Sirius Satellite Radio News

Satellite radio is a great thing, offering commercial free music, talk, sports and much more. Sirius offers many different radios for your convenience; however, short of an extensive side by side comparison, how do you determine which radio is right for your needs? Here’s a little information that will help you make an informed decision and get the radio that you want and need.

First, you’ll need to define where you want to listen to your radio. Do you want Sirius radio in the car? What about at home? Do you want a portable stereo solution? Sirius has options that will cover all of your applications (several can be used everywhere).

In Car: The Sirius InV and InV2 are in car only options. They offer basic screens with up to 3 lines of description on an amber colored display. The InV offers 10 station presets, while the InV2 offers 6 presets. These units are designed to be used only in vehicles.

Dock and Play: These units are designed to be used in the home, in the car or inserted into the Sirius Boombox for portable play. They include the Stratus 4, the Starmate 4, the Sportster 3 and the Sportster 4 and Sportster 5. These can be used in a variety of different places and offer several different screen options. The Stratus, Starmate and the Sportster 3 offer blue or amber displays, while the Sportster 5 offers 15 different programmable color combinations for onscreen display.

Portable: The Stiletto 100 and the Stiletto 2 are portable and come with the portable use kit. The car kit, home docking station and Boombox attachments can be purchased and used with these. These are actually the most versatile of all the Sirius offerings, since it can be used in any number of ways. Whether you want an in car radio solution, a portable radio for music only you can hear or something for the house, this is probably your best bet. The Stiletto 2 comes with 60 minutes of playback and both have a 2.2 inch full color display. In addition, the Stiletto series has 2 GB of storage for mp3s (Stiletto 2 can be upgraded to 8GB).

Now that you know what is available, choosing the best solution for your listening needs will be a much simpler process. Finding these devices is also a simple process. Purchasing them online is a good idea, you can usually find better deals on these through Internet retailers than you can find at an electronics store. This is because, unlike other retailers, online retailers have very little overhead and can pass those savings along to you, the consumer.

Choosing a Sirius subscription plan is your next step and that will entail even more choices to be made. Annual subscriptions save more money in the end, but cost more up front, while monthly subscriptions are much more affordable in the short term and cost more in the end. You can also get a discount on additional radio activations.

Hair Nation - Sirius Channel 23

Currently on Hair Nation: Channel 23

Bang your head and play your air guitar in those torn up jeans to all your favorite hair bands on SIRIUS 23, Hair Nation. They may have lost their hair by now but they can still rock like no other. Our favorite 80’s metal bands, also known as hair bands, are available twenty four hours a day seven days a week. Go into metal overdrive with Metallica, Motley Crue, KISS, Cinderella, Dokken, and the great Ozzy Osbourne to name a few. Relax to the power ballads such as Miles Away by Winger or I Remember You by Skid Row. Whatever your Poison is you will find it on Hair Nation, SIRIUS 23!

Current playlist data brought to you by http://dogstarradio.com/

Elvis Radio - Sirius Channel 13

Currently on Elvis Radio: Channel 13

The King lives on SIRIUS 13, Elvis Radio. Listen to all the great Elvis Presley music broadcasted directly from Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee. Dig through your closet for your Blue Suede Shoes to do a little dancing to Jailhouse Rock. Whether you are looking for songs from the King’s early years, his classics or live hits you can find them on Elvis Radio. You’ll hear some of the Elvis rarities and the comebacks. Start your week off with Sunday Morning Gospel Time playing Southern Gospel music by Elvis Presley. There’s a Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin on down at Elvis Radio, SIRIUS 13.

Current playlist data brought to you by http://dogstarradio.com/

SIRIUS Radio Classics

Currently on Radio Classics: Channel 118

The Golden Age of Radio meets SIRIUS Satellite Radio on Radio Classics, SIRIUS 118. Experience the legendary programs from long ago by tuning in to Radio Classics. Hear great stories of mystery, comedy, or drama such as Dragnet, The Twilight Zone, Sherlock Holmes, or Gunsmoke. Listen to some of the greats of radio broadcasting such as Jack Benny and Bob Hope. Whether you want to relive the days of your youth by listening to your old favorites or you want to kick back and relax this station of Radio Classics on SIRIUS 118 is the perfect choice.

