Originally posted by Azrael@Dec 25 2004, 02:08 PM
I'll stick with conventional. I don't see a point in paying 400 for a reciever and another 10-15 dollars a month for something that I can get for free. Commercials don't bother me that much, and I can just swich to a cd.
I have heard the above argument many, many times, but I don't EVER hear a similar argument coming from someone who's had satellite radio. Generally people who get SR not only like it, but suddenly can't stomach regular radio anymore. Include me in this camp.
I got XM in early December 2001, when the service was about 2 weeks old. I have never looked back. The difference between satellite radio and broadcast is MUCH more pronounced than that between, say, broadcast TV and cable. The variety, ability to hear your favorite stations anywhere in the country, lack of censorship, and lack of commercials is just striking. I have 3 XM subscriptions and it's worth every penny (which is well under $10/month, as you get substantial discounts with multiple subs and/or purchasing 1+ years of service in advance).
Although I prefer XM to Sirius, the difference between the two used to be greater. XM used to have the best station anywhere (check the "Special X" threads at xm411.com), but XM still has an edge in some areas, expecially the comedy channels. I'll admit, a huge factor is that I have a morning commute and absolutely abhor the "Morning Zoo" format, and XM allows me to actually listen to MUSIC in the morning, instead of the shtick of unfunny DJ's who love to hear themselves laugh, followed by 10 minute commercial blocks.
My advice is, next time you have to rent a car, try and find one with SR (Avis has these for sure, and there are others) and give it a try for your trip.
-Steven-