Custom Autosound has long specialized in radios that preserve the vintage dash look while packing modern features. Two of their top-tier offerings are the USA-740 and USA-850. Although they share many similarities—like peak power, fitment, and build quality—there are key differences that can matter depending on your priorities. Let’s compare them side by side.
What They Have in Common
Before diving into differences, here’s what you’ll get with both the USA-740 and USA-850:
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300 watts peak power, 2-ohm stable, four channels.
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Full aftermarket features: built-in Bluetooth, USB input, auxiliary inputs, AM/FM tuning with presets.
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Designed to fit factory radio openings in classic vehicles—no cutting required. They use the standard power and speaker harness, making installation straightforward.
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DSP or tone tools: bass, mid, treble controls, separate fader/balance.
So if you’re deciding between them, you’re comparing two radios with similarly strong foundations. The distinctions are in display, pre-outs, sub-woofer control, and interface features.
Key Differences: USA-740 Highlights
The USA-740 is aimed at users who want a solid feature set and the ability to expand, and it brings:
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High-voltage 4-channel RCA pre-outs plus a dedicated subwoofer RCA pre-out. Great if you plan to add external amps or a subwoofer later.
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Multiple LCD color choices (seven), and a dimmer. Vanity or match-interior lighting, this helps tie the radio visually to your instrument cluster.
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Bluetooth built-in (with remote microphone) so you can stream music and take hands-free calls without accessories.
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AM/FM RDS tuner that shows station, song, and artist info on the display. Auxiliary in front + RCA rear. Solid media flexibility.
So the 740 gives you good expandability and modern convenience, while preserving classic style.
Key Differences: USA-850 Stand-Out Features
The USA-850, however, adds even more refinement and premium details:
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DigaDial™ display: offers four distinct screen/display modes, including working analog-dial mode. You get the classic tuning-needle look or digital readouts (song, station, etc.) depending on preference.
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6-volt RCA pre-outs and dual subwoofer outputs. That means stronger signal paths for external amps and two subs. If you want more bass or a bigger system, the 850 is built for it.
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Slightly more refined audio settings and interface: more display modes, more flexibility on screen style, plus the ability to better tailor the look.
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Pre-out voltage and sub control that better supports larger systems with lower distortion when driving more demanding loads.
Which One Fits YOUR Needs?
Here are scenarios and which model tends to win out:
| Your Priority | USA-740 | USA-850 |
| Want solid features + expandability without going full premium |
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Mostly for this |
| Need dual sub outputs + high-volt pre-outs for serious external amps/subs | -- | |
| Prefer more display customization, analog feel + digital readout | Both decent, but 850 edges it | |
| Want built-in Bluetooth, aux, USB, etc. | |
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| Trying to keep cost lower while getting modern sound | |
740 gives good value |
| Show-quality or high-end system with lots of components | -- | 850 gives more room to grow |
Final Thoughts
Both the USA-740 and USA-850 deliver excellent performance, retain factory-dash aesthetics, and offer modern convenience. If you’re building a system and want to maximize features and future expandability—especially with subwoofers and higher grade components—the USA-850 is the more capable, premium option. If you want much of that technology, solid audio, but a more modest cost and fewer frills, the USA-740 offers terrific value.
At Vintage Car Radio, we often guide clients toward the 740 when their primary goals are reliable power, Bluetooth streaming, and solid sound. We recommend the 850 for builds where display feel, subwoofer output, and high-end flexibility matter. Either way, you get that blend of classic look and modern function.