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Plug-and-Play satellite radio tuners
Because of their unique versatility, plug-and-play tuners have become incredibly popular with satellite radio listeners. As the name suggests, a "plug-and-play" tuner is designed to be connected quickly to a home or car stereo, or even to a portable system, by using various kits and accessories. The more kits you have, the more places you can use a plug-and-play tuner.
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Delphi Roady2
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Xact Stream Jockey |
Kenwood Here2Everywhere |
Delphi SKYFi2 |
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The key features of plug-and-play satellite radio tuners include:
- they are compact and portable
- they can connect to both car and home stereos with the appropriate kits
- they can be used with a compatible boombox or personal audio system
- pay one subscription, get the ability to listen to satellite radio in multiple locations
Plug-and-play kits
You need a kit to listen to use a plug-and-play tuner to listen to satellite radio. Kits come in both car and home versions, and include:
- a satellite radio antenna
- a cradle where power and signal connections are made
- equipment for transferring the audio signal to your stereo (like an RCA cable, cassette adapter, or FM modulator)
- a power adapter
Some tuners are packaged with car and home kits, while others require that you buy the kits separately. Many plug-and-play fans purchase at least one car and one home kit so they can listen to satellite radio in both places with just one subscription, but you can use a plug-and-play tuner with as many different kits as you like.
There are so many! So how do I choose?
First, decide which service you want — current plug-and-play tuners are service-specific, meaning they work with either XM or SIRIUS, but not with both.
Xact XTR1 Stream Jockey with Portable Power Pod Battery Pack |
Next, decide what features are most important to you. How do you want to listen to satellite radio?
If you want to listen to satellite radio while you jog, for example, look for models that are compatible with personal audio system, like the Delphi Roady2 or the Xact XTR1 (see left).
If you plan on using your tuner at home, you might want to go with a model that will blend well visually with your home stereo components. Blaupunkt's America, Kenwood's Here2Everywhere, and the Delphi SKYFi are elegant tuners that will look right at home on your stereo rack.
If you need to keep tabs on the market, look for a tuner with a scrolling stock ticker. SIRIUS' Sportster tuner will even alert you when your favorite NFL team is playing!
Delphi MyFi XM2GO |
Some newer plug-and-play tuners feature built-in memory — you can record, pause, and even rewind live radio. The SKYFi2 lets you record up to 30 minutes of programming, so you don't have to miss an interview or live concert because the phone rings.
And for the person who wants it all in one package, there's the new Delphi MyFi tuner (right). Thanks to the built-in rechargeable battery, integrated antenna, and headphone jack, you can use the MyFi just as you would a portable CD or MP3 player — just charge it up and go. Plus, the MyFi can record up to 5 hours worth of material — you can record your favorite stations and work out to satellite radio at the gym, where you cannot get a satellite radio signal.
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