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custom autosound USA 850 Radio

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Specifications:

  • Model: USA 850 Radio
  • Features: AM/FM with RDS Tuner, Bluetooth, VA Display
  • Power Output: 300 Watts
  • Display: TFT-LCD Display (selectable)
  • Controls: Bass / Mid / Treble Control, DSP EQ, Clock
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, CD Controller, Auxiliary In, Subwoofer Line out, USB Jack charge for mobile phones, USB MP3/WMA/FLAC/WAV Player, RCA Pre-out 6v (2 Pair), Auto Antenna lead
  • Additional Features: 25 Pre-sets, Double Front/Rear Fader, Left/Right Balance, Loudness Function, Last Volume Memory

Product Usage Instructions

Installation:

Thank you for choosing Custom Autosound for your classic vehicle radio needs. Follow the steps below for a successful installation:

  1. Ensure your vehicle’s original dash is ready for installation without requiring any assembly.
  2. Connect the necessary power and speaker wires according to the provided manual.
  3. Mount the radio securely in the designated location within them dash.
  4. Verify all connections are properly made before testing the radio.

Operating the Radio:

Once installed, follow these steps to operate the radio:

  1. Power on the radio by using the designated power button.
  2. Select between AM and FM bands using the mode selector.
  3. Tune to your desired station manually or use the preset buttons for quick access.
  4. Adjust volume, balance, and fade settings as needed for optimal audio experience.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

To pair your mobile device with the radio via Bluetooth:

  1. Enable Bluetooth on your mobile device and search for available devices.
  2. Select ‘USA 850 Radio’ from the list of available devices to pair.
  3. Once paired, you can stream music or make calls wirelessly through the radio.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

  • Q: Can I connect additional speakers to the radio?
    A: Yes, Custom Autosound offers a variety of speaker assemblies that can be easily installed without permanent modifications to your vehicle. Contact your authorized dealer for more information.
  • Q: What should I do if I encounter issues with my radio?
    A: If you experience any problems with your radio, please contact Custom Autosound directly for technical assistance. We are here to help troubleshoot and provide repair or replacement services if necessary.
  • Q: How long does it take to repair a defective unit?
    A: Normal turnaround time for repairs is approximately 7 business days plus shipping time once the unit is received at our facility in Fullerton, CA.

AM/FM WITH RDS TUNER, Bluetooth and VA DISPLAY

  • HIGH POWER 300 WATTS
  • AM/FM with RDS & 25 Pre-sets
  • TFT-LCD Display (selectable)
  • Bluetooth
  • CD Controller
  • Auxiliary In
  • Subwoofer Line out Double
  • Front/ Rear Fader
  • Left/Right Balance
  • Bass / Mid / Treble Control
  • DSP EQ
  • Clock
  • USB Jack charge for mobile phones
  • USB MP3/WMA/FLAC/WAV Player
  • Loudness Function
  • Last Volume Memory
  • RCA Pre-out 6v (2 Pair)
  • Auto Antenna lead

READY TO INSTALL IN YOUR ORIGINAL Dash NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED

Introduction

Thank you for your purchase of a Custom Autosound radio.

  • This AM/FM receiver is specifically designed and manufactured for your classic vehicle. It is a reflection of over 45 years of customer feedback regarding preferred features, vehicle compatibility, cosmetics and quality components.
  • The quality of the components and various parts that are used in our radios were developed in a California audio research laboratory. The laboratory researched and assembled the finest radio for your classic car.
  • Custom Autosound and its staff own many classic special interest cars and trucks. These vehicles are used for research and development, car shows, and much personal pleasure. We find that our custom radios only sound as good as the speakers
    they are matched with and a quality installation.
  • We also manufacture a full line of rear, dual front and dual voice coil speaker assemblies to fit in the original speaker areas. Also available are replacement kick panels with built-in speakers and a custom 2.1 amplified system with satellite speakers that look like AC vents. All of these speaker assemblies are made to be mounted without permanent vehicle modifications. Check out our website!
  • Your Custom Autosound authorized dealer has information regarding our speakers and special speaker assemblies, as well as information regarding custom radios for vehicles other than yours. We offer over 400 different ‘conversions’ for various makes and year groups, All radios are ready to install, no assembly is required.
  • Again, we thank you for your purchase! You have increased the value and “Driving Pleasure” of your classic without compromising originality.
    • Regards, Sandra Sprague
    • President
    • Custom Autosound Mfg.
  • It is advised that you do NOT return defective units to your dealer. There is generally no exchange (standard Electronics Industry Policy). Also, most dealers do not have radio technicians, test benches, etc. and a return to factory through a dealer can
    extend turn-around times by weeks.
  • Please call Custom Autosound, requesting technical assistance if a problem occurs. We will gladly troubleshoot/advise, step by step.
  • After calling and if your unit needs repair/return, please ship to us, UPS preferably. We will repair or replace it and return ASAP! Normal turnaround time is 7 business days plus shipping time.

