Question about P5 stock in dash CD player
March-25th-2002, 01:17 PM
#1
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Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 37
Question about P5 stock in dash CD player
Hi,
I want to add a CD changer to my P5 while keeping the look of the factory head unit. My question is, does the stock in dash CD player have CD control capabilities?
Autotoys.com has a 10CD changer for $229.95 that includes an an adapter that will let it work directly with 98-01+ Mazda radios. However, the stock unit must have CD changer control. Also, it must have a 12 pin molex, whatever the hell that means.
Also, does anyone know if the stereo in the P5 is the same as was offered in the '01 Pro ES sedan?
Thanks.
I want to add a CD changer to my P5 while keeping the look of the factory head unit. My question is, does the stock in dash CD player have CD control capabilities?
Autotoys.com has a 10CD changer for $229.95 that includes an an adapter that will let it work directly with 98-01+ Mazda radios. However, the stock unit must have CD changer control. Also, it must have a 12 pin molex, whatever the hell that means.
Also, does anyone know if the stereo in the P5 is the same as was offered in the '01 Pro ES sedan?
Thanks.
March-25th-2002, 03:47 PM
#2
Ha-ho
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: New Hampshire
Posts: 166
230 bucks you can get a nice MP3 player that will have pre-amp outputs and all the other goodies for when you start to upgrade your other components (and you will, it's addictive). I dont remember how many hours of music you can fit on one cd, but an 80 min cd will hold 700 megabytes of music, which equated to about 2 weeks of driving around w/o changing the cd for me. So my advice would be to get a HU that plays MP3's and never mind this cd-changer nonsense 
March-25th-2002, 05:33 PM
#3
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Join Date: Oct 2001
Posts: 484
Originally posted by mp4life
230 bucks you can get a nice MP3 player that will have pre-amp outputs and all the other goodies for when you start to upgrade your other components (and you will, it's addictive). I dont remember how many hours of music you can fit on one cd, but an 80 min cd will hold 700 megabytes of music, which equated to about 2 weeks of driving around w/o changing the cd for me. So my advice would be to get a HU that plays MP3's and never mind this cd-changer nonsense
230 bucks you can get a nice MP3 player that will have pre-amp outputs and all the other goodies for when you start to upgrade your other components (and you will, it's addictive). I dont remember how many hours of music you can fit on one cd, but an 80 min cd will hold 700 megabytes of music, which equated to about 2 weeks of driving around w/o changing the cd for me. So my advice would be to get a HU that plays MP3's and never mind this cd-changer nonsense
March-25th-2002, 05:44 PM
#4
Show Layne some respect
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: Long Island,NY
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Hear hear on the MP3 player - I know this guy was asking about changer controls, but with the MP3 player - who needs it?
Anyway, though, I have no idea about the changer controls on the stock radio, other than they are designed for the in-dash module. Any add-on changer I've ever seen either needs to be controlled by a capable deck of the same brand, or you need to use one of the wired-remote things. Plus, you'll have to run the changer through a "dead" radio station, and that just sux. Plus, most changers don't inlude the remote or the radio broadcast unit, so there's some extra expense, too.
I went through this with a previous car - I already had an aftermarket deck, and wanted a changer. Turns out, it cost me only $20 more to get the changer AND compatible deck to control it, vs. the changer plus remote plus radio interface. You know already what I bought......
BTW - I have my stock deck right here, and there is no such 12-pin molex connector - sorry dude, looks like you might want to consider an MP3 player or a new deck & changer combination.
Anyway, though, I have no idea about the changer controls on the stock radio, other than they are designed for the in-dash module. Any add-on changer I've ever seen either needs to be controlled by a capable deck of the same brand, or you need to use one of the wired-remote things. Plus, you'll have to run the changer through a "dead" radio station, and that just sux. Plus, most changers don't inlude the remote or the radio broadcast unit, so there's some extra expense, too.
I went through this with a previous car - I already had an aftermarket deck, and wanted a changer. Turns out, it cost me only $20 more to get the changer AND compatible deck to control it, vs. the changer plus remote plus radio interface. You know already what I bought......
