XM radio with OEM radio, experiences

[RThompson]

Thinking about buying into the XM radio concept. Wondering about compatibility with Dodge radio. Would like the system in the 5er also. Bought the 5er without stereo so that we could put in a better quality unit. Anyone care to express an opinion about XM or where to buy?

 

[Dane]

Just my opinion...



Sat radio is MUCH better sounding than FM and does not fade in fringe locations.



The Dodge stock radio and speakers sound so bad you may not hear the difference.



Only question is if you can find a channel on XM that appeals to your listening preferences.

 

[Hutchew]

I just got a Sirius System.............

But in hindsight, which tends to be 20/20, I would have probably done the Sony XM, cuz then you only have to buy one head unit subscription. The Sony system allows you to swap the XM unit from vehicle to vehicle to home, etc. You just have to buy the extra mounts and antanaes. I was talked into the Sirius (Kenwood) at Audio Express, they said XM was starting to play commercials and Sirius had a better selection. Regardless, I like mine. The comedy and rock-n-roll stations kick butt. Total cost was @ $750, installed.

Are you looking at the one that plays through the FM side of your stock radio or the cassette tape adaptor setup? Let us know how it goes, I may sell mine and go to the Sony w/XM.

 

[CJ Lagos]

I don't know about keeping the factory head unit. Does the 2003 have XM capability?



I put a Pioneer DIN 1. 5 stereo in my 2002, and put the XM satelite receiver under the passenger seat. XM IS AWESOME. I really like the cleanliness of being able to control the XM through the head unit instead of having a separate unit.



CJ

 

[stevegeorge]

Let's keep this going guys. I am trying to decide which system Santa is going to bring me. Give all of us any thoughts or experiences you have. I like the idea of being able to have one unit that can be used in vehicle or home. Any suggestions? Hurry, Santa is on the way!!!

 

[shendren]

i shorted siri in mar. 02. not bad. i'll go with xm.

 

[kluther]

i have the pioneer xm system. 90% of the time I'm on channel 46 classic rock. only lost the signal twice on the valley floor of Yosemite and never changed the channel for 1100 miles . occasionally you will lose the signal when going under stuff like overpasses and in tunnels. but well worth it imo. ken

 

[redeye]

XM NASCAR Radio 24/7 Everywhere ALL the time



I bought Sony’s portable unit with the cassette adapter. They now offer a FM modulated version for a few bucks more. Direct channel entry would be nice too.

 

[RThompson]

Thanks for the posts! I want the XM radio unit to be portable so I can transfer it from the truck to the 5er when we stop for the evening. Reading, playing crib and listening to good music is our preferred relaxation after a long day of driving.

 

[Tom Schuster]

satellite radio

Daimler/Chrysler is partnered with Sirius--that is the only option if you want the service with the OEM radio. Go aftermarket if you want XM. I have a Kenwood system (another Sirius partner) in my 97 3500. I went with Sirius for two reasons--same company, same account for future Dodge truck with OEM radio and,-- no commercials. Let's face it, if your going to pay for radio, why listen to commmercials? Sirius and Kenwood are also offering rebates now.

Radio reception and selection in many areas of Montana is spotty at best. Given the amount of time I listen to the radio going to and from jobs and while on the jobsite, the cost of the service and equipment is worth it to me. I've set up my truck so that I can listen to the sat radio on the jobsite by fading to two exterior Bose speakers mounted on my flatbed that are hooked up to the rear speaker leads of the dash radio. Fade to the rear speakers and I have jobsite music when I'm outside working close to the truck.

Keep in mind that the satellite antenna on top of your truck's roof has to have clear access to the sky to receive the signal. Once the truck is pulled inside a garage or under any obstruction (large tree, etc. ) the signal will drop off.

 

[RADdodge]

Great Idea!

Thanks for the post Tom. Welcome to the TDR. I think I will steal you idea about the rear speaker set-up – great idea. Thanks.

 

[Dave MacArthur]

I bought the Delphi XM receiver the other day. I just wanted to give it a try and maybe return it. It's a keeper. I love XM now. I bought the car kit with it. Total price was $200. It has a nice large screen and is easy to use. You can buy 3 different kits to use with the receiver. A car kit with cigg adapter/cassette adapter/mount/antenna etc, an FM modulator/power cord (more permanent install)(you have to add this to the basic car kit), and a home kit with power adapter/RCA cable/cradle/antena. The thing is, if you are transfering it from the truck to your RV you only need the car kit (if you have a 12 outlet in the RV). Just buy the RCA cables from Radio Shack (use these in place of the cassette adapter) and plug it into a boombox or stereo. Keep in mind, it is a receiver and needs a radio to amplify the sound. I can't get any stations at work and I have a 12v power supply there so I just take it in and put the antenna near the window and get great sound. Here's a link to the one I have:



http://www.xmradio.com/skyfi/



Dave