Radio Installation

  • Thank you for your purchase of this Custom Autosound product!
    Owner- Installer: Please review installation instructions and owner’s manual.
  • Keep in mind that your radio and/or speakers are custom equipment designed specifically for your year vehicle. It should be handled carefully and installed preferably by an auto radio specialist. We suggest that you ‘BENCH TEST” the unit before installation, as we do, before shipment. This is to ensure that the equipment functions properly before the time is spent on installation. This way, if a careless installation occurs and the unit is “fried”,or some other possible damage, the installer is responsible. Shipping damage does occasionally occur. If you should suspect shipping damage, please contact the delivery company at once.
  • Please read the owners manual thoroughly before using your radio.
  • It is recommended that you disconnect the negative lead from the battery before installing any electronic equipment in your vehicle. Reconnect when the wiring is complete.
  • First, you will need to remove the original knobs and shaft nuts from your original radio if present. Unplug the main wire harness and speaker leads from the back of the original radio. Disconnect the antenna lead and remove the mounting strap from the back of the radio. The radio is now ready to be removed from the dash. Check the original radio for signs of water or oil damage from leaks. If leaks are present, do not install the new radio. Water, oil or any other liquid damage is not covered under the new radio warranty.

REAR MOUNTING STRAP OMISSION VOIDS WARRANTY!

  • Attach the rear mounting strap to the rear of the radio. Install the radio from behind the dash. Attach the mounting strap to the dash or firewall using an existing bolt or screw. Attach shaft nuts to secure the radio in the dash (DO NOT OVER TORQUE THE SHAFT NUTS – SLIGHTLY MORE THAN HAND TIGHT IS SUFFICIENT). Once the radio is centered and secured, you can install the knobs.
  • Please refer to the wiring instructions on page 4&5.
  • Plug-in antenna lead. For the speaker hook up make sure the positive lead goes to the positive terminal and the negative lead to the negative terminal of the speakers. A minimum of two speakers is required for this stereo radio. DO NOT CONNECT ANY TWO
  • SPEAKER LEADS TO EACH OTHER OR VEHICLE GROUND. Radio damage will occur. If less than four speakers are used, tape off the remaining speaker to prevent a short.
  • Connect the red power wire to a switched 12-volt source. Connect the yellow memory wire to a constant 12-volt source. Wire the black ground wire to a clean, solid chassis point or original ground wire from the factory radio.
  • Good Listening! Audio quality is only as good as speaker quality!

Power and Speaker Connections (Refer to Wiring Diagram on page 5.)
Note: Both Red and Yellow wires must be connected for the radio to operate.

A-Main Power-Red Wire B+
Connect the RED wire (B+) to an accessory fuse that is switched OFF when the key switch is in the OFF position and is switched ON when the key switch is switched to the ON or accessory position.

B-Memory Back-Up-Yellow Wire B+

Connect the YELLOW wire (memory B+) to an accessory fuse that is always ON regardless of the position of the key switch. The lead supplies power to the program memory and the clock circuit when the radio is switched off. If there is no power on this lead the radio will not turn on.

C-Power Antenna (Auto-Antenna) – Blue Wire

This wire can be connected to the positive switch terminal of the relay for the auto antenna (if your car is equipped) or to the remote on the switch of the amplifier or booster (if equipped). NOTE: DO NOT connect this wire to a negative position or to any device that requires high current, otherwise the radio may fail or become “fried”. If your car is not equipped with an auto antenna, leave this wire sealed and do not allow it to short to any other positions.

