8 Best Harley Stereo Upgrade – review & Buying Guide

1. Aquatic AV MP5

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB | Control Method: hand controls | Color: Black | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

The Aquatic AV MP5 is a great option if you want to easily add Bluetooth music capabilities to your Harley. This deck arrives in a nice box and is well-packaged, making it simple to assemble. The faceplate will not attach to the unit without significant force, so be cautious when installing to avoid losing the faceplate if it is not fully attached to the rest of the deck. The glove box with the auxiliary cord and USB port is a farce, with barely enough room for a phone, let alone one plugged into the aux. The USB port is only used for charging.

FM Radio is a handy feature that lets you listen to music from local FM radio stations. This means you won’t have to keep plugging in your phone to listen to music. Most Aquatic stereos, including the ones mentioned above, support AM/FM radio. It’s a huge plus that this Harley Stereo upgrade kit connects to your existing factory stereo connectors. This eliminates the need to cut and splice wires. You only need to plug in the new stereo to get started.

The Aquatic AV stereo is intended to be plugged directly into your factory connectors. This means that no installation is required, and it can be completed in a matter of minutes. The installation procedure for other Harley stereos may differ. However, the majority of these stereos come with detailed instructions that will make installation simple.

On Amazon, the Aquatic AV MP5 has a 4.5-star rating, with customers stating that it is simple to install and has excellent sound quality. The majority of customers found the Bluetooth connection to be quick and simple to use, and they enjoyed the sound quality of their music when using this deck. One customer stated that they had to contact Aquatic AV customer service because their unit was not working, and Aquatic AV was able to assist them in resolving the problem.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

I have a 2006 Electra Glide Classic. The Harley radio lost its LCD screen and was unusable. This radio was a direct replacement. It brings modern technology to an old bike. I stream with Bluetooth from my cellphone. The controls are large and easy to use with a gloved hand. The display is bright and clear in sunlight. Is it easy to put in? It is as easy as working on anything inside of the fairing. The two holding bolts closest to the riders position are a booger, but are doable with a rounded hex key. A great value. Super sounding radio. Looks great in the dash.

2. Rockford Fosgate PMX-HD9813

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth | Control Method: Remote | Color: Black | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

The Rockford Fosgate PMX-HD9813 Receiver is no doubt a high-end product for enhancing your Harley’s audio system. It’s a Bluetooth-enabled, SiriusXM-ready receiver with a 3-inch display, Full-color, ultra-bright TFT display, weatherproofing technology, and big buttons that are easy to use even with gloves. It’s also simple to use. Simply insert the Rockford Fosgate PMX-HD9813 Receiver into your existing factory wiring harness and connectors for an immediate sound system upgrade.

With an ultra-bright 3″ full color TFT display, the Rockford Fosgate PMX-HD9813 Receiver is perfect for use in both day and night conditions. It features a Day/Night mode (dims screen to save power during day) with adjustable brightness levels making it easy on the eyes no matter the lighting situation.

The Rockford Fosgate PMX-HD9813 Receiver is SiriusXM-ready and requires the SiriusXM SXV300 tuner (sold separately) for activation. With this tuner, you’ll have access to SiriusXM’s programming lineup of over 150 channels including commercial-free music, plus news, sports, talk, and comedy.

Furthermore, it is designed as a direct replacement media receiver, requiring no additional wiring or cutting when using the factory wire harnesses, connectors, and mounting points. This means you don’t have to worry about splicing cables all over the place—all it’s there for you! Using the existing mount points will also save time on installation.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

This radio is awesome!! Installed on my 2012 street glide and it was all plug and play. Gives the bike a more modern look and the music quality is way better. Also the Bluetooth works great and even shares album artwork from my phone. I would highly recommend.

3. Pyle PLMRKT48BK Bluetooth Stereo

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth | Control Method: Remote | Color: Black | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

The Pyle Bluetooth Marine Stereo Kit comes with a radio receiver as well as four waterproof speakers. The kit’s single DIN universal standard head unit includes built-in Bluetooth, an AM/FM radio with 30 presets, a USB flash drive reader, a micro SD memory card reader, and an Aux (3.5mm) input jack. You will be able to connect and stream audio from all of today’s most recent devices (like smartphones, tablets, and MP3 players). Because of the integrated microphone on the receiver’s front panel, Bluetooth allows for easy wireless music streaming as well as hands-free talking.

