About the Soundstream VR-738NB
Installation Note: Soundstream's VR-738NB requires adequate clearance for its oversized display when mounted in your vehicle's dashboard. Please call us at 1-888-955-6000 if you require assistance in determining if it will work in your vehicle.
Think outside the box
Soundstream's VR-738NBDVD receiver is a different animal. Most multimedia receivers are designed to fit into a double-DIN (4" tall) dash opening, but Soundstream built the VR-738NB' chassis to fit into a single-DIN (2" tall) opening, and then added a detachable 7" screen on the front. This receiver isn't for every car, or every installation, but if you've got some imagination it could be a real show-stopper in your dash, or a cool addition to an RV. And since the screen is detachable, it can serve double duty as a desktop media player when paired up with Soundstream's KS-1 dock.
The detachable face doesn't require a large hole in the dash.
Bluetooth® is built in
The VR-738NB sports advanced Bluetooth technology for quick data transfer, so you'll enjoy crystal-clear hands-free phone calls and great-sounding audio streaming. Your phone book info transfers in moments, so you can quickly make calls and identify incoming callers. And you'll be able to control your streaming music from the receiver, without having to use your phone to change tracks.
Media variety and options
With Soundstream's IC-3 cable (not included), you can connect your iPod® or iPhone® to this receiver, and control your music with the touchscreen. Soundstream has also equipped this receiver with a USB port and SD™ card slot for plugging in storage devices with up to 32 GB of capacity, so you should never be at a loss for music. And of course it plays CDs and DVDs, along with just about any kind of recordable disc. If you've got a gaming console or other A/V sources, plug them into the front A/V input. When you're ready for some video entertainment, set the brake and enjoy video from DVDs, USB, or SD cards.
Add GPS guidance
You can add Soundstream's NAVIBOX-2 module to this receiver, and view maps of the U.S. and Canada on your receiver's big screen. The module also gives you access to over 12 millions points of interest, so you'll be able to find the restaurant, hotel, or shop you want quickly. Your receiver will anounce street names as you approach a turn, and you can even select a 2D or 3D map view.
Want to keep your car's steering wheel audio controls?
In most vehicles, you can use a special adapter to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and this receiver, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls.
Note: Bluetooth compatibility of this device may vary, depending on your phone and service provider.
Note: If you're going to use your iPod with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for specific iPod model compatibility with this receiver and its optional iPod adapter.
Product highlights:
General features:
- DVD/CD receiver with AM/FM tuner
- built-in internal amp (14 watts RMS/45 peak x 4 channels)
- 7" detachable touchscreen display
- face also serves as a desktop media player with optional KS-1 desktop media player (padded carrying case included)
- built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming
- fits single-DIN dash openings
Audio/video features:
- plays CDs, DVDs, USB memory devices, and SD cards (see Details for full capabilities)
- bass and treble controls with 5 preset EQ curves
- bass boost
- low-pass filter
- subwoofer controls
Expandability:
- iPod control: Soundstream IC-3 cable required for iPod and iPhone control
- inputs: front USB input, front A/V input, front SD card slot, rear-view camera input
- outputs: video output, 6-channel preamp outputs (2-volt front, rear, subwoofer)
- compatible with Soundstream Navibox-2 GPS navigation module
Other information:
- compatible with most factory steering wheel audio controls (adapter required)
- warranty: 1 year
- MFR # VR-738NB
What's in the box:
Soundstream VR-738NB owner's manual
- Multimedia receiver (2 transport screws)
- Detachable touchscreen monitor
- 2 Sleeves (one installed)
- 2 Trim rings (one installed)
- Wiring harness
- Preamp/AV harness
- Remote control (CR2025 3V battery installed)
- Microphone (with attach 6.5' cable terminated by a 3.5mm connector)
- 10" USB/Minijack extension cable (with a right-angle male USB/3.5mm connector on one end and a straight female USB/3.5mm connector on other end)
- Carrying case
- 4 Pan-head screws
- Rear-mount bolt
- Metal backstrap
- 2 Radio removal tools
- Owner's Manual
- Supplemental Bluetooth Information
- "CAUTIONS" note
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More details on the Soundstream VR-738NB