Important Notice For Semi Auto Antenna

Do Not Connect the power antenna lead to this radio unless it is a fully automatic antenna. If your antenna was controlled by a switch or knob on the original radio (ex. 1958-68 Cadillac radios) it is not a fully automatic it is a semi automatic antenna. If you connect the antenna actuator lead of a semi-automatic antenna to this radio you will burn the circuit board in the radio. This can cause unrepairable damage.

D – Ground Wire – Black
Connect the black ground wire to any clean paint and contaminant-free area of vehicle chassis. NOTE: Proper grounding is essential for the optimum performance of your radio.

E – Speaker Wires
Connect the speaker wires as shown in Figure 2.

AUX Input
There is an input on the back of your radio.Use these to listen to any portable device with stand ard headphone outputs (MP3 player, Nav unit, portable CD, etc.) The radio will control the volume level only of this input.

Low-Level Output (Line Out Jacks) Connection
The radio is equipped with low-level, high-impedance outputs. The low-level outputs (RCA type Line Out Jacks) for front / rear / subwoofer will not drive speakers. If you are connecting an amplifier or plan on it in the future, it is recommended to use these leads. It makes for a cleaner and easier Installation.

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WIRING DIAGRAMcustom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (4)

CONTROLScustom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (5)

custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (27) custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (28) custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (29)

Adjusting the sound properties:

  1. Press the right front knob, then release, to access the sound properties menu.
  2. Repeatedly press and release the front right knob to scroll through the available menu options.
  3. Turn the left front knob right or left to select a value for the chosen menu option.
  4. Press and release the right front knob repeatedly to move to the next function desired, or do nothing and the menu will revert to the current source display.

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EQ SETTING
When you first access this menu, EQ is set to OFF, Turn the left front knob to view and select from the 5 preset equalizer options.

  • The FLAT setting offers sonic adjustments that lend themselves to classical music.
  • The CLASSIC setting offers sonic adjustments that lend themselves to classical music.
  • POP setting accentuates the bass and treble settings. This is suitable for bass-heavy pop music.
  • ROCK setting accentuates the treble settings. This is suitable for rock music.
  • BASS / MID / TREBLE selections do not come up when the EQ is set to anything other than OFF.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (7) custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (8)
  • BASS
    The bass adjustment function allows you to boost or cut the low frequencies from -12 to +12.
  • MID
    The mid-range adjustment function allows you to adjust the middle frequencies from -12 to +12.
  • TREBLE
    The treble adjustment function allows you to boost or cut the high frequencies from -12 to +12.
  • Balance
    The balance adjustment function allows you to adjust or pan the stereo sound from the left or right. The adjustment range is between 0-2 for the left and r ight speakers.
  • FADER
    The fader control allows you to fade the sound from the front pair of speakers to the rear pair of speakers. The adjustment range is 0-20 between the front and rear speakers.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (9) custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (10)custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (11)
  • Loudness
    This function boosts bass and treble according to the volume. You will know this function is active when you see “LOUD” on your display. This function boosts bass and treble for low listening volumes and should be turned off at higher volumes.
  • SUB LPF/L&R
    Turn the subwoofer RCA output ON to activate this feature.
    LPF (Low Pass Filter) is double subwoofer output(more bass).
    L&R is stereo RCA output.
  • SUB VOL
    When SUB ON is selected and a sub-woofer is attached to the sub-out RCA, use this function to increase or decrease the volume level of the sub-woofer outputs from 0-12.
    SUB (55HZ / 85HZ / 120HZ / 160HZ When SUB ON is selected and a sub-woofer is attached to the sub out RCA, use this function to adjust the sub-woofer crossover point to 55HZ, 85HZ, 120HZ or 160HZ. Use the left knob for adjustment.
  • BASS / MID / TREBLE X-Over This Menu does not come up when the EQ is set to anything other than OFF
  • BASScustom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (12)
    Use this function to make a more detailed boost or cut adjustment of bass (low) frequencies as follows: 60/80/100/120HZ. This is a very useful mode for making very specific tonal adjustments. When selecting one of these 60/80/100/120HZ points, any changes to the prior BASS Menu settings on page 10 (-12 to +12) will boost or cut at the selected frequency setting chosen in this menu.
  • MID-RANGEcustom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (13)
    Use this function to make a more detailed boost or cut adjustment of midrange (vocal) frequencies as follows: 0.5K/1.0K/1.25K/1.5KHz.The default setting is 1.0KHz.This is a very useful mode for making very specific tonal adjustments. When selecting one of these 0.5K/1.0K/1.25K/1.5KHz points, array changes to the prior MID menu settings on page 10 (-12 to +12) will boost or cut at the selected frequency setting chosen in this menu.
  • TREBLEcustom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (14)
    Use this function to make a detailed boost or cut adjustment of treble frequencies as follows; 7.5K/10.0K/12.5K/15.0K. The default setting is 10.0KHz.When selecting one of these 7.5K /10.0K/12.5K/15.0K points, any changes to the prior TRE menu settings on page 10 (-12 to +12) will boost or cut at the selected frequency setting chosen in this menu. This is a very useful mode for making very specific tonal adjustments.