With digital audio file support, you can stream your entire MP3 playlist while having quick access to the front panel control Centre and digital LCD display screen. The four 6.5” -inch included component speakers provide full range stereo sound reproduction and are universal standard sizes for quick OEM speaker replacement. The full range stereo sound reproduction will give your music a new level of depth and quality while the 2-way dual cone speakers provide an immersive listening experience. The kit’s PLL tuning radio system ensures clear reception of radio frequencies while you are on the go. The kit comes with a USB flash drive reader for reading digital audio files of external storage devices, along with an FM/AM tuner for listening to radio stations without having to rely on your phone or tablet.

The LCD screen gives you the ability to control different aspects of your unit. The LCD screen allows you to control various aspects of your unit. The large digital display presents all of your information in a clear format for clear understanding. Push-button controls are located on the front panel, making it simple and easy to navigate through your system. The built-in microphone on the front of the receiver allows for hands-free communication and clear voice capture.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

Wiring was straight forward easy to use.. right now I only have 2 of the 4 speakers wired until I still new holes for the other 2 but overall happy with the sound quality!! Time will tell on durability and mating ability.

4. Aquatic AV AQ-MP-5BT-H Stereo

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth | Control Method: Handlebar controls, thumb | Color: Black | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

The Aquatic AV Bluetooth Stereo AQ-MP-5BT-H is an excellent choice for Harley-Davidson riders looking for upgraded stereo system. This product is intended to be simple to install, with a plug-and-play connection to the Harley-Davidson factory stereo wiring. It also includes Bluetooth support. Riders value the ability to listen to music or the news while riding, and this stereo has FM/AM radio capabilities. The device also includes 30 presets for US and European stations, allowing users to quickly find their favorite channels.

This stereo also has an internal device shelf, which is ideal for storing your smartphone or media player while riding. You won’t have to worry about your device flying out of your hands while you’re driving. The IP55 rating indicates that this product can be used in any environment while providing a high level of water protection. This stereo is ideal if you want an upgraded sound system that is weather-resistant and versatile enough to be used in any situation.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

Easy installation, although rear speakers wires on HD Electra Glide Ultra Classic must be spliced. Rest is plug and play. Stereo DEFINITELY out performs the stock radio. Handlebar controls work with the stereo which is great. Easy to set up Bluetooth device. Great stereo for HD.

5. Sony XAV-AX7000

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: USB | Control Method: Voice | Color: Black | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

The Sony XAV-AX7000 is one of the top options available for your Harley. It has a decently sized display, so it will look good on your dashboard. But what makes this particular stereo so good is the amount of functionality you get for such a low price.

The only way to get Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on your dashboard is to upgrade to a 6.95-inch screen. And, thanks to the high definition resolution, you get plenty of pixel density even when this stereo is mounted in close quarters. You’ll also appreciate that the screen has an anti-glare coating. This reduces reflections from the sun and other light sources, allowing you to see what’s going on even in direct sunlight.

Voice commands can be used to send messages and launch applications. Sony’s superior voice recognition technology, which is built into this incredible stereo, makes all of this possible. When it comes to apps, there are plenty to choose from, including Weblink for entertainment and Waze for navigation. You’ll also get iHeartRadio, Pandora, Spotify, and Audible audiobooks. The voice control is a fantastic feature that allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

There are numerous reasons why this is one of the best Harley Stereo upgrade options available at the moment, but what truly distinguishes it from other similar models is its price. It’s one of the most affordable products on our list, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a low-cost option that doesn’t sacrifice functionality.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

Works great. Got it to replace a bad radio in my f-150 and couldn’t be happier. Seems to lag a bit in apple carplay, but, found that to be the case on most of the units I’ve tried. Wound is great with the factory speakers and the installation was far easier then I’ve had in the past.
Compared to the pioneer the glass screen and anti glare coating make this feel far more premium and “stock” than others I’ve seen.

6. Jensen HD1BT

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB | Control Method: Remote | Color: Black | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

The Jensen HD1BT is the first replacement radio designed to fit into a Harley-Davidson factory opening with no extra mounting kit or brackets required. This robust radio was constructed from the ground up for this use and contains everything the factory radios don’t have, plus it’s made to withstand the harsh climate that motorbikes face.

