A majority of us have 9.55 or higher firmware. I have an 05 I mine was higher than 9.55 back when I used just the Audiolink iPod adapter. But check it for yourself.

The Metra kit is just an installation kit that allows you to replace your factory headunit with any aftermarket one. It comes with the dash pieces that allow it to fit into place and the electronics to keep all your other displays/controls working as they should. However, as mentioned, the steering wheel controls require an additional adapter. Runs about 50 bucks.

Navigation is the biggest feature that's going to up your price tag. If you can do without that, you can get a lot of great headunits under $500.

 

SRQ boxes are very well made. And if you are worried about something custom. Tell him what you need and if he needs a car to test fit in I will let him use mine.

The boxes Ryan at SRQ sells for the RX8 are built based of my 8. I use to work with him at Sound Advice in Sarasota. He has built more HIN and SEMA cars then most people at any shop.

So quality is not the question it is like Firebird said with a w7 you pay to play with a expensive sub.

If you doubt any of this when you talk to him again, tell him I said he could use my car for any test fits for a custom box. He has my number.

 

"Yeah, Mike comes here all the time, but making the box without the car is no big deal. The big hurdle is shipping, UPS wants $432 to deliver and USPS wants $180, plus the $80 for the box."
Unexpectedly high shipping prices. Maybe i should just use the $260 to buy a better box down in Australia?? or still worth the price to get it from SRQ?

 

Like I've said several times, take it somewhere local and just see what they can do for you.