I think you are right - it is separate on your LX. It's only the EX with the 6 disc changer that has the integrated climate controls. I think the EX actually displays climate control information on the radio screen - is that right? So when you find an adapter that will allow to directly replace the CD player, you don't have to worry as much about your AC controls. It's more complicated for the EX owners.

On the other hand . . . on the LX and DX, it still does look like the bottom part of the faceplate, with the AC controls, might be attached to the upper radio part. So I don't know how that can be dealt with - still more easily than on the EX, though, I would think.