Product Description
Custom Autosound USA-740 IN DASH AM/FM for AMC
AMC brand cars have become icons in the automotive world. From the Rambler American, to the classic Javelin, many collectors as well as car lovers have their favorite AMC make and model. Inevitably you will discover that many AMC collectors will want their cars to become a showroom replica of how they rolled off of the assembly line so many years before. When collectors sit in that restored AMC for the first time, the first thing they do is reach for the radio. Without the time stamped radio unit in place, the restoration process would certainly fall short. With that being said, the same allure that draws collectors to the AMC cars themselves, also catches collector’s eyes when we consider the classic radios in full display set within the dashboard. Ken Harrison produced radio units, for example, has become the number one go to component for that classic look is none other than the 740 (USA).
What is the attraction to the original style radios? Perhaps even the most diehard collectors may not go as far as reproducing the AMC 8 Track players, but the USA-740 offers some appealing options. With this unit collectors can get the simplistic original styling with that indistinguishable face plate with hidden modern amenities. The amenities include;
- Bluetooth capabilities
- USB ports
- Single Compact Disc Player
- Custom fitted units (no cutting required)
- Multiple display color options
- Digital capabilities for the tuner
- Five Channel Pre-Outs (RCA) with separate Subwoofer Control
- Isolated Bass and Treble Controls
- And the list goes on!
- AM/FM Radio Bluetooth, USB & Auxiliary Inputs
- Option to Add CD-1, Single CD Player
- Bluetooth is Built Into the Radio
- Fits in your Original Dash Opening Without Cutting
- 3.5mm Aux Input on Front of Radio
- RCA Aux Input On Back
- Change Display Lettering Color
- Digital Tuner
- RDS Song/Artist Information
- 5 Channel RCA Pre-Outs w/ Subwoofer Control
- Separate Bass & Treble Control
- 5 EQ Presets
- Fader and Balance Control
- 15 FM & 10 AM Pre Sets
- Seek/Scan Function
- Back by a 2 Year Warranty from the Manufacturer
AMC cars are classic American, and are becoming harder to find. Now collectors do not have to have the same struggles when it comes to replacing those original radio units. The Custom Autosound USA-740 offers everything you will need and desire for your classic AMC. Regardless of the make, the USA-740 has a customized unit that is ready to install into your dashboard. The AMC brand symbolizes a time in our country when owner took pride in their cars and owners were revered and envied. Over time roads became inundated with infinite makes and models of all kinds. The same reverence for the classic AMC has resurfaced and just as appealing as these cars have become, so have the radio units for the astute collector. The Custom Autosound USA-740 AMC unit gives and car that added touch that makes these vehicles complete. Perhaps if collectors are using their AMC cars solely for car shows, an inoperable original radio may fit the bill. However, most collectors love the idea of making their classic cars daily or perhaps a weekend driver, the USA-740 radio is a must have.
Common Questions About the USA-740 IN DASH AM/FM for AMC
Will it fit my AMC without cutting the dash?
This version is built for the AMC and is made to fit the factory radio opening. Custom Autosound says its radios fit without altering or cutting the original dash.
How does the USA-740 handle phone audio and connections?
There are two auxiliary inputs, a front mini jack and a rear RCA. Custom Autosound rates it at 300 watts peak, and it adds hi-volt 4-channel RCA pre-outs plus a subwoofer line-out.
Can I add a CD player or Bluetooth?
Check the CD options on this page, which include Single Slave CD.
What do I get with the USA-740 in my AMC?
You can pick from multiple LCD colors to match your gauges, with a dimmer, and it fully controls the optional CD-1 player. The AM/FM RDS tuner holds 25 presets (15 FM, 10 AM) and can auto-store the strongest stations.
Why does the order ask about factory air?
Select Yes or No under Factory Air so we send the correct setup for your AMC's dash.
What about older positive-ground electrical systems?
