All About Satellite Radio Services in United States

Introduction

When it comes to satellite radio services, the situation in United States is pretty similar to the satellite TV market where there are two major service providers involved in the business ? XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Sirius's original programming originates from its studios in New York, while XM Radio's studios are based in Washington, D.C. There are rumors and news about the possibility of merging between these two satellite radio providers but no solid news had been released at the date of writing.

Both XM and Sirius charge their customers on monthly basis. Individual users normally pay not more than $15 per month to enjoy hundred of radio programming; while business owners need to pay more (about $25/mo for Sirius) in case they wish to use the radio channels as their business background music (a caf? for example). Since year 2005, Sirius offers a one time fee of nearly $500 valid for the lifetime of the equipments.

As for their popularity, XM claimed that they got more than 7.6 million of subscribers at the beginning of year 2007; Sirius on the other side claimed 6 million subscribers. A critical strategy that brings success to satellite radio provider is that they partnered up with auto-makers. Satellite radio equipments are offered as original equipments in the car model. BMW, MINI, Mercedes, FORD, Honda, and many more are now the sole partners for Sirius Satellite Radio on the expansions.

What?s so great about satellite radio services?

Despite the monthly subscription fees, satellite radio comes in a few advantages that conventional AM/FM radio that cannot compete. One of the major plus points with satellite radio service is that most of the music stations are free of irritating commercial breaks. As satellite radio providers run their business via user?s subscription fees, the bulk of the income source from the listeners, not the advertisers. Thus, satellite radio providers manage to provide a great number of commercial-free music channels in their package.

Besides commercial-free channels, satellite radio also stand in front of AM/FM radio as they provide the best sound quality in radio broadcasting. AM/FM reception is often interrupted by weak signals, which then influence the quality of the sounds. Such problem will not happen with satellite radio as the signals are static-free.

Also, satellite radio is highly portable, which means the same satellite radio shows can be listened with your Hi-Fi in your living room, or the boombox in your car, or even on your personal computer with Internet connection.

On top of all these reasons, satellite radio also stands out with its uncensored radio shows. Currently both Sirius and XM are offering quite a few 100% uncensored radio programming, which for sure you cannot get with the ordinary AM/FM radios. And before you ask, yes, you will get Howard Stern's show with satellite radio (Sirius Satellites).

n case you are shopping for satellite radio, learn more at:Satellite Radio reviews by http://www.SatelliteTVIssue.com. Compare and review the best deal you can have with satellite radio.

Article by Teddy

Sirius Satellite Radio - Bringing Back the Independence

Sirius satellite radio is sometimes compared to cable TV, and in a way that comparison is valid. While cable opened up new channels, new programming, and eventually channels that could go around the censorship imposed by networks, satellite radio has to be received via subscription, and so has independent shows. Like the best of cable channels, many boast no commercials. One of Sirius' favorite advertisements is the claim of "100% commercial free music," which is made possible because of the monthly subscriptions paid by users.

Sirius satellite radio was previously known as CD radio, but changed their name in 1999. The way Sirius works is that there are three satellites in a constant orbit above North America to ensure coverage, and as of this writing Sirius provided a minimum of 69 different channels for music, and another 60 for sports, news, entertainment and other miscellaneous channels. Business wise, they work very much like cable. There are monthly subscriptions, low activation fees, and even a one time 'rate for a lifetime' subscription (around $500 as of this article).

While to some it seems like all these advertisements on television for Sirius Satellite Radio may have come from nowhere, in fact this company is based on a steady and smart business philosophy that has allowed them to grow rapidly. One of the main strategies to attract people to this new technology has been to obtain contractual deals with some big-name entertainers, both in music and in other subjects. For example, Martha Stewart and Lance Armstrong are both signed on Sirius Satellite Radio. One channel caters to the domestic crowd, the other to sports. These two shows bring in two different demographics of people, both of which will hopefully find enough other channels they like to keep re-subscribing.