Accessing the sub-menu:

  1. Press and hold the right front knob for 2 seconds, then release, it to access the sub-menu system.
  2. Repeatedly press and release the front right knob to scroll through the available menu options.
  3. Turn the left front knob right or left to select a value for the chosen menu option.
  4. Press and release the right front knob repeatedly to move to the next function desired, or do nothing, and the menu will revert to the current source display.

Sub-Menu Options

DIMMER
Use this menu option to switch the LCD brightness between 0 to 7, Turn the left front knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to make your selection.
(LCD DISPLAY COLO R) Select the desired color preset. By default, the LC D lighting is white. Available color options include WHITE, RED, GREEN, BLUE, CYAN, YELLOW, and PINK.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (15)

Selectable Display
Select the desired display. The default display is 0. Available Display options include Style 0,1,2 and 3.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (16)

DISP FUN/CLK

The unit default setting displays function info on the screen.
Select “DISP CLK” to show the clock as the priority screen view without any operation in 10 seconds. Turn the right front knob either clockwise or counter-clockwise to select “DISP CLK” or “DISP FUN”custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (17) custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (18)

SCR OFF/CLK
The unit’s default setting displays nothing on the screen when the radio power is off. Select “SCR CLK”to show the clock when the radio is off. Turn the left front knob either clockwise or counterclockwise to select “SCR OFF” or “SCR CLK”

AUTO SEEK

Access to the MENU, go to AUTO SEEK (by default setting) then. Turn the outer left knob clockwise, the screen will show “MANUAL”, press the outer right knob to confirm. After that radio will stay active in Manual Tune until we reset it back to Auto Seek.
Shortcut: while the radio is on AM/FM mode, turn and hold the inner right knob counter-clockwise for 2 seconds, the screen shows “Manu Tune” or “Auto Seek” After that, the radio will stay active in Manual Tune or Auto Seek.

LOCAL/DX
When listening to the FM turner, you can access the LOCAL or DX (default) option. Selecting between the LOCAL and DX settings can aid in listening to weak FM radio stations or compensate for stations that have too strong of a signal.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (19)

STEREO/MONO
When listening to the FM turner, you can access the STEREO (default) or MONO option. Selecting between the stereo and mono settings can set up a stereo or mono output.

A STORE
This function will automatically fill presets with the strongest stations found for the current band. Turn the right front knob clockwise to activate this feature.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (20)

AREA (USA/EUR/JAP/AUS/RUS)
The radio can receive AM/FM broadcast frequencies in other countries. To modify the default setting (default), turn the left front knob.

BT ON/OFF
Turn the left front knob clockwise to select “BT ON” to enable the Bluetooth function and search for “Custom Autosound” in your phone Bluetooth device list. Enter a password (0000) if prompted. Turn counter-clockwise to select “BT OFF” and disable the Function.

BT CONN/DISC
Turn the left front knob clockwise to select “BT DISC” to break the Bluetooth connection when Bluetooth is in a connection state. Turn to “BT CONN” radio will automatically connect to the last connected phone.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (21)

BEEPcustom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (22)

This function controls the audible beep confirmation that sounds during radio operation. With the beep function dis- played, turn the left front knob to select BEEP OFF, BEEP 2ND, or BEEP ALL. If you select the BEEP 2ND, press and hold the knob for 1 second, you will hear the audible beep confirmation only.

