Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Velex Marine Stereo Speaker Package VX163SB. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure optimal performance and safety. This package includes a marine stereo head unit and two 6.5-inch marine-grade speakers, designed for use in marine environments.
Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the unit:
- Power Source: Connect the unit only to a 12V DC power supply. Ensure proper polarity to avoid damage.
- Wiring: Incorrect wiring can cause fire, damage to the unit, or electric shock. Consult a qualified technician if unsure about wiring.
- Water Exposure: While the head unit is IPX6 rated for water splashing protection, avoid submerging it. Ensure all connections are properly sealed.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit to prevent overheating.
- Volume Levels: Prolonged exposure to high volume levels can cause hearing damage. Adjust volume to a safe level.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
What's in the Box
Verify that all components are present in the package:
- Marine Stereo Head Unit
- Two 6.5 Inch Marine Speakers
- Marine Dipole Antenna
- Mounting Hardware
- Wiring Harness
Product Overview
The Velex Marine Stereo Speaker Package VX163SB is designed for marine environments, offering robust audio performance and connectivity options.
Main Unit and Speakers

Image: The complete Velex Marine Stereo Speaker Package VX163SB, showing the head unit, two speakers, and antenna.
Speaker Dimensions

Image: Detailed dimensions of the 6.5-inch marine speakers, showing a 7.5-inch (191mm) outer diameter and a mounting depth of 2.24 inches (57mm).
Head Unit Controls and Ports

Image: Close-up view of the head unit, highlighting controls such as Power, Source, Band, Preset Stations, Tune Up/Next Track, Tune Down/Previous Track, Play/Pause, Volume knob (Rotate)/SEL/Confirm (Press), and ports for USB, AUX in, and RCA output.
Head Unit Dimensions

Image: Dimensions of the head unit, showing a front face diameter of 3.5 inches and a mounting depth of approximately 3.17 inches.
Display Readability

Image: Comparison showing the display readability of the Velex unit in both bright daylight and soft lighting conditions at night, demonstrating its adjustable brightness feature.
Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your marine stereo system. Refer to the video below for a visual guide on installation.
Installation Video Guide
Video: An official Velextech video demonstrating the installation process of the marine stereo, including drilling, mounting, and wiring connections.
Mounting the Head Unit
- Drill Hole: Drill a 3.15-inch (80mm) diameter hole in the desired mounting location. Ensure sufficient space behind the panel for wiring and the unit's depth.
- Insert Unit: Carefully insert the head unit into the drilled hole.
- Secure Unit: Use the provided metal mounting bracket and screws to secure the stereo from the rear of the panel. Tighten the screws firmly to prevent the radio from shaking due to vibration.
Wiring Connections
Follow the wiring diagram carefully. Incorrect wiring can damage the unit or vehicle's electrical system.
- Power (Yellow Cable): Connect the yellow cable to a switched 12V DC power source, preferably through a fuse box, to ensure constant power for memory retention and proper operation.
- Ground (Black Cable): Connect the black cable securely to a clean, unpainted metal part of the vehicle's chassis or the negative terminal of the battery.
- Speaker Connections: Connect the speaker wires to the corresponding outputs on the head unit.
- White: Front Left Speaker
- Gray: Front Right Speaker
- Green: Rear Left Speaker (Optional)
- Purple: Rear Right Speaker (Optional)
- Antenna: Connect the marine dipole antenna to the antenna input on the head unit for optimal AM/FM reception.
Speaker Installation
Install the two 6.5-inch marine speakers in suitable locations, ensuring they are securely mounted and wired correctly to the head unit. The speakers are designed to withstand marine conditions.
Operation
Power On/Off
Press the Power button (red button) on the head unit to turn the system on or off.
Source Selection
Press the SRC button to cycle through available audio sources: FM, AM, Bluetooth Audio, USB, and AUX In.
Volume Control
Rotate the central knob clockwise to increase volume and counter-clockwise to decrease volume.
Bluetooth Pairing
- Switch the stereo source to Bluetooth Audio. The display will show "BT AUDIO" and indicate pairing mode.
- On your mobile device, enable Bluetooth and search for available devices.
- Select "VX163" or a similar name from the list of devices.
- Once connected, the display will confirm successful pairing. You can now stream audio from your device.
AM/FM Radio
- Band Selection: Press the BAND button to switch between FM1, FM2, FM3, AM1, and AM2 bands.
- Tuning: Use the Tune Up (►►) or Tune Down (◄◄) buttons to manually or automatically search for radio stations. Press and hold for automatic search.
- Preset Stations: Press the PRES button to access preset stations. To save a station, tune to the desired frequency, then press and hold one of the preset buttons (usually the Tune Up/Down buttons when in preset mode) until the display confirms it's saved.
USB and AUX Playback
- USB: Insert a USB drive into the USB port. The unit will automatically switch to USB mode and begin playing compatible audio files. Use the Play/Pause (►►) and Next/Previous Track (►► / ◄◄) buttons for control.
- AUX In: Connect an external audio device (e.g., MP3 player) to the AUX In port using a 3.5mm audio cable. Switch the source to AUX In. Audio playback is controlled via the connected device.
Display Brightness
The display brightness is adjustable for optimal visibility in various lighting conditions, dimming at night and brightening during the day. Refer to the unit's settings menu for specific adjustments.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly wipe the unit and speakers with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the finish or waterproof seals.
- Connections: Periodically check all wiring connections for corrosion or looseness. Ensure they are secure and free from moisture.
- Storage: If storing the vessel for an extended period, consider disconnecting the stereo from the power source to prevent battery drain.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power | Blown fuse; Incorrect wiring; Loose power connection | Check and replace fuse; Verify wiring connections; Secure power cables |
| No sound | Volume too low; Mute activated; Incorrect source selected; Loose speaker wires | Increase volume; Deactivate mute; Select correct source; Check speaker connections |
| Bluetooth not connecting | Device not in pairing mode; Stereo not in Bluetooth mode; Device too far | Ensure both devices are in pairing mode; Select Bluetooth source on stereo; Move device closer |
| Poor radio reception | Antenna not connected; Damaged antenna; Weak signal area | Check antenna connection; Replace antenna if damaged; Try tuning in a different location |
| USB playback issues | Incompatible file format; Damaged USB drive; USB drive not properly inserted | Ensure files are compatible (e.g., MP3); Try a different USB drive; Reinsert USB drive firmly |
Specifications
- Model Number: VX163SB
- Brand: Velex
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB
- Controller Type: Button
- Special Feature: Radio, Stereo pairing
- Compatible Devices: Speaker, Smartphone, Tablet
- Connector Type: USB
- Audio Encoding: Stereo
- Audio Output Mode: Stereo
- Surround Sound Channel Configuration: 2.0
- Color: Black
- Package Dimensions: 11.26 x 8.19 x 7.99 inches
- Item Weight: 1.87 pounds
- Manufacturer: Velex Tech Ltd.
Warranty & Support
Velex products are designed and manufactured to the highest quality standards. For specific warranty details and support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Velex website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical assistance or customer service, please contact Velex customer support through their official channels.
Relevant Links
For additional information or related products, you may visit the Velex brand store: Velex Store on Amazon



