I saw this on the Mazda6 forum: http://www.goonish.com/atenza/read.php?TID=326
They are having a discussion about what it would take to replace the head unit on an Atenza (Mazda6).

Basically, the Mazda6 stereo is integrated into the red readout display above it, which also does climate control readouts and other stuff. We get the same digital readout (see RX-8 interior pics), with the same integration issues with the display I'm sure. Then there is that huge trim piece that covers the stereo and ventilation controls... Here is a picture:


And for those unfamiliar, the RX-8 center console: http://images.rotarynews.com/images/...o/24rx8-cc.jpg

Long story short, replacing the head unit will be a pain. Its looking more and more like I will be adding amps and speakers, but leaving the head unit alone. Which isn't too bad, if it comes with decent outputs, since you can preserve the look of the dash. But I know at least one person on this forum that'll be unhappy...

 

It seems like more and more manufactures are going this route of integrating many funtions into a master unit. I'd prefer they keep things more simple and less expensive to replace. I'm sure I'll be happy with the head unit though, and I'll like the audio controls on the steering wheel. You would loose their functionality if you changed out the head unit. I do hope they include some pre-outs with the stock system though.

Comparing the two dashes, I like the one on the prototype RX-8 better. That huge silver trim piece you mentioned on the 6 doesn't flow well with the rest of the dash. It looks like they were trying to take a page from Caddy's "Art & Science" book.

 

Perhaps we'll be forced to upgrade the amplifier and speakers, leaving the head unit alone.

 

So unless we have RCA outputs stock, we'll have to resort to line to RCA converters.. crap..

 

all i wanna know is if thers gonna be room for a tv? i want a tv in my next car damnit.

 

Wide screen Plasma? :D 51"?

 

Not necessarilly. Vee haf vays of doing things ...

---jps

 

I like the approach. It looks better and functions better for those of us who plan on keeping it stock. :p

 

no way m an, 200 inch projection all the way... the whole car will be a tv.

 

You need to make the projection screen a sail on your hood, then put a camera in front and the projector on a super-size tripple bookshelf aluminum wing with aircraft lights. That way the camera will see in front, and the projector will dispay the road on the screen on your hood. If you don't like what you see, you can change the channel, or open up a computer window and go surfing for pr0n. :D Need a touchpad on the steering wheel first!

 

im sure someone will come out with aftermarket kits that will allow for aftermarket head units. the only question i have is how good will the fit and finish and design of these kits be ??

 

If we judge by the few kits that were available for the Taurus back when they had a similarly proprietary setup, then quality shouldn't be too bad at all. All it took was a plastic piece that was strong enough, and you simply relocated the climate controls to the new face.

But remember, there were beaucoup Taurus' out there, but only a few of these "kits" were available. And, the Taurus had as pedestrian of a stereo as you could get in a car (meaning that a higher percentage of owners wanted to install aftermarket stereos), while the RX8 will have a higher level stereo, which a good portion of the owners will be more than happy to keep (especially if it is tied in with a nav system). So it still remains to be seen whether or not the market will exist for such an adapter.

---jps

 

protege: Extreme attamp to add after market appearence and interest in their product with easy to install stereo open bays and speakers.

Mazda 6: Extreme attemp to be a new sporty mainstream but mazda has left no room for individualism.

Same company? I dont get it?

 

The protege is just an econobox, its parts are as modular as it can get, so they can swap parts with any supplier that can supply parts cheaper.

Neither car was made with the intention to mod as first priority, or even second.

 

wouldn't be surprised if a Bose system was available as an option like in the 626 and millenia

 

According to Robert Davis of MNAO fame, Bose is standard equipment at least here in the US of A.:o