Date Published: 08/05/2008

A satellite radio receiver can supply you with hours of entertainment, but finding the one that is right for you can be more difficult than you may think; there are several satellite radio providers, as well as a seemingly endless list of stations to which you can listen. Thankfully, Consumer Guide is here to help you find a quality receiver that will help you to tune into the world of satellite radio.


CommanderMT XM Receiver

The CommanderMT XM Receiver is small in size but meets big expectations. Its mini-tuner allows for multiple XM component use, so there is no need to have different radio subscriptions or receivers. Also, the FM Direct transmitter provides you with the option of listening to FM radio, which is something that not every satellite radio receiver can offer. Additionally, the CommanderMT's LCD display is amazing; its text is very easy to read thanks to the clean black font against a bright backlight.

But despite the fact that we like many of its features, it does bear mentioning that the CommanderMT has some power supply issues. The receiver does not have an accessory power inlet and requires a +12VDC power source (a power cable is supplied, however). We recommend connecting the receiver to a power source that is controlled by your vehicle's ignition.

Satellite radio expands your audio options. CommanderMT XM Receiver

Delphi Audio System with Roady XT

Delphi's Audio System is built specifically to support its satellite radio receivers, such as the Roady XT and the SKYFi. It comes equipped with two speakers that can be powered by six D-cell batteries -- which provide enough juice to keep the system running for several hours -- or the included AC adapter. This system also includes a 20-foot cable for its XM home antenna.

Controls for volume, bass and treble -- as well as a headphone jack -- are included. Unfortunately, you will not find an auxiliary input on the Delphi Audio System. It also lacks iPod support and the ability to tune in FM radio, but with the wide array of satellite radio stations offered by this model, these features might not be missed.


SIRIUS Stratus 4 SV4TK Dock & Play Radio

Despite the fact that it's somewhat difficult to install, we still like the SIRIUS Stratus 4 SV4TK Dock & Play Radio. It has an easy-to-read LCD display for meta-information such as stations, songs and artists. Channel selection is easy and the sound that is produced by this unit is clear. Signal strength is always displayed, and if it is low, you have the option of using the radio's wireless audio mode by simply selecting an unused FM radio band through which to broadcast the radio.


Delphi XpressRC

In the XpressRC, Delphi has developed an ingenious satellite receiver that suits the needs of station surfers. This unit can be programmed in many different ways; for example, ten different radio stations can be saved, each on its own assigned button. You can even program an alert for your favorite artist or song using the TuneSelect Function; once you've made your selection, a message will pop up whenever your favorite song or artist is playing on a station. The same can be done for your favorite sport team's stats, scores and game broadcasts.

This mini music machine is conveniently small and easy to install; once you set up the dock and the external antenna, you're ready to go. The LCD screen is colorful and displays album artwork, programming information, favorites and more. Additionally, a split-screen option allows multiple bits of information to be viewed at once.

SIRIUS SUB-X1 Dock & Play Universal Boombox

SIRIUS SUB-X1 Dock & Play Universal Boombox

The Sirius SUB-X1 Dock & Play Universal Boombox is perhaps the best-equipped satellite radio system that we've seen. All the vital functions -- power button, low-battery indicator, volume controls, headphone jack and auxiliary input -- are located on the front of the unit, while the back has a place for antenna connection and a storage compartment for the antenna's cable. There is also a compartment for the eight D-cell batteries that are needed to power the SUB-X1 for up to nine hours (you can, however, opt to use the included AC adapter instead). An adapter for the SIRIUS ST and SV series satellite radio receivers is also included with this system.

The SIRIUS SUB-X1 has integrated speakers, a midrange driver, a separate tweeter and an integrated subwoofer. Unfortunately, the bass that this unit produces can be a little too much, and there are no controls to customize bass or treble.