CT ON/OFF
If supported by the station, adjust to turn the CT (Clock Time) function on/off. This feature can synchronize the clock with the radio station’s clock.custom-autosound-USA-850-Radio-fig- (24)

VOLUME ADJUST/LAST
The factory default for this menu option is VOL LAST, which maintains the last volume the radio was at when you turned it off. When you select ADJ, you can set the default turn-on volume at any level(ADJ VAL 00-45), regardless of what the volume level was when you last turned off the unit.

PROGRAM TYPE (PTY) (Works in EURO Mode only)
This function will allow you to search a special PTY Station in FM Mode. Turn the Left front knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to select the PTY which you want.
Turn the right front knob clockwise to activate the Search process.

TA SEEK (Works in EURO Mode only)
This function allows you to select the tuner working in TA Seek or TA Alarm mode. Turn the left front knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to select TA Seek or TA Alarm.

PI Sound (Works in EURO Mode only)
This function allows you to select the tuner working in PI Sound or PI Mute mode. Turn the left front knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to select PI Sound or PI Mute.

MASK DPI (Works in EURO Mode only)

  • This function allows you to select the tuner working in Mask DPI or Mask All mode. Turn the left front knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to select Mask DPI or Mask All.
  • RDS tuners can automatically tune in stations according to the style of music (or talk) they broadcast. Some RDS tuners can announce traffic alerts or emergency broadcasts.
  • RDS enables your receiver to display text messages (usually call letters and format info that many FM stations include on a subcarrier signal within their normal broadcast frequency.
  • The RDS function is always active, and if the FM station you are listening to is broad-casting RDS information, the radio station call letters, song info, artist info and other messages will appear.

USB Player
The USB decoder is compatible with MP3 (MPEG Audio Layer-3)FLAC, WAVand WMA (Windows Media Audio) files. It is preferable to set up your flash drive/thumb drive with a folder system. This way you can advance to another set of songs (folder) by pressing the disc up or disc down buttons. Similar to having multiple discs in a CD changer.

  1. Insert your flash drive/thumb drive into the USB jack (located on 18” extension from the back of the radio).
  2. Turn and release the left rear knob clockwise until USB PLAY is displayed on the screen. The radio will automatically start playing your files starting with the first file on the flash drive
  3. To change songs, turn the clockwise/counter-clockwise button (8). Use the disc up disc down buttons (6)(7) to change folders if your drive is set up with folders
    Note: The folder name or number does not appear on the LCD Display Track numbers for songs in the folder are determined by the order in which they were recorded to the flash drive.
  4. The player will not play MP4 or files with copy protection.

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Pairing a Bluetooth Device

When connecting a Bluetooth device for the first time, you must first pair the device with the USA 850.For most devices, pairing only needs to be done once. Please follow these steps: Make sure the BT (Bluetooth) function is turned “ON” in the radio Sub-Menu. See “Sub-Menu System” on page 13.

  • Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on the phone to be connected to the unit.
  • Search for a new Bluetooth device from the phone (this may take up to 30 seconds).
  • Select “CUSTOM AUTOSOND” from the Bluetooth device list.
  • Some devices may require you to enter a PIN. If prompted, enter “0000” for the PIN. “PAIRING OK” will be displayed on the LCD if the pairing is successful.
    The paired device will then connect to the USA 850 automatically.

Making a Call

  1. Dial the desired number on the paired mobile phone.
  2. Once dialing is in progress, “CALLING” will be displayed on the LCD.
  3. When the call is in progress, “TALK” will be displayed on the LCD, along with the elapsed call time (TALK 00:00).

Receiving a Call

  1. If a call comes in, audio playback from the current source will either be muted or paused (depending on the source) and “PHONE IN” will be shown on the display, along with the Caller ID, if it is enabled by the phone/carrier.
  2. Turn the left rear knob counter-clockwise to accept the call.

Ending a Call
To end the call, turn the left rear knob clockwise to end the call.

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TURN

CD Changer Operation

This radio is only compatible with the Custom Autosound CD-1 Player.

  1. With CD magazine in the changer, Rotate and Release the Left Rear Knob(2) Clockwise Until CDC is displayed on the LCD.
  2. To select a disc press CD up (6) or CD down (7) until the desired disc number is shown on the LCD (11).
  3. To skip to the next track, turn knob (8) clockwise.To go to the previous track, turn knob (8) counterclockwise. . . .
  4. To change the mode to another source, Rotate and Release the Left Rear Knob Clockwise until the desired source is shown on the LCD (11).

