XM & Sirius Satellite Radio

mma

I have a 2005 Porsche Cayenne which came with XM, I want to convert to sirius. I know it's just a box and can be swapped out. Do you know what it costs? Can I do it myself?

blane

epsmcl:

I don't have firsthand knowledge of the Polk XRt12 tuner for XM Radio, but it has gotten fine reviews such as:

http://reviews.cnet.com/Polk_XRt12_XM/4505-7873_7-31263283-2.html?tag=top

http://espn.com.com/Polk_XRt12__XM_/4514-7873_7-31263283.html

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_12_2/polk-xrt12-xm-tuner-6-2005.html

http://www.avrev.com/equip/polkxmtuner/index.html

stever

Ford Rolls Out Sirius Satellite Radio on 2006 Models (Inside Line)

Steve, Host

mrsnoman

The $250-300 for the satelite decoder will that work in systems from the dealer or do you still have to get a seperate receiver? Just bought a new car and did not want to pay $400 from the dealer. :P

pao

what you need to determine first is whether or not your OEM head unit is satellite radio control compatible?...what kind of car and head unit do you have...Ford, Gm etc......or do you want the separate XM or Sirius receiver?..this one covers most possible combinations for installing sat radio..in this case it is all XM however

http://www.myradiostore.us/bundles/car/

stever

"Consumers told Power they would also prefer to pay a one-time fee over a monthly subscription for satellite radio, the study reported. Nearly 80 percent said they were willing to pay $800 for a branded audio system"

Latest in Upscale Audio Systems (Inside Line)

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rock12

If you are already an XM subscriber then you should be able to receive XM online for free. RCA makes the wireless Lyra RD900W that will transmit via your USB port on your computer to your home stereo via RCA jacks for around $40. There are a couple of drawbacks. When you select the USB wireless transmitter as your audio device your sound card is off. If you can live with that then it beats the cost of an additional receiver and the $6.99 a month.

mtngal

It doesn't surprise me that others would prefer a one-time fee over monthly subscriptions - we paid for 2 years up front (and lowered our montly cost) when we signed up for XM. When the second year is up we'll probably do the same thing (sign up for however many years we can afford at that moment).

stever

That's a good idea; I've been known to prepay my ISP a year in advance.

Steve, Host

blane

Steve,

Do you mean that, even though you are a host, Edmunds doesn't pay for your ISP? What a bummer.

stever

I have a better deal going than that - I'm up in the foothills, so a wireless company stuck a relatively modest pole 150' behind my house and so I'm a public access point for ~200 homes. So while it lasts, my ISP and net access are free. :-)

With all the money I'm saving, you'd think I'd spring for satellite radio (esp. since I don't watch TV).

Edmunds offers a whole 'nother set of rewards even if I can't deduct my ISP fees from my taxes any more

Steve, Host

blane

Steve,

I'm not TOO jealous.

stever

That's ok - I'm jealous of your NAV....

Steve, Host

phillybigeasy

Be careful of flat fee. I have Sirius and thought that paying $500 for a "Lifetime" subscription would be the best way to go. However, the technician installing the system told me that the "Lifetime" only refers to the receiver. So if the receiver breaks, you have to buy a new "Lifetime" subscription. Not sure if this is the case for XM, but I confirmed this with Sirius before activating. They suggested I buy an extended warranty for my unit. I chose to pay for a full year and received one month for free. It would have been just my luck it would break after the warranty was over.

By the way, I haven't listened to regular radio since. I love Sirius since it offers more sports I'm interested in (NFL, NHL, NBA).

blane

I find it intriguing that the Sirius website says "Subscribe for the lifetime of your radio! Yes really, we're not kidding. Pay $499.99 once, forget about bills altogether...".

What happens to a subscriber's lifetime subscription if they lease or buy a car with an OEM Sirius radio and then decide to trade or sell the car a few years later? Something tells me that they've had a considerably shortened lifetime since the radio will, in all likelihood, never fit in the new vehicle. It sounds like a clever, but deceptive, marketing gimmick.

