bam9382

Hey guys.. new to the RX8.. just sold my wrangler and i want to get back into a sports car.. I am not new to forums.. so i have done some searching and found a ton of info.. but i am still unsure about this issue and i want to make sure it is something i am clear on before i buy a car..

Question that i need some clarity on.. deals with sound.. i am very into sound and after researching i have found that it is not a great idea to buy a aftermarket HU.. plus the stock one looks very clean.. and from what i have read it seems that the 2004 models do not allow a aux input for ipods? is this true for both bose and stock.. ? also does 2004 models have the sirius radio built in?? becuase im a sirius subscriber and i want to make sure that is available.. also what are your opinions on BOSE vrs stock systems.. how much better is it?

Thanks guys!!
blake

Wargoose

I presume the BOSE and non-BOSE systems both have the same external CD changer connection located on the rear of the head unit (left side) and also a Tape/MD connector (assuming you don't have a cassette or MD unit installed already).

If so, you can purchase a DICE, Neo Prolink, Audiolink, or OEM iPod adapter. These all plug into that external CD changer port and allow you to plug an iPod in. They will all charge the iPod and give you some degree of steering wheel/head unit control. The first three also add an AUX input so you could add an external satellite radio. The OEM unit does not have this, nor does it allow you to directly control the iPod while plugged in (the first three do). For a 2004 model, none of these will provide any text from the iPod.

You can also purchase an Axxess unit which plugs into the Tape/MD port. Works like the others in that it charges the iPod, has an aux port, and allows steering wheel/head unit controls. Does not permit direct iPod control while plugged in. However, it does add text display on the head unit.

The 2004 model head units do not have factory satellite radio capability.

As for BOSE vs non-BOSE, or any stereo question - sound is often subjective. Some people think the stock BOSE systems sound very nice, others prefer an aftermarket replacement. I'm not sure anyone thinks the stock unit (without aftermarket upgrades) sounds better than the BOSE system, but I could be wrong here.

Hope that answers your questions.

Socket7

If you searched you'd know that no RX-8 comes with a stock aux input.

The bose system is mediocre at best. It's got enough range that most people are happy with it, but it's gutless in the low end in muddy all throughout. I shudder to think how bad the base unit is. The head unit is of decent quality though can can be tapped with a line output converter for your upgrade needs.

Not sure if the 04's had sirius, but some probably do. they still have the "sat" button on it after all.

bam9382

thanks guys very helpful!

Wargoose

I'm pretty sure none of the '04s came with that SAT button (but hey, I've been wrong before). That's why I stated that there was no factory satellite radio for that year.

Socket7

I could be wrong on the sat radio. I thought i saw one on an 04 I've sat in before, but I don't own one so I could be imagining it.

thew

Do a search for PIE AUX in. It's the best and cleanest way to go.
Also you can get this cool OEM RCA Dash mounted connector to go along with it..
https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.p...ght=PIE+aux+in

Also yes you can do a Sat Upgrade to an 04 Rx8..
You just have to buy a new HU and the face plat with the Sat switch. We have helped a Few PM Flyboyindy upgrade there systems to new SAT systems.

Rotary Moose

DIY: Adding An Aux Input To OEM Radio (2006-2008))