Noise Suppression
All CAM electronics are designed for maximum electrical noise rejection. In some installations, however, electrical noise may affect the quality of sound reproduction.
If electrical noise is present after installing your radio, identify the source of the noise using the descriptions under Sources Of Electrical Noise. To eliminate the noise follow the procedures described under Elimination of the specific noise source.

  1. Check all ground connections. Remove paint away from painted surfaces to secure a . good electrical ground.
  2. Check battery posts. If contacts are corroded or loose, clean and tighten both. terminals.
  3. Check the battery or add fluid if needed.
  4. Check the condition of the spark plug and distributor leads. Worn or damaged leads will generate noise that can be very difficult to eliminate.
  5. Check the installation of factory noise suppressor(s). Verify that the connections are solid. Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for nose suppressor location or allow a qualified mechanic to inspect the device (s) for you.
  6. (Optional) Some professional installers will install a simple noise filter even if there is no noise present in the system. This is a simple and relatively inexpensive device available at your nearest auto sound dealer or electronic supply store. Most filters designed for car stereos carry a current rating of 3 amps or more. Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions. This filter is installed in the power lines of the. car stereo.

Sources Of Electrical Noise

Alternator Noise

This noise is generally a high-pitched whine present with the engine running. The pitch of the whine will vary as the engine RPM varies. Alternator noise usually becomes more apparent with an electrical load to the system. Switching the headlights on usually increases the noise.

Elimination

  1. Install a noise filter (available from your auto sound dealer or electronic supply store )in the power lines of your radio. This filter should be rated at 3 amps minimum.
  2. Start the car’s engine. switch on the lights (to accentuate the noise) and switch on the USA-850. If noise is still present, proceed to step 3.
  3. Install an alternator noise filter (available from your auto sound dealer or electronic supply store). Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Antenna Noise
A static or crackle is heard through the speakers, usually when the car is running, but sometimes present with the ignition off. If a crackling static is present, follow the steps outlined below to confirm the antenna as the source of the noise.

  1. Start the car engine.
  2. Switch on the radio.
  3. Adjust the volume so that the noise is audible.
  4. Reduce the volume setting of the car stereo but do not switch it off. If noise decreases or disappears, the signal is most likely being picked up by the car antenna. If the noise persists after following the steps listed below, proceed to ignition Noise.

Elimination
Test or have tested the antenna lead for any breaks or shorts. Signs of crimping, kinking, fraying or rust usually indicates damage to the cable. Replace the antenna or cable if necessary.

Ignition Noise
A popping or crackling noise heard through the speakers. The noise will vary as the engine rpm varies, the noise will only be present with the engine running.

Elimination

  1. Install an L.C. Filter Network in the power lead of the radio. The filter should be rated at a minimum 3 amps.
  2. Inspect spark plug and distributor cable for signs of wear or damage. Replace as necessary using resistor cable only. Metal conductor ignition cables increase static interference.
    NOTE: Do not use spark plug or distributor noise filters as these can create more problems than they can solve. They decrease the quality of the spark generated by the spark plugs and they may create more static than they eliminate.

Accessory Noise
A popping heard when the lights, turn indicators, windshield wipers, cigarette lighter, etc. are switched on indicate a vehicle wiring deficiency. Most occurrences are minor and preset no risk to the stereo system other than the annoyance to the lis- tener. However, severe cases may damage the speakers, minor occurrences can be  remedied. A professional must attend to severe occurrences, as they present athreat to not only the stereo system but to the vehicle wiring itself.

Elimination

  1. Install an L.C. Filter Network in the power leads of the USA 850 radio. The filter should be rated at a minimum of 3 amps.
  2. If the noise persists, consult a professional automotive service technician.

