Converts retinaldehyde to retinoic acid (PubMed:10985355). Recognizes as substrates free retinal and cellular retinol-binding protein-bound retinal (By similarity). Has only very low activity with benzaldehyde and acetaldehyde. Displays complete lack of activity with citral (PubMed:10985355). It is responsible for the ability of brain sites to synthesize retinoic acid. Its activity in the high vocal center (HVC) is required for the song of juvenile zebra finches to become stereotyped (PubMed:10985355). H2O + NAD(+) + retinal = 2 H(+) + NADH + retinoate Cofactor metabolism; retinol metabolism. Homotetramer. Expressed in the high vocal center (HVC) which integrates auditory and motor activities and constitutes a nodal nucleus on the song system. Belongs to the aldehyde dehydrogenase family.