Today's CD changer controllers offer the greatest flexibility of all Car Stereo head units.

The user can control tape, CDs and radio all from one small unit. The changer controller is just like a cassette receiver, but also has controls to operate the CD changer. The changer itself, is a separate module which can be stored in the glove-compartment, trunk, center console or under the seat.

Most changers use magazines into which CDs are inserted. The magazine is then loaded into the changer unit. Changers can generally store six, ten or twelve discs at a time, depending on the model.

The user has the option to play any track on any of the CDs loaded into the magazine inside the changer at any point in time.

The same concerns that appear under Choosing a good Cassette Receiver also apply to the tape section of changer controllers.

The easiest way to add a CD changer to an existing car stereo is to add one equipped with a FM modulator. These special CD changers have adapters that plug directly into your antenna jack on your cassette receiver. Then you just tune to a pre-defined frequency on the FM band. One disadvantage with this setup is that you are limited to the frequency response of FM (20Hz-15Khz).

Most CD changers and CD changer controllers from reputable manufacturers will give good sound and will be fairly reliable. Some reputable manufacturers are: Sony, Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine and JVC.

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