Sirius satellite radio any ideas?

lisaena · 11-27-2005, 02:43 PM

After finally paying off my BEAUTIFUL ("Citrus" yellow/green) 2000 Insight, I feel ready to pay for something new to enjoy in it, so considering Satellite Radio, or possibly (2nd choice, I think), an iPod.

I have to have Sirius radio, as I must have both BBC and NPR.

The new Sirius S50 looks pricey but most versatile option out there just now, so considering it.

Anyone tried it, or have any advice on installing it? Can I use with the basic stock radio (no CD unit?) and still get top quality sound? Or should I upgrade the radio first?

Any thoughts very welcome.

bfivelover · 11-27-2005, 04:15 PM

I have thought about getting the S50 also. Right now I have Stream Jockey1. It's mounted on my dash and plays through my radio with the fm transmitter. S50 also has a transmitter. The sound for the most part is good, although once in a while I have to change the frequency. Your biggest problem will be where and how to attach the antenna. Mine has been on the rear window for almost a year attached with all season velcro. Sirius is a good choice. I don't listen to "old fashioned" radio anymore with the exception of Howard Stern :twisted: , and after he moves to Sirius, I'll never listen to regular radio again

Wasabi owner · 11-27-2005, 09:23 PM

Lisaena - I upgraded my stock cassette in my Citrus for a JVC KD-LH810 (can be had now for about $199 USD), then I fished out another $90 USD for a Sirius adaptor. Nothing hanging off of stuff or anything that looks out of place in the interior as the radio is Sirus ready. I did however put my Sirius antenna on the dash, passenger side top front right corner. Reception seems fine IMO.

Also the radio really does go well with the interior of the car as it is a nice smooth design. I'm sure most radios do this now adays but I do like how the color scheme will change to something not as bright after dark. Also it can be programmed for movies, pictures, etc.

I'm also a fan of BBC and NPR, I also like Magaritaville as well as a ton of other stations available.

chisight · 11-30-2005, 08:12 AM

What about the USA SPEC DFHON?

This looks like a promising candidate but I haven't bought one yet myself.

It's available all over the place, including Circuit City.

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/Search.d ... ection=All

If you confirm compatiblity, please post.

Chisight
'00 Red 4453 AC 96K miles 80.8LMPG Zero Recals
Record: 140.2MPG for 6.2 miles! flying start, hot engine, no wind, no
net altitude change, no net charge change. (not down a mountain and not MIMA mileage)

lisaena · 11-30-2005, 10:33 PM

Thanks for the comments and thoughts. I've looked around, and taken the car to a local "Tweeter" store. I saw the S50 in person, and it's lovely, and am convinced I want to try satellite radio, not just an iPod, although wondering where/how to install the unit and the antenna for best looks and reception. Already found some info on the former around this site!

Although there are some cool other head units with satellite radio built in, I decided finally that I like the simplicity of the stock stereo look, in fact, so think I'll leave it, add an aux input and add on the S50 through it.

This will be happening post-Christmas, so will try to post more when it's all put together, if anyone interested.

In the meantime, any others out there with experience with these installs, I'd still love to hear your accounts.

ecogrl · 12-14-2005, 02:38 PM

I too am considering satellite radio for my Insight. However, I'm thinking XM since I don't get Air America on local stations and Sirius doesn't have it. I also already have an iPod, so I'm considering a new deck to handle both. I'd love to hear other's input.

chisight · 12-15-2005, 11:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ecogrl

...I'm considering a new deck to handle both. I'd love to hear other's input.

The USA SPEC DFHON has 2 inputs so it could do both without replacing the whole stereo.

I've not bought my DFHON yet so I'm still looking for feedback from anyone that has.

'00 Red 4453 AC 97K miles 80.8LMPG Zero Recals
Record: 140.2MPG for 6.2 miles! flying start, hot engine, no wind, no net altitude change, no net charge change. (not down a mountain and not MIMA mileage)