XM Receivers: A Buyer's Guide

XM receivers are offered both directly from XM satellite radio and reputable manufacturers like Alpine, Eclipse, Sony, Delphi and Terk.

The following is a list of the most popular and current models of XM 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.

	Delphi XM Roady XT (SA10175) Weight: 2.8 oz Dimensions: 3.7" W x 2.3" H x 0.7" D Display Colors: 7 Those craving a low-profile, ultraportable satellite radio receiver with plug-and-play capabilities should definitely consider the XM Roady XT. Delphi's smallest receiver, the Roady XT weighs in at an incredibly light 2.8 oz. With three lines of information, the Roady XT is a significant improvement in all areas - display size, dimensions, and weight - over its predecessor, the venerable Roady2. Features: The Roady XT comes with a built-in FM modulator, which allows you to wirelessly broadcast satellite radio to your car stereo. Its line-out jack allows you maximum versatility should you want improved sound. Business users and sports fans will find the stock-ticker and sports scores very useful.
	Delphi XM SKYFi2 (SA10101) Weight: 5.2 oz Dimensions: 4.6" W x 2.9" H x 1.3" D Display Colors: 1 Feature enthusiasts will definitely appreciate Delphi's XM SKYFi2. A sleeker, updated version of the original SKYFi, the SKYFi2 has a bright, five-line display which can show sports scores and stock tickers while you are listening to music. The SKYFi2 also has a Tivo-like "Backtrack" mode, which allows you to pause live radio and rewind through the last 30 minutes of programming. Another special mode, "TuneSelect", will automatically alert you if any of your favorite songs or shows are playing. This model comes standard with a wireless FM modulator and remote. You will also need a car kit or home kit, which usually must be purchased separately.
	Delphi XM Radio™ CD Audio System II (SA10034) The SA10034 is a boombox that can accept both Delphi SKYFi and SKYFi2 receivers. It is designed to be portable, so you can use it both at home and on the go. It comes with a built-in CD/MP3 player, which accepts CD, CD-R, CD-RW, and MP3 discs. Also included is a remote control, AC adapter, and antenna. For those who want to take satellite radio to work or out to a picnic, the SA10034 also has a rubber-gripped handle and accepts batteries.
	Delphi XM MyFi Weight: 7.2 oz Dimensions: 0.5" x 2.8" 1.2" Those of you watching TV this past holiday season may have seen a commercial with Elton John gripping an Ipod-like XM satellite radio player, the XM MyFi. Touted as the first truly portable satellite player, the MyFi is not an Ipod-replacement. However, it is an excellent choice for satellite radio listeners on the go. Not only can you listen to satellite radio directly with its built-in antenna, but you can also record up to five hours of live music and shows, either manually or in advance (like a VCR). The MyFi has plenty of additional features - it displays stock quotes and sports scores, and can double as a car satellite radio receiver with its built-in wireless FM modulator (choose from 12 frequencies). It even comes with a clock, alarm, and TuneSelect (alerts you when your favorite shows or songs are playing). The XM MyFi definitely comes loaded - included: cables, antennas, home kit and car kit, mounting brackets, chargers, remote, headphones, belt clip, and carrying case. Our only gripes with the MyFi are its lack of memory (for storing MP3s) and its average sound volume and quality. However, as a first-generation player, the MyFi should not be passed up.

XM Ready In-Dash Receivers
In-dash receivers are perfect for those who primarily listen to XM radio while driving. These receivers usually require a separate tuner (normally installed in the trunk or in the dash) and an antenna ( installed on the roof).

Terk XM Commander

The XM Commander is an excellent low-profile receiver with a small footprint. Its color scheme integrates well with most car interiors, and its built-in wireless FM modulator allows you to listen to satellite radio with minimal wiring. Those who choose to connect directly to the tuner can also use the RCA-out on the Commander.

The Commander comes standard with a micro antenna, remote, mounting hardware and hideaway tuner, so there's no need to buy a car-kit.

Note that unlike the other receivers in this guide, the Terk XM Commander only plays XM radio. Since most people have an existing AM/FM receiver and/or CD player, the Terk is a good way to upgrade your existing setup at a low cost.

Alpine XM Ready CD/MP3/WMA Receiver (CDA-9827)
Output: 50 W x 4
Presets: 12 FM, 6 AM
Equalizer Bands: 2

Alpine owners all agree that the CDA-9827 is a high-quality, good-looking unit that does not skip and plays a lot harder than its stated 18W output (CEA2006). With CD, CD-R, CD-RW, MP3, and WMA disc playback, the Alpine also comes ready with changer controls. Properly tied into your own speakers and subs, the CDA-9827 is a must for any car sound and music afficionado. Comes standard with wireless remote.

Satellite Radio Tuners
Car tuners are required for car receivers, and are usually installed in trunk and require an XM-compatible antenna.

Terk XMDirect Universal Tuner (XMD-1000)

The XMD-1000 is a low-cost universal tuner that functions with XM ready receivers. The Tuner can be installed behind the dashboard, and comes with an antenna that is mounted on the roof.

Note: Requires an XMDirect Smart Digital Adapter, which is available for Sony, Kenwood, and Pioneer in-dash players.

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