How Does Satellite Radio Work

Subscription-based satellite radio service is at the forefront of the US music market. Long gone are the days when the only option for the majority of folks was in choosing from just one or two measly stations that had poor reception and overbearing, irritating disk jockeys and commercials!

However, local radio stations generally do not fear the satellite radio revolution, predicting their survival in much the same way basic television has survived, despite the emergence of cable in the 90s. There is a lot to love about satellite radio and it is no surprise that Sirius Radio is ranked #1 Fastest Growing Company for 2007 according to Deloitte Technology.

First of all, satellite radio provides you with a high-quality digital signal that can transcend geographic borders by beaming down from three geosynchronous communications satellites orbiting around the Earth. Many channels feature CD-quality sound, static-free.

Secondly, satellite radio has over 130 different channels for your every mood. Instead of choosing from the two local rock stations, you can now select from 23 rock stations. If you like talk radio, you can still get Howard Stern, BBC world news, traffic and weather, Fox or CNN, to name a few. There is literally something for everyone and the selections will stay with you, even if you're traveling from New York to California!

The third benefit - that is worth its weight in gold - is that there are NO commercials! It may be hard to believe that 100% commercial-free radio exists, but for just $13/month, you can evade the constant interruptions that plague your morning and late afternoon commutes. Satellite radio is the obvious choice for truckers, delivery drivers and long road trips.

Of course, there are some minor drawbacks to satellite radio. It does require some effort on your part. Much like cable TV, you will need to purchase a few things to get your service up and running.

For satellite radio in your car, you will need to visit an electronics retailer to get Sirius plug and play radio receivers installed. The good news is that you can still listen to your regular local radio stations by simply unplugging the unit. However, if you are buying a newly made Ford, Chrysler, Mercedes-BMW, Volvo, Mazda, Jaguar, Jeep, Dodge, Audi, VW, Nissan or Infiniti, you will be happy to know satellite capable radios have already been installed!

There are also portable units you can use anywhere, much like an iPod or MP3 player. There are satellite radio home units for your home or office. Or if you simply order satellite TV, the radio channels will come automatically to your television set!

Prices for satellite radio equipment vary greatly, but generally range from $89 for a home/vehicle transmitter to $1049 for the most expensive multi-room home tuner. For most people, it will probably cost around $200 bucks.

The service itself is $13/month or $149/year. Sirius also offers lifetime packages for $500 so you'll never have to pay a single bill.