Big name musicians often have their own shows. Jimmy Buffett, Bruce Springsteen, and the Rolling Stones are just a few of the major examples of stars who have their own shows or specials. In addition to this, it has also created specific niche channels like "Underground Garage" for garage rock, and "Outlaw Country" for alternative country music. This helps bring in the niche groups that may have smaller, but much more devoted, followings.

Of course nothing compared to the historical deal that Howard Stern signed which made headlines and forced his millions of listeners to grab a subscription to continue to listen to his show, something that millions were apparently ready to do. This huge shift has resulted in a giant base of listeners that guarantees that this is not a flash in the pan advance like the 8-track, but is a form of radio entertainment that is around to stay. For those who haven't tried it, Sirius Satellite radio has a wide variety of channels for just about everyone, and it might just be time to see what it has to offer you.

For more satellite uses please visit http://www.satelliteinnovation.com a popular satellite website that provides tips, advice and satellite resources. Try visiting our latest information page on Sirius satellite radio

Chrysler to Offer SIRIUS Satellite Radio Backseat TV

In New York: Just recently SIRIUS Satellite Radio together with Chrysler Group maker of Jeep and its auto components such as Jeep headlights has announced that the SIRIUS Backseat TV? will be made exclusively for Chrysler?s 2008 model year vehicle lineup. The SIRIUS Backseat TV is a dynamic and the first TV service that delivers the best family TV programmes directly to the vehicles.

Whether driving cross country or just across town the SIRIUS Backseat TV will provide access to high quality television entertainment and family TV fare through a simple easy to operate video service. The SIRIUS Backseat TV? is TV programming from the world?s most trusted brands in family entertainment such as Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon network. The service will be offered in selected 2008 Chrysler model, Dodge vehicles, and Jeep?. The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans which are going to available later this year will also be equipped with the SIRIUS Backseat TV.

The SIRIUS Backseat TV will also be offered for the 2008 Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Dodge Charger, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the Jeep Commander. The SIRIUS Backseat TV operates through an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas.

The programming is displayed on the vehicle?s second or third-row video screens while the channel name, program title and rating will be broadcasted and displayed on the screen(s). To boost riding entertainment pleasure the system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit which means that while the rear-seat passengers are enjoying the SIRIUS Backseat TV, the front seat occupants can listen to the SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

And that?s not all, when the vehicle is in Park mode, programming may be displayed on the MyGIG screen for front-seat viewing. The suggested retail price of the SIRIUS Backseat TV is $470 which includes the first year of service. After the first year, the SIRIUS Backseat TV will be available for $7 per month and $12.95 per month when packaged with SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

For more about your Jeep headlights needs like , visit your trusted online source.

Lisa Ziegler is a 29-year old native of Waldport, Oregon and is currently working as a senior research analyst in a top Automotive Research Consultancy firm.

You Need To Pay For Satellite Radio But It Is Worth It

You have probably been hearing about satellite radio for a while and of course, lately there has been plenty of news about Howard Stern, he is bringing in many listeners to Sirius and the fan base is growing quickly.

One of the big differences between regular radio and satellite radio is that with satellite you get hundreds of channels that are of digital quality, plus on the screen you know who is performing because it gives you that information. There are very few channels on satellite radio that have commercials. With over 100 channels to choose from there is always something good to listen to. No commercials just the music you want to listen to , you don't have to listen to salesmen, fuel companies, food advertisements, you will have no static, you will be able to listen to your music or talk show with no interruptions 24 hours a day. There are so many channels; a few of them are comedy, local weather and traffic, women's issues, sports, old time talk shows from the 20s to the 40s.

Through digital magic, you will not get static or any other types of disturbances you would normally get from an analog radio. The possibilities do not end there though, as it may even be possible for digital stations to broadcast pictures and videos directly to your car or home stereo through the magic of digital broadcasting. When receiving a signal from satellite the signal is completely digital and everyone knows a digital signal sounds cleaner and there is no static, you either get the signal or there is not signal. The signal is encoded and sent to the satellite and then it is sent back down to a receiver which it will be decoded and then the receiver plays the sound. If you find you loose the signal it is because when you travel you move along the earth and since the earth is round you will sometimes loose the signal because the satellites are traditional on the horizons.

