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NSX Stereo Repair Upgrade, Amps, Speakers, CD Changer, Antenna, etc.
Acura NSX Bose System - Mostly the Radio Causing
- Low or no sound
- Speaker out
- Static and popping
- High pitch squealing
- Display out
- Won't turn on at all
- Antenna goes up but that's all
Troubleshooting Help
Trying to figure out if the problem is the amps or the stereo? We can help you by discussing the best checks that you can make before paying to have the parts removed and sent off to be checked, many times adding unnecessary cost.
Bose Amps Are Being Falsely Blamed and Replaced
Because the 1991-1993 Bose amps had problems at about 10 years old, many posts talked about it. Most amps were taken care of between 2001-2006 timeframe. Once they were rebuilt with better components then they could last 20 or more years. Also, up until about 2015 new (better built) amps were available from Bose. But, around 2013, first for those in the southern US, years later for the Canadians, something started happening that never happened before. The stereos started going bad and causing the same static and popping that the bad amps did, and whether we read old posts about it, or we just remember the history, we think it's the amps again. People are calling us saying they just did the amps again or they checked out to be good so now it's a stereo problem.
So because most stereos now are the problem more than the amps, it's really worked best to just have the stereo checked first (especially if it's 25+ years old, they all are going bad with age)
Then, with great audio from the stereo going into the amps what happens more than not is owners are surprised how the amps that they thought were bad really are quite incredible still. If they can realize this up front, it makes the whole process much simpler. We've seen this many times.
The following link to NSX Prime confirms these facts about the amps being great still. Warren said it back in 2018 and pvmike was surprised to hear this. Then it was repeated again in May 2023 from docnsx - (note: the model#, pictures, are from 5+ years ago - things have changed) to read conversation click here NSX Prime
But IF the amps need rebuilt then Science Of Speed now rebuilds them, while BrianK is still the guy for the other electronics - Info on his website here.
Also, don't miss the link under the 2 videos below about the OEM Speakers.
Acura NSX and Honda NSX Stereo
We saw years ago the need for NSX owners to get real advice and solutions for the Bose stereo system. We're the original "Let's keep it factory" when the more common advice is "just go aftermarket, it's better"
Stereo Repair
We can discuss todays best options, which can change so you can know your choices based on what you want to do. There's never just one solution, let's talk.
Stereo Motherboard after 25+ years
This is most often what we see when taking the NSX stereo apart - some not as bad yet and some even worse. See those 2 larger coin size capacitors and the one above them. Those have "had" liquid inside that leaks out after many years, that is the black where it used to be green - the fluid is like battery acid. See the 2 white ribbon cables up top, notice the one on the left has dark lines in it. This is from excessive current draw where that cable has melted (from being shorted out). We and many other shops around the globe have tried to clean, replace, and tried to make it work again with most often no good results. Actually, the worst thing you could be told from a repair shop is it is fixed. Worse because in a short time it likely won't work, and your money will have been wasted on what you thought was a reasonable repair attempt. We know the result is very predictable and don't give you false hope like that. Does that mean there's never a repair solution? no, but we would need to discuss all current options and how we would approach that.
Non working stereo - Some say "I'll just leave the stereo off"
These NSX stereos get old and continually get worse as time goes by. Even when not being turned on, they get to the point where they short out, blow fuses, and many have smoked in the dash.
No Need to Buy an NSX Double Din Center Console or Do a Stereo Replacement.
This is Our Best Solution To Keeping the Acura NSX Radio As Close To Factory As Possible - Plus Bluetooth and More.
We understand the desire to repair the stereo and keep it original. That may be available but is getting less likely as these units get older. Acura's repair facility (Alpine in Torrance, Ca) has been sending them back to us (and to our future customers) unrepairable since about 2008.
This is a Long-Term Solution
This is a great value since the NSX is going to be around for a very long time.
Plus, you have 3 pairs of pre-outs and an amp turn on wire that are on the back if you ever want/need to add an aftermarket amp, (or if it has already been done) so the dash can stay the same OEM look.
Bluetooth technology for hands-free calling and music streaming
- Automatically connects for you and your passenger when you get into the NSX.
- You can chose to answer the phone through the sound system or you can set your phone to not interrupt the stereo and answer on the phone.
- When answered with the sound system and you want to take the call on your phone, hit the button on the stereo to take call on your phone.
Syncs with your contacts and shows who is calling on your stereo display.
Plays Multiple File Types
MP3 / WMA / AAC / WAV / FLAC music playback
2 USB Connections On Cable
Plug in the phone to keep it charged if needed. Just bring that cable back around the armrest glovebox between the seats.
Multiple Display Color
Even though we set it to match the original NSX display color, you can change it to whatever you want.
Tunes in Digitally Broadcast Stations
Not all countries have digital stations (US does) but if yours does, then you might want to be sure we consider this. Regular stations will always tune in.
Amazon Alexa Ready
Ask Alexa to play music, answer questions, read the news, or check the weather.
Multiple Languages
Menu language in English (default), Russian, Spanish, French or German.
Are you a technician doing a stereo repair and looking for parts?
Sometimes we have used circuit boards that are not damaged beyond repair, and may still be repairable.
Can you play all your CDs with this unit?
Not with the dated cd changer but you can pretty easily copy your cds to a USB thumb drive and play them.
How do I copy the CDs to a thumb drive without losing sound quality?
