SATELLITE RADIO RECEIVERS


XM Commander

Chances are, your current car radio doesn't have XM or SIRIUS radio built in, which means you need some sort of add-on unit if you want to go the satellite radio route. That's why I like the XM Commander; it's a universal XM receiver that lets you add satellite radio to any vehicle.


The XM Commander is an all-in-one satellite receiver package. You get the XM Commander itself, which is the controller and display for the system; a separate remote control, for operating the system from the rear seat; a hide-away tuner box; a low-profile satellite micro-antenna; and all the cables and mounting accessories you need to complete the installation. The XM Commander installs in your dash, the tuner box can be put under a seat or in the trunk, and the antenna goes on the outside of your vehicle. It all integrates seamlessly into your car's current sound system, via either a direct line-in connection or transmitted to your radio over an unused FM channel.

The micro-antenna is a first, and very cool all by itself. Instead of the traditional long and pointy external antenna, this puppy looks like a small computer mouse; it's small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, and looks very inconspicuous when mounted on your vehicle. The last thing you need is another geegaw hanging off your car, which makes the XM Commander's micro-antenna very attractive, indeed.

The controller unit includes a dual-line display, so you can see song and artist info for the current programming. You get direct channel entry plus 30 presets for your favorite XM channels although, I'll tell you from my experience, you'll probably find more than 30 stations that you like!

By the way, if you don't want to or simply can't mount the XM Commander control unit in your dash, check out The Bug, a cool mounting kit from ProFit (www.pro-fit-intl.com/bug/). For just $19.95, this kit lets you put the controller just about anyplace in your car's cockpit; the base can sit on the floor or on an armrest console, affix to your windshield or dashboard, or hang from your rearview mirror. The controller then mounts on two small bug-like arms, which rotate and pivot for best position.

Model: XM Commander Manufacturer: XM Radio (www.xmradio.com/commander/) Dimensions: 3.75'' (w) x 4.3: (h) x 1.25'' (d) Audio output: 3.5mm mini-stereo jack Price: $169.95


Delphi XM SKYFi2

If you don't need a permanent satellite radio installation, check out Delphi's XM SKYFi2. This is a transportable receiver that you can carry between your car and your home or office. The SKYFi2 connects to your car radio via FM, and includes a 30-minute recording buffer so you won't miss any of your favorite XM programming. Car and home adapter kits are available, as is the tabletop SKYFi Audio System.

Model: SKYFi2 Manufacturer: Delphi (www.xmradio.com/skyfi2/) Dimensions: 4.65'' (w) x 2.91'' (h) x 1.26'' (d) Price: $119.99


Delphi XM Roady 2

Delphi's XM Roady 2 is another transportable satellite receiver, this one a little smaller and without quite as many features and, subsequently, priced a little cheaper. Like the SKYFi2, it connects to your existing car radio via FM, and includes its own micro-mini antenna. And, even better, you don't need an additional mounting kit; the Roady 2 comes with everything you need to connect inside your vehicle.

Model: Roady 2 Manufacturer: Delphi (www.xmradio.com/roady2/) Dimensions: 3.9'' (w) x 2.4'' (h) x 0.7'' (d) Price: $99.99


SIRIUS Sportster

If you prefer SIRIUS to XM, consider the Sportster, a transportable receiver similar to the XM Roady2. It connects to your car radio via FM, and includes its own wireless remote control. Car, home, and boombox kits are available.

Model: Sportster Manufacturer: SIRIUS (www.sirius.com) Dimensions: 4 3/8'' (w) x 2 3/4'' (h) x 1 1/8'' (d) Price: $99.99


Sanyo CRSR-10

Sanyo's CRSR-10 is another transportable SIRIUS receiver, this one with a very cool-looking design. The unit itself is a perfect square, with the control and preset buttons arranged in an arc below the six-line display. Also nice it comes with its own car and home kits, no extra charge.

Model: CRSR-10 Manufacturer: Sanyo (www.sanyo.com) Dimensions: 3.97'' (w) x 3.97'' (h) x 1.26'' (d) Price: $149.99




Leo Laporte's 2006 Gadget Guide
Leo Laportes 2006 Gadget Guide
ISBN: 0789733951
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 126

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