About the Fusion MS-RA205
Tough, simple, and versatile
Tough, simple, and versatile
Fusion's MS-RA205 receiver provides several ways to enjoy music on your boat, including a USB port, aux input, and an AM/FM radio tuner. You can also add a compatible Bluetooth module for wirelessly streaming your tunes from your smartphone.
The MS-RA205's big button controls let you get to the music faster, and you can expand your system with additional wired remotes for various zones of your vessel. The receiver also features a connection for a NMEA 2000 network (requires cable, not included), so it's easy to set up a multi-zone entertainment system.
Since it's a marine-grade stereo, it can handle the tough conditions of a boat application. Fusion backs that up with its True-Marine™ 3-year warranty.
Let the music play
The MS-RA205's rear USB port plays music from your iPod or iPhone by replicating its menu, so you can get to your favorite tunes quickly. You can also play select Android phones and USB drives loaded with MP3, M4A, and FLAC files. Using its rear aux input, you can also connect just about any portable music player. If you're close to your home port, you can tune into your favorite AM/FM stations as well. Add a Fusion MS-BT200 or MS-BT100 Bluetooth adapter to your system to enjoy wireless streaming.
Features and expansion
Fusion included a pair of preamp outputs to supply signal to a marine amp if you want it louder, while also including dual mono outputs to feed signals to your powered subwoofer for some bass oomph. Its die-cast construction withstands salt spray, humidity, and some nasty swells, while the front of MS-RA205 complies with IPx5 water-resistant standards to keep the insides dry.
In addition to handling an incredible variety of wired and wireless devices, you can connect this highly-advanced receiver to your NMEA 2000 network and communicate with any Fusion-Link™ certified MFD's or Fusion NMEA 2000-certified wired remote controls (connectors sold separately). It's also SiriusXM-ready, so you can enjoy satellite radio programming when you're out on the water.
Bluetooth note: Use of this receiver's Bluetooth features will depend upon your phone's Bluetooth capabilities. Learn more in our article explaining Bluetooth profiles.
NMEA 2000 note: To learn more about NMEA 2000 connectivity, check out our article explaining nautical networking.
iPod/smartphone note: If you're going to use your iPod or smartphone with this receiver, be sure to check "Details" for compatibility information.
This marine digital media receiver will not play CDs.
Product highlights:
General Features:
- marine digital media receiver with built-in amplifier (25 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels)
- AM/FM/VHF tuner
- 2.3" monochromatic dot matrix LCD display with brightness adjustment
- plugs into your existing NMEA 2000 network
- works with iPod/iPhone, plus Android and Windows phones
- plays MP3, M4A, and FLAC files
- specially sealed against the elements for use in the marine environment
- 2-zone stereo audio
- inputs: rear USB and AUX inputs
Expandability:
- add a Fusion MS-BT200 or MS-BT100 Bluetooth module for wireless streaming
- outputs: 4-channel 3.7-volt preamp outputs (Zone 1 speakers, dual mono subwoofer)
- works with Fusion-Link™ certified MFD's or Fusion NMEA 2000-certified wired remote controls
Other Features and Specs:
- mounting hardware included
- warranty: 3 years
- Our 60-day money-back guarantee
- MFR # MS-RA205
What's in the box:
Fusion MS-RA205 owner's manual
- Marine receiver (15A fuse installed)
- Wiring harness
- Preout harness
- 39" Remote cable (terminated by a 5-pin connector on one end and a 7-pin connector on other end)
- 2 Cover plates
- 4 Screws
- Foam gasket
- User/Installation Manual
- Warranty Information
- Mounting Template
Reviews
Customer reviews
Loading reviews...
