I've searched for code information and see conflicting reports about whether or not RX-8s in North America (specifically Canada) have the anti-theft code protection enabled. I'd like to pull the radio out but don't want to brick it.

Can anyone share some intel on this?

 

There is no code, you can swap head units freely except if you have the Bose system, then you can only replace it with a Bose head unit.

 

so there is no way around beating swapping to aftermarket headunit if i have a bose setup?? this is very disheartening if this be the case since i am a long time audiophile but new to rotary world...but after standard maintenance (if i pass comp. test and get heating prob. solved) this was my first upgrade.

 

Spanky,

From my limited reading on this forum, and from years of experience selling, installing, and tuning car audio, you can ALWAYS upgrade your stock audio.

The RX-8's Bose system is set up similarly to the systems in my BMW M3 and Infiniti G35. The head unit provides a full-range, 4-channel differential balanced (higher voltage than line level, not as much amperage as speaker level) signal downstream to the Bose amp mounted in the trunk. The amp takes the full range signals and feeds them into an onboard electronic crossover, before outputting mids to the 6x9s in the rear deck, highs to the front tweeeter, and mid-bass to the front (powered) 8" door speakrs. The centre dash speaker likely gets mids/highs, again, after being "filtered" by the amp in the trunk.

This is a great thread if you haven't read it; https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-int...-first-226065/

The problem with systems like this is that replacing a single component usually sounds awful, since each speaker is "tuned" by it's sensitivity, impedance, cross-over filtering, and amplification to produce a certain set of frequencies. From what I've read, the deck's output is decently full range, meaning you can replace the entire system downstream of the head unit and still use it as your source. Working backwards is more difficult, but not terribly so.

If you order a new deck from Crutchfield, they can supply you with the mounting kit, harness adapter and steering wheel control to easily integrate an aftermarket deck into the car's downstream Bose equipment. You might, however, experience some hum/whine, etc.

The most ideal solution is a new deck, a 5 channel amp (or a four channel amp plus a monoblock for the sub), new 6.5" components up front, and new 6x9s in the back. If you've never heard a properly-tuned, adequately-powered 5 channel system with a sealed 12" box, you don't know what you're missing.

So yes, you can get a new head unit. You just have to embark on the journey knowing how much you'll need to spend before you start.

 

Yeah granted I pass comp test and get cooling issues resolved; the boss system will come out completely. I would install a double din w Metra kit (Sucks they r soooo expensive) so my account will work although could care less but steering controls.

I would also install a 4 or 5 channel amp for mid and highs replacing all factory speakers. Then I'd install mono block amp and either single or dual 12 setup. At this point (and contingent on more pressing issues w car) contemplating removal of rear seat driver side to do a ported setup. Also may need to upgrade at and/or add dedicated audio batt. Depending on what I decide to do.

While the boss system does sound great for a factory system at the end of the day it's just that...even all the way to max it still just doesn't give me what I'm used to audiowise