Now, people you don't need to switch stations when driving because you cannot get a clear station in, you can listen to the same station or hundreds of other stations ranging from news, music and news in better quality than AM or FM bands. To receive the digital audio streams you will need a antenna to receive the signal.

Its small, portable and it fits in your purse or pocket, don't be fooled because they are small, they give the best sounding quality a radio can offer. The auto manufacturers are installing satellite radios to enhance the new automobiles, and many stores are now carrying the portable models to be used in the homes.

Satellite radio is subscription based, meaning that you pay a monthly fee for the service. The purchase of a satellite radio and a small monthly fee will open a whole world of ad-free radio listening to you. You will need to pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee to enjoy satellite radio. Many of the automobile dealerships and manufacturers offering many different types of incentives, so are giving 3 months free or even up to 6 months of free service to get you hooked, they are also throwing in no activation fee.

David Marc Fishman is the owner of Bornasuperstar site. The online auditions site for actors. Learn how to become a successful in your life.

Interoperable Satellite Radios

The satellite radio world is divided among the two major broadcasters, XM Radio and Sirius. Since they work on different frequencies and need specific equipment to broadcast, Sirius and XM Radio have divided the market into two groups. While some are fans of the Sirius channels others prefer XM Radio, and the debate regarding which of the two is the best could go on forever. Some however are subscribers to both services, since they love some of the Sirius programs but also enjoy XM Radio broadcasting. For them and for more people interested in satellite radio, there are some potential good news. Interoperable satellite radios are one of the things most of the major players in the satellite radio industry are talking about. What are they? Basically they are receivers that can work both with Sirius and XM Radio and everything is enclosed in a single unit.

Interoperable Technologies ? when Sirius and XM work together

Interoperable Technologies is the name of a joint effort funded by both Sirius and XM Radio, with the declared purpose of bringing dual-subscription satellite radios to the general market. Founded in 2003, Interoperable Technologies has started developing the dual-mode satellite radios ever since and progress is being made with each passing month. Interoperable Technologies gets help from consultants from both XM and Sirius and their 2005 success of developing a singe unit that can receive both transmissions was a notable one. Today, Interoperable Technologies ha a deadline of bringing the developed receiver unit to the market. The monthly subscription price is estimated to be around $26 ? for which you get over 300 channels from the combined broadcasting list of the two satellite radio operators.

What the people say?

The news of the interoperable satellite radio development has triggered interesting responses among XM and Sirius satellite radio subscribers. Here are some of the things people left on forums and discussion boards regarding this development:

?$26/month? A hell of a lot cheaper than cable TV.? Says one of the forum posters. He is right, but, of course, many will question the need to pay $26 for over 300 radio channels out of which 80% will probably never get listened to.

?Oh man! As a dual subscriber, this would be SO cool to have. Where do I sign up?? ? on the other hand, of course, there are those people that don?t mind spending a little extra when they can get so much more.

?Cool idea if it ever comes to pass. Even though I only subscribe to Sirius, I would consider buying this with an eye on the future...? ? for people such as this forum poster, the interoperable satellite radio system is the natural evolutionary step forward, so it is definitely worth looking into satellite http://www.review4.info.

Implications of the interoperable satellite radio system

As you can see from the response of the potential customers, the interoperable satellite radio system is an interesting development. While Sirius and XM are lucky enough to be the only major players in this field, for now, it seems they are also ready to work together in order to consolidate their future. Of course, offering twice the programs on a single unit is a major step forward, and from the early stages it seems that the target audience is ready to receive the single receiver unit with applause. On the other hand, is this an initial enthusiastic response or is it genuine interest?

Won?t 300+ channels become too much and won?t people start to feel like they are paying for something they are rarely using? There will also be some interesting things to follow as far as exclusivity rights go, because each of the two broadcasters have their own original approaches to common things. Another interesting aspect to follow will be how the sales for individual Sirius and XM units will go after the dual receiver hits the market. For many, the combined efforts of Sirius and XM tend to look like a first step towards a large scale joint venture that will lead to an absolute monopoly of the satellite radio market.