I love my XM Satellite Radio.

mtngal

XM doesn't offer a "lifetime" subscription - just year increments up to 5 years. When I bought the Alpine Head with built in XM tuner, I got the impression from the installer that I could transfer the remaining amount to the new radio. However, I had plans for my Roady, so I never actually asked XM if that was an option.

blane

Yes Harriet, as I recall, my XM subscription is fully transferrable from radio to radio.

erickpl

We got rid of a vehicle with XM and got another with XM. The amount we had paid for the first one was applied to the new one with ZERO problems.

-Paul

stever

Suzuki Will Offer XM Satellite Radio on Some Models (Inside Line)

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stever

"Beginning in November, 22 major metropolitan areas will be able to receive real-time traffic reports,"

Sirius to Provide Traffic Data Services (Inside Line)

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lobsenza

I have an Audiovox Sirius receiver. I bought the lifetime subscription when it was $400. If the receiver ever breaks, Audiovox will repair it for $70. I use this receiver in my home, so it will not need to be changed when I change my vehicle. I use a secondary unit in my vehicle. I have had my subscription almost 2 years. My break even point is under 1 year away.....

blane

lobsenza,

While I agree that what you've stated in post #849 is fine for hang-on aftermarket units, what about those folks who purchase new cars with built-in OEM units? Does the Dog allow subscriptions to be transferred to their NEXT vehicle after they sell or complete a lease on their LAST vehicle? That is not a concern for XM Radio subscribers.

The Dog's website does not appear to make that accommodation, where it specifically states "Subscribe for the lifetime of your radio". That makes it appear that the "lifetime" subscription dies when you trade or return your vehicle with its built-in OEM Dog radio.

lobsenza

You are correct. You trade in your vehicle, you loose the subscription. If you keep a vehicle a short time, it does not pay. If you keep it a long time, it may pay. It would be a plus to a buyer when you sell the vehicle and you might make a sale or a few bucks. Most OEM units plug into the back of the radio and could be removed and sold separately with the lifetime subscription.

blane

In post #851 you suggest "It would be a plus to a buyer when you sell the vehicle and you might make a sale or a few bucks."

That would mean that when you sell your Dog-equipped vehicle privately YOUR non-transferrable lifetime Sirius subscription would theoretically belong to someone else. I wonder how Sirius would look upon that deal.

If you were to trade your vehicle in to a dealer, they would have no right to resell or otherwise pass on YOUR non-transferrable lifetime Sirius subscription at an auto auction or to a private party.

This presents some interesting potential legal implications.

cms1528

I called Sirius and asked about the $500 fee. They said it is a lifetime, one time fee, period. One hook, the girl said you can switch the service a maxium of three times to different radios. For example you get another car or just update the head unit etc... She said you call them with the radio ID number and they will charge you a $75 for the connect. Again you can do this at least three times.

Now you can do this up to three times, I have had one of my cars for 15 years with the same radio in it since the day I bought it. Look if you just keep the radio you sign up with for 4 years your about six months ahead of the game...

pao

if you are considering the lifetime sirius offer..better hurry...fresh off their website!!!

Subscribe for the lifetime of your radio! Yes really, we're not kidding. Pay $499.99 once, forget about bills altogether, and enjoy SIRIUS for a long, long time to come. (Offer ends January 31, 2006.)

Looks like they dont want to offer it again....seems they cant make enough money!!!

tidewater

I'm buying a new Camry, and the car is said to have Satellite radio capability. I assume that means its receiver can receive the satellite radio (and use its screen for display), but additional stuff such as antennae is required to be installed. I understand from my local Toyota dealer that price to 'install' the Satellite radio is very roughly $600. (XM)

Anyone can get Satellite radio installed - plus a new receiver for about $200 to $300, and you can move that receiver to your home as well (mounted receiver in vehicle). I asked my local audio store if they could install Satellite Radio into the new Camry (using existing radio), and they say Toyota will not give them the necessary parts. Sounds like a racket dealerships have for Satellite radio.

