When upgrading the stereo in a classic car, your top priority is usually preserving the look while adding modern features. Two radios from Custom Autosound that offer that balance—each in its own way—are the USA-740 and the Slidebar Radio. While they share many capabilities, the differences in interface and design make each one better suited to different preferences and build goals.
Core Specs: What They Share
Both the USA-740 and Slidebar deliver:
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300 watts peak power, 2-ohm stable designs.
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Full feature sets including USB input, auxiliary input(s), 4 channel RCA pre-outs, a subwoofer line out, and tone controls (bass/mid/treble).
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Designed to fit original dash openings with no cutting required, preserving the vintage aesthetic.
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A tunable RDS AM/FM tuner with presets and LCD display capabilities.
So, in terms of power and audio plumbing, they are quite comparable. The real differences come down to display style, interface approach, and user experience.
USA-740: Full Features with Classic Display
The USA-740 is a feature-rich radio that embraces a modern display while still keeping a vintage feel. Its highlights include:
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Built-in Bluetooth and microphone, letting you stream music and use hands-free calling without extra modules.
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Multiple LCD color options (seven choices) plus a dimmer. This lets you tailor the display to match your instrument cluster lighting.
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Hi-volt 4 channel RCA pre-outs and a dedicated subwoofer out with crossover and level control—so it supports serious system expansions.
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Two auxiliary inputs (front mini jack and rear RCA), USB playback, and support for a CD-1 external CD unit.
The 740 is great for those who want full modern functionality, a solid display, and all the power options, wrapped in a form that still looks appropriate in a classic dash.
Slidebar Radio: Vintage Look With a Hidden Digital Core
The Slidebar Radio is the “stealth” option: on the surface, it looks like an original analog-era radio, but beneath that sliding face lies full digital capabilities. Its standout features include:
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A working slidebar mechanism: you slide the analog-style bar to reveal a full digital display underneath.
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Seven LCD color options and dimmer controls to match interior lighting.
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Full feature set: USB, auxiliary input, RCA pre-outs + sub output, DSP EQ, and compatibility with the BLUKIT for Bluetooth streaming and calls.
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A display that can show artist/song info, station data, and more when in digital mode.
Because the analog bar is part of the façade, Slidebar is especially appealing to restorers who want a truly period-correct look while hiding modern tech beneath.
Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s how to decide:
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If you want maximum display options, a visible digital interface, and out-of-the-box Bluetooth with no add-ons—go with the USA-740.
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If preserving the original appearance is your top priority, yet you still want all the modern features behind the scenes, the Slidebar is unmatched.
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Both support expansion via pre-outs and subwoofer output, but if you’re planning serious system growth, the 740’s more straightforward visibility might make it easier to access features later.
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Consider how often you’ll interact with the radio visually. If you want to glance and see station, song info, or control features often, the 740’s display is more accessible without sliding panels.
Final Thoughts
The USA-740 and Slidebar Radio both represent excellent paths to modern audio in a vintage shell. The 740 gives you full visibility, Bluetooth, and flexibility right out of the box. The Slidebar conceals its tech for a cleaner classic look, making it perfect for show cars or purists.
At Vintage Car Radio, we typically recommend the 740 for builds where you want more direct control and visibility. For those whose priority is appearance first, features second, the Slidebar is a brilliant compromise—you get state-of-the-art functionality hidden behind vintage styling.