I'd like to keep the factory changer but upgrade the cd player Sorry if this has been posted, but any information or links are appreciated. Also, my stereo guy at Circuit City said that he could get a part to keep the factory dash controlls for about $60. Is this the PAC thing everybody keeps talking about?

 

I think the Alpine CDM (not CDA) decks will control the stock cd changer. You need an adapter cable. I'm not the expert.

This one looks good for your application:

http://www.alpine1.com/html/D2_n_1_n_n.html

If your stereo guy is not talking about the PAC-SWI-3, he's blowing smoke. The PAC-SWI-3 commonly costs about $60 and can be had for less. It supports the mode, channel and volume controls. You need to wire up a relay to support the mute button and the kind of setup depends on whether the stereo has a mute lead or you have to cut the power to the mute.

Look at Macgyver's page for more info:

http://users.rcn.com/dhintz/Michelle/Audio/audio.html

Pinky, on this board, will wire up the PAC unit, the relay and wire up your new radio's wiring harness to an adapter to fit the Honda wiring harness. (This would not include the changer's wiring.) He charges $150. You have to send him your new Alpine's wiring harness for him to do it.

This link will take you to Pinky's business.

http://www.geocities.com/pinkys2kmod/main.html

Good luck.