Kenwood Here2Anywhere Sirius Radio Review

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(More customer reviews)I received the Here2Anywhere as a Christmas gift, along with a car kit and home kit, and in just a few short days, I can report that I'm a diehard Sirius fan, as much for Sirius itself as this particular receiver.
First, the service. I'm sure some would disagree, but arguably, Sirius is the better choice among the two providers of satellite radio for the US. While XM has some commercial free music channels, ALL of Sirius' music streams are commercial free. That, coupled with excellent variety, well-programmed music, and the superior reception afforded Sirius' high-angle orbit satellites make it the logical choice. The $3 extra each month (vs. XM) is well worth it.
Next, this receiver. Fundamentally, a plug-and-play receiver like this is not going to suit everyone. It's far less "clean" for car use than an in-dash unit, so if you have a thing about cords hanging around, you should go in-dash. But if you carefully choose your location, and your car has the right space available, it can make for a very tolerable installation with the advantage of being able to take the receiver with you anywhere (when paired with the required, optional docking kits).
One thing I especially like about this unit is its largely "flat" design. Most plug and play units (for Sirius and XM) are vertically oriented and don't seem to fit as well in some locations.
Paired with a home kit, this receiver is almost ideal. It's very small and compact, so it'll fit about anywhere, with about any stereo set-up. It's simple to use, and has an IR remote, so even if you permanently set it next to your home gear, it'd be right at home. To my surprise, the unit works fine at home even with its small antenna sitting atop a row of cabinets in my basement office.
There are some shortcomings, however, most probably due to the small size of the unit. First, direct access to streams by number is possible only via the remote control; although once you set-up your presets (of which there are 24) you may not need direct access. Second, while it has a push-button "remember this song and artist" feature, you can't clear out your choices when you're done with them. Also, you can't control the backlight brightness at all. Just generally, it seems Kenwood kept this unit only to the fundamentals, and omitted a variety of refinements that the unit could have benefited from.
But perhaps the biggest shortcoming is that it provides only line level outputs, requiring a separate amp or receiver of some sort to hook it to (and then, only via one of the docks -- the unit does NOTHING on its own without a docking kit). The unit would be somewhat more useful to me if it could also be used as a portable, even if some sort of dock was required to do it... Hook-up an antenna and a set of headphones, and listen with no other pieces or parts. (Or, perhaps Kenwood could develop some sort of boombox style dock for this baby.)
But even with that, the ability to cart my Sirius from home to car to office to car to home again is great -- especially when you're as addicted to the service as I am -- and this unit does that quite nicely.

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Satellite radio listening just got more convenient and more affordable. Kenwood's portable KTC-H2A1 Here2Anywhere Sirius digital satellite radio tuner lets you enjoy Sirius's 100 different streams of music, sports, news, and entertainment programming almost anywhere: in the car, at home, at work, or even on a boat. Slide it out of your home system, into your pocket, and then into your car system, taking access to your favorite streams everywhere you go. Home and car docking kits--the Kenwood KPA-H2C and KPA-H2H, respectively--each include a slide-in mount for the tuner. The kits are sold separately and at least one kit and a subscription to Sirius radio are required for use of the KTC-H2A1.The KTC-H2A1 is loaded with features like multiple search and display modes, 24 stream (station) presets that make finding your favorite stream a snap, and a 4-line dot-matrix LCD that scrolls complete song title and artist information. It even has a stream lock that lets you skip channels you don't want to hear--or don't want your kids to hear.The display is designed to be clearly readable in both home and car, with a choice of normal or large-font characters. Search for music by category or channel type as well as by artist name or song title using the built-in guide.Incredible handy is the ability to save the title and artist of a currently playing song (up to 24 songs) for later recall, freeing you of the risks of trying to commit your favorites to memory or trying to write while you drive. Channel scan lets you check out what's currently playing on another channel while you're still listening to the current stream, and a full-function remote control is also included.Sirius broadcasts 60 streams of 100-percent commercial-free music, as well as an additional 40 streams for sports, news, and entertainment, all in clear, digital sound. There is no limit to the number of systems in which one tuner can be used.What's in the Box Radio receiver, remote control, remote battery, a user's manual, and warranty/registration information.Note: A subscription to Sirius satellite radio is required to activate the Kenwood Here2Anywhere portable tuner.

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SIRIUS SV3-TK1 Stratus Plug-and-Play Satellite Radio Receiver with Car Kit Review

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(More customer reviews)The kit itself is simple to install and setup took only a few minutes. However, the FM transmitter on the unit is not as good as previous units I've had as it only goes down to 88.1. I live near D.C. and it is almost impossible to find a frequency without something being transmitted on it. My old unit transmitted down to the low 87's and I had no trouble tuning in. It also seems like the transmitter is too week to transmit over even partial signals (a guess a compromise for the small size of it). So I ordered the FM Direct Adapter to see if that helps. It would have been nice if Sirius had included this in their car kit as anybody that lives near a city is likely to need it.

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Sirius Stratus is the easiest to use and the most affordable Sirius plug and play radio.

