BigRagu

I researched this here a year ago but I can't find the same results in the search, so sorry in advance...

The Bose CD changer in my 2004 RX-8 has a real hard time reading most CD's. THey get spit out with a check cd error. I remember this was a common problem, and it gets worse as the weather gets cold.

I'm planning on a simple replacement, but I seem to recall that the 04 model could be replaced with a newer model that has an aux input (or some other small added feature I can't remember)? I feel like the only problem was one of the buttons was changed to say "SAT" on it, but otherwise everything worked perfectly. Can anyone clarify this for me? What is the newest model of changer I can put in that maintains the same level of features or better?

Thanks.

firebirdude

iTrader: (3)

You might think about purchasing the AuxMod add-on for your headunit. Then just use an MP3 player and forget that CD player exists. That's your cheapest/easiest solution.

Any 2008 and below headunit will swap right in. The later years (06-07-08) will have a later firmware version that will allow you to use a number of 3rd party iPod and auxiliary add-ons. Some may have the satellite radio button, but that's not all you need to get satellite radio. That also doesn't bullseye a particular year or firmware version.

But don't spend too much on one. No matter what, it'll likely have several years of use on it and will soon enough fail just as yours has. You might think about just going aftermarket right now. $300-$350 would get you into something aftermarket with built-in aux jack and probably a real iPod connector (keeps iPod charged and xfers text display). You'll also get a slew of extra audio adjustments, to help you adjust the already better sound you'll get.

BigRagu

Would a $350 aftermarket unit sound better than the Bose system? Looks like I'd have to add $120 or so for the Metra kit too.

I was kicking around an FM modulated connector to my iPhone as a temporary workaround but decided to put that money towards a replacement when I saw even those weren't cheap. I never really considered abandoning cds as a permanent solution,but I think I'm leaning that way though. I'll look into the AuxMod solution.

Thanks a lot for the info.