Features & specs
| Expandability | ||
|---|---|---|
| AUX Input | 3.5mm (AV) | |
| Audio/video Input | 3.5mm (side) | |
| USB Input | Side | |
| USB Port Power | --- | |
| Backup Camera Input | Yes | |
| Second Camera Input | No | |
| CarPlay | No | |
| Android Auto | No | |
| Siri Control | No | |
| Alexa Voice Control | ||
| Android Control | Yes | |
| Memory Card Slot | USB, SD | |
| Bluetooth Compatible | Built-in | |
| Satellite Radio Ready | No | |
| HD Radio | No | |
| Navigation | Optional | |
| iPod Compatibility | ||
| Full size | Classic/5Gen | |
| Nano | 6/5/4/3/2/1 | |
| Touch | 4/3/2/1 | |
| iPhone | 4S/4/3GS/3G/2G | |
| General | ||
| RMS Power (CTA-2006) | N/A | |
| RMS Power (Manufacturer) | --- | |
| Peak Output | 45 watts | |
| RMS Power Bandwidth | 20-20kHz | |
| Preamp Outputs | 6-channel | |
| Sub Preamp Outputs | Yes | |
| Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs | No | |
| Video Screen | Yes | |
| Navigation App Compatible (iOS) | ||
| Navigation App Compatible (Android) | ||
| Preamp Voltage | 2 volts | |
| Screen Size | 7 | |
| Screen Type | Basic (Resistive) | |
| Display Color | ||
| Key Button Color | N/C | |
| EQ Bands | None | |
| Wireless Remote | Yes | |
| Steering Wheel Control Compatible | Adapter required | |
| Parts Warranty | 1 Year | |
| Labor Warranty | 1 Year | |
| Tuner | ||
| FM Sensitivity | 10 dBf | |
| European Tuning | Yes | |
| Seek/Scan | Seek | |
| Radio Data System | No | |
| File Playback | ||
| Music File Playback | MP3, WAV, FLAC | |
| High-res Playback | ||
Product Research
Touchscreen Display
Built-in Bluetooth
Disc/SD/USB Playback
iPod Connectivity
Radio Functions
Audio Section
AV Connections
Remote Control
Touchscreen Display
7" Motorized Touchscreen Display: The Soundstream VR-738NB features a motorized 7" LCD monitor (800 x 480) with LED backlighting and iGlass touchscreen technology. iGlass touchscreen technology offers more precise control, greater clarity, and less glare. This unit's touchscreen controls with interactive video graphics make menu navigation easy. The monitor electronically slides out for loading or ejecting a disc, and allows you to adjust the viewing angle (1-4) of the screen.
Note: The motorized LCD monitor measures 7.3125" (w) x 4.5" (h). It extends 2.375" below the bottom of the head unit's chassis and does not retract inside of the unit. This type of design may interfere with your vehicle's instrument panel. As always, please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car and talk to one of our Sales Advisors to verify fit with your vehicle.
Detachable LCD Monitor: The unit's LCD touchscreen monitor is detachable to deter theft, and comes with a padded carrying case for added protection.
KS-1 Desktop Media Player (optional): The VR-738NB's detachable touchscreen monitor can be connected to Soundstream's KS-1 desktop media player dock (530KS1, sold separately). The KS-1 allows you to use the touchscreen, SD, and USB functions of the VR-738NB in your home. The KS-1 features a built-in rear-panel speaker and headphone output.
Hard-Key Controls: There are also push-button controls along the top-panel of the detachable touchscreen monitor. The controls included Power, Menu, Mute, and Eject.
Dimmer: You can adjust the unit's LCD monitor brightness in 4 steps, including Off.
Parking Brake Detection: For safety reasons, you cannot view a video source on the built-in monitor as long as the vehicle is in motion. In order to display video, the pink wire of the included harness must be hardwired into the vehicle's parking brake light circuit, and the vehicle's parking brake must be engaged. Video on the LCD monitor can only be displayed when this unit's Parking Brake wire (pink) senses that the parking brake has been engaged in the vehicle.
Built-in Bluetooth
Bluetooth (v2.1 + EDR) Technology: The Soundstream VR-738NB features built-in Bluetooth (Ver 2.1+EDR) Technology. With built-in Bluetooth, you can wirelessly connect your Bluetooth capable mobile phone to listen to calls through your car's audio system. You can also stream audio from a Bluetooth enabled audio player. Bluetooth version 2.1+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) increases data transfer rates to 2.1 Mbit/sec for increased clarity & virtually eliminates unwanted distortion during calls and wireless MP3 audio playback.
Bluetooth Profiles: In order to use Bluetooth wireless technology, your phone must also be Bluetooth compatible and be able to interpret certain profiles. This unit is compatible with the following Bluetooth Profiles:
- Hands-Free Communication: HFP (Hands Free Profile), PBAB (Phone Book Access Profile).