BTW - I have my stock deck right here, and there is no such 12-pin molex connector - sorry dude, looks like you might want to consider an MP3 player or a new deck & changer combination.
Last edited by hihoslva; March-25th-2002 at 05:47 PM.
March-25th-2002, 08:00 PM
#5
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Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 37
Thanks for the replies. I know the factory system pretty much sucks, I just really like the way it looks, especially at night all lit up in red. I would deal with the sound in order to keep it looking like that.
Guess I'll prolly change the head unit. Any suggestions on something that will somewhat blend in with the red lighting?
As for MP3's, yeah they are cool, but I literally have hundreds of CD's, which is why a changer is better for me.
Hihoslva, I'm on LI too. Just picked my silver P5 up a week ago. Absolutely love it. Maybe I'm looking for them more now, but I'm starting to notice more P5's on the road now.
Guess I'll prolly change the head unit. Any suggestions on something that will somewhat blend in with the red lighting?
As for MP3's, yeah they are cool, but I literally have hundreds of CD's, which is why a changer is better for me.
Hihoslva, I'm on LI too. Just picked my silver P5 up a week ago. Absolutely love it. Maybe I'm looking for them more now, but I'm starting to notice more P5's on the road now.
March-25th-2002, 10:42 PM
#6
Ha-ho
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: New Hampshire
Posts: 166
There were a bunch of theads about the color matching thing at one time, if you do a search i'm sure you'll find some good stuff.
I think this may even be one of them http://www.protegeclub.com/forum/sho...5&pagenumber=1
Speaking as someone who went from having an MP3 player, to having a regular deck, they are well worth it and you can still hook up a cd changer to one if you really wanted a changer. Just my .02
I think this may even be one of them http://www.protegeclub.com/forum/sho...5&pagenumber=1
Speaking as someone who went from having an MP3 player, to having a regular deck, they are well worth it and you can still hook up a cd changer to one if you really wanted a changer. Just my .02
March-26th-2002, 02:06 PM
#7
Show Layne some respect
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Location: Long Island,NY
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Hey man, where are you on Strong Island neighbor? I'm in Amityville - if you ever see a Silver P5 with a small white decal on the back window that looks like a tree, that's me!
There have been plenty of "what deck matches my interior..." threads, but I'll respond anyway.
I have the Kenwood MP8017 - MP3 Cd player - buttons can be red or green (red matches fairly well) - some of Kenwood's 2002 models include the same red/or/green button illumination, but also have a color shifting display that could definitely be set match the interior perfect, and it might be time for an upgrade for me.....
Other than that, Sonys are generally red, and so are many Rockford Fosgates. Truthfully, I was worried about disrupting the interior look also, but have totally grown accustomed to the new radio - think of it this way, the MP3 (the car) comes with the Kenwoods pre-installed, and they have blue illumination - if it looked that bad, they wouldn't do it, so.....
And as far as Changers vs. Mp3 - Most aftermarket decks have changer controls (for the same brand) - MP3 is awesome, dude. I have over 400 CDs in my collection, and nearly all of my MP3 Cds are ripped directly from CDs - great quality, and everything I want to hear! I have fit up to 13 COMPLETE ALBUMS on ONE CD! My advice is go for the MP3 player first, and decide later if you want a changer - you'll be able to hook one right up if you decide you want it - one cable, really simple.
Just MHO.
See ya' around neighbor!
There have been plenty of "what deck matches my interior..." threads, but I'll respond anyway.
I have the Kenwood MP8017 - MP3 Cd player - buttons can be red or green (red matches fairly well) - some of Kenwood's 2002 models include the same red/or/green button illumination, but also have a color shifting display that could definitely be set match the interior perfect, and it might be time for an upgrade for me.....
Other than that, Sonys are generally red, and so are many Rockford Fosgates. Truthfully, I was worried about disrupting the interior look also, but have totally grown accustomed to the new radio - think of it this way, the MP3 (the car) comes with the Kenwoods pre-installed, and they have blue illumination - if it looked that bad, they wouldn't do it, so.....
