From 1963 through 1967 Corvette radios were quite different. Most original radios were AM only with no cassette players or FM tuning available. During the late 1970s cassette tapes were introduced. At that time CAM developed a technique to modify AM-FM/cassette players to fit into the original radio openings of these classic Corvettes. Carl used his own 1963 Corvette coupe to prototype his initial offerings. The initial concept of fitting modern radios into current classic vehicle was readily expanded into the car/year group applications-1955-1957 Chevy and 1964-1973 Mustangs among them. This expansion of product lines involved many hours of research and development. Part of the process involved locating the various classic vehicles, acquiring the original dashboards, and developing a minimum of two speakers required for stereo effect. Since most vehicles from the 1940s to 1980s were originally equipped with a single front speaker, CAM developed a dual front speaker assembly that fit that area without modification to the vehicle. This was accomplished for all vehicle applications offered, providing a complete modern audio system for their customers. The mid 1980's brought considerable growth for CAM. They proceeded to design and manufacture their own brand of radios and speakers. CAM's designs and specification from the factories allowed for more classic design (i.e. chrome radios) and better quality components than offered in current off the shelf units available from local wholesalers. With the advent of compact disc systems during the 1990s, CAM developed several radios that actually controlled remote CD players and still fit the original radio openings. Since 1977, Custom Autosound Mfg. remains the originator and innovator of audio products for classic cars, trucks and streetrods. Many competitors and imitators have followed in their footsteps with similar products, but only Custom Autosound offers over 400 different radio applications for the year, make, and model of your vintage vehicle; ready to install. Everything you need in one box and nothing to assemble. In addition to the custom radios, they offer a multitude of upgrade/custom fit speakers and kick panel speakers. Custom Autosound Mfg. is a regular exhibitor at SEMA and is licensed by Ford and GM to use their trademarks and logos.
Custom Autosound Radio and Speaker Systems for Classic Chevrolet Vehicles
Bring Modern Sound to Your Classic Chevy with Custom Autosound
Experience the perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and contemporary audio technology with Custom Autosound systems, available exclusively at H&H Classic Parts. Since 1977, Custom Autosound Manufacturing has pioneered factory-fit radio solutions that transform your classic Chevy's listening experience without compromising its original character. From Tri-Five Chevys to muscle-era Camaros and classic trucks, Custom Autosound delivers authentic-looking radios equipped with AM/FM, Bluetooth, CD players, and premium speaker systems.
The Custom Autosound Story - Pioneering Classic Car Audio Since 1977
Custom Autosound Manufacturing Inc. began in founder Carl Sprague's Fullerton, California garage with a singular vision addressing a real need. As a Corvette enthusiast, Carl recognized that classic car owners lacked modern stereo options that properly fit original radio openings. His 1963 Corvette coupe became the testbed for developing techniques to adapt contemporary AM/FM cassette players into vintage dash configurations.
The initial Corvette application quickly expanded to encompass iconic vehicle groups including 1955-1957 Chevys and 1964-1973 Mustangs. This expansion required extensive research, development, and hands-on testing with actual classic vehicles. Custom Autosound acquired original dashboards for precise measurements and engineered dual front speaker assemblies that install in factory locations without vehicle modifications.
Manufacturing Excellence and Innovation
By the mid-1980s, Custom Autosound had achieved substantial growth and began manufacturing their own branded radios and speakers. This vertical integration allowed Custom Autosound to specify chrome finishes, premium components, and classic styling unavailable from conventional wholesale suppliers. When compact disc technology emerged in the 1990s, Custom Autosound developed innovative radios with remote CD player control that maintained factory radio opening compatibility.
Today, Custom Autosound offers over 400 different radio applications engineered for specific year, make, and model combinations. Each system arrives ready to install with everything included in one box and nothing requiring assembly. The company maintains licensing agreements with Ford and General Motors to use authentic trademarks and logos, and regularly exhibits at SEMA showcasing new product innovations.
H&H Classic Parts - Your Custom Autosound Headquarters
H&H Classic Parts proudly serves as a premier distributor for Custom Autosound products, maintaining comprehensive inventory for Camaro, Chevelle, Nova, Impala, Tri-Five, and classic Chevy truck applications from 1955 through 1987. Our team understands the specific audio challenges inherent to classic vehicles and can recommend complete system solutions tailored to your restoration goals and budget.
Whether you're seeking a period-correct appearance with modern functionality or upgrading from a worn-out original radio, H&H stocks Custom Autosound's full product range including USA-230, USA-630, and USA-740 radio models, slide-bar radios for authentic 1950s styling, Bluetooth adapter kits for wireless streaming, model-specific dash speakers and kick panel assemblies, hide-away antennas, and complete "Secret Audio" systems for invisible installations.