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Sherwood RX-4105 2-Channel 100-Watt Stereo Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)This Sherwood (noted brand years ago, now mysterious) might be a decent bargain for twice the money. It's stripped down by present standards -- two channels only, no phonograph input. It's dead quiet and extremely clean sounding. I can't hear any emphases or dead spots in the frequencies. The tuner is exceptionally good; I am surprised at the success I'm having with it in a poor reception area, with only the antennas that are supplied. Appearance and quality are fine: nice black steel case, solid buttons, one big old volume knob. It was all I needed, so I'm very pleased. Going to get another for a computer amp.

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Sherwood's incredibly affordable RX-4105 offers integrated preamplification and amplification, inputs for numerous audio source components, and advanced radio tuning and station access. The receiver delivers 100 watts RMS per channel x 2 for strong, clear sound across the audible spectrum--even at low listening levels. The company has lowered the amplifier's distortion relative to the previous model (the RX-4105), to less than 0.08 percent, while also giving the receiver a new layout borrowed from its higher-end components.The RX-4105 uses totally discrete amplifiers for all channels (TDAS) to maintain its high power and low distortion. Use the receiver's A and B clip-type speaker outputs to power 2 different rooms, or to biwire a pair of speakers for more efficient amplification (with A outputs driving the woofers, for instance, and the B outputs driving the tweeters--make sure your speakers are compatible if this is a key feature for you).The receiver also offers a handy 25-key remote control and switching for 2 pair of loudspeakers. Audio inputs switch between and amplify up to 4 additional components, including 2 requiring both inputs and outputs (such as a cassette deck and a VCR). The built-in AM/FM tuner features 30 station presets and auto station setup.Other features include bass and treble tone controls, a dimmable fluorescent display, and a .25-inch headphone jack for private listening.What's in the Box Sherwood RX-4105 receiver, remote control, AC power supply cord, FM indoor antenna, AM loop antenna set, and owner's manual.

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Onkyo TX-8222 50 Watt Stereo Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I had a 30-year-old, top-of-line Marantz that gave up the ghost altogether after the internal lights started fading. Much as I liked it, the cost of repair was considerably higher than this Onkyo (the internet lists plenty of repair places to send units like the Marantz to), and I no longer use my stereo nearly as much as I used to (I wonder how often the surround-sound, 5-speaker audiophiles actually remain seated in their sonic cocoons).
Anyone with experience with audio knows that manufacturer wattage claims are variable, often essentially meaningless, even when listed as RMS, and that 50 watts is more than adequate for all but the most low-efficiency speakers (Acoustic Research, Bose). So I decided to forego the extra pound and a half and save a few bucks, because the features are practically identical with the 100 watt Onkyo. The latter has a few additional frills (brightness dimmer, effects bypass, FM character naming) along with provisions on back for a studio geek to plug in 3 addition pieces of equipment.
Both Onkyos have a convenient volume knob, but I miss the other knobs and the gyroscope tuning, which was more accurate than digital tuning. Also, the Marantz had a third, mid-range tone control (useful for bringing out vocals), both a loudness and a volume control, and numerous filters that were useful for "smoothing-out" the sound of some old LP records. The handiest feature of the Marantz was two additional phone plug inputs on the front of the machine, intended for plugging in tape recorders for dubbing or musical instruments for recording and monitoring. Most of us don't place units such as this in cabinets where it's convenient or even practical to plug and unplug other equipment to the rear of the machine on a continual basis. And as is the case with most Japanese manufacturers, including Sony, the machine is not actually assembled in Japan (try Malaysia).
The biggest annoyance of both this receiver and the more powerful one is an ill-conceived switch that doubles as both an input and a tape monitor switch. You must avoid even touching the switch (more difficult than it sounds) or you'll activate the monitor function and mute all devices connected to the receiver. (I even placed temporary masking tape over the switch to "quarantine" it from my fingers.) Nevertheless, the 8222 is a fine performer and a top brand (I don't recall ever seeing Onkyo producing cheap, low-end product and catering to the masses, as is frequently the case with Sony and Panasonic). But I'm hanging on to the Marantz in case I decide to get cash-careless and go all-out retro.

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Onkyo 50 Watt Stereo Receiver TX8222

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PYLE PRO PT260A 200 Watt 2 Channel Home Stereo Receiver w/AM FM Tuner Review

