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golfpunk111

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#153937 13-Oct-2014 13:03
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Hi Guys

I have a 2005 Mazda Atenza import and am looking to upgrade the stereo, however from my research it is an absolute pain in the a to do so, with a/c and clock display not working after upgrades. I am keen to do it myself, so was just wondering if anyone on here has had a successful upgrade and can offer any options or advice which leaves the dash and a/c fully functional.

Thanks


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xpd

xpd
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  #1152799 13-Oct-2014 13:16
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Install it in your glove box ? (if one available) Thats the thing with these integrated stereos, is that upgrade options are limited. :( Theyre usually good sounding stereos tho...




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ubergeeknz
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  #1152800 13-Oct-2014 13:18
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Have a look if there's space behind the dash, there probably is so that you can leave the stereo wired in and intact to run A/C functions.  There are generally kits available so you can fit a standard DIN unit in the gap you left.

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  #1152806 13-Oct-2014 13:22
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I have the same type of car, can you put in a headunit from a Mazda 6 so I can remove the need for a band expander?



hsvhel
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  #1152809 13-Oct-2014 13:32
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Upgrade to what?
providing that unit still functions, you would be better off changing the factory speakers to aftermarket quality ones and adding an amp to drive them properly.

What are your plans for the system





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golfpunk111

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  #1152817 13-Oct-2014 13:42
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Just an upgrade to the stereo, I'm happy with the speakers at the moment, looking at getting a double din unit with aux/usb input, LCD screen with navigation, blluetooth. Something like the Philips CED1800BT

heylinb4nz
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  #1152831 13-Oct-2014 13:46
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hsvhel: Upgrade to what?
providing that unit still functions, you would be better off changing the factory speakers to aftermarket quality ones and adding an amp to drive them properly.

What are your plans for the system



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Get an Anycar MP3 piggyback unit to add MP3 capability (if needed). Find a quality 2CH amp with line level inputs and upgrade the factory front speakers. If some bass is on the cards you could get a 4ch amp and bridge one set of channels to allow you to run a shallow mount sub (pioneer 8" TS841d are great) under a seat.

 
 
 

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Wade
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  #1152841 13-Oct-2014 13:54
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You can buy the replacement fascias from Ed's Autos which I believe retain all AC function and little factory screen but allow you to swap out head unit

hsvhel
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  #1152860 13-Oct-2014 14:10
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golfpunk111: Just an upgrade to the stereo, I'm happy with the speakers at the moment, looking at getting a double din unit with aux/usb input, LCD screen with navigation, blluetooth. Something like the Philips CED1800BT


The way that is contoured, you are unlikely to get a standard aftermarket double Din unit that would fit.
There are replacements available that will allow you to retain the aircon but you'll be dropping some coin as they are not commonly replaced items.
Like this http://www.qualitycaraudio.co.nz/index.php?route=product/product&path=151_291&product_id=2265
Some moon unit is dreaming with the price there!
The factory hole you have to play with is also not a true double din in size. 

I would add something like a Bluetooth streamer with RCA output or the cheaper AUX interfaces.  A cheap 2nd hand ipod as in car media is as good as a HDD or USB input.


 




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Handle9
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  #1152970 13-Oct-2014 15:41
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I upgraded my Dad's Mazda 3 (same integrated head unit) with a bluetooth & usb audio module from Grom Audio. All the 'bits' fit in behind the stock headunit and all 'smart' functionality is delivered from his iPhone

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