Just got a new 2004 S2000 and already looking for mods. looked at all the options for aftermarket audio while keeping the dash audio controls. though very innovative I wish it could be even easier. That brings me to my question. I've heard rumors that the new Alpine units for 2005 might have the ability to tap into the dash mounted controls. Can anyone confirm or deny yet? I know the head units aren't out at all the stores quite yet but I'd thought I'd ask anyhow.

Some clues that it might:

1. Rumors on the forum (sketchy at best)
2. Working briefly for Honda Manufacturing in Marysville and having friends at the R&D there I know staff there gets major Alpine discounts from there factory/supplier relationship. That relationship may translate into a better chance that they would try to integrate the controls.
3. Alpine's website description for many of the new head units, like the CDA-9855, states "OEM steering remote ready" while the older models do not have this description.

Some clues that it might not

1. S2000 is a low production car with unique dash controls, the "oem steering remote ready" could be for more popular cars like the accord, tsx... etc.
2. "OEM steering remote ready" might mean Alpine's steering remote. Though looking at the older high end alpine models they do not have this line in the description but surely they are compatible with all the accessories that alpine has
3. Looking at the manual for the CDA-9855 in the installation instructions there doesn't seem to be any indicator for a plug or connection to the dash mounted controls.

Anyone with more info or comments on my thought process I'd like to know. Thanks.

 

I beleive the EURO Alpine models have a dash control mod that allows for a simple connection BUT in the USA we have not been given that option

 

"OEM steering remote ready" sounds like steering wheel buttons to me. The S2000 dash controls are pretty different from that. I would think that means Mazda3/6, BMW 3 series, etc... And also, the S2000 is probably too low volume for that anyway, as you mentioned above.

 

My Pioneer has a wired remote connector on the back of it. Unfortunately, there's nothing to plug into it right now . . .