- Audio Streaming: A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile).
Pairing: Before using the unit's Bluetooth functions, you must pair your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone or audio device to the VR-738NB. You can pair up to 5 devices (only one can be used at a time). Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology, some mobile devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or may not support all features when used with the VR-738NB.
Hands-free Communication w/ External Mic: The VR-738NB supports wireless hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. The VR-738NB allows you to carry on a phone conversation from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone using the head unit's external microphone and your car audio speakers. The VR-738NB utilizes a Noise & Echo Cancelling feature to reduce noise & echo generated during hands-free conversation. The VR-738NB allows you to answer the call manually from the head unit or automatically. Incoming phone call information will be displayed on the unit's LCD monitor. You can make a call from the VR-738NB using the unit's on-screen keypad (0-9), your transferred Phone Book, or a call history data log of dialed and received calls. Your car audio speakers will mute automatically during a call. During a conversation, you can switch between the Private Mode (talking directly on your cell phone) and the Hands Free Mode.
Audio Streaming: The Soundstream VR-738NB also allows you to play back stored music and streamed music from your Bluetooth enabled phone, PDA, or personal music player using a Bluetooth connection. You can control (Play/Pause/Skip) the music stored on your Bluetooth audio player from the VR-738NB. This unit does not display song/artist information from Bluetooth audio devices.
Disc/SD/USB Playback
Disc Compatibility: The touchscreen monitor electronically slides down for loading and ejecting discs. The Soundstream VR-738NB supports playback of DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, CD-Audio and CD-R/RW discs. The unit can play back MP3 music files and MP4 video files recorded onto a compatible DVD-R/RW or CD-R/RW disc.
SD-Card Slot: The Soundstream VR-738NB is fitted with a SD-card slot located on the top-panel of the detachable touchscreen monitor that will accept SD/SDHC memory cards (up to 32GB). The unit supports playback of MP3/WAV/FLAC music files, MP4/AVI/DivX/FLV/MKV/MOV video files, and JPEG photo files stored on a compatible SD/SDHC memory card.
USB 2.0 Port: The Soundstream VR-738NB is fitted with a USB (type-A) 2.0 port located on the side-panel of the detachable touchscreen monitor for connection of a USB mass storage class device; such as your Android smartphone, digital audio player, or thumbdrive. The unit supports playback of MP3/WAV/FLAC music files, MP4/AVI/DivX/FLV/MKV/MOV video files, and JPEG photo files stored on a compatible USB MSC device (up to 32GB).
iPod Connectivity
iPod Ready: The Soundstream VR-738NB's side-panel USB (type-A) port and side-panel 3.5mm AV input allow you to connect your Apple iPod/iPhone using the Soundstream IC-3 iPod cable (530IC3, sold separately). The unit's USB port handles the control, metadata display, and charging of your iPod/iPhone. The 3.5mm AV input handles audio and video transfer from your iPod/iPhone to the Soundstream VR-738NB. Video can only be displayed while the vehicle is in park. The Soundstream VR-738NB does not support direct connection of the iPod/dock cable that comes with your iPod/iPhone. Its also not compatible with any of the new Lightning-connector Apple devices.
- Control: The Soundstream head unit allows you to navigate your iPod's music library by Playlist, Artists, Album, Genre, or All. Your iPod's video library can be searched by Video Playlist, Movie, Music Video, TV Show, or Video Podcast. Categories will be displayed in alphabetical order. You can also repeat a single track or all tracks in a category. Your iPod/iPhone's clickwheel or touchscreen controls will be locked once connected.
- Metadata: The Soundstream VR-738NB will display your iPod/iPhone's music file information when you are controlling your iPod or iPhone from the multimedia head unit. The head unit will display Track number, Elapsed playing time, Artist name, Song title, and Album label (no Album Art).