Getting Started With Satellite Radio in Four Easy Steps

The popularity of satellite radio is growing each year and for good reason. From the convenience of being able to listen to a favorite station from virtually anywhere without interruption and excellent sound quality to the wide variety of programming and less frequent commercial interruptions, the service is well worth the low monthly fee for many individuals.

For those who want more entertainment than what traditional radio or their own private music collection can offer, the question that arises is not whether or not satellite radio is a good choice but how to get the service started.

* Clearly, the first step in getting started with satellite radio is to select the service. While Europe has WorldSpace, the US uses two providers; Sirius and XM Radio. Both offer well over 160 channels of listening that is virtually commercial free. Pricing for both is in the neighborhood of $13 per month plus the cost of receivers and a small one time activation fee. Potential buyers can easily research the available programming through both Sirius and XM Radio via their respective websites and determine which subscription plan will meet their entertainment needs.

For those who would prefer a side by side comparison of the two services a simple search on Google for "Sirius vs. XM" will reveal numerous sites that provide a current "at-a-glance" comparison of the two satellite radio providers.

* Once the choice is made, equipment will be necessary as a satellite radio receiver will be required. This could include a home receiver, car stereo, plug-and-play type device for use in both the home and car, or perhaps a small personal listening device. This equipment can be available through many reputable home electronics stores as well as directly through Sirius or XM Radio.

* Any necessary installation of receivers in a car or boat can be done professionally or as a do-it-yourself task. Sirius for instance provides detailed, simple written instructions for installation via their site; Sirius.com as well as a video demonstration of installation.

* After the installation of any receivers, another visit online, or by telephone, allows new customers to activate the satellite radio service for the subscription plan selected.

Obviously, getting started with satellite radio is not a complex process nor does it entail an exorbitant ongoing expense. Opening up the broader world of excellent radio entertainment is only a few mouse clicks away from reality for the listening public.

Christine Peppler believes that consumers should not have to possess a technology degree to be able to choose home electronics and entertainment devices. Take advantage of the wealth of simple to understand, useful information and shopping available on her website at http://www.homemedias.info

The Facts You Need To Know About Satellite Radio - Part 3

In Part 3 we covered the monthly subsciption costs of satellite radio and a little about the programming that is available. But let's talk a little bit about sports on satellite radio.

Sports programming is just exploding in the US and there is a constant demand for even more and better coverage of sporting events. Both satellite radio providers have seen this need and moved to fill it with plenty of sports broadcasts that cover everything from the major sports themselves and actual events to just sports talk. Every single game of the NFL is broadcast besides over 1,000 NBA games and lots of hockey action too. If you are a sports fan, you will absolutely love satellite radio as there is always something interesting being broadcast on sports pretty much 24 hours a day.

So how do you get all of this satellite radio programming anyway? Well, the first thing you need to do is select which provider you wish to subscribe to. In the US your choices are either Sirius or XM. Both have great programming available so the best thing to do is just visit their website, look over the offerings that they have and decide which one fits what you like to listen to best. It's important that you decide on which service to use beforehand since you have to buy receivers that are specific for that service. You can't switch from one provider to another and use the same receiver at this point, so choose carefully.

After selecting your provider, decide where you will be listening to radio broadcasts most, in your car, boat, RV, or just at home? There is plenty of equipment available that will let you listen to satellite radio, some mobile, and some not mobile. There are also products that allow you to take your receiver and use it both at home and when you travel, so there is lots of flexibility on satellite radio receivers and equipment depending on where and how you plan to listen. Keep in mind too that some satellite TV companies include satellite radio in their offerings so you may already have it available at home.

Our viewpoint about satellite radio is that it is a great product that you just have to experince to fully appreciate, and once you enjoy the convenience and quality of satellite radio broadcasting, you probably won't want to listen to radio any other way.

