1957 corvette radio suggestions

[Darryl D.]

Has anyone tried the AM / FM RETRO SOUND MODEL 2 that Corvette Central sells? I have a 1957 that I need to put radio and speakers in and am looking at this radio and the kick panel speakers along with the twin dash speaker they sell. Anybody know what they sound like? I was thinking they may need an extra amp.
Here is a link to the radio http://www.parts123.com/corvettecent...50e&ukey=46844

[Darryl D.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

Here is the description from Corvette centrals site.

CORVETTE RADIO - AM / FM RETRO SOUND MODEL 2
Item#:111634

Price:329.95
Special: $296.96
Pkg:SET
Year:1953-1957
* The only classic car radio compatible with IPod and IPhone
* Built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
* Plays MP3 and W/MA files via USB input
* Selectable 32,000 color LCD illumination with user presets
* AM/FM tuner with 30 preset and RDS
*Selectable USA/EU/Japan/AUS/RUS tuner frequencies
* Built-in amplifier (24 watts RMS/45 watts peak x 4 channels)
* 3 EQ presets plus user-controlled bass, treble, fader, mid-range and balance adjustment
* Authentic push-button styling
* InfiniMount shaft/bracket system for maximum installation flesibility
* Compatible with all RetroSound vehicle specific bezel, plate and knob kits
* Inputs: 2 rear-mounted standard USB ports and 2 rear auxiliary inputs
* Outputs: 6-ch pre-amp outputs (front, rear, subwoofer)
* Separate power antenna and amp turn-on lead(s)
* 2-year parts and labor warranty

[Richard M.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

Darryl, a good option to replace that AM only Wonderbar and Power Pack(if there).

I have one of those retro's here for a '61. They work well.

Rich

[Darryl D.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

Is it the AM / FM RETRO SOUND MODEL 2 I described above? If so, does it have the speakers I also asked about? How does it sound at highway speed with the top down?

[Richard M.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

Darryl,

Your link was a 404 error in your 1st post. Here is that #....

http://www.parts123.com/corvettecentral/partsort.pta?catalog=cadefib&partno=111634

The one I have for the '61 is different. It's the basic(but pricey) unit....

http://www.parts123.com/corvettecentral/dyndetail.pta?catalog=0000050e&ukey=45563

I do not know what the 111634 performance is at speed in a '57, but my opinion is no matter what system you install it will be better at low cruise speed. The wind noise in a early C1 with top down, top up, or a hardtop will usually drown out any high quality sound system, megawatts or not.

I have a decent add-on FM stereo/CD player in my '59 tied to the twin stereo speaker in the dash. Last time I drove it on Route 95 at 70 MPH with the stereo on, all I heard was high wind noise(hard top), very high wind noise(soft top), exhaust noise, and shifter rattle.
I don't think it makes much difference in these old C1's at speed.

Frank Dreano had a very nice stereo system with amplifier in his '61(now sold). He may have some input for you if he sees this. He's more of a audiophile than I am.

Rich

[John M.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions



Best Regards, John

[Mike M.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

i believe the radio block-off plate is the way to go. all three of our 57 FI's have that "option". mike

[Darryl D.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

Thanks for that detailed answer John.

[Richard M.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

I Like Mike's Radio Option Best.

[Darryl D.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

I Like Mike's Radio Option Best.

Yeah, I expect answers like that on this web site since it is dedicated to preservation/day one correct restos. However there is a larger concentration of C1 owners here and several of them are more into the kinds of things I am as well.

[Richard M.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

Yeah, I expect answers like that on this web site since it is dedicated to preservation/day one correct restos. However there is a larger concentration of C1 owners here and several of them are more into the kinds of things I am as well.

Darryl, It was in jest, just like Mike's post, more for him to chuckle at. Note my winking eye icon.

Apologies if I appeared to you to be requiring a spanking. (note winking eye icon)

My previous posts state that I have a AM/FM CD player under my dash with a twin stereo speaker in place of the stock speaker. Yes I took it out and installed the original speaker to the Wonderbar for judging, but right when I got home the stereo went back in.

I am a purist at heart but often deviate to make them more fun to drive too, just like you and many others here.

Rich

[Darryl D.]

Re: 1957 corvette radio suggestions

I take no offense at any of it.
I appreciate this site and the knowledge of the membership here. I just prefer to drive my cars more than most people of this site do as it takes a major commitment to e able to keep them in good condition for judging.
I like to keep my cars original looking for the most part to the casual observer but am willing to make exceptions for my own pleasure.