Current playlist data brought to you by http://dogstarradio.com/

The world of satellite radio was shaken up once again when it was announced on March 11, 2008 that the chief creative officer of XM radio, Lee Abrams, had resigned. Abrams joined XM in 1998 and has been credited with shaping much of the company’s success. Following the announcement of his resignation from XM, it was indicated that he will be returning to his hometown of Chicago in April in order to join the team of a new start-up company. That company is largely reported to be Tribune, where Abrams is expected to work as the Chief Innovation Officer. Tribute currently operates 23 television stations as well as the Superstation WGN.

The lead-up to XM’s success began in 1997 when two licenses for nationwide satellite radio broadcasting were issued by the federal government. Abrams reported later that he had been contacted by a headhunter who was looking for someone to fill the programming job at one of those new companies. Abrams leapt at the opportunity to join XM Satellite Radio and immediately set about designing a program that would practically blow AM and FM out of the water. Obviously, his efforts worked as XM is now considered to be a high successful organization. Over the past few years the Network has added a pool of impressive talent. Abrams is considered by many to be a radio veteran and is often given credit for creating the album rock format that is frequently used on FM stations even today. In his role at XM, Abrams was in charge of both programming and content.

Many are already speculating that Abrams’ move could be a strong indicator that the long-awaited merger of XM and Sirius could be finally about to happen. News of the merger was announced in the summer of 2007 and many have been anxiously awaiting completion of the merger; however, red tape from the Department of Justice involving the potential monopoly that such a merger could represent have held up completion of the deal. It is largely anticipated that the merger will happen sometime in 2008, especially following concessions made on the part of both XM and Sirius in order to placate various concerns.

The news of Abrams’ resignation falls not long after news broke last summer that the Chief Executive Officer of XM, Hugh Panero, would be stepping down in August of 2007. Rumors had swirled for some time that Panero would be leaving following the outcome of the merger; however, Panero’s resignation precipitated that event; leaving many to wonder when and how the merger would finally occur.

There has been no word yet who will fill the shoes that Lee Abrams has left behind in his role at XM. XM was initially launched in September of 2001 in the Dallas/Fort Worth and San Diego areas. Since that time, XM has become nationwide and has more than six million subscribers. Today XM boast 73 different music channels as well as 39 sports, news, entertainment and talk channels, 23 sports channels and 21 regional weather and traffic channels.

Satellite radio is one of the leading audio technologies in the world today. Millions of users subscribe to these services, in the US alone (Sirius boasts at least 7 million, XM around 9 million). Understanding what satellite radio is and what it can do (as well as what it can’t) is an important aspect of enjoying your subscription.

Satellite radio, whether through Sirius or through XM, is commercial free. It is supported for the most part through subscription payments by subscribers, though some money comes in through contracts with automakers. (Honda has XM, Chrysler has Sirius) Both Sirius and XM offer more than 100 channels of commercial free programming, ranging from all types of music to sports, talk radio and news channels. (Sirius boasts 130, while XM has around 170)

Whether you have built in satellite radio in your car or you use a portable device that sends to your car’s radio, you receive signal in the same manner. This signal comes directly from orbiting satellites to your radio, bolstered by repeaters (much like cell phone towers). The benefit of this transmission method is that you get completely clear reception no matter where you are.

The drawback to this (and it is a minor one) is that a clear view of the sky is needed to get the best signal. Tall buildings, tunnels, parking garages and the like can all block out your signal, though it is only a momentary issue. The best way to beat this is to install an additional antenna in your car. (For home use, you can use an antenna and repeater) This way you get the most out of your subscription.

In addition to built in radios and portable options, both Sirius and XM are available over the Internet, though neither provider currently offers their full lineup of channels through the Web. Sirius currently offers 80 channels of commercial free, subscription based programming online, while XM offers slightly more. This means that you can use an existing account to listen to satellite radio over the Internet or you can register for only an online subscription for use with your laptop of desktop computer.

The single largest benefit to using satellite radio is that you can access the same stations no matter where you are in the US. This makes it ideal for truck drivers, frequent flyers or anyone that travels on a frequent basis. Even with this fact, many consumers (millions, in fact), have found that satellite radio offers them an alternative to traditional advertising based programming. The sheer number of quality radio stations and impressive sports coverage, combined with popular talk radio shows offer consumers great choices in what they can listen to and when they can listen to it.

There are several different ways in which you can get access to satellite radio, both XM and Sirius offer a wide range of systems that can be used in vehicles, docking stations at home or connected to your computer.