And as far as Changers vs. Mp3 - Most aftermarket decks have changer controls (for the same brand) - MP3 is awesome, dude. I have over 400 CDs in my collection, and nearly all of my MP3 Cds are ripped directly from CDs - great quality, and everything I want to hear! I have fit up to 13 COMPLETE ALBUMS on ONE CD! My advice is go for the MP3 player first, and decide later if you want a changer - you'll be able to hook one right up if you decide you want it - one cable, really simple.
Just MHO.
See ya' around neighbor!
March-26th-2002, 06:22 PM
#8
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Join Date: Jan 2002
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I'm in Lynbrook. Will be on the lookout for your P5. Just got mine tinted over the weekend and it looks schweet. Like I said I'm noticing more and more of them around our area.
I spoke to my brother in law who does installations on the side, and I've decided to spend the money and do the car right. Going with the new Pioneer MP3 head unit as well as a 12 CD changer. I'll put up with the different dash colors, in the end the sound was more important to me. Also changing the speakers and putting in a 10 inch Bazooka. I gotta live with this car for probably 5-6 years, might as well enjoy it.
Maybe I'll see you around if we can ever get everyone in our area together for some kind of meet. Maybe the Protege people can latch onto the Miata club or some other club.
I spoke to my brother in law who does installations on the side, and I've decided to spend the money and do the car right. Going with the new Pioneer MP3 head unit as well as a 12 CD changer. I'll put up with the different dash colors, in the end the sound was more important to me. Also changing the speakers and putting in a 10 inch Bazooka. I gotta live with this car for probably 5-6 years, might as well enjoy it.
Maybe I'll see you around if we can ever get everyone in our area together for some kind of meet. Maybe the Protege people can latch onto the Miata club or some other club.
March-26th-2002, 06:42 PM
#9
Show Layne some respect
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Location: Long Island,NY
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Wow, dude, you're like 15 minutes away.
I gotta say - good choice on the stereo - you'll definitely enjoy the MP3s - it's a great technology that fits so well in the environment of the car - no discs to change, etc.
I use my Pro5 for work (and play), and carry tools and parts in the hatch - I'm designing and building a custom sub enclosure that will also house two amps on the passenger side of the hatch - It's going to be geared toward good sound quality - with a proper-volume sealed sub portion - and will be very space efficient and good-looking, too. Don't know when you are planning your stereo install, but I will hopefully get mine done within the next 2 or 3 weeks (my amps and sub should be delivered this week) - so if you are interested in plans or something instead of the Bazooka tube (I prefer component subs, just my preference) I could help you out there. I'm using MDF (medium density fiberboard - sorry if you know that already) and four 2'x4' sheets (might not ned all 4) only cost me $24 at Homey Deeeepot, so the cost is very reasonable vs. buying pre-made boxes.
As far as a meet, check my post here - feel free to submit any ideas you might have - a big meet this summer would be a great thing, IMO.
Oh yeah - where'd you get the tint done? Did they do a tight install? What kind of tint did you get (metallic, just black, what %, etc.)? How much $$? (Whew, I'm out of breath!)
Southern State Parkway, here I come!
I gotta say - good choice on the stereo - you'll definitely enjoy the MP3s - it's a great technology that fits so well in the environment of the car - no discs to change, etc.
I use my Pro5 for work (and play), and carry tools and parts in the hatch - I'm designing and building a custom sub enclosure that will also house two amps on the passenger side of the hatch - It's going to be geared toward good sound quality - with a proper-volume sealed sub portion - and will be very space efficient and good-looking, too. Don't know when you are planning your stereo install, but I will hopefully get mine done within the next 2 or 3 weeks (my amps and sub should be delivered this week) - so if you are interested in plans or something instead of the Bazooka tube (I prefer component subs, just my preference) I could help you out there. I'm using MDF (medium density fiberboard - sorry if you know that already) and four 2'x4' sheets (might not ned all 4) only cost me $24 at Homey Deeeepot, so the cost is very reasonable vs. buying pre-made boxes.
