find out what kind it is.

 

If you go to crutchfield.com you can search all their head units for the ones that have a built in HD tuner.

Most of them do not have built in HD tuners regardless of price.

They usually force you to buy a separate HD tuner.

However, there are a few head units with built in HD tuners, and not all of them are really expensive.

 

hdradio.com to check your local listings

 

that would be excellent! thanks

regarding ones that don't come with HD tuners....is it an expensive addon? it would probably be best to go with one that includes one right?

Also, I have a civic 04 dx sedan...can those not fit double din stereos?? like something like the kenwood DPX303?

 

If I were you I would not get a double-din unit unless you are sure you will never park your car in an area where somebody might try to steal your radio. I have never seen a double din radio with a detachable face.

The external HD tuners are about 80 to 100 dollars depending on what brand of head unit you get. Basically if you have a brand X head unit then you have to get the same brand of external HD tuner. If you have room for a double din radio you can use the extra slot to hide the external HD tuner.

The strange thing is that the more established brands like Alpine do not offer stereos with a built in HD tuner. They require you to purchase their external HD unit.

It is the lesser known brands that are offering the built in HD tuners as well as other features to get people to try their product. From reading the reviews, most of them have been positive.