The radio was particularly designed to fit into the opening in your motorbike without the use of any extra mounting brackets or adapters. It fits into the aperture and is held in place by the original screws. The HD1BT is intended to protect your device from the elements. Both the face and the chassis are waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about rain or snow hurting your device.

The HD1BT has automated station storage capabilities, which helps to shorten scan time while looking for different radio channels. With 12 AM and 18 FM station memory settings, you can listen to your favorite radio stations from throughout the country with ease. It also has search tuning and RBDS, allowing you to always have the most up-to-date news, weather, and sports information at your fingertips. It also has a fashionable red backlight that will set your motorcycle out from the crowd.

The HD1BT includes a built-in NOAA Weatherband receiver, giving you ongoing access to the most up-to-date weather information. Whether it’s a rainstorm or an ice storm, you’ll know about it before it happens.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

Direct replacement for Harmon Kardon unit installed at the factory. Many upgrades – bluetooth, equalizer, etc. Because it’s plug n play it can be installed by the average buyer. Glad I made the change.

7. Alpine CDE-HD149BT

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB | Control Method: Voice | Color: Black | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

The Alpine CDE-HD149BT is a high-end vehicle audio head unit with a plethora of capabilities such as Bluetooth connectivity, NFC pairing, and hands-free calling. The CDE-HD149BT also includes a built-in amplifier, three band parametric EQ, and high pass filters for audio. The head unit also features a USB port, so you may listen to music directly from a USB flash drive or memory stick. It is also SiriusXM-Ready, which means you can connect it to your vehicle sound system and listen to SiriusXM satellite radio.

The Alpine CDE-HD149BT also has an auxiliary input for connecting an additional audio source to your motorcycle entertainment system. The head unit’s subwoofer output lets you connect a powered subwoofer to your system for even more bass. If your vehicle radio system has a rear-view camera, an AUX input, or a navigation system, this head unit is compatible with all of them.

The addition of a CD receiver is one of the distinguishing CDE-HD149BT’s characteristics that are not seen on many other stereo head units, particularly for Harley. The CD receiver allows you to listen to music from any CD in your vehicle.

The CDE-HD149BT has built-in Bluetooth, which allows you to easily and wirelessly connect your smartphone or tablet to the head unit. The head unit also includes NFC pairing, which makes it possible to quickly and easily pair your devices by simply touching them together. Once paired, the Bluetooth connection is stable and does not cut out even when driving on rough roads.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

Alpine stereo….not much more need said. excellent sound, ease of use and install was easy. only minor gripe is no remote but no biggie (could use in older chevy). The bluetooth works amazing very clear with very little background noise. Overall features,looks, and function definitely 10 out of 10

8. EnrockMarine W10-CW3

SPECIFICATIONS

Connectivity Technology: USB | Control Method: Remote | Color: White | Harley-Davidson compatibility: Yes

There’s a lot to like about the EnrockMarine stereo. Not only can you listen to music via AM/FM radio, but it also allows for excellent sound adjustment, ensuring that you always have the best listening experience. The EQ controls are straightforward and easy to use, allowing you to adjust bass, treble, and balance from the front of your stereo. It includes a remote control so you can adjust the volume and settings without getting out of your car, as well as a 3.5mm aux jack for connecting an external MP3 player.

The stereo housing is UV resistant to prevent fading or cracking, and it is also strong enough to withstand water damage. Because of its universal design, this head unit will fit almost any boat or Harley-Davidson, as long as you have the appropriate mounting brackets (included). The U-shaped bracket also makes installation simple, whether you want to mount above or below your headlight. The included screws can also be used for permanent mounting on boats or other surfaces. This marine stereo housing is compatible with stereos that have both two post/removable and DIN-style mounting terminals, which is a nice bonus because many universal marine stereos only fit one or the other.

User’s Reviews

This is what user of this stereo have to say.

Made my 12 year old car felt like I am driving a newer car with having an infotainment. Siri and Bluetooth call works great even with my roof down. I had a Bose system and it is no way near the sound quality. No regrets on my purchase, it is a keeper.