I remember a time when my car’s audio system felt more like a relic than a source of entertainment. The factory unit was old, outdated, and frankly, unreliable. It lacked basic modern conveniences like Bluetooth, making every phone call a distracting hazard and limiting my music options to static-ridden radio or scratched CDs. The frustration of not being able to seamlessly connect my smartphone or listen to my own playlists made long drives tedious. It was clear this problem needed solving; otherwise, I was stuck with a dull, less safe commute, missing out on the joy of a personalized soundtrack or hands-free communication.
- Push To Talk – Connect to your Smartphone’s Android and IOS assistant with a push of a button via Bluetooth. This unit Lets you access information, accept commands, and keep driving
- Bluetooth - Answer/make calls and be hands-free with no distractions. The built-in microphone picks up your voice and your car speakers let you hear the person on the other side. Play and control your...
- Multi Color Illumination - Set the mood and make your car into your own sanctuary. With so many possible color combinations, you can set a different tone every day of the week
Navigating the Car Stereo Landscape: What to Ponder Before Your Purchase
Upgrading a car stereo is about more than just better sound; it’s about transforming your driving experience into something more enjoyable, convenient, and safe. People seek out new head units for a multitude of reasons: to gain modern connectivity options like Bluetooth, USB, or auxiliary inputs; to improve sound quality beyond the factory limitations; or simply to replace a broken or obsolete system. An ideal customer for a unit like the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB Car Stereo System is someone looking for an affordable, feature-packed upgrade that delivers essential modern functionalities without breaking the bank. They likely drive a vehicle with a double-DIN opening and prioritize hands-free communication, versatile media playback, and a customizable aesthetic.
However, this category isn’t for everyone. If you’re an audiophile seeking granular sound tuning, advanced digital signal processing (DSP), or specific high-pass/low-pass filters, you might find more specialized, higher-end units more suitable. Similarly, if seamless integration with your car’s existing steering wheel controls without an additional adapter is a non-negotiable, or if you require built-in navigation, this particular unit might not be your first choice. For those needing a single-DIN solution, or highly advanced features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto screens, dedicated alternatives would be necessary.
Before investing in a new car stereo, consider your vehicle’s dash opening size (single-DIN vs. double-DIN), your primary connectivity needs (Bluetooth, USB, Aux, CD), the required power output for your speakers (and if pre-amp outputs for external amplifiers are important), and your comfort level with installation—whether you plan to DIY or opt for professional assistance. Checking compatibility for wiring harnesses and dash kits specific to your car model is also crucial to ensure a smooth transition.
- Blue/White Color Illumination
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Introducing the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB: A Closer Look
The BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB is a double-DIN car stereo designed to bring modern convenience and entertainment to your vehicle. It promises an upgrade to your in-car audio experience with its comprehensive connectivity options and user-friendly features. Upon purchase, you receive the main head unit itself, along with a wireless remote control for convenient operation. Compared to higher-end market leaders, the 850BRGB positions itself as a robust, value-oriented alternative, focusing on core functionalities that most drivers desire without the premium price tag. While it doesn’t boast intricate sound processing features found in more expensive units, it effectively delivers on its promise of versatile media playback and hands-free communication.
This specific BOSS Audio Systems product is ideal for drivers who want to replace an antiquated factory stereo with a modern, double-DIN solution. It’s perfect for those who frequently use their smartphones for calls and music streaming, still enjoy playing CDs, and appreciate customizable aesthetics like multi-color illumination. It’s less suited for individuals who demand high-fidelity audio adjustments like detailed EQ, crossover filters, or seamless integration with existing steering wheel controls without purchasing additional adapters.
Here’s a quick rundown of its strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
* Comprehensive Connectivity: Bluetooth for audio streaming and hands-free calls, USB, Auxiliary input, and a CD player.
* Customizable Multi-Color Illumination: Offers a wide range of colors to match your dash or mood.
* Double-DIN Form Factor: Designed for a true double-DIN fit, simplifying installation in many compatible vehicles.
