The Polk XRt12 is a "reference tuner" for home playback of XM satellite radio, and it certainly delivers the goods. Instead of a portable receiver that can be transferred from car to boom box to home, the XRt12 is designed to be a permanent component in a home theater stack, taking its place next to the A/V receiver, DVD player, and other associated components. The XRt12's satellite radio output can thus be played back over your high-quality stereo or home theater speakers.

The XRt12 has both digital (optical and coaxial) and analog outputs for connection to a home theater or stereo receiver. The indoor/outdoor antenna has a 20-foot cable (an optional 50-foot cable is available) that should be placed with a clear view of the southern sky, which is where XM's satellites sit in geosynchronous orbit. In some urban areas, terrestrial repeaters also provide a signal. A signal-strength meter on the receiver assists optimal antenna placement.

You can tune to channels via categories, presets, and direct channel tuning. While listening to one channel, you can browse through other channels to see what else is playing. A memory button captures artist and song title information and saves it for future reference (up to ten individual songs). In addition to its audio outputs, the XRt12 also has a video output to show song, artist, and channel information on a TV or other video display.

While it's certainly possible to carry a plug-and-play XM receiver between car and home, paying only one subscription fee, it can also prove to be a hassle. To avoid this annoyance, or if you're not interested in XM Radio in the car, the Polk XRt12 provides top-notch satellite radio in the home. Moreover, it delivers that signal with full fidelity for playback over a full-size stereo or home theater system. With the XRt12, XM has never sounded so good.

Warranty
1 year parts and labor