Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver Review

Let’s Talk About Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver

The Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver promises to bring modern audio capabilities to the marine environment without the need for CDs or DVDs. This gauge-style receiver is designed to fit seamlessly into existing gauge openings, offering a clean and integrated look. It’s manufactured by Boss Audio, a brand known for its affordability in the car and marine audio market.

My aging boat needed a serious audio upgrade. The original radio, a cassette player of all things, finally gave up the ghost, and I wanted something that would let me stream music from my phone and maybe even catch a ball game on the radio. I also needed something compact and weather-resistant.

The Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver arrived in a surprisingly robust box. Pulling it out, it felt solid and well-made, not flimsy like some other budget-friendly electronics I’ve encountered. The gauge design looked sleek and modern, a welcome change from the outdated look of my old setup.

I considered the Jensen Marine JWM6A and the Fusion MS-RA70, both popular options. However, the Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver won out because of its price point and the simplicity of its gauge-style design. It seemed like the perfect balance of features and affordability for my needs.

My first impression was positive. The unit felt sturdier than expected, and the design was exactly what I was looking for. I was excited to get it installed and finally enjoy some decent tunes on the water.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver myself, a relatively straightforward process thanks to the standard gauge sizing. My first test run was on a fishing trip in the Puget Sound. The weather was typically PNW – damp and a bit chilly.

The MGR450B performed admirably, with the Bluetooth connection to my phone holding steady even with some distance and minor obstructions. The controls were easy to use even with wet hands, and the display was bright enough to read in direct sunlight. I was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality, a definite improvement over my old radio.

The only issue I encountered was some minor static on the AM/FM radio, which I suspect was due to the boat’s antenna and not the receiver itself. The Bluetooth streaming, however, was flawless. It was great to finally enjoy my playlists while trolling for salmon.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including a few longer trips and some unexpected rainstorms, the Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver is holding up well. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the buttons and knobs still feel solid.

Cleaning is easy, requiring just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. It’s been exposed to salt spray and harsh sunlight, and hasn’t faded or shown any other signs of environmental damage. So far, the IPX6-Rated waterproofing seems to be holding up its end of the bargain.

Previously, I had a cheaper head unit that failed after just one season due to water damage. The Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver is definitely outperforming that unit. I’m hoping it lasts for many seasons to come.

Breaking Down the Features of Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver

Specifications

• The Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver is a mech-less multimedia player, meaning it does not play CDs or DVDs. This design choice helps keep the unit compact and simplifies the internal components, reducing potential failure points.
• It features Bluetooth Audio Streaming, allowing users to wirelessly connect their smartphones and other devices. This is a crucial feature for modern users who primarily listen to digital music.
• The receiver includes a USB Port and Aux-In for connecting wired devices. This provides flexibility for older devices or situations where Bluetooth isn’t ideal.
• It also offers USB Charging (A1), a convenient feature for keeping devices powered up while on the water. This eliminates the need for a separate charging adapter.
• The MGR450B has Front Pre-Amp Output and Rear/Sub Pre-Amp, allowing users to expand their audio system with external amplifiers and subwoofers. This offers a clear upgrade path as needed.
• It includes an AM/FM Receiver for traditional radio listening. This is still useful for catching local news, weather reports, and sports broadcasts.
• The unit is IPX6-Rated, providing a high level of protection against water intrusion. This is essential for marine environments where splashes and rain are common.
• It is Wired Remote Ready, allowing for convenient control of the system from different locations on the boat. This is very useful for larger boats or those with specific control preferences.
• The In-Dash design ensures a clean and integrated look. The gauge style fits seamlessly into many existing marine dashboards.
• The unit comes in Black and Blue, offering a stylish appearance. The dark color scheme is also practical for minimizing glare in sunny conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver performs its core functions admirably. The Bluetooth connection is reliable, the AM/FM radio pulls in stations adequately, and the USB and Aux-In options provide versatile connectivity. The sound quality is more than adequate for casual listening, especially considering the price point.

The MGR450B‘s strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. The controls are intuitive, the display is clear, and the installation is straightforward. A potential weakness is the limited power output; users seeking high-end audio performance may need to invest in an external amplifier. It definitely exceeds expectations given its price, offering a solid set of features and reliable performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality feels solid, with reasonably durable materials used throughout. The gauge-style design is compact and aesthetically pleasing. The unit is lightweight, which simplifies installation and minimizes stress on the dashboard.

It is extremely user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The controls are well-labeled and easy to access, even with gloves or wet hands. The menu system is straightforward and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the IPX6-Rated water resistance, the Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver should last for several seasons with proper care. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it looking and performing its best. Replacing the unit is easy and affordable if repairs are needed down the line.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver comes with the necessary wiring harness for installation. Users can connect external amplifiers and subwoofers via the pre-amp outputs. A wired remote can be added for remote control functionality.

The receiver is compatible with standard marine speakers and antennas. Given its standard gauge size, it fits into most existing marine dashboards, allowing for a seamless upgrade. Consider a higher-powered amplifier for maximum audio performance, especially in noisy marine environments.

Pros and Cons of Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver?

This unit is perfect for boat owners looking for an affordable and reliable way to upgrade their audio system. It’s ideal for casual boaters, fishermen, and anyone who wants to enjoy music on the water without breaking the bank. It will also serve those who need a compact, weather-resistant receiver that fits into a standard gauge opening.

Those seeking high-end audio performance or those who need advanced features like satellite radio or SiriusXM should skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a good quality marine antenna for optimal AM/FM reception.

Conclusion on Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver

The Boss Audio MGR450B In-Dash Marine Gauge Digital Media Bluetooth Audio Streaming AM/FM Receiver is a solid value proposition. For the price, you get a reliable, weather-resistant receiver with Bluetooth streaming, USB connectivity, and an AM/FM radio. It’s a simple and effective way to bring modern audio capabilities to your boat.

I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use marine receiver. It’s not the highest-end option on the market, but it delivers excellent performance for the price. Upgrade your boat’s audio today and enjoy your favorite tunes on the water!