I bought the RetroSound radio from Moss a few weeks ago:
http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=66239&SortOrder=1
Here's my take on it, in case anyone else was thinking of adding this to their
car's setup.
Installation is straight forward. The smaller-than-usual main unit is easier to
fit in the confined space of my TR4 than a regular radio. The unit is quite
powerful, such that adequate listening volume is achieved without distortion.
The radio works well in either FM or AM. I have installed the resistor spark
plugs from Champion. I have taken no precaution with noise reduction on the
power feed, and have no problem with noise. I had noticeable noise with the
1980s radio this unit replaces. I can now enjoy the radio, with the top down,
at 60 mph (that's the fastest I've gone with it). Above that speed, I can't
imagine it being too brilliant.
The front panel AUX input for ipod or similar works well, though the volume is
much lower than when using the radio - at least on my ipod with its volume
pretty much maxed out. There is enough capacity in the unit's amp to
compensate, but when you switch back to the radio, it'll be twice as loud as
you want. Its better than the FM transmitter devices I have used, though.
The unusual USB connection (also front panel) provides the opportunity to
connect a memory stick with music stored for playback ithrough the unit. I have
not yet found a format that works reliably. iTunes' format just seems to stall
on me two or three songs in, though I'll experiment with other formats. It
would be good to get this working so I'd not have to worry about walking away
from the car with a $$$ ipod left behind absentmindedly.
The radio has presets for Classic, Rock etc, as well as the usual Bass, Treble,
l/r and fade controls. I find myself keeping the manual on hand to understand
all these controls and how to manage each of the three inputs. I haven't found
it intuitive. A short press of a control gets you into one menu, and a longer
press takes you frustratingly elsewhere, as this old dog has found....
I have the radio on an 'always live' connection. However, after installing the
radio, I learn that off isn't really off, and the clock is always displayed
when the unit is not 'on'. I may change to a switched live, and forget the
clock.
Overall, I'm pleased with it, and can now get the full pleasure of the speakers
setup I'd designed some months ago:
http://www.vtr.org/maintain/GreatAudioTR4.pdf
Cheers,
Brian Jones
1963 TR4 CT 14455-L
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