Sony XAV-9000ES vs JVC KW-V660BT

The JVC KW-V660BT is the more complete everyday head unit: it has CarPlay, Android Auto, Android mirroring, CD/DVD playback, a 13-band EQ, 5-channel preamp outputs and SiriusXM readiness. The Sony XAV-9000ES is the higher-end piece, with a sharper 1280x720 screen, a brighter panel, LDAC Bluetooth and a stronger 55W x4 amp, but it lacks the disc drive and the deep tuning and output options of the JVC. Buy the JVC if you want smartphone integration and disc playback on a budget-minded build; step up to the Sony if sound quality and screen clarity matter more than features per dollar.

• Choose the Sony XAV-9000ES if you want the sharper, brighter screen and LDAC wireless audio, and you do not need a CD/DVD player.
• Choose the JVC KW-V660BT if you want CarPlay, Android Auto, disc playback and a 13-band EQ with 5-channel preamp outputs.