lexusaudio

after years of research here is the information on the different head units.there are 4 different nakamichi sc radios so yes there is a difference. the id number on the cassette flap is easiest way to tell the difference. n104 was 92 to 94 pale blue lcd , n504 was late 94 to 96 red orange lcd, n804 was 97 which back to pale blue lcd, 98 to end of production is n067 pale blue lights but 6 disc cd changer compatible not 12 disc like 98 to 2000. i have all the exact dates each radio started and ended and part number but the id number on the cassette flap can be seen even when radio installed so much more useful when searching for a replacement radio............................................................................................................................ all will plug in and play but the differences are as stated. the ac lcd control color clashes between the pale blue and orange red so not recommended to mix the colors. by the way the first generation nakamichi lexus stereos are destined to be collectors items as it was by far the clearest cleanest sound ever produced by an oem unit. no it wont rattle any windows but you will have your hearing in later years to enjoy the great nakamichi sound if you keep your sc for its assured collector value.......................................................as far as the difficulty in switching over it has been done by many clublexus members. there is a prompt for the complete pioneer system wiring harness for 94 up on clublexus . the main procedures needed to switch ar3e a new power line from battery to the switched nak amp. the pioneer power wire not big enough. also a new wiring to switched out nak subwoofer. the pioneer speakers are ok for doors and back shelf no need to switch them. its only easy switch from 94 up that has pioneer 4 channel amp in the trunk. the 92 and 93 sc pioneer 4 channel amp is in the radio with no wiring harness going to the trunk so much more difficult install to switch systems in that model. of course even that switch is better and easier that going aftermarket which will have absolutely no value in 5 or 10 years whereas the nak system stuff will keep appreciating in value from here on out.

O. L. T.

iTrader: (17)

why didnt you put this in the FAQ up there ^^ ???

MoogieBoogie

Great info.

Anyone notice the difference in sound between the 1st gen, 2nd gen, and third generation Nakamichi headunits?

-Brian.

lexusaudio

the 2nd is the best with the 5 channel trunk nakamichi amps on the 92 93 sc, gs and ls cars. . the 3rd generation are the same price and look the same as the pioneer hence they are made by pioneer but with the blue digital connector. if you call nakamihi for parts on the 3rd they tell you to call pioneer.