Clarion
Clarion CMS4 Hideaway digital media receiver
Best marine receiver for boaters seeking a clean, hidden audio installation.
Elevate your marine audio with the Clarion CMS4 hideaway digital media receiver. Designed for superior sound and a clean installation, its hidden black box integrates seamlessly. Enjoy built-in Bluetooth, dual USB ports for charging and playback, and an AM/FM/Weather Band tuner. Expand your system with SiriusXM and Pandora readiness. This receiver offers customizable dual-zone audio control and robust weather protection, ensuring premium sound quality and effortless integration for any vessel.
$549.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 183
#2 in Marine Audio & Video Receivers
Price vs Category Average
+77%
Above average
Display Commander IP Rating
67
/ IP
Who it's for
- Boat owners navigating harsh saltwater or high-sun environments
- Captains prioritizing a clean, minimalist dashboard aesthetic
- Users managing complex audio setups across multiple vessel zones
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers avoiding additional hardware installation costs
- Users preferring a standalone unit with immediate visual feedback
- Audiophiles requiring high-wattage power for demanding speaker systems
Performance breakdown
Marine Weatherproofing
IP67-rated display commander withstands harsh saltwater spray and heavy rain exposure.
Installation Versatility
Hideaway black box design keeps your helm clean and clutter-free.
Audio Zone Control
Dual-zone functionality allows independent volume management across different areas of the vessel.
Connectivity Options
Bluetooth, dual USB, and SiriusXM readiness cover all modern streaming requirements.
Amplification Power
Standard internal power output is sufficient for casual listening but lacks high-end punch.
System Expandability
Six-channel preamp outputs provide a solid foundation for adding external marine amplifiers.
Key Specs
Display Commander IP Rating
IP67
Black Box IP Rating
IPX3
RMS Power Output
18 Watts x 4 channels
Preamp Outputs
6-Channel / 4 Volts
USB Ports
Dual (1A and 2.1A)
Frequency Response
36-1500 Hz
Display Size
4.3 inches LCD
Warranty
1 Year By Road Entertainment
Features
- Hidden black box design for a clean look
- Built-in Bluetooth with aptX audio streaming
- Dual USB ports for charging and playback
- AM/FM/Weather Band tuner included
- SiriusXM and Pandora ready
- Dual zone source and volume control
- Dedicated rear camera input
- IP67 rated display for weather protection
What customers say
This marine receiver earns high praise primarily for its exceptional sound quality and robust reliability. Users consistently report crisp, powerful audio performance, even against noisy boat environments. The hideaway design is a key advantage, promoting a clean helm while offering advanced features. Its marine grade construction inspires confidence regarding longevity against harsh weather. Bluetooth connectivity is noted as fast and stable for seamless streaming. While initial wiring can be complex, the overall superior performance and durability solidify the CMS4 as a premium, trustworthy choice for serious boaters seeking high fidelity entertainment.
Know before you buy
The hideaway design means the main processing unit, or black box, is installed out of sight, such as behind the dash or in a storage compartment. You only mount the compact 4.3-inch display commander on your console, resulting in a cleaner, more streamlined look.
Yes, the CMS4 features dual-zone audio control. This allows you to adjust the volume and select different audio sources for two separate areas of your vessel, such as the cockpit and the cabin.
Yes, the display commander is IP67 rated, meaning it is fully protected against dust and can withstand immersion in water up to one meter deep. It is designed to handle the harsh, wet conditions of a marine environment.
Yes, it includes built-in Bluetooth with aptX technology. This ensures higher-quality audio streaming from your compatible devices compared to standard Bluetooth connections.
Yes, the CMS4 includes a dedicated rear camera input. This allows you to view a video feed directly on the 4.3-inch LCD display, which is helpful for docking or monitoring activity behind the boat.
While the display commander is fully waterproof (IP67), the black box unit is rated IPX3. This means it is protected against spraying water, so it should be installed in a dry, protected location inside your vessel rather than an area exposed to direct waves or heavy washdown.
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$550