As far as a meet, check my post here - feel free to submit any ideas you might have - a big meet this summer would be a great thing, IMO.
Oh yeah - where'd you get the tint done? Did they do a tight install? What kind of tint did you get (metallic, just black, what %, etc.)? How much $$? (Whew, I'm out of breath!)
Southern State Parkway, here I come!
Last edited by hihoslva; March-26th-2002 at 06:44 PM.
March-26th-2002, 11:25 PM
#10
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Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 37
Yeah we are close. I think our best bet for a meet is probably to hook up with another group as I just don't know how many Mazda/Protege owners we could round up. Maybe meet up at the Bellmore car show one Friday night when it gets warm out.
I still have to work out a few details but I think my stereo should be done in about a week and a half. Still not crazy about spending all this $$ so I may decide to change something, but that's what I'm planning to do right now.
I got 20% black tint all around. It completely changes the look of the car IMHO, it just completes it. The guy who did it did a real nice job. I was a bit upset at first because there were little dimples all over the windows but these were gone in a day.He said it's part of the drying process.
However, he also did my brothers car that same day and my bro is not completely satisfied. My bro-in law is good friends with him so I got a real good price. Not sure what he charges regular. If you are interested I can check for you or give you his #.
I'm taking some pics of my car on Thursday, I can send them to you if you want to see what the windows look like.
I still have to work out a few details but I think my stereo should be done in about a week and a half. Still not crazy about spending all this $$ so I may decide to change something, but that's what I'm planning to do right now.
I got 20% black tint all around. It completely changes the look of the car IMHO, it just completes it. The guy who did it did a real nice job. I was a bit upset at first because there were little dimples all over the windows but these were gone in a day.He said it's part of the drying process.
However, he also did my brothers car that same day and my bro is not completely satisfied. My bro-in law is good friends with him so I got a real good price. Not sure what he charges regular. If you are interested I can check for you or give you his #.
I'm taking some pics of my car on Thursday, I can send them to you if you want to see what the windows look like.
Last edited by ChrisR; March-26th-2002 at 11:30 PM.
March-27th-2002, 10:24 AM
#11
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Sure - lemme know when you get the pics, and you can shoot me an email or PM with em.
I was thinking about going 35% with a slight metallic - not the half-chrome rice-boy crap - I saw a silver Audi the other day with nice metallic tint - not that dark, but the metallic makes it look darker.
When it comes to stereo stuff, I've learned from experience that getting a good deal on a goodpiece of equipment is better than getting crap for free. I spent $200 on a sub (12" Kenwood - good speaker, but now I'm gonna go with a 10" for better SQ), a small wedge box and an amp - the amp SUCKS. Sure, I get bass, but it is muddy and loose. I learned the hard way - now I'm doing things over again. Don't skimp out on important stuff like amps - you'll never be happy and will wind up spending more later on anyway to replace the POS you already bought.
Anyone else have info on bubbles in the tint? Is this "part of the normal drying process"? What's your bro-in-law's complaint about his tint? I might just have to go to this place that was recommended to me like 6 months ago - I bought my P5 at Wantagh Mazda (good place, but the service dept. is filled with boneheads - I won't go there for service anymore), and Danny the finance manager has a yellow P5, tinted REAL dark. The work was flawless. But it cost him about $400 if I remember correctly - ouch. I don't want to have issues with the tint.
Bellmore would be cool, too. Just a small local thing would be a nice Friday night, for sure. OMG - I can't wait for the warm weather!
I was thinking about going 35% with a slight metallic - not the half-chrome rice-boy crap - I saw a silver Audi the other day with nice metallic tint - not that dark, but the metallic makes it look darker.