Fusion MS-RA205 reviews
Average review:
Thanks for submitting your review
Customer photos
More details on the Fusion MS-RA205

Features & specs
Expandability | ||
---|---|---|
AUX Input | Rear (RCA) | |
Audio/video Input | --- | |
USB Input | Rear | |
USB Port Power | --- | |
Backup Camera Input | No | |
Second Camera Input | No | |
CarPlay | No | |
Android Auto | No | |
Siri Control | No | |
Alexa Voice Control | ||
Android Control | Yes | |
Memory Card Slot | USB | |
Bluetooth Compatible | Optional | |
Satellite Radio Ready | SiriusXM | |
HD Radio | No | |
Navigation | --- | |
iPod Compatibility | ||
Full size | Classic | |
Nano | 7/6/5/4 | |
Touch | 6/5/4/3 | |
iPhone | X/8+/8/7+/7/6S+/6S/6+/6/5S/5C/ | |
General | ||
RMS Power (CTA-2006) | N/A | |
RMS Power (Manufacturer) | 25 watts | |
Peak Output | 50 watts | |
RMS Power Bandwidth | Not givenHz | |
Preamp Outputs | 4-channel | |
Sub Preamp Outputs | Yes | |
Switchable Rear Preamp Outputs | No | |
Video Screen | No | |
Navigation App Compatible (iOS) | ||
Navigation App Compatible (Android) | ||
Preamp Voltage | 3 volts | |
Screen Size | --- | |
Display Color | White/Black | |
Key Button Color | N/A | |
EQ Bands | None | |
Wireless Remote | No | |
Steering Wheel Control Compatible | No | |
Parts Warranty | 3 Years | |
Labor Warranty | 3 Years | |
Tuner | ||
FM Sensitivity | --- | |
European Tuning | Yes | |
Seek/Scan | Seek | |
Radio Data System | Yes | |
File Playback | ||
Music File Playback | MP3, M4A, FLAC | |
High-res Playback | N | |
Second Camera Input Lane Watch | N |
Product Research
Marine Features
Android & iPod Connectivity
AM/FM/VHF + SiriusXM
Audio Section
Mounting Options
Marine Features
Marine Certified: The Fusion MS-RA205 is designed and engineered specifically for use on the water, so it complies with IPx5 water resistant standards. The MS-RA205 is also equipped with a rugged electrically isolated aluminum die-cast chassis to maintain isolation between battery negative and the hull of your metal boat. In addition, the chassis of the MS-RA205 acts as a heat sink for the entire stereo, removing the need for an external cooling fan.
Note: The MS-RA205 can be completely disconnected from the constant +12V power supply with no settings lost.
Easy-To-Use: Powered by the advanced ARM-9 Processor, the MS-RA205 offers quick and intuitive audio control. Nearly all operations are controlled through the large rotary encoder, ensuring the Fusion MS-RA205's user interface is simple and easy to use. Information and text is easily readable, even under direct sunlight on the large 2.3" LCD screen. The MS-RA205 has adjustable contrast and brightness for optimum viewing.
Note: The LCD screen shuts down automatically after approximately 30 seconds of inactivity to reduce battery drain; press any key on the unit to restore the display.
NMEA 2000 Certified w/ Fusion-Link: The MS-RA205 is a Fusion-Link Wired NMEA 2000 certified product and is compatible with a range of the world's leading Multi-Function Displays (MFD) for on-screen audio control; creating a centralized control station for the entire vessel and a more user-friendly experience. NMEA 2000 is the most popular marine standard for data communication within vessels. When pairing the MS-RA205 with a NMEA 2000 supported Chartplotter or Fish finder, you bring your music to the big screen, allowing you to keep an eye on the charts or the fish while skipping tracks or adjusting the volume at the same time.
Note: The CAB-000863 NMEA 2000 drop cable (917CAB863, sold separately) is required when connecting the MS-RA20 5to an existing NMEA 2000 network.
Optional Wired Remote Control: In addition to MFD control, the MS-RA205 will connect to Fusion's MS-NRX300 Wired Remote (917NRX300, sold separately) within the same powered NMEA 2000 network for localized control of the audio zones. You can install a MS-NRX300 wired remote in each of the independent audio zones of your vessel, for localized zone volume level and global source control. Control each audio zone independently from multiple remotes, or manage the entire entertainment experience from a single remote control. The remote control can even serve as an NMEA 2000 display showing NMEA navigation data or vessel performance data from other NMEA devices on the same NMEA 2000 network. Up to three MS-NRX300 wired remotes can be connected to the MS-RA205 with the same powered NMEA 2000 network.
Note: The MS-NRX300 must be incorporated onto the same NMEA 2000 powered network as the MS-RA205.