* Pre-Amp Outputs: Includes front, rear, and subwoofer pre-amp outputs for system expandability.
* Wireless Remote Control: Adds convenience for passengers or when precise control is needed.
* USB Charging: The USB port also provides 1A charging for your devices.
* Solid Warranty: Backed by a 3-year platinum online dealer warranty.
Cons:
* Limited Audio Tuning: Lacks advanced features like high-pass/low-pass filters and mid-range EQ adjustment.
* Bluetooth Audio Quality for Music: Some users report music streaming via Bluetooth can be subpar compared to wired connections.
* USB Memory Reset/Recognition: Occasional issues with the USB port resetting memory or not recognizing flash drives.
* No Built-in Steering Wheel Control Support: Requires an additional adapter for integration.
* Remote Control Angle Sensitivity: The wireless remote works best from specific angles.
Diving Deep into Functionality: Exploring Key Features and Their Advantages
Having lived with the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB Car Stereo System for a considerable period, I can attest to how its various features translate into real-world benefits. This isn’t just a basic radio; it’s a hub for in-car entertainment and communication.
Seamless Bluetooth Connectivity and Hands-Free Calling
One of the primary reasons I sought out a modern head unit was for reliable Bluetooth, and the 850BRGB delivers on this front. Pairing my smartphone – both Android and iPhone – was consistently quick and effortless. Once connected, the hands-free calling feature became indispensable. The built-in microphone, while not studio-grade, does a commendable job of picking up my voice, allowing for clear conversations through the car’s speakers. This vastly improves driving safety, eliminating the need to fumble with my phone. The “Push To Talk” function is a brilliant touch, letting me access my phone’s voice assistant (Siri or Google Assistant) with a simple button press. This means I can get directions, send texts, or change music without taking my eyes off the road. For streaming audio, it generally performs well, allowing me to enjoy apps like Spotify and Pandora wirelessly. While some users have noted that the Bluetooth audio quality for music playback isn’t always top-tier compared to a wired connection, for everyday listening and convenience, it’s more than adequate, especially given the price point.
Versatile Media Playback Options
The beauty of the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB lies in its versatility. It doesn’t pigeonhole you into one type of media, making it adaptable to different preferences.
* CD Player: In an age where CD players are often omitted from new units, the inclusion of a CD player in the 850BRGB is a welcome addition for those with existing CD collections. It plays standard audio CDs as well as MP3/WMA files burned onto discs, offering a reliable, physical media option. It performs exactly as expected – pop in a disc, and it plays.
* USB Port: The USB port is a powerhouse of functionality. It supports flash drives up to 32GB, allowing you to carry a vast library of MP3 and WMA audio files. This is incredibly convenient for long trips, giving you hours of commercial-free music. Furthermore, the USB port doubles as a 1A charging point, which is fantastic for keeping your smartphone or other USB-powered devices topped up during drives. However, it’s worth noting a couple of minor quirks I’ve encountered. Occasionally, the unit might not recognize a flash drive on startup, requiring a quick power cycling of the unit to resolve. Also, there have been instances where the unit’s memory for USB playback resets, causing it to start from the first song on the drive rather than resuming where it left off. These are minor annoyances, easily circumvented, but worth mentioning for full transparency.
* Auxiliary Input: For older devices or those without Bluetooth, the 3.5mm auxiliary input is a lifesaver. It’s a straightforward way to connect any audio output device, from an older MP3 player to a portable satellite radio, ensuring that virtually any audio source can be played through your car’s speakers.
* AM/FM Radio: And, of course, a car stereo wouldn’t be complete without a dependable AM/FM radio. The 850BRGB has a strong tuner that pulls in stations clearly, keeping you updated with news, sports, or local music broadcasts.
Dynamic Multi-Color Illumination
One of the more enjoyable aesthetic features of the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB is its multi-color illumination. With millions of possible color combinations, you can truly customize the look of your dash. Whether you want to match your vehicle’s interior lighting, set a different mood for every day of the week, or simply enjoy a light show, this feature adds a personal touch. It’s a small detail, but it significantly enhances the visual appeal and makes the unit feel more integrated into the car’s cabin.
