Sirius Receivers: A Buyer's Guide

The availability of Sirius receivers has been greatly expanded in recent months, with equipment available from well-known brands like Audiovox, JVC, and Kenwood. Sirius also sells branded receivers such as the Sportster from Directed Audio.

The following is a list of the most popular and current models of Sirius receivers and accessories available on the market today.

We've organized them into several categories to make it easier for you to find the right satellite radio equipment for your needs:

Plug & Play
These receivers are designed with portability in mind - buy one receiver and move it between your home and your car as it suits you. An antenna is usually included, although car and home kits may need to be purchased separately.

Audiovox SIR-PNP3
Weight: 6 oz
Dimensions: 4.5" x 3" x 1.5"
Display Colors: Amber

The SIR-PNP3 is the successor to the acclaimed SIR-PNP2, packing all the features of its predecessor in a much smaller package. Weighing in at only 6 oz, this highly portable receiver is ideal for both the home and the car and is a great alternative to the Sportster. The PNP3 also has a built-in memory feature that alerts you whenever your favorite songs are on.

Like the Sportster, the SIR-PNP3 needs to be used with a home kit or car kit. The Audiovox also has a built-in wireless FM modulator.

Sirius® Sportster Replay (SPTK2)
Weight: 7.1 oz
Dimensions: 4 1/2 ” W x 3 1/8 ” H x 1 1/8” D
Display Colors: Blue

This plug and play receiver is geared towards NFL, NBA, NHL, and college sports fans (although you don't have to be one to find it useful!). Its large, six-line display is clear and easy to read, and can even alert you if your favorite team is playing and when scores change during a game.

This latest version of the Sportster comes with a new feature: Replay. Like TiVo for the TV, the Sportster Replay allows you to pause, rewind, or fast-forward through up to 44 minutes of content.

Small and portable, the Sirius Sportster can be used with a car kit, which includes mounting hardware and an antenna. The Sportster comes with a built-in wireless FM modulator, an low-profile antenna, and a suction-cup mount. You can even use the Sportster like a Walkman for short walks.

Minor gripes: the remote's buttons are a bit small, and unlike the previous Sportster this one only has a single, albeit legible, display color. Otherwise, the Sportster is a great choice for Sirius fans who want an excellent display and top-notch sound.

Sirius Sportster Boombox (SPB1)

The Sportster Boombox is an ideal solution for Sportster owners who want to listen to satellite radio at home. The Sportster plugs directly into the Boombox (which comes with a built-in antenna), and can be powered by batteries or with an AC-adapter. Comes with remote.

Sirius Ready In-Dash Receivers
In-dash receivers are perfect for those who primarily listen to Sirius while driving. These receivers usually require a separate tuner ( installed in the trunk or in the dash) and an antenna ( installed on the roof - please ask your retailer what the recommended antenna is for your receiver).

Jensen 3720SR MOSFET Sirius-ready CD Player
Output: 200W
Presets: 18 FM, 6 AM
Equalizer Bands: 3

The Jensen 3720SR is an affordable in-dash receiver with a fully detachable faceplate. Sirius-ready, it features an AM/FM tuner and CD player (CD, CD-R, and CD-RW compatible).

Satellite Radio Tuners
Tuners come in two varieties: for the car and for the home. Car tuners are required for car receivers, and are usually installed in trunk and require a Sirius-compatible antenna. Home tuners complement your living room entertainment system and also require an antenna.

Directed SCFM1 Starbase(tm) Sirius Satellite Radio FM-Modulated Tuner System

The Starbase SCFM1 is a two piece tuner and dash-mountable display. It is compatible with nearly all OEM and aftermarket radios, and includes an antenna and remote.

Directed SIRJVC1 SiriusConnect(tm) Sirius Satellite Radio Tuner

The SIRJVC1 radio tuner is compatible with all Sirius-read receivers. It comes with a pass-through port, micro antenna and bus cable.

Kenwood DT-7000S Sirius Satellite Radio Home Tuner

Those looking for a more permanent home tuner will want to take a look at the DT-7000S. Its futuristic design may not be for everyone, but its optical digital output puts its sound quality above most of its peers.

Look at XM receivers, learn more about Sirius radio and XM radio, or check out our Sirius vs. XM comparison chart.