Android & iPod Connectivity
Android Compliant: The Fusion MS-RA205's rear-panel USB (type-A) port allows you to connect a USB Mass Storage Class (MSC) or USB Media Transfer Protocol (MTP) compliant device; such as your Android smartphone or USB thumbdrive. The USB port enables audio playback & control of a variety of audio files (up to 300 tracks in each folder) stored on your portable USB MSC/MTP device through the Fusion MS-RA205. Playback controls include Music Library Browsing (MTP only), Play/Pause, and Previous/Next Track. Song/artist information such as track, artist, and album name will also be displayed on the head unit. In addition, USB devices that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the marine receiver's USB port (1A) and the watercraft's ignition switch is set to On.
- MSC Playback: The Fusion MS-RA205's USB port enables playback & control of MP3/M4A/FLAC music files stored on your portable USB MSC device, like your older Android smartphone (w/ OS 2.2+ [Froyo/Gingerbread]) or USB thumbdrive device (up to 32GB) through the head unit. Your USB MSC device must be formatted in FAT 32 or NTFS.
- MTP Playback (Firmware Update Required): The
MS-RA205's USB port also enables playback & control of stored
MP3/M4A music files on your portable USB MTP device, like your newer
Android smartphone (w/ OS 4.0+) through the Fusion head unit. Music files must be
located in a folder using one fo the following names - My
Music, My_Music, mobile, or Music.
Note: You cannot use your Android smartphone's touchscreen to control music playback and you cannot select music apps from your smartphone for playback. However, you can continue to listen to stored music on your Android smartphone through the head unit while you check your Calendar, Facebook, Texts, etc on your phone.
Made For iPod/iPhone: The Fusion MS-RA205 marine stereo's rear-panel USB port can also be used to connect your Lightning-connector or 30-pin dock connector iPod/iPhone. The MS-RA205 supports audio playback, music navigation, information display, and charging of your compatible Apple device.
- Music Browsing: The MS-RA205's fully integrated iPod/iPhone user interface provides music browsing by Album, Artist, Song, and Playlist. You can browse these categories alphabetically or numerically. Basic playback functions include Play/Pause, Fast Forward/Rewind, Previous/Next Track, and Repeat/Random. Newer iPod/iPhones with iOS 6.0+ allow you to continue to access your Apple device's touchscreen, while older iPod/iPhone devices will be locked during connection.
- Song/Artist Info: The unit's front-panel LCD provides song, artist, and album information; as well a track number and elapsed playback time.
- Battery Charging: The marine receiver's USB connection provides 1A of current to power and charge your connected iPod/iPhone when your vessel's ignition switch is set to the 'On' position (if your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge, then the unit will not recognize it).
Apple Device Compatibility Chart: The Fusion MS-RA205 is "Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model features (as of 6/27/2018):
Apple Device | Generation | Tested Version | Media Type | Control Type | Display Type | Charge | |||
Audio | Video | Head Unit | iPod | Artist/Song Text | Track Info | ||||
iPhone | |||||||||
3GS | 5.1.1 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
4 | 7.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
4S | 8.1.3 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
5/5C/5S | 8.1.3 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
5S | 11.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
SE | 11.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
6/6+/6S/6S+ | 11.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
7/7+ | 11.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
8/8+ | 11.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
X | 11.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
touch | |||||||||
3rd | 5.1.1 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
4th | 6.1.2 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
5th | 8.1.3 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
6th | 11.4 | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | Y | Y | |
nano | |||||||||
4th | 1.0.4 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
5th | 1.0.2 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
6th | 1.2 PC | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
7th | 1.02 PC | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
classic | 80GB | 1.1.2 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y |
120GB | 2.0.1 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y | |
160GB | 2.0.4 | Y | N | Y | N | Y | Y | Y |
Note: 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
Aux Input: Fusion's MS-RA205 marine stereo is fitted with a rear-panel stereo RCA auxiliary input for connecting an external audio device, other than an iPod/iPhone or Android device. The Aux input allows for a wide range of input levels thanks to its adjustable input gain (-9 to +9 dB).
Optional Bluetooth Adapters: Add wireless Bluetooth
music streaming to the MS-RA205 marine stereo with Fusion's
MS-BT100 or
MS-BT200 Marine Bluetooth Module (both separately). These add-on
Bluetooth adapters are for wireless audio streaming only and do not
support hands-free phone communication. The MS-BT200 even supports
control (Play/Pause/Next/Back) of your Bluetooth paired audio device
from the Fusion marine stereo. The MS-BT200 also supports display of
song information such as song title, artist name and duration, depending
on the capability of your phone and music application.
