The most popular and usually the first upgrade to add to the new Android headunit is a DAB+ Adaptor. DAB is a form of Digital Audio Broadcasting (Digital Radio) available in several regions. The digital radio spectrum carries different stations to the FM service, but a DAB+ adaptor is required to access them.
Stick on windscreen mount.
The problem is that most DAB+ adaptors for Android Headunits are supplied with a windscreen mount aerial. The performance of the DAB adaptor is seriously held back by this window mount aerial. If you find that the quality of DAB is not what you were expecting, getting odd sounds like chirps and dropouts, upgrading the aerial will be your solution.
Aerial Upgrade
This replacement roof mount aerial from Amazon is compatible with FM and DAB+ and will replace the existing factory-fitted vehicle aerial. While there are more cables to install, there is no need to drill any holes in the roof, and you will get the full benefit of a tuned DAB aerial.
Replacing the factory vehicle aerial is a time-consuming job; headlining usually comes down to access the underside of the aerial. A 12v feed (red wire) to the aerial will need a fused supply from the +12v ignition live. Remove the headunit to attach the FM lead and DAB SMA connector to the USB. Don’t forget to attach the nut to the underside of the aerial.
Your hard work will be rewarded.
The new aerial will provide a cleaner and stronger signal to the DAB that the windscreen mount could never dream of. On the roof, there is no shielding from the metal bodywork, and having extra height will help.
Retune/rescan the channels to find any missing, and enjoy your improved DAB.
