RetroSound is a well-known name in the classic car audio niche, offering retro-styled radios that combine vintage aesthetics with modern features like Bluetooth, USB, and auxiliary inputs. Given the expectations of classic car owners, RetroSound’s products are reviewed critically—and the feedback is a mix of praise, caution, and suggestions. Below is a balanced look at what users and reviewers commonly report.
Positive Feedback & Strengths
Factory-look styling with modern features
Many reviewers compliment the aesthetics. The RetroRadio units (such as the M2B) are frequently described as “perfect fit and retro look” for classic interiors, making installs look clean and purposeful.
The integration of Bluetooth and connected playback is often praised. Owners say that pairing a phone is usually straightforward, and the sound is “clear with plenty of power” for standard speaker setups.
In long drive testing, one owner of a RetroSound Model Two reported that the internal amp delivered impressive performance for its class. Even with windows down on a highway, the radio performed well, with tone controls (treble, mid, bass) working smoothly.
Common Complaints & Critiques
Heat and thermal stress
One consistent concern is that RetroSound radios run hot. In one review, the user mentioned that while the radio worked well, the back of the unit became quite hot during louder playback—suggesting that in heavy use, heat management could be a stress point.
Memory retention issues
Several reviewers note that when power to the radio is cut (for example by a battery disconnect or switch), the unit can lose all presets and configurations. This is a major annoyance for classic car owners who often use cut-off switches.
Build quality, speaker / enclosure criticisms
In one detailed review of RetroSound’s speaker enclosures and accessories, a user criticized the materials and fit: “very costly yet very, very poorly designed and made.” The same reviewer praised the radio itself as the “best part” of the bundle, but complained about knobs that fall off unless glued and enclosures that require cutting and trimming.
Other owners express frustration about the internal amp power being modest, recommending the use of external amplification for higher performance systems.
Some users also find the display or interface sales to be less intuitive, and wireless control or Bluetooth functionality sometimes feels constrained by hardware limitations.
Real-World Insights & Considerations
Many owners in online forums report Mixed experiences:
“The newer units are supposedly way better … but I found some quality issues when trying to drive larger speakers straight from the unit.”
And another:
“Sounded poorly and totally unreliable … take your wife out to dinner and save your money.”
That said, some buyers offer a more moderate view:
“They’re fine. Nothing amazing, but also nothing terrible.”
This suggests that RetroSound tends to satisfy moderate expectations—good for stock or lightly upgraded systems, less ideal for high-powered, competition-level audio.
How RetroSound Compares & When It’s a Strong Choice
Based on reviews, RetroSound radios often hit a sweet spot: they outperform factory radios in both styling and functionality, while not pushing into ultra-high-end audio territory. They are well-suited for builders who want modern convenience hidden in vintage form, without needing extreme performance.
However, for users expecting powerful output, strong heat handling, or rock-solid memory retention under switched power, RetroSound may require trade-offs—such as pairing with a separate amplifier or running a constant memory feed.
At Vintage Car Radio, we view RetroSound as a compelling option for restorations where aesthetics and moderate performance matter more than full audiophile capability. But every install should consider thermal clearance, power wiring, grounding, and possible expansion with an external amp to overcome inherent limitations.