You'll want to copy as a FLAC file (HQ), not MP3. You will need a cd drive on or connected to a computer. This is just one of many YouTube videos that show how to copy your CDs to your computer as FLAC file.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/7SpZrPZ5m3I
Then it's just a matter of copying the files to the thumb drive. Now you can leave the thumb drive plugged into the USB on the stereo. You will be able to access the songs by pressing the A. Select (source) button.
We all agree - The NSX's engine is music to our ears and mostly what we want to hear, not the stereo - TRUE but...
For many NSX owners it's not all about adding features (like even Bluetooth as common as that is to be wanted). It's about not having something in the car that doesn't work and is getting worse with time. They just want it to work great if and when they want it, or their passenger wants it.
Then for many owners it's all about the features like bluetooth, USB, Streaming, HD Tuner, FLAC files, and aftermarket amp settings (if the speakers and amp has been changed out).
For most owners, you don't have to have an aftermarket amp and speakers for it to sound incredible and be all that you ever wanted - surprising and true.
How can this be?
Because the factory stereo has been old for many years. It's audio clarity has diminished even when it still sounded good. But once it's replaced with new clear audio, you quickly see the difference and realize Bose knows amps and speakers (who knew right?) - way better.
PROS
Easy to DIY - it's plug and play
- No hassles or other costs. Even owners that thought it would be difficult found it easy - that's why we do it, hassle-free, no tech required. We send you all the info and links to videos after we talk.
- No need to buy another console dash piece, stereo, speakers, or wiring harnesses, which add more cost and bigger project that may or may not be better (some have told us NOT better).
- You haven't changed anything so if find a good OEM stereo and want to swap it back - it's easily done.
- No need to touch factory speakers if they have been done, most have. Easy to know once stereo is right.
- Rear RCA connections (3 pairs). Not used for OEM Bose speaker system, that's plug and play, same connector as OEM. But they are there for any aftermarket amp or if ever needed, no need to change the stereo and dash.
- Blue amp turn on wire is also tied up back there if ever need for aftermarket amp.
- Already have aftermarket amp? just plug into RCAs or existing wiring. Many with this have found it great.
- Tired of the aftermarket stereo someone put in? We understand - this wasn't available before 2017 - easy to go back - just send in a core stereo - it doesn't need to be working.
- Reach for buttons to adjust when driving, not touch screen (for those of us that prefer knobs).
- The clear sound even beats the OEM when the OEM unit still sounds great. (We have done some modifications when the OEM unit was still working)
- Save the month or 2 that most repair shops take before they admit that it won't repair up (happens all the time). Also save the money of trying to find a good used one. Don't wish any bad luck for anyone trying (we understand the desire), maybe you will find one, but many don't. Best advice would be to make sure it's money back guarantee.
- Only takes about a month to do the modification to your stereo and you get the exact same unit back in the exact same condition. We can add new knobs if needed when available at the current prices.
CONS
It's not OEM but as close as we can get it
- The volume control becomes 1 piece so the words "VOL ON/OFF" do spin when it's turned. Using the supplied remote to adjust volume allows you to keep it level if you prefer.
- Few buttons not used are BAL BASS/TREB and TUNE AM/FM. These adjustments are in audio settings by pressing Volume Control and Tune by using the SEEK buttons above the VC.
- Loses the cd changer and the tape deck. (it's more smart phone streaming Pandora, Spotify, and XM Satellite able.)
- But you wanted a car stereo repair, we know. The problem is if a shop does a repair it is very likely not going to last, a big IF because most admit unrepairable after months attempting. You also want to get it done and be done, not have to do it again soon, not be hassling with it.
Driver's Therapy Review - Part 1 and 2
Two other videos on their YouTube channel are 3 Months Later Review and Keep Those OEM Bose Speakers. Linked here
Our Customers Posts To The NSX Prime Facebook Community. (Also many owners email us or text us back after all is done.)
Hear from those that have done this upgrade.
Maria's email - "amps did not need to be rebuilt"
This happens all the time - no big project needed.
In 2018, Maria did the R&R herself of the bad stereo head unit and years later she's still enjoying the system. She also provided the dash photo showing "DREAMCAR" on the display - Thanks Again Maria!
"Just got the unit. I am around, work on, sale, own some of the nicest vehicles in the world. I am very picky when it comes to quality."
"You sir have knocked it out of the park with this unit, I am very very impressed. Thank you so much." Evan in NC - 91 NSX
"Best money I have spent in a long time - and my wife agrees!"
"She doesn't have much tolerance for my cussing while trying to work on my car."
NOTE: Greg's wiring was all messed up from previous owner's aftermarket system he needed out.
"Is there any way for me to leave a review on your website?" Greg in TX - 91 NSX
Videos and Articles
US Version Video (click here)
We have done Acura NSX stereos sent in from every state, including Canada, Costa Rica, The Bahamas, and others.
Note: New video coming soon - things change and this 5 year old video shows number 1 preset used as the band button. It's no longer done this way. Top row presets work just like original ones did, press to store stations.
Europe, Japan, Austrailia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, France, others.
We have done Honda NSX stereos sent in from all over the world (last checked was 25 different countries). Of course each done with their areas local frequencies for the NSX owner.
This High End California Stereo Company Upgraded Their Client.
Read this article for their 1997 Acura NSX client wanting it to look factory and sound great.
It sounds like this job needed to do speakers also due to another shops bad work - that happens.