If you love your SIRIUS radio and your MP3 player, you will be overjoyed to learn that the two have combined to create a device that gives you the best of both worlds. The SIRIUS Stiletto 2 combines your personal music library along with SIRIUS radio for an audio experience that can only be described as ‘ultimate.’ The Stiletto 2 is actually smaller in size than most cell phones you will find and weighs a mere 4.3 ounces. This means that it is highly portable and can be taken anywhere you wish to go.

The Stiletto 2 is capable of being plugged into your stereo system in your car through an FM transmitter, so it is easy to bring all of your favorite music with you wherever you go. When you park your car, you no longer have to leave your radio behind. With the Stiletto 2, you can just grab it and go. If you’re in the middle of a favorite talk radio program, there are no more worries about missing something interesting. Take it with you and you’ll never again have to worry about missing what outrageous thing Howard Stern might say next.

In addition, with the Stiletto 2 you will also have the choice of listening to SIRUIS programming you might have decided to store in your library. This snazzy little gizzmo gives you the opportunity to record an amazing 100 hours of programming.
With the ability to bring your personal music library right along with you, you will be set. The Micro SD card and the MP3 player provides you true ease and portability. Instead of having to deal with multiple devices and switch back and forth, now you can enjoy everything in one slim, sleek device. In addition, you have the option of purchasing songs and adding them to your Stiletto 2 using an online music service that is much like iTunes.

A headset antenna is also included along with the Stiletto 2 so that you can always enjoy listening that is clear and crisp. In addition, a special type of software is included that will allow you to actually track all of your favorite sports teams. You have the choice to either listen to or record every game that takes place whether you are at home, work or on the road. The special SIRIUS software that is included also gives you the opportunity to receive sports alerts as well. For serious sports fans, this is definitely a must-have.

The Stiletto 2 is easy to use with a single button that can be used to store songs as you are listening to them. Although the size of the Stiletto 2 makes it incredibly easy to take with you, the construction is solid and ensures that it is able to go wherever you go with no problems.

Overall, the Stiletto 2 gives you the opportunity to take talk radio, sports and music with you wherever you want to go; all with the benefits of commercial-free listening and crystal clear reception that you have come to associate with SIRIUS.

Purchasing a Sirius radio is exciting. The prospect of over 130 channels of commercial free music, sports and talk is something that any customer will look forward to with relish. However, there are a few things that you can do to maximize your listening experience, especially in your car. Knowing a few helpful tips and knowing what accessories to buy to get better service will go a long way towards making a better experience.

First, some helpful tips:
The first thing to understand is that your radio signal comes from a satellite. What this means is that you get access to crystal clear signal, but there are things that can block your signal. If this happens, don’t call Sirius, it’s completely normal. Driving in downtown areas with lots of tall buildings can give you an intermittent signal, as can tunnels and other large structures. The reason for this is because all the metal in those buildings and other structures is blocking out your signal; drive on and it will be back in a matter of seconds.

Second thing to understand is another variation on the first part. Listening to your Sirius radio may be difficult in parking garages and the like. This is for the same reason stated above. Knowing this, you can enjoy your radio without the worry that something has gone awry with your system.

There are some things that you can do to boost signal and get more out of your system. These accessories are widely available and constitute a wise investment.

Car Antenna: The Dot ultra low profile antenna is the best way to increase the signal from your removable Sirius radio. It comes with a magnetic base to sit on your roof or trunk and 21 feet of wire ensuring that you can make the connection between radio and antenna easily.

For home use, there are even more options available to boost your signal. This is great, since many consumers are purchasing Sirius radios that can dock in home, car and boom box.

One of the best options in this case (especially for large homes) is the Echo repeater setup for home use. This repeater hooks directly to the antenna so that you can listen to Sirius radio anywhere in the home, even areas where you once did not receive any signal. There are two antennas that can be used with this set up, the included home antenna or the more powerful outdoor home antenna.

There are even options for your portable Sirius radio that will allow you to dock your system with your computer and enjoy even more music in your home.

Getting the most out of your Sirius radio has never been easier than today. With a host of great accessories designed to increase your signal reception, boost the number of places where you can listen to your Sirius radio and even expand the sound of your system, this is one of the best investments around.

Father’s Day is rapidly approaching and dads everywhere are groaning at the prospect of another tie, another wallet or set of screwdrivers. Do your dad a huge favor this year and get him something that he can really use and actually appreciate. Toss the tie, real dads want tech!