When it comes to stereo stuff, I've learned from experience that getting a good deal on a goodpiece of equipment is better than getting crap for free. I spent $200 on a sub (12" Kenwood - good speaker, but now I'm gonna go with a 10" for better SQ), a small wedge box and an amp - the amp SUCKS. Sure, I get bass, but it is muddy and loose. I learned the hard way - now I'm doing things over again. Don't skimp out on important stuff like amps - you'll never be happy and will wind up spending more later on anyway to replace the POS you already bought.
Anyone else have info on bubbles in the tint? Is this "part of the normal drying process"? What's your bro-in-law's complaint about his tint? I might just have to go to this place that was recommended to me like 6 months ago - I bought my P5 at Wantagh Mazda (good place, but the service dept. is filled with boneheads - I won't go there for service anymore), and Danny the finance manager has a yellow P5, tinted REAL dark. The work was flawless. But it cost him about $400 if I remember correctly - ouch. I don't want to have issues with the tint.
Bellmore would be cool, too. Just a small local thing would be a nice Friday night, for sure. OMG - I can't wait for the warm weather!
March-27th-2002, 12:43 PM
#12
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Join Date: Jan 2002
Posts: 37
Hey I bought mine from Wantaugh too. I was actually very impressed with everyone there. Really honest and straight up with me. What kinds of problems have you had with the service department? Surprised to hear that since they are listed on Mazda's site as one of the President's Club dealers or whatever it's called.
My brothers only complaint with his tint is that he still has some dimples in one of his rear quarter windows (he has a bimmer coupe). He'll wait a few days and if it doesn't change he'll have it redone. Like I said mine cleared up in a day or so and I'm satisfied with it now.
I did see Danny's car, that is one nice tint job, but I've never heard of it costing $400! Guess you get what you pay for. With tint it's better to pay and get a good job because if it's not done right it ruins the looks of the car.
BTW, I think a slight metallic tint would look cool on a silver P5. And I can't wait the nice weather too! Today is pretty good lets hope it stays. All we have to do now is find some other LI people and pick a date to meet up.
My brothers only complaint with his tint is that he still has some dimples in one of his rear quarter windows (he has a bimmer coupe). He'll wait a few days and if it doesn't change he'll have it redone. Like I said mine cleared up in a day or so and I'm satisfied with it now.
I did see Danny's car, that is one nice tint job, but I've never heard of it costing $400! Guess you get what you pay for. With tint it's better to pay and get a good job because if it's not done right it ruins the looks of the car.
BTW, I think a slight metallic tint would look cool on a silver P5. And I can't wait the nice weather too! Today is pretty good lets hope it stays. All we have to do now is find some other LI people and pick a date to meet up.
March-27th-2002, 01:10 PM
#13
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Location: Long Island,NY
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My problem with Wantagh was only the service guys. Basically, after owning my car for about 2 months (I bought it in June), an area of paint started to peel off the front bumper - about the size of a quarter. I had hit nothing - this was out of the blue while using a medium pressure car wash hose. I went in to Wantagh that day, and showed them the spot. First, I was treated like I hit something and was trying to get over on them. Then they told me that a Mazda regional rep needed to look at it before it could be authorized for repair under warranty, and that the guy comes around every month or so, and I missed him by two days. So I waited - not for a month, but for almost THREE months before they finally told me they got Mazda to "push it through" sight unseen - I was covered. But, they said I couldn't have a loaner (as is stated in the warranty) because it was being done on a "good-faith" basis - not really a warranty repair. I reluctantly agreed. I brought the car to them on a Monday, being told it would be done that day - I could pick it up that night. I called in the afternoon, they said I should come the next day to be sure it was all done and waxed and stuff. I - again reluctantly - said fine. Now I'm out 2 days of work. When my fiancee got off from work, she took me down there, and - NO CAR. Now I'm like WTF - and told the service manager (Jim? I think) that I already missed two days of work and I'd better get my car. He called the body shop - closed. Looked me right in the face and told me they would get me a rental if I paid for it. I was really pissed off - told them to give me the owner's name (of the body shop) or call him - my car was on the shop's lot, but the place was closed - all I needed was someone with a key. Jim said "sorry - nothing I can do" which made me furious. Basically, the guy was totaly unconcerned about the fact that they fucked up and my car was locked in for another day. Didn't even really try to help, didn't offer me a loaner - didn't even say "sorry - we fucked up". I haven't been back since, and considered suing them for not honoring my warrany provision for a loaner for warranty repair.