Has anyone been about to figure out how to get Satellite radio installed without having to pay the high dealer prices?

Thanks

erickpl

Yeah, go aftermarket stereo equipment. I installed XM myself in my Jeep. Or you can have an audio shop install it.

-Paul

pao

it depends on the type of installation youre referring too...whether it be the separate tuner...attached to your head unit where the head unit controls all or the separate XM or Sirius head unit like the skyfi or roady....Im an XM fan....so there is a difference....the bundles run 200-250 based on the car...I havent seen a bundle specifically for Toyota....

http://www.myradiostore.us/bundles/car/

here is an idea of the bundles/tuners Im referring too...your other option is to get the Satellite head unit which is mounted to the dash in some way..and connected directly to your headunit via FM modulation...or a PIE interface to your 12-24 pin connector in the back of the head unit..usually where a CD changer is added.....do a web search for installations....and Im sure you can find out more info..

here is another thread that might help out
http://www.xm411.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=17841

rusk

I just bought the 2005 Mercury Mariner Preimere and it has the Mach 300 Stereo that is Sirius Satellite ready. I did not opt to have satellite installed at the dealer since it was an extra 600.00 and I think thats insane. So on to the million dollar question:

Is there someplace I can purchace the module and antenna and install it myself? I would like to get the same equip that would be installed by the dealer if possible but I would like to know all the options. I di not want to replace the whole radio just to add satellite.

pao

http://www.myradiostore.us/bundles/car/xm-direct-ford-rvr-d-001-frd100.html

this is the bundle offered for XM radio....look around and see what is out there...note even this states to have your dealer install it...however..your can probably find a good aftermarket dealer to do it for you....200 for the kit..and probably another 100 to install would be my guess....good luck!

stever

NHL announces $100 million deal with XM Satellite Radio (Seattle Post-Intelligencer)

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blane

steve,

Does this mean that they actually intend to play hockey this year?

mstem

My new Toyota Avalon Limited came with a factory install of XM radio. It also came with a brochure that advises "...ask your dealer for the special Promtion Code that waives the activation fee and provides complimentary service for a limited time..." No one, and I mean NO one, at my dealer has a clue? When I view the XM Radio Web site there is a field to enter this code... Has anyone been through this drill before? Anybody willing to advise the secret code? Or a source who will give it up... :>)

Mike

erickpl

so I didn't have to worry about it. I then called them, gave them my radio code, and had them transfer the ID to my preexisting accout (for my other XM radios). Never entered a code; never paid an activation fee (for that radio).

-Paul

mstem

(From the Toyota Avalon 2005+ Board...) A huge thanks to "n0v8or" in specific, and the Edmunds board in general. The info furnished by n0v8or was very accurate. I called the number he furnished for XM Radio Listener Care. Advised that I had purchased a new Toyota and desired waived activation fee and three months free service. She said "no problem, do you have a promo code?..." I replied affirmative and provided the code that was contained in the document that n0v8or had linked to. (That code is as follows: XMTOY2003) That was all I needed, she advised to give it about 30 minutes and all should be good to go. No activation fee and free service until December 13th. Also advised that I would receive a mailer prior to that date to continue the subscription. Whole process took about five minutes, no credit card needed at this stage. They do ask for an e-mail address and ask you to setup a password so you can manage your account online. Thanks again for the tip, now I will educate my dealer in case somebody asks. Kind of got the impression that dealer hasn't sold a lot of XM radio units... :>(

Mike

stever

Scotty Gomez and the Devils are back, bay-bee! :shades:

Steve, Host

blane

Steve,

Does this mean that you are going to subscribe to XM so that you can listen to hockey? It's sure a long drive to Devils home games from Boise.