Laptops: Dads love mobile technology. Laptops offer the ultimate on the go computing and they can be used just as well in an arm chair as they can in a coffee shop or greasy spoon. There are some fantastic brands out this season, though some stand out as much better value than do others. For instance, Acer has a great line of affordable, durable machines. These won’t set any speed records, but they work great and won’t hit your wallet quite as hard as some other brands with the same specs. The Acer Aspire 7720 offers a 17 inch, CrystalBrite screen and Duo Core processors; the included nVidia graphics card is also another great benefit.

Digital Camera: Dads love to take pictures; getting him a new digital camera can be a great thing for Father’s Day. While there are a ton of great digital cameras on the market, some buying tips are more useful than brand names.

1) Mega pixels are not the end all be all of the camera world. Seriously, after about 7.5 mega pixels, there is not much point unless the intent is to enlarge a small section of the picture to enormous proportions.

2) Currently, digital zoom is no match for real zoom. The higher the actual zoom level of the camera, the better the pictures will turn out.

3) Stay away from wild colors and funky set ups; get dad a rock solid camera that works.

HDTV: HDTV is another hot thing this year. Getting that crystal image, amazing Dolby sound and fantastic resolution is sure to make dad happy! Before your get the TV, make sure that dad can get HD channels from his satellite provider. Direct TV currently has the largest number of HD channels on the market. Then you’ll have to decide if you want to get plasma, LCD or DLP technology. LCD offers the longest lasting, least trouble for your money, by the way.

Sirius: What dad doesn’t love the radio? The commercials drive them nuts, though! Giving the gift of Sirius radio is a great idea. With over 130 channels of commercial free music, talk and sports, dad will find what he wants, every time. In addition, there are numerous ways in which he can listen. Got a hip dad, or one that likes to get out and about? The portable Stiletto series offers Wi-Fi Internet access, the ability to record both mp3s, WMAs and Sirius radio. It can also broadcast directly to an in-car radio or dock at home with a number of great kits. For the sports loving dad, this is a must have, thanks to their GameAlert function that will alert him to any game note, as well as the ability to track games by team.

Somewhere in space, three satellites in a tundra orbit over North America and modestly representing what could very well be the future of radio entertainment— digital satellite radio. These three satellites allow listeners access to hundreds of channels, a range far outnumbering the capacity of terrestrial radio. Sirius satellite radio’s business model is cable for radio—a pay-for-service radio free of commercials and with a whole new world of expanded options. What are some of the defining characteristics of satellite radio?

Satellite radio does not have a standardized station model; listeners pay for the content they enjoy, often times prepaying for three months at a time. Other fees include the purchase of the Sirius or XM receiver (or additional receivers) and accessories. Whenever Sirius-enabled radios play the user can see the artist and song information appear, in like manner to a DVD or iPod system.

Satellite radio has also explored new technology for interactive entertainment as well as profitable partnerships. Sirius has worked with the Dish Network in providing free music channels to some satellite providers and also launched its own brand of Sirius Internet Radio, with 78 of its 135 channels now accessible on the Web. Sirius receivers are now available for most of of the top car manufacturers in the world, including Chrysler, Jaguar, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Toyota and Volvo, among others. Rolls-Royce has gone one-step further and offered a lifetime Sirius Radio subscription as part of the cars standard equipment. Sirius has signed exclusive periodic contracts first with VW until 2008 and then Kia until 2014.

What are some of the most popular radio models from Sirius? There’s the Sirius Sportster 5 plug and play radio with color screen, while the Sirius Stiletto 100 is a portable Sirius radio that allows subscribers to listen to live programming. The Stiletto gives users two gigabytes of memory, which is about 100 hours of recording, and also features Wi-Fi technology. True to form, Sirius has continued to forge relationships with new partners such as Yahoo and Napster in finding additional content for the Stiletto.

Sirius has also made great endeavors online—that other digital planet of an entertainment and news medium. Sirius subscribers can access all of the proprietary music channels and many of the talk stations through the web, as stream media, through the official Sirius.com website. Yahoo has partnered with Sirius to in the creation of the browser-based player called the Yahoo! Widget, which resembles a Sirius Sportster model, and there is also a Sirius Internet Radio Player. Sirius’ Internet presence is gaining a following in its own right. Sirius offers special accommodations for its Linux users, who can hear streaming online channels without Windows Media Player or a web browser. Meanwhile, the Howard Stern Show streams content via a Java application. When it comes to Macintosh, users can use specially designed players the StarPlayr or the SiriusMac for a compatible solution.

When it comes to exploring the potential of satellite radio, the content is just the beginning of the universe and Sirius remains the Dog Star, possibly the brightest star in the sky.