Jim Johnson writes about consumer related matters. Find out more about satellite radio and satellite car radio at the Satellite Radio Review

Satellite Radio Online Store Rapid Christine Breen

 

April 7, 2004

Rapid Satellite provides the best selection of Sirius Radio satellite equipment

RapidSatellite.com was one of the first web sites I found offering satellite radio satellite equipment. They only carry Sirius satellite radio products, but they have a good selection.

Right now RapidSatellite.com is having a great special programming offer. For $129 you can get a Sirius satellite radio system for both the home and car. Pay $179 now and get a $50 rebate from Sirius Radio. I bet they won't be continuing that offer for long as they'll get sold out overnight! That is one heck of a deal. I was pricing XM Radio for car and home and the prices were significantly higher on other websites. But for $129 getting satellite radio for car and home? That's what I call a no brainer. Click the link here to see for yourself. What a deal. I still can't believe it.

Almost forgot to mention that if you pay for a year's service of Sirius satellite radio they'll throw in three months free. That's not a bad deal folks.

Ok now on to review what satellite equipment RapidSatellite.com has to offer for Sirius Radio buffs.
Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio Receiver (requires Plug-n-Play Module)
Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio Shuttle Portable Tuner. This package includes just the Sirius tuner & remote. Requires a Home Adapter Kit and/or Vehicle Adapter Kit. $99.99

Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Tuner (Requires Home or Car Module)
Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Here2Anywhere tuner. This package includes the Sirius Tuner and Remote. Requires a Vehicle Adapter Kit and/or Home Adapter Kit. $99.99

Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio System w/ Plug & Play Home Use Kit
Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Here2Anywhere tuner. This package includes the Sirius tuner, remote and home adapter kit. $149.99

Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio System w/ Vehicle Plug & Play Kit
Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio Shuttle Portable Tuner. This package includes the Sirius tuner, remote and Vehicle Adapter Kit. $149.99

Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio System w/ Home Plug & Play Kit
Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio Shuttle Portable Tuner. This package includes the Sirius tuner, remote and Home Adapter Kit. $149.99

Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio System w/ FM Wireless Vehicle Plug & Play Kit
Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Here2Anywhere tuner. This package includes the Sirius tuner, remote and FM Wireless Vehicle Adapter Kit. $149.99

Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio System w/ Both Home & Vehicle Plug & Play Kit ($129.99 after $50 Sirius Rebate)
Audiovox Sirius Satellite Radio Shuttle Portable Tuner. This package includes the Sirius tuner, remote, Home Adapter Kit and Vehicle Adapter Kit. ($50 Sirius Rebate) $179.99

Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio System w/ Both Home & FM Wireless Vehicle Plug & Play Kits (149.99 After $50 Sirius Rebate)
Kenwood Sirius Satellite Radio Here2Anywhere tuner. This package includes the Sirius Tuner, Remote, FM Wireless Vehicle Adapter Kit & Home Adapter Kit. $199.99

As you can see I really like RapidSatellite.com for their package selections at reduced prices. They really know how to entice someone to buy!

RapidSatellite.com is a member of the Better Business Bureau Online and #1 in consumer satisfaction among cable and satellite TV suppliers as rated by J.D. Power and Associates. Basically, you can trust this company that when you order you'll get what you ordered with no problems.

After you put the item in your shopping cart and decide to checkout you'll need to create an account. Just the usual of name, address, username, password which speeds up the checkout process later and allows you to not type it all back in the next time you purchase from them. They cannot ship to P.O. boxes, so you'll have to use a real address. The not shipping to P.O. Boxes is from credit card fraud. People steal credit cards and then get items shipped to P.O. Boxes. Cutting out shipping to P.O. Boxes cuts out that fraud.

After you enter your delivery address they'll run it past the USPS to make sure there are no problems delivering your item. That's a really nice feature that they double check your address. Shipping was only $9.99 for a receiver shipped to my zipcode in the middle of nowhere. They accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.

Their toll free phone number that is staffed 24 hours 7 days a week is always visible at the upper left corner of every page. I don't know about you but that inspires confidence in them for me.

Christine Breen is the successful owner of the website 1Stop-Satellite-Radio.com which educates consumers about satellite radios.