I just added the Mazda Cassette player to my RX-8 and I can easily understand why a Cassette Player Trim Panel is also required. There is no hole for a cassette tape in the stock trim panel.

However, can anyone tell me why an "In-Dash 6-Disc CD Changer Trim Panel" is needed when upgrading from the single disc to 6-disc unit? The stock panel already has a hole for CDs.

Am I missing something?

The trim panel contains the install instructions... Which you won't need any longer because someone posted those on the forum. So you don't really need the trim panel unless you want the mp3 logo etched on it.

The reason that the instructions come with the trim panel, is because the trim panels are the only parts that are unique to the RX-8. The stereo units themselves are modular, with the same components being used in the RX-8, Mazda6, Protege, and I suspect also the Miata. Makes sense for Mazda to standardize like that, because they only need to carry one line of bulky stereo components and three or four separate lines of small trim pieces, and it explains why the installation instructions don't come with the actual components.

I will be buying a 6 disc changer real soon in the near future. Since I have the single unit, will I need to purchase a trim peice to make it all look ok? Someone please advise.

Define "Look OK". The only difference is that the 6-disk trim has an extra logo that says "6-disk" or similar. If you can live without that critical piece of information, then it'll "look OK". :D

If this is a DYI install, note that the "official" instructions come with the trim plate, not the 6-disk changer. I caved and paid the extra $20 bucks for the trim plate because I could not find a post of the actual document.

Alternately you can follow the instructions posted on the thread http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=7644 for a CD/MP3 install. As it turns out someone finally added pictures of the Mazda install document to this thread.

Hey Kevin...

If you are going to the 6 disc from the single unit, the new trim panel will serve no function. The only difference is the "6 disc" logo on the left hand side. Also the trim panel comes with instructions for removal and intallatrion.

Since the instructions are here on this forum.......your only reason for to purchase the new trim panel would be aesthetic.

Thanks guys, I appreciate all the help. I love this forum just as much as the Miata.net. You ask a question and people are willing to help. I love my 2 babies!! :)

Kevin

PS Pat u get my PM regarding the intake?

You should be able to order this part from any Mazda dealer. I inquired and the part number and price from Mazdastuff.com (Mazda South) was F153-79-BGX 6-Disc trim panel $16.25.

This is cheaper than Rosenthal. Attached is a good pic of the trim panel piece the dealer sent.