USA-740 specifications
- Bluetooth built in (streaming and hands-free calling)
- 300 watts peak power (45W x 4 RMS, 2-ohm stable)
- AM/FM stereo tuner
- 2 AUX inputs (3.5 mm front and RCA rear)
- USB port
- Direct control for optional CD-1
- 5-channel RCA pre-outs including subwoofer pre-out and control
- 15 FM and 10 AM presets
- 7-color LCD with dimmer; RDS station/song/artist display
- DSP EQ; auto-store presets
- Electronic tuning and volume; separate bass/treble; 4-way fader; L/R balance
- Power antenna lead; digital clock
- USA/EUR/JAP/RUS tuner capability (USA default)
- Custom Autosound 2-year manufacturer warranty
USA-740 wiring and tech tips
Use this as a head-unit reference for power, ground, antenna, speakers, and amplifier connections. Always match the printed diagram that ships with your unit if it differs.
Power and ground (typical Custom Autosound harness)
| Function | Wire color |
|---|---|
| Ignition / ACC +12V | Red |
| Battery / constant +12V | Yellow |
| Ground | Black |
| Power antenna | Blue |
Ignition and power-antenna leads are commonly fused at 1A on the harness—confirm against the guide that ships with your radio.
Speaker wiring (typical)
| Speaker | Wire color |
|---|---|
| Left front + / − | White / White-Black |
| Right front + / − | Gray / Gray-Black |
| Left rear + / − | Green / Green-Black |
| Right rear + / − | Violet (or Purple) / Violet-Black |
USA-740 extras
Expect antenna, USB, microphone (Bluetooth), CD-1, and subwoofer RCA connections in addition to front/rear line outs. Use the front 3.5 mm AUX or rear RCA AUX for wired sources.
Suggested order for a classic AMC
- Disconnect the vehicle battery before any wiring.
- Connect ground first, then constant (yellow) and ignition (red).
- Connect the antenna plug and the blue power-antenna lead if your car has a power antenna.
- Wire all four speakers, matching polarity.
- If using an amplifier, run RCA cables from the front/rear (and sub on USA-740/USA-850) pre-outs.
- Reconnect the battery and test radio, speakers, and charging system voltage.
Tech tips for classic AMC
- This radio is sold for the factory AMC opening used in classic models—do not cut a modern DIN rectangle if you want a stock look.
- A poor ground is the most common cause of whine or weak audio; scrape paint at the ground point and use a star washer.
- If AM reception is weak, check the antenna mast, cable continuity, and that the antenna plug is fully seated.
- Vintage Car Radio does not install radios. If you are not comfortable with 12V wiring, use a qualified installer.
USA-740 manuals
Download the manufacturer guide for operation, safety, and the official wiring diagram. You can also browse our full library on the Manuals page.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation. The manuals are for do-it-yourself reference or to share with your installer.
Two-Year Custom Autosound Warranty
All Custom Autosound radios sold by Vintage Car Radio are backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty from Custom Autosound.
Radios are checked before shipping. If something is wrong out of the box or under warranty, call us at 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676 and we will help coordinate with the manufacturer.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation services. Refer to the Manuals and Wiring / Tech Tips sections for manufacturer guidance, or use a qualified car-audio installer.
FAQ — classic AMC USA-740
Will this fit my classic AMC without cutting the dash?
It is built for the original radio opening used on classic AMC models. Compare your dash opening and bezel to the product photos. We do not modify dashes in-house.
Does this radio have Bluetooth?
Yes—Bluetooth is built into the USA-740 for streaming and hands-free calling.
Do I need an amplifier?
Many owners run speakers directly from the radio. Pre-outs are there if you want more volume or a subwoofer later.
Do you install the radio?
No. Vintage Car Radio ships the unit and documentation; installation is DIY or by a shop you choose.
What is the warranty?
Custom Autosound radios include a 2-year manufacturer warranty. See the Warranty section for details.
Need help?
Call 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676.
Specs
Wiring / Tech Tips
Manuals
Warranty
Two-Year Custom Autosound Warranty
All Custom Autosound radios sold by Vintage Car Radio are backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty from Custom Autosound.
Radios are checked before shipping. If something is wrong out of the box or under warranty, call us at 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676 and we will help coordinate with the manufacturer.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation services. Refer to the Manuals and Wiring / Tech Tips sections for manufacturer guidance, or use a qualified car-audio installer.