I've been to Smithtown Mazda for a few things, and they're pretty good. I just keep hoping I don't need the dealer for anything. Wantagh's salespeople (I dealt with Phil) were really nice, and Danny is a cool guy - we talked aftermarket parts and Tool concerts many times. But the service department is a bunch of inconsiderate, uncaring *********. Jim even tried to tell me that he couldn't contact the guy who actually took in my car (Tim, maybe?) because it was that guy's day off - like he doesn't have a cell phone - Jim didn't even try to help. For a service manager, this guy was a real *******. I hope you never have to deal with them.
Danny's car looks real nice, though, and I'll probably go to his guy when I get around to it - I saw that tint up close and what a spectacular install - flawless.
I've been to Smithtown Mazda for a few things, and they're pretty good. I just keep hoping I don't need the dealer for anything. Wantagh's salespeople (I dealt with Phil) were really nice, and Danny is a cool guy - we talked aftermarket parts and Tool concerts many times. But the service department is a bunch of inconsiderate, uncaring *********. Jim even tried to tell me that he couldn't contact the guy who actually took in my car (Tim, maybe?) because it was that guy's day off - like he doesn't have a cell phone - Jim didn't even try to help. For a service manager, this guy was a real *******. I hope you never have to deal with them.
Danny's car looks real nice, though, and I'll probably go to his guy when I get around to it - I saw that tint up close and what a spectacular install - flawless.
Last edited by hihoslva; March-27th-2002 at 01:14 PM.
March-27th-2002, 04:10 PM
#14
Protege God
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Evanston, IL
Posts: 1,525
If it's the same deck that my '00 ES came with, it definitely doesn't have changer controls or the connector for an external CD changer. The radio frequency (RF) convertor types of CD changers can be installed with any stereo, but are less convenient due to the external controller needed and additional cost. They also sacrifice sound quality because the digital signal from the CD player goes through the RF convertor and the stereo's tuner circuitry picking up noise from both as it goes through.
Mp3 players fit as much data on disc as they do because of the higher compression they use. This also sacrifices some sound quality compare to the 'regular' CD format.
An indash stereo with built in CD changer controls is a nice setup if you don't mind the price and replacing the stock components. Finding a good place to install the changer can be challenging depending on the car. Personally, I'm not a fan of mounting the changer in the trunk where I can't get to it while I'm in the car. There are newer indash units that offer 5 or 6 CD capacity within easy reach. A nice choice if you only need that number of options from your changer.
The new DVD audio format may offer the best of all worlds. Excellent sound quality with loads of storage space. It will be more useful when the format becomes recordable by end users though.
Mp3 players fit as much data on disc as they do because of the higher compression they use. This also sacrifices some sound quality compare to the 'regular' CD format.
An indash stereo with built in CD changer controls is a nice setup if you don't mind the price and replacing the stock components. Finding a good place to install the changer can be challenging depending on the car. Personally, I'm not a fan of mounting the changer in the trunk where I can't get to it while I'm in the car. There are newer indash units that offer 5 or 6 CD capacity within easy reach. A nice choice if you only need that number of options from your changer.
The new DVD audio format may offer the best of all worlds. Excellent sound quality with loads of storage space. It will be more useful when the format becomes recordable by end users though.
March-27th-2002, 04:20 PM
#15
Show Layne some respect
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: Long Island,NY
Posts: 2,458
The new DVD audio format may offer the best of all worlds. Excellent sound quality with loads of storage space. It will be more useful when the format becomes recordable by end users though.
Mp3 players fit as much data on disc as they do because of the higher compression they use. This also sacrifices some sound quality compare to the 'regular' CD format.