Product Description
The 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air is one of the defining cars of the 1950s, and its chrome-trimmed dash is a big part of the appeal. Keeping that dash looking right while enjoying modern music is the challenge, and this KHE-300-USB with Bluetooth, set up for the 1956 Bel Air, is one way to meet it.
A Radio Designed for the Tri-Five Dash
The KHE-300 is part of Ken Harrison's line of radios built specifically for classic vehicles. This listing is the 1956 Bel Air version, made to fit the factory dash so you do not have to cut metal or hang a box under the dash. It is offered with a black or chrome nose piece, so you can pick the finish that suits your dash.
Features
The KHE series owner's manual lists these features for the KHE-300:
- Bluetooth wireless audio streaming
- Front USB input for MP3 files
- Front mini SD card reader
- PLL synthesized AM/FM tuner with automatic mono/stereo
- 6 AM and 6 FM presets, with preset scan and auto store
- Manual up/down tuning, seek and auto scan
- Separate bass and treble controls and a front/rear fader
- LCD display with clock
- Auto antenna power lead, RCA pre-outs and rear auxiliary input
- 50 watts x 4 channels (200 watts of system power)
That covers nearly every way people listen today: stream from your phone, plug in a USB drive or SD card full of music, or tune in a local AM or FM station. The RCA pre-outs give you the option to add an amplifier later.
Why a Classic Car Radio Makes Sense
An original tube radio from 1956 can be expensive to restore and still will not play anything but AM. A typical modern head unit plays everything but looks out of place. A classic car radio like the KHE-300 gives you a period look on the outside and modern capability inside, which is the right balance for most Bel Air owners who actually drive their cars.
Complete the System
The options on this page let you build out the rest of the system in one order. You can add a front dual voice coil speaker, which plays both stereo channels through a single dash speaker, a rear 6x9 speaker pair (choose the Custom Autosound 6x9 pair or an upgraded Pioneer pair), and a hideaway antenna that avoids drilling a fender for a mast. Many 1956 Chevrolets have room for a speaker in the dash and a pair on the rear package tray, which makes for a full, balanced sound.
Before You Install
The 1956 Chevrolet was built with a 12-volt electrical system, but many cars have been rewired over the years, so check the condition of the wiring behind the dash and confirm the car is negative ground before connecting the radio. Use a fused power source and a solid ground. Ken Harrison's manual recommends installation by an auto radio specialist if you are not comfortable with the work. Vintage Car Radio sells the radio and accessories but does not offer installation.
Good to Know
Some older listings for KHE radios mention features such as a cassette deck or different preset counts. The features above are taken from the current KHE series owner's manual. If a specific feature matters to you, contact us before ordering and we will confirm it.
KHE-300-USB with Bluetooth for the 1956 Bel Air FAQ
Will it fit my 1956 Bel Air dash?
Yes. This version is designed for the 1956 Bel Air dash, so no cutting should be needed.
Can I stream music from my phone?
Yes. It has built-in Bluetooth streaming, plus a front USB port and mini SD card slot.
How much power does it have?
The KHE series is rated at 50 watts x 4 channels, or 200 watts of system power, with RCA pre-outs for an amplifier.
Can I choose the face finish?
Yes. It is offered with a black or chrome nose piece.
What add-ons can I order?
A front dual voice coil speaker, a rear 6x9 speaker pair (Custom Autosound or upgraded Pioneer) and a hideaway antenna.
KHE-300 specifications
- Ken Harrison KHE-300 vehicle-specific classic car radio (fitment per listing title)
- Bluetooth wireless audio streaming (music streaming; not all listings advertise hands-free calling)
- Front USB input for MP3 files
- Front mini SD card reader
- PLL synthesized AM/FM tuner with automatic mono/stereo
- 6 AM and 6 FM presets; preset scan and auto store
- Manual up/down tuning, seek and auto scan
- Separate bass and treble; front/rear fader; left/right balance
- LCD display with blue illumination and clock
- Auto antenna power lead; RCA pre-outs; rear auxiliary input
- 200 watts system power (50 watts × 4 channels)
- 12 V negative-ground (6 V / positive-ground cars need a converter)
KHE-300 wiring and tech tips
Ken Harrison manuals recommend installation by an auto radio specialist if you are not comfortable with 12 V work.
- Confirm the vehicle is 12 V negative ground before connecting (use a converter for 6 V or positive-ground cars).
- Disconnect a battery terminal before wiring.
- Use a fused power source and a clean chassis ground.
- Bench-test the radio before final mounting when practical.
- Connect the antenna lead and the auto-antenna power wire only if your antenna is compatible.
- Match speaker polarity; do not short speaker leads to ground.
Application: classic Chevrolet (confirm fitment from the product title before install). Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation.
KHE-300 manuals
Use the Ken Harrison owner’s sheet packed with the radio for the official wiring diagram and controls. Additional classic-radio manuals are listed on our Manuals page when available.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation.
Warranty
Warranty coverage for Ken Harrison radios is handled per the manufacturer’s and seller’s published terms for your purchase. Contact Vintage Car Radio at 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676 with your order number for assistance.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation.
FAQ — classic Chevrolet KHE-300
Will this fit my dash?
Ken Harrison radios are vehicle-specific. This listing is for classic Chevrolet as titled—compare your opening and faceplate to the photos.
Does Bluetooth include hands-free calling?
KHE-300 listings emphasize wireless audio streaming. Confirm calling support on the product page for your exact SKU.
Do you install?
No.
Need help?
844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676.
Specs
Wiring / Tech Tips
Manuals
Warranty
Warranty
Warranty coverage for Ken Harrison radios is handled per the manufacturer’s and seller’s published terms for your purchase. Contact Vintage Car Radio at 844-802-4499 or 574-226-6676 with your order number for assistance.
Vintage Car Radio does not offer installation.
