How to find the best satellite radio for you
Which Companies? As of this writing, there are two major satellite radio providers- XM and Sirius. The satellite radio companies sell their services directly and through distributors [Such as this site by SkyBox USA] who are authorized to sell, install, and service the equipment and activate the service. Once the service is activated, you will be billed and supported directly by the satellite radio provider. There are not a lot of technical differences between the two satellite radio providers, so there are only a few items of comparison between the two:
Equipment - although most satellite radio equipment is manufactured by electronics companies (and NOT the satellite radio providers), each satellite radio provider uses proprietary technology that can only be used with their service. In other words, satellite radio equipment is not interchangeable between providers. This means that finding equipment that will work for you is almost as important as the other features.
For example, if you need a handheld unit that offers Live and Portable usage only one satellite radio provider utilizes this type of receiver, you would necessarily have to choose that satellite radio provider.[XM offers the MyFi a very cool handheld and Sirius has a portable unit that does not offer live radio - it says it has some on the way......]
Programming- the programming options for both satellite radio providers will continue to evolve over time, so it's always important to check the most current programming options for each service. [XM Programming, Sirius Programming] Often, one of the satellite radio providers will offer the particular channel, talk show, or sport that you really want, so the decision will be easy for you. If you are having a hard time deciding which mix of programming you like best, you can always go the web sites of each provider and view and listen to particular channels to see if you like them. This is sort of a 'try before you buy' scenario.
Price- the two cost considerations for you are the equipment cost and the monthly subscription cost. Equipment costs will need to be paid up front, then subscription fees on a monthly basis. Since the equipment you purchase cannot be used to switch to another satellite radio provider, you should perform due diligence before choosing one over the other. Promotions are available from time to time that might give an introductory rate or discount for pre-purchase of a term package.
Best Choice - Naturally, the choice of the best satellite radio service for you will be based on your particular situation and programming tastes. Shopping for a satellite radio service online is a great way to research and compare several types, models and brands of satellite radio equipment and providers to make sure you find what that will work for you based on your desired features.
Online shopping can also be a lot more convenient and efficient than driving across and around town in person to various electronics stores to compare equipment. Not to mention the cost of gas.
Once you've narrowed your choices down or even have picked out your desired equipment and provider, make sure to read the fine print for those services, especially the length of contract required, warranty, service and support. If you can, try to find reviews of both the satellite radio provider and satellite radio equipment before making that call or pressing that 'purchase' button. To go a step further in finding the right satellite radio service for you, it might pay to ask your friends, family and colleagues if they have had any experience- either good or bad- with specific satellite radio providers or equipment.
In conclusion, we hope you have found the information we have put together for you useful. We recognize that this guide was in no way exhaustive, and that there is more to satellite radio than what is included here. We suggest that you use the information in this guide as a starting point in your search for the right satellite radio service and equipment for you.
(Adapted from source: http://www.satellite-radio-guide.info/)
Still want to know more about satellite radio?
+ Background on satellite radio
+ Features and functions to look for in satellite radio service
+ How to find the best satellite radio for you
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