Hi all,
FYI:
My 2005 RX-8 did not come with the satellite ready radio, so I did some checking..

Per the manual, there is a Type A and Type B radio.
They look identical, except the Type B (which I have) has an FM1/2 button and an AM button.
The Type A has FM/AM as 1 button and a SAT button.

I contacted Mazda and the Type A radio is delayed. No current ETA, but they said they would let me know.

Since the A was not available when I purchased my car, I wonder how much Mazda will want to swap it when they are released...

-B

 

Bigger question is when will there be a "Type A" with MP3.

 

My understanding is that later this year, Mazda will be offering a Sirius-ready HU. I contacted a local dealer for specifics last week but I've not yet gotten an answer.

The Sirius-ready HU should be compatible with the current CD-based mp3 player.

 

bowman,

You mean the Sirius-capable HU would REPLACE the current CD-based mp3 player.

Either unit would occupy the top din slot in the 2-din radio stack the RX-8 has available. (Except for the MD player and cassette player, nothing goes in the lower din portion currently, correct?)

I don't see them offering a seperate Sirius add on module. It would probably cost as much as new head-unit anyway and probably wouldn't intigrate very well.

-Mr. Wigggles

 

Let me start off by saying I am still researching/shopping for my RX-8....

It was my impression (possibly wrong) that the CD player is separate from the HU. If not, you'll have to choose between Sat radio and mp3 (unless they offer the mp3 version with Sat radio).

The only info I've found on the Sat radio option is the Sirius link posted on this site. After reading it, I believe that you will still have to buy and install a tuner/antenna to use your Sat radio. The advantage being that it will integrate into your existing radio/steering wheel controls.



Edit: This is a page from the mp3 player install. See the figure at the bottom of the page. Note that the CD/mp3 module is separate from the audio unit (FM/AM).





Customers wishing to obtain Sirius service will need to have a tuner and antenna installed by the dealer, as well as purchase a Sirius subscription.

 

The RX-8 is equipped with a MASIC radio (Module Audio System Intergraded Components).
There is a
base radio = AM/FM
upper module option = nothing, single cd, MP3 single cd, OR 6disc indash cd changer
lower module option = nothing, cassette player, OR MD player
The rear of the base radio has a connector to plug in external device i.e. SAT tuner module, PIE adapter, OR trunk changer.

Most 01' - present Mazda vehicles have MASIC radio's, All modules 01' - present are interchangeable (not base radio but modules) so for example - you can remove your cd player from 05' RX-8 and install MP3 CD from a 02' Miata.

 

Yeah, the MP3 or 6CD changer really have nothing to do with the HU type and should easily work with either type, they're just modules, as doc said...

 

Is it still true that the SAT-ready 05's still aren't out? I haven't gone to the dealers yet looking for them, but I'm definately gonna hold off if this is still the case...

 

The last word I got from my dealer (10/8) was, " ". (He didn't know the what, when or how much.)

I sent him an e-mail on Friday asking for an update.

 

All the 05s that I saw last week at a local dealer had the SAT button. The salesman was familiar with them and told me that it would be an add on for the Sirius receiver/antenna package.

 

I think trussville sells them...

 

My '05 doesn't have a SAT button (that I can find!)

 

or rather www.finishlineperformance.com definitely does...if you have the sat button just install the box, antenna and get a subcription and your good to go

 

Do you know where the hideaway box of the sat tuner is installed?
I have an 05' with the sat button...

 

I would assume it will be modular in the lower portion of the unit.
I've got an 05 and it does not have the sat button.

 

Thanks, but where would the MD player go sins I have that button to!
(Seems I got 3 buttons that do nothing, Sat, Tape & MD)

P.s a note to all members on this forum,
You guy's are all very helpful with no BS, other forums that I used where a bit different!
(I had a G35 Coupe before the RX8)