Was driving with the radio on, then sound went off and display went blank. About 30 seconds later smelled burning plastic like when wires burn/char, no visible smoke. Antenna is stuck up.

92 SC400 with nakamichi system.

So would it seem I'm right, and I need a new headunit or what else could it be? If it was the amp I wouldn't think I would smell it in the front of the car so strong, nor would I think the antenna would stick up.

 

sounds like your head unit died. you'll need to pull out the unit, inspect this and the wiring also. check your fuse too. it wouldn't be the amp since it's located underneath the cd changer in the trunk.

 

I had my Nakamichi stereo go out on my '92, however, there was no smell on my car and the antenna still was operational. I replaced the fuse and its worked just fine since.

Good luck with the fix.