69 stereo upgrade questions

[Mike Shevlin]

I am thinking of replacing the stock stereo with a Custom Autosound cassette (USA-5) and CD changer. Does anyone have this setup in their car? Are you happy with it? Any problems with installation? What speakers did you use (size, type)? Did you use any rear speakers? Where did you hide the CD changer (jack compartment?)?

Is there other similar systems that others have installed?

Thanks for any suggestions/help.

Mike

[Tony Merendino]

Re: 69 stereo upgrade questions

I had a Custom Auto Sound Stereo Cassette in my 70 Cpe and it performed poorly. Radio reception was almost non existant and cassett sound was poor at best. The only thing good about it was that it fit the bezel. After 2 years of rather limited use one channel quit so I replaced it with a Pioneer DEP-P3500 CD player. A world of difference for about the same price at Best Buy. I also replaced the speakers with Pioneers.

I have not heard of anyone who was pleased with the performance of their Custom Auto Sound systems. You get garbage for Corvette prices. Fortunately my guage bezel was broken so cutting it to fit the Pioneer was less painful. I still have the original am fm stereo which at 33+ years sounded better than the Custom Auto sound system. Maybe someone will pitch in with a good stereo that would fit the guage bezel but until then save your money or take singing lessons.

[Chris H.]

Re: 69 stereo upgrade questions

My plan is to install a power amp with the XM system in my 62. No need to worry about hooking up to the wonderbar or antenna system.

Planning on putting amp, XM receiver and rear speakers below my top cover (hardtop only car)and hoping that black puck antenna will work under the fiberglass (should). Will put small tweeter/midrange speakers somewhere under the IP. Love the XM system in my house and is portable.

[Shawn Woodend]

Re: 69 stereo upgrade questions

I had a Custom Autosound Am/Fm w CD changer in an old Mustang. The sound quality was very poor as stated above. The am/fm non stereo unit in my 73 Vette souned better. For the Vette I bought a new bezel from Vette Specialties. I then was able to put in an am/fm cd deck by Clarion. Had the dash speakers replaced and had 6x9's put in boxes in the rear compartment. Sounds very good.