Anyone install a BMW / Nakamichi CD Changer?

[X5 Meister]

I am referring to the one that gets mounted in the glovebox. Has anyone done this recently? The accessories catalogs used to feature it back in 2001, 2002, etc. but the newer catalogs don't show it anymore. I'm curious how much space it takes up in the glovebox, how difficult it is to install, the reliability of the unit and of course the sound quality. Thanks.

[asawadude]

Originally Posted by mgruber

I am referring to the one that gets mounted in the glovebox. Has anyone done this recently? The accessories catalogs used to feature it back in 2001, 2002, etc. but the newer catalogs don't show it anymore. I'm curious how much space it takes up in the glovebox, how difficult it is to install, the reliability of the unit and of course the sound quality. Thanks.

Here's a website with pictures of the Nakamichi CD changer installed. Not much information, although removal instructions are about as simple as can be - unscrew the mounting screws to remove the unit.

http://www.carstereohelp.com/stereor...wX5CDChgrR.htm

OEM shows pictures of a harness to accompany the changer and also a part number for a bracket. Level of difficulty for the installation is unknown, probably the most difficult task would be to attach the cable to the head unit main harness.

[xnsf]

wow...that really fits? it doesn't seem like i can put something that thick in my glovebox without having it hit that thing on the top of the glovebox.

[PersonaNonGrata]

I have heard that the Nakamichis were horribly unreliable and that is why they were discontinued.

If you have an iPod, go with one of the iPod interfaces like DICE from Tom G at European Auto Source instead.

[X5 Meister]

Thanks for the notes. CD Audio quality is still superior to an iPod and I have so many CD's that I'd still like to retain the use of a CD Player. In any case I too have heard the rumor that the Naks were unreliable, but not sure if they were discontinued due to lack of sales or what. I do know that Nakamichi holds the patent on the disc mechanism technology and I also know that the new X5 has essentially the same CD changer in the glovebox (see attached) and I wouldn't be surprised if the sticker on it said 'Nakamichi'. Having said all that I would seriously doubt that BMW would put a CD changer in the latest and greatest model if it really panned out to be a lemon. So I'm just wondering if anyone has it in their cars and what the feedback on it is like. Thanks.