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(More customer reviews)I am writing this review in response to an earlier reviewer's comment about the hiss problem with this receiver.
I purchased this unit 6 months ago because I needed a receiver for under $700 that could handle a pair of 4ohm speakers. I was a bit skeptical about just how well this would work, but for less than $100 I believed it would be worth a shot.
Initially, I encountered a similar difficulty with the hiss (as well as some clipping and distortion).
However, as soon as I switched out the 4ohm speakers for an 8ohm Bose set, the receiver sang just fine. A keeper!
(Note that some minor amp hum is to be expected with *any* receiver. The only time I can hear it on this model is when I place my ear directly in front of the speakers. That said, I have noticed over the years that some reviewers can be quick to growl at equipment when the real problem is poor speaker placement. There are several good articles on the web that provide details on how to avoid the audible consequences of positioning speakers too high or at incorrect angles.)
That aside, here are a few other perks of the Pyle PT-260-A:
- At level 10 (out of 40) it provides good background sound. At 20, it can fill a large room and be heard clearly in the next room. At 30, it becomes uncomfortable to the ears.
- The EQ controls are programmed to handle a significant range, with the bass creeping as low as 40Hz (not always the case in cheaper model receivers, which usually only stretch to 60-80Hz). Meantime, the treble only reaches as far as 15kHz, which is actually a strength considering the depth of the bass (cheaper models tend to exaggerate the high end, which is why they tend to be characterized as sounding tinny). All that said, one slight twist of the EQ knobs can make quite a difference. Be sure to play around with different combinations until you land on just the right sound for your speakers and your setting.
- The mic inputs work great for karaoke. Not my cup of tea, per se, but wonderful for children who want to sing along with a CD. (They also will have a lot of fun with the echo control!)
And of course all equipment has quirks:
- For my needs (with only one component connected), the PT-260-A serves its purpose quite well. However, if you intend to input more than one component, there is only one selector switch on the unit itself (though there is a separate button for CD, Aux, Tuner, etc. on the remote). In addition, the unit sets to Tuner each time it powers up (which then blasts the room with radio static if you don't have the antenna connected).
- If you plan to use a turntable with this receiver, you will need to pick up a phono preamp (there is no powered input).
- The display is a bit cheesy. The EQ meter simply dances a preset light pattern that has nothing to do with the music being pushed through. (Though it can be amusing to watch it bounce out of rhythm with the music!)
So the verdict:
This receiver costs less than $100. For a model that operates on par with more expensive models, it is worth learning to live with a couple of minor bugs.
If you are on a budget, or have children who express an interest in listening to music, this is *the* way to go. If only a receiver of this quality had been available at this price when I was in high school! (In the early 1990s, the cheapest comparable model would have cost $250-350.)


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This 200-watt amp brings music to the living room with crystal clear clarity. With plenty of inputs, you won't find this amplifier lacking. It plays AM/FM thanks to the built in tuner - store up to 50 presets! It's equipped with three RCA inputs on the back and two ¼" mic jacks on the front, so you can turn this amp into a karaoke machine - even add an echo effect. Easily adjust the volume, balance, treble, bass on the master output for total control of your sound. AM/FM antenna included. Runs on 110 and 220 V AC.

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Yamaha RX-396 - Receiver - black Review

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(More customer reviews)This receiver was sold to me as a unit the would give me clear, natural non-distorted sound, even though the output wattage is not as high as some other receivers. On all these fronts Yamaha delivers! It's slightly lower wattage sounds louder than an equivalent receiver of another brand. If you want to hear loud music, you will have to turn the volume control just past half-way, but the sound is still crystal clear. I have had this for about four years and have used high quality Boston Acoustic large bookshelf speakers. - Simple, effecient stereo receiver with awesome sound and some nice features (sleep, remote with volume control, input plugs for two sets of speaker and more... no subwoofer input, though, but the sound delivers a lot of bass on regular speakers.)


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The Yamaha RX-396 Natural Sound Stereo Receiver is a perfect way to start putting together a stereo component system for your child or for a second room at home. Deciding to create your own component audio system is a wise choice because it's an investment that you can constantly upgrade and grow with. Yamaha delivers clean power and reliable assurance that the RX-396 will be a solid foundation and will offer years of wonderful listening pleasure.Versatile binding posts for convenient, easy speaker connectivity (Speakers and Wire not included)Includes wireless remore control

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Yamaha RX-Z11BL 11.2-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been a home theatre enthusiast for a long time now. Not many showrooms have this baby on demo and I've read a lot of reviews on the Z11. I decided to take the plunge and I'm glad I did! I've had yamaha's all my life and my previous amp (RX-V1700) was no light weight but compared to the Z11 sonically, it's night and day. Zll is simply crystal clear on both 2-channel stereo mode and obviously pure direct whilst the 1700 was lacking the liveliness in pure direct and 2-channel was average. Movie mode is very clear too and I think the Thx mode helps the transition of movie soundtracks optimised for the home.

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Yamaha 7.1 Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver is designed to deliver 140Wx7 channels plus 50W to the presence and rear presence channels, allowing simultaneous use of two sub woofers.It is compatible with the newest version of the HDMI standard and can be connected to a PC or Yamaha MCX-2000 enabling access to internet radio via LAN. This includes extensive zone control capabilities and achieves an unprecedented level of audio performance.