- Charging: The head unit's USB connection provides 0.5A of current to power and charge your connected iPod/iPhone when your vehicle's ignition switch is set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position. This unit does not charge the iPad. If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it.
iPod Compatibility: The VR-738NB is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 4/5/2013):
| Apple Device | Generation | Tested Version | Media Type | Control Type | Display Type | Bluetooth | Charge | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio | Video | Head Unit | iPod/iPhone | Song/Artist Text | Track Info | Album Art | Phone | Audio | ||||
| iPhone | 2G | 3.1.3 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | N | Y |
| 3G | 4.2.1 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
| 3GS | 5.1.1 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
| 4 | 6.1.3 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
| 4S | 6.1.3 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
| 5 | 6.1.3 | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | |
| touch | 1st | 2.2.1 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| 2nd | 4.2.1 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | Y | Y | |
| 3rd | 5.1.1 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | Y | Y | |
| 4th | 6.1.3 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | Y | |
| 5th | 6.1.3 | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | |
| nano | 1st | 1.3.1 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| 2nd | 1.1.3 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 3rd | 1.1.3 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 4th | 1.0.4 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 5th | 1.0.2 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 6th | 1.1 PC | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 7th | 1.01 | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | |
| classic | 80GB | 1.1.2 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| 120GB | 2.0.1 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| 160GB | 2.0.4 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y | |
| video | 5th | 1.3 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | N | Y |
| iPad | 1 | 5.1.1 | Y | Y | Y | N | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N |
| 2 | 6.1.3 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | |
| 3 | 6.1.3 | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | N | N | Y | N | |
| 4 | 6.1.3 | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | |
| mini | 6.1.3 | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | N | |
Notes: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.
Radio Functions
AM/FM Tuner: The Soundstream VR-738NB is equipped with an AM/FM tuner with manual, preset, and seek tuning.
Preset Stations: The VR-738NB lets you store up to 18 FM and 12 AM preset stations. These presets can be stored manually or automatically.
Local Seek: The unit's tuner also is equipped with a Seek mode that when used with the Local function, only allows radio stations with a strong local radio signals to be played.
Mono: If an analog FM stereo broadcast is hard to receive, you can manually switch the tuner to Mono operation.
European Tuning: The tuner features selectable North America and European tuning.
Audio Section
MOSFET Amplifier: The Soundstream VR-738NB is equipped with a 14W x 4-channel (RMS)/45W x 4-channel (Peak) MOSFET amplifier.
6ch/2V Preamp Outputs: The VR-738NB features front, rear and subwoofer 2.0-volt preamp outputs. The front and rear speaker preamp outputs are balance and fade adjustable. The subwoofer preamp output is non-fading.
Subwoofer Control: The receiver features a built-in Low Pass Crossover (80Hz/120Hz/160Hz/Off) for subwoofer preamp output. You can independently control the subwoofer preamp output level (0-15).
Preset EQ: Five EQ curves are preset into memory, allowing you to recall the best preset EQ curve (User, Pop, Classic, Rock, Jazz) for different types of music.
Bass & Treble: The User mode allows you to independently adjust the Bass & Treble from -9 to +9.
X-Bass: The X-Bass function boosts the head unit's bass output.
Loudness: This function enhances low and high frequencies to make the sound clearer lower volumes.
Key Beep: The in-dash head unit provides an audible beep to confirm button operation. This function can be turned On or Off.
AV Connection
Aux Input: The unit features a 3.5mm audio/video input on the side-panel of the detachable touchscreen monitor for connecting a temporary external A/V source, such as a MP3 player or game console.
Video Output: The multimedia head unit features a rear-panel composite video output for integration of a ceiling-mounted or headrest entertainment system in your vehicle.
Rear-View Camera Input: The Camera Input consists of a Composite video RCA jack for connecting an optional rear-view back-up camera (sold separately). This RCA input enables you to connect a rear-view camera to display the area behind your vehicle. The increased view encourages and facilitates safer driving. When an optional rearview camera is connected to this unit, the rear view image is displayed on the screen when your vehicle is placed in reverse gear (orange/black wire of harness must be connected to reverse light wire of vehicle). Automatic video switching takes approximately 2.0 seconds. Audio from your music source will continue playing, while the back-up camera is displayed.
Add-On Navigation: The VR-738NB supports connection of Soundstream's add-on GPS Navigation Module (530NAVIBX2, sold separately). The add-on NAVIBOX-2 is powered by NAVTEQ with maps of the United States and Canada. It offers over 12 million points-of-interests with turn-by-turn navigation.
Remote Control
IR Remote: The Soundstream VR-738NB includes an IR remote control for wireless operation of the multimedia unit.
Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The head unit features an OEM steering wheel remote control input that lets you keep your vehicle's factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with the Metra Axxess Steering Wheel Control Interface (120ASWC, sold separately). Please consult Crutchfield's Outfit My Car to see if your vehicle is compatible.
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Much better then the factory unit. I'm a car audio amateur, and wasn't to terribly hard to install. Works fine. I enjoy the screen size despite not being able to see the air controllers. I don't need to see them can still turn them at the bottom.
Mike from Ponchatoula, la 70454