Note: The MS-BT200 adapter is connected to the Satellite Radio (SiriusXM) connector of the MS-RA205 stereo. The MS-BT100 Bluetooth adapter is connected to the stereo RCA auxiliary input of the MS-RA205.
Optional Marine Dock: For water resistant protection of your Android or iPod/iPhone supported device, install the Fusion MS-UNI-Dock (917UNIDOCK, sold separately). which will protect, charge and play all compatible devices and is large enough to house most Android smartphones and iPhones.
AM/FM/VHF + SiriusXM
RDS AM/FM Tuner: The MS-RA205 marine stereo features a built-in AM/FM radio that offers manual, seek, and preset tuning. You can store up to 15 FM station presets and 15 AM station presets. The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio broadcast information such as artist & track information when listening to compatible AM/FM stations. You can also select between US and European tuning.
VHF Receiver: Adjustable squelch, channel scan and user pre-sets are available for VHF reception.
SiriusXM Ready: The Fusion MS-RA205 is SiriusXM Ready, so you can listen to commercial-free music, all your favorite sports, exclusive talk and entertainment, comedy, news, traffic, weather, and more. Simply connect the SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner (220SXV300, sold separately) to the dedicated SiriusXM port on the rear of the head unit and enjoy satellite radio without additional translators or cables. With the SiriusXM Connect tuner you'll have access to more than 175 channels of exclusive programming directly from SiriusXM; check out the most popular SiriusXM subscription packages here. Additional features include:
- Channel & Category Lists: The Channel List displays a list of all available channels. The Category List displays all available categories and stations within those categories.
- Song/Artist Information: Displayed Information such as Channel Name, Artist Name, & Song Title can be viewed on the unit's LCD.
- Presets: You can store up to 15 SiriusXM Satellite Radio preset stations for easy recall.
- Parental Control: The SiriusXM Parental Control feature allows you to control access to channels that you consider inappropriate for younger listeners. When enabled, The Parental Control feature requires you to enter a 4-digit passcode to tune to the locked channels.
Note: A separate SiriusXM Satellite Radio subscription is required (operates on the XM Network). However, you can easily add this SiriusXM tuner to an existing Sirius or XM account for a Multi-Radio Discount Plan.
Audio Section
25W x 4Ch Amplifier: The Fusion MS-RA205 is equipped with a 25 watt RMS (50W Peak) x 4 channel stereo amplifier for driving two pair of full-range marine speakers.
3V/4Ch Pre-Outs: The Fusion MS-RA205 features 3V/4ch pre-outs for full-range speakers and subwoofer. You can set the head unit's low-pass sub pre-out filter to 55, 85, 120, or 160Hz. Subwoofer and line-out volume control is linked to Zone 1.
Audio Controls: You can adjust the marine receiver's bass, mid, & treble from -12 to +12. You can also balance the sound from left to right. In addition, you can set the head unit's maximum volume limit for both Zones.
Multi-Zone Technology: The MS-RA205 marine stereo features multi-zone technology which enables two audio Zones with independent volume control from the receiver's built-in amplifier and pre-outs. Each audio Zone will play the same source, but offers independent volume control of each Zone.
Mounting Options
Bulkhead Mount: The MS-RA205 requires a rectangular cutout in the bulkhead for inserting the chassis. The marine receiver has a shallow mounting depth, perfect for space conscious installation on small boats and personal watercraft, where this is especially crucial. Four screws (supplied) fasten the faceplate against the mounting surface, and hold the waterproof gasket against the bulkhead. A paper template is supplied to assist you with the cutout and drilling the screw holes. You can install the unit within 45° of horizontal.
- Cutout Width = 5.1875"
- Cutout Height = 2.0625"
- Cutout Depth = 5.0625"
- Nose Width = 6.1875"
- Nose Height = 2.6875"
- Nose Depth = 1.25"
Note: The screw holes are spaced 5.5625" (w) x 1.6875" (h) apart.
Loading accessories...
Customer Q&A
5 questions already asked
Loading articles...