I was thinking of mounting on top of dash, centered with front windshield, using the metallic adhesive pad. Will reception be diminished? I've seen others mount it in the glovebox, attached to some metal and say reception is no different so I imagine this is ok?

Should be fine, you can mount it IN the dash if you want. As long as no metal is blocking it, it'll work fine.

I agree. In my '02 CRV I mounted the antenna inside the dash as close to the front of the windshield as possible. I get great reception.

thanks guys. i can't wait to install the d2. i currently have the n1 with n3 firmware upgrade but i got such a great deal on the d2 (same price i sold my n1 for), couldn't resist. plus i rarely use the dvd functionality and prefer a non-flip out hu... something that looks more factory oem!