I have a 94SE and I looking into getting a 2002 next year. Can anyone tell me if the CD changer from Nissan that the dealer can install is an FM Modulator type, or does the factory head unit have a pre-amp output? FM modulator types are terrible if you're in an area without decent FM radio reception. Your CD's will only sound as good as the FM reception you get. Trying to plan out if I'm going to gut the factory stereo or add the Nissan CD changer to it. Thanx!

 

The CD changer as far as I know is not an FM style.. there is actually a connection for it on the radio. Second.. as far as I understand the FM type CD changers... they are the device sending the signal... so it shouldn't matter where you are... your trunk is alwasys the same distance from your antenna.

 

The problem is when the antenna isn't getting anything. That's when the clarity is terrible. When there is no FM radio station in reasonable range. Does that thing have a seperate control panel, or does the head unit have CD control?

 

The Nissan CD changer for the Bose audio system in the Maxima is hard-wired. One person reported that his dealer sold him an FM-modulator type and claimed it was the only one available for his car.

But I have the Nissan changer; it's made by Clarion, and it's hard-wired. The controls for the changer are in the head-unit.

 

Well if the cd changer is the one broadcasting... why should it matter if there is no station in range? Shouldn't the signal come from the changer?

 

Thanks XYDavid. That's the info I was looking for. Sounds like it will save me from putting a complete aftermarket stereo in it.
Yes, the signal comes from the changer but it's strength is powered by FM reception. Hence the name FM modulator. If you are out in the middle of the desert with no FM radio station within hundreds of miles you're not going to hear your CD's either. That's why they're cheaper and no one wants them.