Would you continue to use XM Satalitte radio or Sirus radio?

Question

We currently have to pre - pay for XM to reactivate our radio's should we stay with XM or go to Sirius? The channels and prices seem very tight and close that it's really hard to tell what to go with? Any suggestions? Current users of both services?

Answer 1

I too had XM and Sirius and was not happy with either service.  XM has sound quality issues.  Because they have over 170 channels, they compress their signal causing sound quality issues.  Sirius had signal problems because they only have one satellite over north america at a time. So no matter where I placed the antenna I would lose the signal while driving under trees and bridges. I dropped both after buying my Ipod.  Now, I can pick and choose what I want when I want with no reception or sound problems.  Plus alot of talk shows offer free podcasts!

Plus I am not convinced the XM/Sirius merger would save customers money.  History shows that monopoly companies increased their subscription rates while their quality and customer service suffer.  I mean my cable bill is $80 a month and the only extra I have is HBO...C'MON!  Oops, off subject...I would much rather take $13 a month and invest in a music library via itunes.

Answer 2

Wow, do we get this question a lot! There are many opinions, here's mine honed finely over time.

I have both. Originally bought XM. When I got my Magnum R/T, I got Sirius included. But let the subscription run out after the first year and went back to XM. There are very minor differences in the major music categories. You'll choose because of the few stations you listen to most often.

Don't forget to consider the receiver. You'll have to do some research there as well. Whether to go portable or installed in your car. I have a portable XM unit in my car that I can transfer to the house and listen thru my home system. I also have Sirius built into my car stereo, but as I mentioned, after the year I dropped Sirius and went back to XM.

Both have similar products and channels at similar pricing. And, again right now, both are about $13/mo. The available channels, with certain notable exceptions are very similar. For instance Howard Stern fans prefer Sirius.

You can listen to both online (below) and make your decision. Not all stations are on line but there's a good sampling.

Be sure to take special note of the sports channels. They are quite different, so if you're a sports fan, this will be important to you.

I didn't like the Sirius Comedy Channel, preferred XM's. So that's why I went back to XM and have been happy.

BUT everything's going to change pretty soon. The two will probably merge into one company and you'll be able to pick between the two full services, including sports at $13. Or select your favorite 50 channels from both and get that at a special rate of $6.99. There will also be other deals available if the merger is approved. It is currently under review by the FCC, FTC and DoJ.

My advice is to check the available receivers, be sure to shop around at Costco, Sam's etc and also the big electronic outlets like Circuit City and Best Buy. Then check the channel titles and descriptions, sample both services online and pick the one that you like best.

In any case, go ahead and grab one, if the merger goes through it will benefit all.

-a guy named duh

Answer 3

I have a 3rd choice, its called Nexus Radio: http://www.nexusradio.com .  It has over 6000 radio stations and it is also 100% free to use. No monthly fees or devices to buy. The great thing about Nexus Radio is you can record the music and transfer the mp3 files to your iPod. Nexus Radio puts XM and Sirius to shame.

Answer 4

Keep XM Radio, I've had Sirius... Trust me, you will come back to XM. Sirius repeats there songs too many times, they have more djs and they talk over songs. Stick with XM, better music programming. Better for all!

Answer 5

I don't have Satellite Radio, but you should try getting Sirius.

Answer 6

we had XM for a while, but then we got sirius and it was WAYY better! id definatly go with sirius. the DJs are better, and so is the music.

Answer 7

It's personal preference.  XM has larger playlists, while Sirius sticks to playing the biggest hits.  If it's just the music you are looking for, go to sirius.com and get a 3-day free trial to listen online.  Then decide which you like better.

Switching would require new hardware which can get expensive.