Complete Audio Solutions for Every Classic Chevy
Custom Autosound engineers their products around the unique requirements of classic vehicles. Most cars from the 1940s through 1980s originally featured single front speakers, creating significant audio quality limitations. Custom Autosound addressed this challenge by developing dual front speaker assemblies that fit original mounting locations without cutting, drilling, or permanent modifications.
Their kick panel speaker systems provide additional sound staging for vehicles with air conditioning or specific dash configurations. These custom-molded panels include integrated 80-watt or 130-watt speakers designed to complement the acoustic properties of vintage interiors. Rear speaker packages with grilles and undercover speakers deliver full-cabin audio coverage while maintaining your vehicle's stock appearance.
Custom Autosound Radio Features and Technology
Custom Autosound radios combine authentic vintage styling with features modern drivers expect. The USA-630 and USA-740 series offer AM/FM stereo tuning with digital displays hidden behind classic knobs and bezels. Bluetooth adapter kits transform these radios into wireless streaming platforms, connecting smartphones for music, navigation prompts, and hands-free calling without visible modifications to the dashboard.
The slide-bar radio design replicates the iconic push-button tuning mechanisms found in 1950s and early 1960s vehicles. These radios incorporate modern circuitry behind period-correct faceplates, delivering superior sound quality while preserving concours-level authenticity. Single CD players mount remotely under seats or in trunks, controlled directly from Custom Autosound head units.
Model-Specific Engineering for Perfect Fit
Custom Autosound manufactures radios for precise vehicle applications, ensuring factory mounting bolt patterns, connector locations, and bezel dimensions match your classic Chevy perfectly. This model-specific approach eliminates custom fabrication, adapter plates, and dashboard modifications that compromise value and originality. H&H Classic Parts maintains detailed application guides to verify compatibility and can cross-reference your vehicle's specifications with appropriate Custom Autosound part numbers.
Expert Installation Support from H&H Classic Parts
Installing Custom Autosound systems is straightforward thanks to comprehensive instructions, pre-wired harnesses, and model-specific design. However, H&H Classic Parts' technical team remains available throughout your installation to answer questions about speaker placement, wiring routing, antenna connections, and amplifier integration. We understand classic Chevy electrical systems and can troubleshoot any compatibility concerns with your vehicle's existing components.
Our knowledge extends beyond product specifications to include real-world installation experience across hundreds of classic Chevy models. Whether you're upgrading a daily-driver truck or completing a frame-off restoration, we provide guidance on selecting systems that match your usage patterns, interior configuration, and sonic preferences. Contact our team at 479-787-5575 for personalized recommendations.
Why Choose Custom Autosound Over Generic Solutions
While aftermarket electronics retailers offer universal head units, these products rarely integrate seamlessly with classic vehicles. Custom Autosound's specialized approach delivers authentic appearance, proper fitment, and reliability specifically engineered for vintage cars and trucks. Their radios accommodate the curved dashboards, limited mounting depth, and unique bezel shapes found in classic Chevys that generic units cannot address.
Custom Autosound products also consider the electrical characteristics of older vehicles, including positive-ground systems on some applications and generator-based charging. This attention to classic car requirements prevents installation problems and ensures long-term durability under conditions that might damage conventional car stereos designed for modern vehicles.
FAQs About Custom Autosound Car Radios
Will Custom Autosound radios work with my classic Chevy's original antenna?
Custom Autosound radios accommodate original antennas, though performance varies based on antenna condition. H&H Classic Parts also stocks Custom Autosound hide-away antennas that mount invisibly under dashboards, providing excellent FM reception without external antenna modifications.
Can I add Bluetooth to my Custom Autosound radio later?
Yes, Custom Autosound manufactures Bluetooth adapter kits compatible with their USA-630 and slide-bar radio models. These adapters install between the radio and speakers, adding wireless streaming capability without replacing your existing head unit. H&H Classic Parts stocks these kits for immediate shipment.
Do Custom Autosound speakers require modifications to my vehicle?
No modifications required. Custom Autosound designs all speakers and kick panel assemblies to mount using original factory locations and hardware. Their dual dash speakers fit single-speaker openings found in most classic Chevys, while kick panel systems utilize existing mounting points without cutting or drilling.
How do I know which Custom Autosound radio fits my classic Chevy?
Custom Autosound manufactures model-specific radios for each vehicle application. Contact H&H Classic Parts with your vehicle's year, model, and body style. Our team will cross-reference Custom Autosound's application charts and recommend the correct radio along with compatible speakers and accessories.
Does H&H Classic Parts provide technical support for Custom Autosound installations?
Absolutely. Our knowledgeable staff offers installation guidance, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting assistance for all Custom Autosound products. Call us at 479-787-5575 during business hours to speak with technicians who understand both Custom Autosound systems and classic Chevy electrical configurations.