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Pioneer DEH-2000MP In-Dash CD/MP3/WMA/WAV Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)Replaced the stock radio in my Ford Ranger because the volume would randomly turn up and down every time I would go over a speed bump or make a sharp turn (lol). Caught my eye at best buy because it matches the lighting scheme in my car and looks really sleek to begin with. Then I realized that it was under $100! I only hesitated for a split second, and now I don't regret buying it at all!
I had to buy the accessory kit and wiring harness separately (you will absolutely need these for any almost all stock radio replacements) to get the proper fit. Decided to install it myself just for the heck of it, was rather easy, just followed the instructions using both the kit's and pioneer's instruction booklets (although pioneer manuals are somewhat vague sometimes), and used a little soldering skill to wire maybe about 4 wires together (most wires weren't even used) and ground a few to my car's inside chassis.
Turned it on to the tuner; sounds great, even cleared some static I had before, no complaints at all. My ipod sound great through the AUX input, CDs sound clear and excellent as well. I can really hear a difference in the sound; bass is much tighter, mids are mellow and relaxed, highs are crisp and detailed. It sounds quite high end; I don't know why people spend so much money on head units when these cheaper ones sound just as good?! Nice solid feel to the unit too, although the control scheme (or software) could have been programmed a bit better, there aren't really too many buttons on there to really make a difference. For instance, the manual is wrong when it says how to set the clock, you have to power-off all other functions and leave it in clock mode, then turn off by pressing the clock button, then to set the clock, you have to turn it on again using the main middle button and you finally get the display blinking to change the clock's time.
Amps and other channels (up to four) are compatible with this unit, plus a remote is included (but only for use with the amp). All in all, I got exactly the results I was looking for. Quite a bargain to a decent leap in sound! I wholly recommend this unit, especially one this cheap!

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Pioneer deh-2000mp in-dash cd/mp3/wma//wav receivercd/mp3/wma//wav in-dash cd receiver;features detachable face security, rotary volume, front aux input & card remote.

