silent8

idk if it's just more or not but my radio doesn't really get that good reception...also i can't get my 6 disc cd changer to work either...thanks anyone for the help

firebirdude

iTrader: (3)

Must be "just more". Who listens to the radio anyway???? Forget your cassette tapes at home?:D

Eddie33

I know this is an old thread but it's difficult, even using search, to find answers on a popular forum like this one.
I have the same issue with my 04. My radio sucks. Some of us still listento the radio now and then.
Does anyone know of a solution such as a Mazda recall or antenna booster for that car?

firebirdude

iTrader: (3)

I stand by my statement.

hokie027

Id check a few things prior to throwing in the towel:
1. If you remove the radio--i.e. undo the bolt under the steering column to the right, remove the ash tray and faceplate and pull the entire unit out--check to see if the radio wire is fully connected. It should be a small black wire with a male adapter on the end (it connects to the back right of the six disk changer). That can possibly come loose, which would cause degraded radio reception.
2. If thats not the case try pulling the radio and ensuring all the pins are connected to the faceplate and you have no frayed or tarnished connections.

Look up the radio removal on the forum, there is a really good walkthrough/how-to. I believe if you search A/C unit removal you will find it.

firebirdude

iTrader: (3)

Also many vehicles have a second antenna cable connection behind the glove box or behind the passenger kick panel (trace the cable back from the headunit). Not sure about the 8.... frankly because not many people listen to terrestrial radio anymore.

Eddie33

I think what I'm searching for is someone who can confirm of the stock radio in the RX8 is just a bad reception unit. The window antenna has a lot to do withtot I know.
Thanks

sun16v

Mines a UK model and yes the reception is pretty crappy compared to other cars. Also make sure not to use window cleaners on the rear demister/antenna.

Frankieo

Hi there - my 04 radio reception stinks too.. some places it's fine - not great - but fine - but many places it's unusable.. like near tall buildings. I, like you, would like to hear of a "success" story for a fix.. My rear window connection is fine and my car has no tinting. We have not taken any of the front apart yet. The 04's didn't come with satellite radio - and I've learned that not any newer head unit can be swapped with mine - but I don't know what versions can or can't. I'd be interested to hear of any success fixes for the original radio, and/or any resonably priced installations for satellite... there's not much room in front for a separate unit there - and, there are times, I like the local radio. My CD player (I don't have the 6 CD Changer) does work just fine. Thanks for any info on this.