Radio Specifications

FM Section

  • Tuner Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PLL
  • Frequency Range . . . . . . . . . .87.5-107.9 MHz
  • Usable Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12.5dBf
  • Quieting Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4uV
  • T.H.D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.8%

AM Section

  • Frequency Range . . . . . . . . . . . .530-1710KHz
  • S/N Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50dB
  • Selectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25dB

Audio Section

  • Output Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 X 4
  • Output Impedance . . . . . . . .4ohm per speaker
  • Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30Hz-I8KHz

General

  • Power Supply . . . . . .12VDC Negative Ground
  • Speaker impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-8 ohm
  • Stand-By Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .<2mA
  • Chassis …. 200mm(7-¾”) (w) X 50mm (2″)H X 150mm (5-⅞”) (D)
  • IF Frequency…………………..10.7MHz
  • Sensitivity ………………………….2.6V
  • S/N Ratio ………………………….67dB
  • Capture Ratio……………………1.5dB
  • Separation…………………………35dB
  • IF Frequency………………….450KHz
  • System Power………Max 300 W
  • Sensitivity……………………….. 20uVatts
  • THD ……………………………………1%

Note: All specifications are subject to change without notice.

This radio is for 12-volt negative ground vehicles only. If your electrical system is 6volts and or positive ground Custom Autosound has power inverters #PGPI-HC (positive ground power inverter) and voltage boosters #NGVB-HC (negative ground voltage booster) for use with this radio.

Problem Possible Cause Solution
 

Radio will not turn on.

No lights, No sound.

Power Lead:Red wire (switched) not connected or power not getting to radio Check all connections for

proper voltage. Voltage range 12-14.7 Volt

  Power Lead:Yellow wire (con-

stant) not connected or 12 volt not getting to radio

Check all connections for

proper voltage. Voltage range 12-14.7 Volt

Ground wire not connected Check for good ground connection on Black wire
Fuse on the back of the radio

blown

Replace blown fuse
 

Lights are displayed but no sound

Problem with a speaker or

speaker wire

Verify all speakers used are 4

to 8 ohm. Verify that none of the speakers are going to ground.

Verify that none of the speaker wires are shorting to themselves or ground.

 

Sound only heard on one side

Speaker wires disconnected

Balance control set to one side

Check all connections

Adjust balance and fader control to the center position

  Bad speaker The reverse speaker leads at the radio. If still no sound on the same speaker the speaker is bad. If no sound on the other check the wiring and fader control on a radio.
Lights dim and radio

distorts at high volume

Poor ground connection Reconnect Ground wire to a

solid chassis ground

Noise with radio

reception

The antenna is not fully extended.

The car underneath fluorescent lights

Extend the antenna to full length.

Back vehicle out of garage and test again

System Reset:
Remove all power from the radio for 2 minutes, reconnect power and all settings will be at factory default.

LIMITED WARRANTY

If your product does not work properly because of a defect in material or workmanship, Custom Autosound Mfg., Inc. (the Company) will for the length of the period indicated on the chart below, which starts with the date of original pur-chase (“Limited Warranty period”), at its option either (a) repair your product with new or refurbished parts, or (b) replace it with a new or refurbished product. The decision to repair or replace will be made by the company.

  • During the “Labor” Limited Warranty period there will be no charge for labor. During the “Parts” Limited Warranty period, there will be no charge for parts. This Limited Warranty is extended only to the original purchaser and only covers products purchased as new. A purchase receipt or other proof of the original pur-chase date is required for Limited Warranty service.
  • To obtain repairs or replacement within the terms of this warranty, the product should be delivered, transportation prepaid, to the Company at the address shown below.
  • This warranty does not extend to the elimination of car static or motor noise cor-rection, antenna problems, costs incurred for removal or reinstallation of the product, or damage of tapes, speakers accessories or car electrical systems.
  • This warranty does not apply to any product or part thereof which has been damaged through alteration, mishandling, misuse, neglect, or accident.
  • ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY IS LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THIS WRITTEN WARRANTY. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL THE COMPANY BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE, DIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL, RUNNING OUT OF
  • THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT: No person or representative is authorized to assume for the Company any liability other than expressed herein in connection with the sale of this product.
  • Some states do not allow limitations on the length of an implied warranty or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damage to the above limitations or exclusion may not apply to you.
  • This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

1030 Williamson Ave. Fullerton CA. 92833 800-888-8637 714-773-1423 FAX 714-773-1523

FCC Requirement

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

  1. this device may not cause harmful interference, and
  2. this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, under Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used by the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

  • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
  • Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
  • Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
  • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator & your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Documents / Resources

custom autosound USA 850 Radio [pdf] User Manual
USA 850 Radio, USA 850, Radio

References

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