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Pioneer GEX-XMP3 Portable XM Satellite Radio Receiver w/ Home Kit Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought an Xmp3 player from Amazon about a week ago. I have to write that it became almost difficult to buy one because I read all manner of both rave and poor reviews. In the end I took a leap of faith and bought one despite identifying with some poor reviewers. The principle poor I read here was absolutely wrong and I want to address that here because the leap of faith I took was in deciding that the poor review was written by someone who likely didn't know how to operate the device.
The poor review stated that you had to view all the channels and could not save favorites so that you could easily go to the channels you like easily. Frankly I couldn't believe that, bought one anyway, and found the feature the review stated was not there in all of 5 seconds. And I am first-time XM device owner and subscriber.
So I want to accomplish two things in this small review. I want to say if you are too stupid to use the device, don't bother writing a review about it. You scare me and anyone else looking for credible information on a device. I just can't stand it when write bad reviews with less then all the facts. This rotten reviewer could have spent a few seconds with the device without even reading the manual and found the settings. It's right on the menu and so I am lead to believe this person has some ax to grind because no one is that stupid to miss the feature.
I do have some complaints, but for the most part, anyone would like this device.
The xmp3 has a very simple menu system on the device itself. You start off by being able to see all channels in a long list or seeing them by group. Once you find a channel you like, click options, then click Add to Favorites. It's so simple I don't know how one bad reviewer missed it. There is a paper channel guide sitting on top of the manual too. So if you just want to type in a channel, like 129, just press the keypad button and type it in. So in just 2 steps you are into whatever channel you want. I know CNN is 122, so I can go to my favorites, or just punch it in. I can't see how to make that any easier.
Someone here mentioned signal problems. I very much want to cover this because that also scared me. I live in San Francisco. And I take public transportation all the time. Buses, BART, I walk, etc. Some city streets allow just 2-way traffic. One lane for cars in each direction. If I walk on those narrow streets with 2 to 3 story houses on both sides, then the signal cuts out. If I want on wider streets, it's fine. And there are two kinds of signals. Terrestrial and Satellite. You can get one or the other, or both. And there is a setting in the options that shows you both signals while the music or news plays. So you will see how little signal you need to get the programming. Unlike regular radio, a limited signal does not mean poor quality. It's all you need to get the full experience. It's digital, so it's perfect or it's not. It doesn't need full strength to get a perfect audio output. This is important. Now, the Xmp3 came with a home kit, and I bought an extra one for work. I didn't have to mount the antenna outside at all. Just place it on a window ledge and watch the antenna signal. Aim it around and watch the signal response. It's stupid-easy. I did the same thing at my office. So when I am home or at the office, I plug the xmp3 into the doc, which is already plugged into the external antenna and I get great audio. It comes with a remote control with every home kit. A pair of self powered $20 speakers is all you need to use these with the home kits. It works fantastically and you need only the one device.
Some wondered if you can truly record more than one station at a time. Yes, you can. Keep this in mind because it's important and I'll explain why in the next paragraph where I explain the battery issues also raised in review.
Some complain the battery only lasts for 4 to 5 hours in live mode. First, live means you are listening to Xmradio live, and not recorded. The XMP3 player can play MP3s, WAVs, and recorded XM radio, plus live XM Radio. There is an easy way to extend the use of the radio to meet anyone's enjoyment needs. I have owned 5 iPods, 4 Zunes, 3 Zen Players, and 2 Rios, plus a Sansa. I have listened to over 200 audible books. I listen to podcasts more than anyone I ever met. I've been listening to portable audio for over a decade. So Xmp3 has a lot to live up to. I'm just as tough on a device as anyone else.
I want to give a quick example of how I use it and you can apply this to the battery issue. Because my method solves all the problems of battery, signal, etc in my opinion. So open those eyes wider and pay attention. The reality that this records 5 stations at once is the key. In the morning before the New York Stock Exchange Opening bell, I am up and getting ready for work. I record CNN, Bloomberg, and CNBC at the same time for about an hour. I can mostly listen to one of those live as I get ready for work, but the other 2 are recorded at the same time. When I hit the street to take my bus, I listen to the other recorded programs to avoid any signal issues. The information is still fresh, and I get no signal problem as I did record this while the unit is mounted into the external antenna. Playing back recorded programming, audible books, or mp3s makes the battery last 16 hours. So my point is, when you are listening to something live take the opportunity to record other stations so you maximize your listening time. It's easy, and it works well. And you get to use the device all day. Again at 4:00PM at work I set it to record the stations I want for an hour. So that at 5:00PM when I leave, I am listening to recorded shows from 1 hour ago and again, little battery drain, and no signal problems on the way home because it's recorded playback. What's the difference in listening to 1 hour ago programming? In fact, it's better. Let me explain why. When you record a channel for 60 minutes or more and then play it back, you can skip ads as easily as you can hit the "Next" button. The recorded shows are divided up by every change. If a ad comes up, it's considered a segment which can be skipped in playback. So when I listen to record news, I can quickly listen to the news by skipping ads. And it's even easier than a tivo! Just one tap of skip, skips one ad. If there are 3 ads in a row, you can skip 1, 2, and 3 times to skip all three ads. Easy as pie and you'll love it. So believe me, you want to take advantage of recorded shows when you go for a walk. You skip the bull, get perfect audio, and can listen just like live or skip ads. Up to you.
So I have to say, in terms of the device itself, it's a 5 star device. After reading poor reviews, I'm glad I tried it anyway. If you are on the fence, go for it. You will see as I have see that the device is fantastic. That's where the rave reviews come from. Those are from those folks that have a brain in their head and don't have some ax to grind.
Now I do have gripes, but they have to do with the XM2Go Music software. This software is not a music manager as you might think. It should not be compared to iTunes or Media Monkey, because it's honestly not a music manager at all. It's more of an upload tool to upload mp3s or WAV files to the device. Read on...
I thought the XM2GO app would be a full music manager, but rather what it does is allow you to easily setup a program record time if that's what you want. You can use it to upload music to your SD card. But the best way to do this is by organizing what you want to upload to the device into a single folder before you upload it. If you already have a full music collection on your hard drive that is stored in the file system by artist and you want a small subset of favorite tunes, you're going to go crazy with XM2GO because you will have to pick one by each song using a director tool in XM2GO to hand pick each song and choose upload. It's insanely stupid.
I use Media Monkey instead of iTunes. And in Media Monkey, I can take my favorites playlist and sent a copy of the songs in that playlist to a folder on my desktop in Windows. Then I use XM2GO to upload the contents of that single folder to the SD card. This gives me my favorite MP3s on the XMP3. I find this the fastest, easiest way to deal with the extremely lousy XM2GO software, which didn't even come with my player. I had to download it. The one real complaint I have with the XMP3 player is not with the device. It's with the Music app from XP / Pioneer. These two companies absolutely blew it on the software. You can work around this as I said, but it would have been great to have a more full-featured music app so that you can easily manage podcasts and mp3 playlists on the device. The way it's done now makes me want to visit with Pioneer and XM and slap these stupid programmers. I don't know why it is so hard for these companies to see what needs to be done to make something simple and enjoyable to use. It's as if they have no brains in their skulls, and know that's not true. It's not a show-stopper. I'd buy the device all over again even knowing what I know now.
You can add audible content to the Xmp3, but not on the SD card. It goes on the devices built in memory. And recorded XM radio also goes on the device memory. So the SD card is truly good for MP3s and WAV files.
Now a few other points for first -time XM people. If you use the web app to play content online you can click a button and buy the song from Amazon. I love this feature. So listening via a laptop over the internet is a good idea and can help you discover new songs to buy. BUT! And I mean BUT, some stations are not available online. No Bloomberg or CNBC for example. Don't count on every station being there exactly the same way as on the device. Because of this, I strongly recommend getting a home kit for your home and office. If you just think it through a little you'll find that the battery, being mobile, etc are all not a real problem. Even for those walking around dense cities as I am.

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Record What You Love, Listen When You Want! Introducing the Pioneer GEX-XMP3 Portable XM Satellite Radio with MP3. Providing you with the best of both worlds.


With the XMp3, the Music Never Stops Loved that song, really want to hear it again? Miss that MLB play or joke on one of the comedy channels? Pause and replay it. Know you'll miss the game? Record it and play it again the next day, or on the drive home. In the car with your kids? Listen to 20 on 20 or XMKiDs while simultaneously recording the game, your favorite show, or the station you can't get enough of to listen later.