Expandable Audio Outputs and Power
For those looking to build a more robust audio system, the 850BRGB provides excellent expandability. It offers front, rear, and subwoofer pre-amp outputs. This is crucial if you plan to connect external amplifiers to power your speakers and a dedicated subwoofer. While the unit itself provides 80 watts x 4 Max Power, which is sufficient for stock speakers, the recommendation for an amplifier ensures optimal performance, especially if you have aftermarket speakers or demand louder, clearer audio. A point to note from user experience is the absence of dedicated adjustment for the pre-amp sub output and no high-pass or low-pass filters for the speakers. This means audiophiles won’t have fine-tuned control over frequency ranges directly from the head unit. Additionally, one user noted an unusual quirk where the subwoofer sounded in conjunction with the rear right speaker, which might require troubleshooting or specific wiring configurations in some setups.
User Interface and Control
The BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB maintains a user-friendly interface. The physical buttons are responsive and well-placed, making it easy to navigate menus, change sources, or adjust volume without distraction. The inclusion of a wireless remote control is also handy, particularly for passengers or for quick adjustments without reaching for the dash. My only minor gripe with the remote is its angle sensitivity; it sometimes requires pointing directly at the unit for commands to register, but it’s a minor inconvenience.
Installation Considerations
As a double-DIN unit (17.8D x 18W x 10.4H Centimetres), the 850BRGB is designed to fit standard double-DIN openings. However, depending on your specific vehicle model (as highlighted by various user experiences), some minor modifications might be necessary. This could involve trimming plastic dash components, removing existing steel plates, or acquiring specific mounting screws (like 5m x 12mm) as the included ones might be too short for certain vehicle brackets. Additionally, acquiring a specific wiring harness adapter for your vehicle is almost always necessary for a clean, plug-and-play installation, as the stereo connectors often don’t directly match factory wiring. While professional installation is encouraged by BOSS Audio Systems, many DIY enthusiasts have successfully installed it with a bit of research and patience.
Durability and Warranty
Finally, peace of mind comes with the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB‘s 3-year platinum online dealer warranty. This demonstrates confidence in their product and provides a substantial safety net, a significant advantage in the car audio market.
Voices from the Road: Community Feedback on the 850BRGB
Having scoured numerous online forums and customer reviews, it’s clear that the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB consistently receives positive feedback, particularly for its value. Users frequently highlight the excellent quality for the price, praising its seamless fit into various vehicles, often with just minor trimming or specific accessory kits. Many appreciate the instant Bluetooth connection for both calls and music, noting that call quality is clear. The multi-color illumination is a popular aesthetic feature, and the overall sound quality is generally considered good for its category. While some minor installation hurdles like wiring harness adapters or specific screw sizes are common, the unit’s functionality and diverse media playback options often outweigh these small challenges, cementing its reputation as a reliable and cost-effective upgrade.
Final Thoughts: Why the BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB Might Be Your Next Upgrade
If your current car audio system is holding you back with its lack of modern features, safety concerns from phone handling, or just plain dull commutes, it’s time for an upgrade. An outdated head unit can turn driving from a pleasure into a chore, limiting your entertainment options and potentially compromising your safety. The BOSS Audio Systems 850BRGB Car Stereo System offers a compelling solution to these problems.
Firstly, its comprehensive suite of features—including robust Bluetooth for hands-free calling and streaming, versatile media playback via USB, Aux, and CD, and customizable illumination—provides a significant leap forward in functionality. Secondly, it offers excellent value for its price, making modern car audio accessible without a hefty investment. Lastly, despite minor installation considerations and a few limitations in advanced audio tuning, its core performance and user-friendly design make it a highly practical and enjoyable upgrade for daily driving. To explore this upgrade for your vehicle and transform your driving experience, click here to check out the product .
Last update on 2025-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API