mtngal

While I, personally, wouldn't subscribe to XM because the NHL, I'm delighted that they are going to be carrying the games. It's the only sport I do follow, and I'll more than likely listen to some of the games if I'm on the road.

lxazeta1093

I have an 04 Honda Accord with XM radio. However, I would like to switch to Sirius. Has anyone had experience with this? Can I just switch out the modulators? Just wondering. Thanks.

bascomb

I'm a newbie with a question that may be answered by a previous post. If so, please excuse me. However - I have a Matrix XRS with CD changer (six disk, in dash). It has buttons for AM/FM and CD/AUX. I have an XM Roadie II set that I use by letting it transmit to a "free" FM channel. The quality is variable (at best). The Roadie does have a line out jack, however.

Two questions:

Is there really a line in/aux input on the Toyota's CD/radio?
How do I get to that input?

Thanks.

Bascomb

stickguy

since it has the button for Aux, it should have an aux input jack. Unfortunately, they put them on the back instead of the front. I'm no expert, but I think you have to pull out the headunit to connect the line, then feed it to the front someplace where you can get to it.

2004bmw545

I have a 2004 BMW 545 with satellite radio prep (I think it was a $75 option). Does anyone know how, where and how much I can get the satellite radio installed inmy car?
Thanks

carnaught

with Sirius that they seem to play the same songs again on a given channel?

erickpl

Photograph.

WAY too much!

-Paul

mtngal

I said earlier that I didn't particularly care if they put the NHL on XM because I don't usually listen to my favorite sport on the radio. So what did I do last night on the way home from work? I tuned in the Devils-Penguins game and happily listened to it all the way home (and I'm not a fan of either team!). It looks like I'm going to eat my words, I'm delighted that XM is carrying hockey.

stever

That's fun. Looks like the NHL is emphasizing scoring too, so look for more scores like that 5-1 one. And more poke checks. :-)

Howard's coming to Sirius soon, so look for more of a marketing fight coming up. (Forbes)

Meanwhile the RIAA isn't too happy with the storage gizmos that XM and Sirius have come up with. (Reuters)

There was also an article about sat TV coming to all those DVD screens in people's cars, but that's enough news. :shades:

Steve, Host

blane

Steve,

Since the RIAA is now targeting the time shifting capabilities of satellite radio, I guess that they will now say that nobody can use a cheap cassette recorder to timeshift terrestrial radio broadcasts either.

Sirius is going to have to do a heck of a lot more expensive marketing to try to recoup the five hundred million dollars ($500,000,000) that they are paying to Stern. According to an article in today's NY times, a July survey of 2,650 of his listeners in seven markets indicated that only 23% of his free radio listeners will pay the money to subscribe to the one horse pony network.

Of course XM is at 5,000,000 subscribers now, 250% more than the dog, and shooting for 6,000,000 by year's end.

stever

five hundred million dollars

That much? That's nuts. I hope most of that is some sort of equity deal based on ratings.

The best thing for the RIAA would be for Apple to buy Michael Jackson's Beatles songlist (or whoever owns it now), and then for Bill Gates to sign Sheryl Crow and a few others artists, and together turn the music industry on its ear.

Man, I'm especially opinionated this week -- winter must be approaching and the dark is getting to me already, LOL. I better plug something on the site, fast:

Consumers Want Fun Features, Not Safety Items, Survey Says (Inside Line)

Steve, Host

erickpl

I'm finding Sirius's selections and variety a bit stronger than XM for MY tastes. Sound quality is good for both, but Sirius DEFINITELY has better DJ's, like using the original MTV VJ's for the 80's channel - cool touch.

Stern is a ZERO factor for me. Can't stand him in any format. NHL, same thing. It's the football and baseball.

The RIAA needs to embrace this digital technology and find a way to work with it. It is NOT going away anytime soon.

-Paul