The NEW XMp3 offers:

More ways than ever to record up to 100 of your favorite XM programming
Automatic Recording: 15 - 30 hours
Multi Channel Record up to five channels at the same time
DVR like feature pause and replay 30 minutes of live XM
Smaller and lighter form factor
Larger and more vibrant color display
Improved User Interface and track wheel
Micro SD Slot! The XMp3 is microSDHC compliant and works with standard or high capacity microSD cards (up to 8GB).
New Exclusive XM2go Music Manager compatible with XMp3 and backward compatible with Inno, Helix, Nexus, and SkyFi3

Live XM

Enjoy over 170 channels of music, sports, news, talk, entertainment, and exclusive content
Set up to 99 Favorite Channels
TuneSelect: Be alerted when your favorite artists or songs are playing on any XM channel
XM Programming Guide: See the best of XM and choose to be alerted when it is playing or schedule to record it
Recording
More ways than ever to record up to 100 your favorite XM programs -- automatic, scheduled, one touch -- and save time by recording up to 5 channels at the same time
One-Touch Recording of up to 10 Hours of Individual Songs
Schedule Recordings of up to 75 Hours of Your Favorite XM Programs
Automatic Recording of up to 15 - 30 Hours of Your Favorite XM Channels
Save Time -- Record up to 5 Channels at the Same Time
MP3 Enjoy your personal music collection (MP3 and WMA files) collection with the micro SD card slot. Compatible with standard or high capacity microSD cards, the XMp3 is microSDHC compliant.
XM2go Music Manager

Schedule Recordings of up to 75 hours of your Favorite XM Programs
Manage your music: Create and modify playlists of your own MP3 collection or your XM recordings
Online Programming Guide: Discover new music by seeing what's playing on XM for the next week
Bookmark and purchase songs from compatible online music services including Napster
Purchase and listen to your favorite audio books from Audible.com/xm

Other Key Features: GameSelect: Be alerted when your favorite sports teams are on any XM channel Info Extras: Keep track of selected sports scores and stocks

What's in the Box GEX-XMP3 Portable XM Satellite Radio with MP3, wireless remote control, headphones, operation manual, warranty sheet

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Tivoli Model Satellite Table Radio (Sirius Satellite Radio / AM / FM ) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I love Sirius in my car for its niche channels like jazz, Folk Town and Bluegrass so I bought the Tivoli table model. On the positive side the sound is GREAT -- right up there with Bose, but the design leaves some things to be desired. 1. It won't work without external antennas for AM, FM or Sirius. 2. It does not have an internal power supply. 3. To get stereo or CD you have to buy additional boxes. 4. You really do have to have a clear view of the sky where the satelite is located. Trees and buildings block the signal. 5. You might as well order the third party signal booster and antenna extension because it only comes with a 30 foot cable to the antenna which will probably not get it to your roof. 6. There is not an easy way to feed additional stereo equipment to take advantage of a home sound system. 7. There is no way to cut off the big blue info screen which is really BIG and Blue. When installed this thing has as many wires and connections as a lobbyist in Washington. But if you can put up with the clunky design it is wonderful.

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Tivoli Audio introduces the world's first satellite table radio designed exclusively for home use with built in SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The new Model Satellite radio is designed by Tivoli Audio CEO, Tom DeVesto, and is based on the popular, award-winning

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Passport to World Band Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I can't believe that this is the 25th edition of this wonderful reference book. I've been buying them ever since the first issue. And each one was worth the upgrade. After all, would you want to search for a TV program with last years TV Guide? Shortwave broadcast stations change their programming, their hours, the language used and even the area of the globe they broadcast to. Without this guide you are just shooting in the dark if you are trying to listen to a particular type of programming.
Each year there are reviews of radios, antennas and other listening equipment. Believe me they are not afraid to say what they think and why in their thoughtful and clear reviews. You will know why they liked or didn't like something after reading them. One reason I like to keep my older issues, is so that I can check out the reviews of equipment that I run across on eBay, hamfests, etc. If you are shopping for a world band radio you can save the price of this book on your next radio purchase (new or old).
There are insightful articles about countries around the globe and things you can learn by listening to their local radio stations. The 2009 edition has an approximately 15 page article titled "Columbia: Bandits, Ballads, and Broadcasts". Very interesting!
Then there are the "Getting Started" articles that educate and make a beginner comfortable. Those articles, plus the product reviews, take up almost 200 pages this year.
After that there is a section titled "What's On Tonight". This gives some recommendations about stations and programs to listen to each hour of the day. Detailed enough to take up about 50 pages in the book.
Then there are 60 pages of addresses and contact information of broadcast stations around the world.
The next section is "Worldwide Broadcasts in English". Most of us know that the USA, Canada, Great Britian, etc. broadcast in English. Would you like to listen to news and music from Mongolia? Or, considering the Middle Eastern situation, there are Syrian, Iranian, Saudi, etc. broadcasts in English. There are about 15 pages with schedules in this section.
The final narrative section is "Voices from Home". this is a 15 page section about broadcasts in a station's native language.
Then there is a 13 page glossary with photos of radio and shortwave listening terms and abbreviations.
Finally, there is the detailed schedule by frequency and then time of what you might expect to find on the radio. These schedules are done in a graphic format that is easy to understand. Let's just say that this un-numbered section is between 150 and 200 pages long.
So, for under $20, don't you think you are getting your money's worth?

