Excited to be part of this forum as a new RX8 owner. I'v got an Alpine single din that I took out of a previous vehicle, trying to figure out whether to put it in the rx8 or not.

Positives I can see with the new deck is better sound quality (?), usb and ipod integration included, plus rca outputs already included for subs that I will put in.

Negatives, is it looks like I'll have to practically get a new dash kit to install it which look to be around $150. And if I keep the stock radio I'll have to get the aux/usb adapter which seems to be around $100.

My question is, since I already have the aftermarket deck, is it worth going through the process of switching them out or would it be easier and more worth the time and money to get the usb/aux adapter and LOC for the RCA outputs and keep the stock radio in?

Couldn't find a scenario like this in the forums.

Thanks for your time!

 

If all you want is bluetooth/ipod integration, it's going to be easier to just add a GROM adapter to the stock radio. Normally it would be cheaper but you already have a head unit so the GROM may be a little more expensive (no idea what the cost is for adapter kits to make aftermarket head units fit and work with steering wheel controls).

If you're okay with the audio quality and only want to add bluetooth/iPod, I'd stay with the OEM head unit and add the GROM adapter.

If you want better sound and/or more features than the above, then you'll have to go aftermarket.

 

Aftermarket headunit completely opens up the sound. Stock is terrible. In all honesty if you can set yourself back a little cash, sell the Alpine and the OEM HU and get a double din and kit. The double din look is awesome in the RX8.

I'm with NotAPreppie though in his response. You can get the grom and be done with it, but the stock audio as I said above isn't good.

 

+1 on the double din.

I used to have the stock system and did the GROM method, but after a swapped it out, I couldn't be happier.

 

I have the piooneer NEX 4100 touchscreen on my car. Its better being able to customize the bass and sound quality straight from the headunit. It's pricey but its worth it. They both look good in my opinion though i just prefer the aftermarket choice




Old pic

 

Pioneer AppRadio. Clean...no cd player

 

Nice!

 

I was going to say aftermarket myself, but I see the point was made...