This may turn into a long post so forgive me in advance. I've had my 2004 Vert for a few weeks now and am looking at replacing the stock Bose system HU. I've already added my Sirius adapter since I can't live without my satellite radio. I mounted the antenna on a bracket behind the right rear wheel in the upper fender. Ran the wire along the door sill under the carpet and through the console. The adapter sits in the ashtray (thanks to "search")and everyone on the forum. It's wired to fuse 22 in the passenger floorboard (again thanks for the info) The only problem I've found is Fuse 22 shuts off with the key and is not part of the RAP system. Is there a better point to attach the power wire to and take advantage of the RAP, or should I just leave that alone to prevent any problems? I'm running it through a cassette adapter with the wire run through the console to hide it.
As far as the Bose system, I'm happy with the sound. The only thing I don't like is the adapter in the ashtray so that's why I'm looking at replacing the system. Single DIN with a block off plate adapter or Double DIN conversion? Don't need GPS as I've got a Garmin I'm very happy with. Don't need DVD. Maybe iPod connection but not required and I would like Bluetooth hands free for my phone. Any suggestions?
Also I've noticed a difference between top up and top down when listening to the stereo. (go figure) With the top up, everythings fine. With the top down, the top blocks the rear speakers somewhat. I've been adjusting the fader with the top down for the best sound. With the Stock radio this is very easy, pop out the fader **** and adjust it. If I replace the radio this is something I'd also want to consider. How hard is it to adjust front to back fader. 1 **** is great, searching through a menu for adjustments would suck.

 

you need to do some splicing an add a relay to keep ur aftermarket sirius unit working off of rap. there are tons of single din headunit that offer satelite and bluetooth and ipod. talk to dennis c5bearsfan aka dbldmods he can help you with a great setup. at a minimum i recommend replacin the 3.5 twiddlers in the front doors for a noticable upgrade in sound. personally these cars should have never even came with rear speakers, slam that fade forward

 

Thanks, don't really want to do the relay thing. I'd just as soon stay away from messing with the RAP system. I've been looking at
Dennis' site and trying to make up my mind. As far as the rear speakers, I'll keep them adjusted in the mix. 30 years ago I sold and installed car stereos as well as home systems and business systems. Currently I run sound for several bands and advise on sound systems. To me the rear speakers adjusted properly fill the car just fine, my only addition may be a sub woofer.

 

I was on a tight budget and Dennis got me setup with the following for a very affordable price.

Sony MEX3900u HU.
XXD 6009 6.5" components
Powerbass 600.4x 4 channel amp
Kicker 10CVT 10" sub
4 ga amp kit
Antenna adapter

I picked the HU because the Sony has Bluetooth hands-free w/AD2P and has a front USB for ipod/iphone.

So far Dennis has been a pleasure to work with. I found it much easier to just call him so I can ask questions.

 

call me direct
608 568 3011
and we can figure it all out

 

If you end up keeping the oem radio, info on how to tap into RAP is in post #9 of the C5 audio FAQ thread.

 

Thank you Dennis, I've been to your web site numerous times, when I make up my mind I'll give you a call. Right now I'm leaning towards a single DIN Sony. Just reading where to put the Sirius adapters.

 

I had a problem when I bought the car a few weeks ago that the radio wouldn't shut off unless you locked the doors with the remote. The dealer was puzzled for about 3 days and I was reading everything I could find online to figure it out. After all that I don't want to mess with the RAP. Turns out the previous owner had a Window Valet installed.