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As events unfold, the intellectually curious go beyond everyday sources to seek out news, opinion and perspectives direct and unfiltered. Only world band radio delivers this no matter what, and quick-access Passport to World Band Radio is the #1 seller to this market-over a million copies sold to date. Each edition is welcomed by established and emerging readers alike, as Passport delivers in 560 pages what world band listeners seek

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Pioneer DEH-P3000IB In-Dash CD/Mp3/Wma/iTunes AAC/Wav Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Pioneer always has really great, high-end products. I was only slightly disappointed with this one. Whoever they have in their usability/user interface department, they need to fire them. The controls on this deck are absolutely counter-intuitive. I consider myself pretty much a gadget geek and computer nerd, so I'm usually able to figure out how to use things without reading the manual. However, I had to read the manual to figure out how to use it, which generally means it hasn't been designed very well. It's very difficult to navigate through the menus of the deck.
I would say whoever wrote their user manual should also be fired, since it's extremely confusing and hard to read. I still don't know how to change the clock on it.
Overall, it's a great upgrade. I miss my stock Honda one, but some of the buttons didn't work. Once you get the Pioneer deck installed, I suggest just using the included remote, as it's much easier.

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The Pioneer DEH-P3000IB is a perfect receiver if you want all the basics. With a built-in MOSFET 50W x 4 amplifier, you'll get plenty of power along with the CD player, playback of MP3/AAC/WMA/WAV files from data CDs, an AM/FM radio, remote control, and auxiliary input for external devices. And when you're ready to expand, Pioneer has you covered with support for adding Bluetooth, iPod Direct Connection, Satellite Radio, CD changers, and more--not to mention two RCA preamp outs for growing your system. Start out right, and expand when you need it.

Detachable Faceplate The DEH-P3000IB features a detachable faceplate with a white on black one-line, 16-character LED display.
CD/MP3/WMA/AAC Playback In addition to CDs, enjoy playback of MP3, WMA, AAC, and WAV audio files burned to CD, with ID3 tag support--title, artist, and album info will be scrolled across the display.
AM/FM Radio Always have your favorite stations at hand with six user presets per band.
Best Stations Memory Setting your radio presets can be a real pain while you're driving--especially if you're in an unfamiliar area. So, let the tuner do the work for you by activating the Best Stations Memory (BSM) function. The tuner will seek out the six strongest stations in the area and set them into the tuner presets.
7-Way Rotary Commander The 7-Way Rotary Commander is like a musical joystick: with one central dial, you can actually control 90% of the unit's functions and features. Scrolling through your MP3/WMA/AAC files and folders is now very easy. In addition, when controlling an iPod, the operation is easy to learn--it is similar in all respects to the actual iPod.
AUX-In Connection Use the built-in AUX input for connecting any portable digital player or other external auxiliary devices. For extra-convenient access, the DEH-P3000IB has this input on the front panel.
Full-Featured High Performance The DEH-P3000IB is intelligently designed to expand your system, customize your experience, and provide superior sound quality and easy operation.
Two RCA preouts for adding on external amps and speakers simplify system expansion.
Two-Way Crossover with separate High and Low Pass settings
Built-in MOSFET 50 W x 4 amplifier for excellent sound quality, minimal distortion and efficient power handling.
Supertuner IIID advanced analog and digital processing assure superior imaging, less distortion and noise, and stronger, smoother broadcast signal reception.

Wireless Remote A wireless remote is included for use while watching the road.
iPod Direct Connection (CD-I200 required) Connect an iPod to the DEH-P3000IB using the optional CD-I200 direct control cable, and you can control menus, shuffle function, songs, podcasts, and audiobook chapters in the iPod through the headunit interface as quickly and easily as you would on the iPod itself. Don't worry about your iPod battery running low on power--this direct connection also recharges the unit during playback. In addition, Pioneer has developed the following new features to make using your iPod in the car extremely easy and convenient:
Link Search--While listening to a specific artist, you can hold "List" button down and it will pop up folders containing that specific artist.
Passenger Control Mode--Allows passenger to use the iPod directly to browse and select music, while connected to the headunit for playback.
Random (Shuffle) Key--Physical Random Button on faceplate (Shuffle) makes it easy to hear something fresh.

Ready to Expand The DEH-P3000IB gives you all the basics, but there's plenty of room to grow. In addition to the iPod Direct feature, it's compatible with Pioneer's Bluetooth adapter, USB adapter, XM and Sirius satellite radio tuners, CD changer, and more. Start out small and add more features as you need them.
What's in the Box Pioneer DEH-P3000IB, remote control, sleeve, trim ring, wiring harness, installation hardware, operation manual, installation guide, warranty sheet

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TEAC AG-790A Stereo Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I had a 7.1 channel Home Theater Receiver (HTR), but I got rid of it in favor of this stereo receiver. For me, the HTR was excessively complicated with too many menus to work through just to play music from my collection of LP's, cassette's, or CD's. The Teac AG-790A is simple to use for playing music. This receiver can control four speakers. The description of this product does not mention that if you want to control two sets of speakers (4 in total), they should be identical. There is no way to adjust for differences between two sets of speakers with different sound qualities or power ratings. TEAC's manual makes the same recommendation for identical speakers if you are going to use four speakers. The controls are very easy to use, although as one reviewer mentioned, I too would have preferred more dials instead of buttons. I know, "old school". Still, the buttons are very easy to use. I have a phonograph, cassette recorder/player, and CD recorder/player all attached to this receiver with a couple of Bose speakers. The radio tuner is great too. The sound of music this receiver produces is fabulous. However, for those times when I want to emphasize the bass sounds, I might add a powered sub-woofer as my "second set of speakers". There are bass and treble controls on this receiver, which work great. I am really talking about the sound quality of my speakers and not the receiver. I am talking about really pumping up the bass beyond what my speakers can provide. A sub-woofer with its own internal power system connected as the second set of speakers will allow me to adjust for the differences between the different speakers independent of this receiver. With the bass, treble adjustments available on this receiver, there really is no need for a powered sub-woofer, unless you are a bass freak as I am sometimes. That is just a personal choice. This receiver provides a lot of adjustment with its bass, treble and loudness controls. The bottom line is I highly recommend this receiver for music lovers.

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Teac AG-790A A/V Receiver AG-790A Home Theater Receivers

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Delphi SkyFi2 XM Satellite Radio Receiver and Car Kit Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After much research, I finally decided that this was the receiver for me! So far, so good.
I am primarily using this in the car, so I grabbed this version that included the car kit. If you only want one receiver but want to use it in two cars, you will need an extra car kit. It's too annoying to try to move the antenna between cars. I had looked at a few portable units, but I chose this one since it was designed primarily for those in the car, and I wanted the a unit that was going to be easy to use when I'm in the car.
Installation was very easy. I did it myself, and my antenna is on top of my roof near the front. The antenna cord is about 24 feet long, so there is plenty of extra cord if you are in a sedan like me. I ran my cord right under the weatherstripping on the front windsheild as was suggested at cruchfield.com, then through the door and around the door jam. The kit also includes one of those little tubes that you can fit around your cords, as you will have three: antenna, power and the cassette. All cords plug into the base.
I used the air vent base installation instructions (the kit also comes with dashboard mount and a swivel mount, but both can damage your car when you're ready to remove the mounts). The only thing is that I wish it were a little more steady from side to side when I am pushing the buttons. It takes some playing around with to get just right.
The receiver itself has been pretty easy to use. I definitely recommend actually reading the instructions on how to use all of the different buttons. There are 30 memory buttons available. There is also a neat feature that will alert you to when your favorite artist or song is playing, and the alert will allow you to go straight to that channel if you so desire.
One downside is that only the buttons have a backlight. The labels above them do not have these lights. So, until I get to remember exactly where the "jump," "memory" and "menu" buttons are, it's going to be to difficult to use them in the dark.
There is also a 30 minute record/replay function on this receiver. However, anything you save is erased when the unit is turned off.
I tracked this item for a few weeks before I bought it, as I noticed that the price occasionally would change from day to day. Amazon's price when I bought this three days ago was $93.99, and today it is listed about $3 less. Some third party merchants have dropped the price below the Amazon price from time to time, but generally, the Amazon price has been the lowest.
If you buy this item before the end of April 2006, there is also a $30 rebate available from XM.
Although I have not actually been a Sirius subscriber, I took advantage of the online trials with Sirius and XM. I also read some reviews of both and examined their channel guide. Their offerings are very similar. If you are interested in sports, XM has great college ACC/Pac 10/Big 10 channels (I am a UNC grad, so I have to have my ACC sports!), NASCAR and MLB. Sirius offerings are more towards NFL/MLH fans. One review I read said that the music on Sirius tended to be what he phrased as "riskier," which the reviewer defined as playing more deep cuts, etc. I have been very, very pleased with the XM offerings, playlist, variety, talk, etc. No complaints with XM here!

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SKYFi2 vehicle system comes with SKYFi2 XM satellite receiver, remote control, and vehicle kit.
Pause/replay function allows you to enjoy up to 30 minutes of recorded programming
TuneSelect finds your favorite songs if they are currently playing on any XM channel
Built-in FM Wireless Modulator allows you to listen to XM through any nearby FM radio without using any wires
Advanced display with up to 5 lines of text; customizable size, content, color (black on white or white on black)
Preview mode allows you to see what's playing on other channels prior to making selection
Direct channel entry from main unit or remote control
30 channel presets to easily store you favorite channels
Jump button allows for easy switching between 2 channels
Info extras - personal stock ticker, sports score ticker, clock and more
Sleep timer
Auto on/Auto off
Backward compatible with all SKYFi accesorries
Commercial-free music

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