Pioneer has an XM module that is RF and the head unit will fit in the ashtray so it looks pretty slick. I just don't trust the boys at circuit city to install it. Looks like about 249 plus antenna.http://www.xmradio.com/catalog/produ...214&type=Tuner

 

If someone installs this Pioneer unit, I'd love to see what it looks like inside the ashtray (a picture). I want to get XM Radio, but I hate the look of the Sony unit. Prefer something more stock looking. Installing the Pioneer unit in the ashtray may be the best approach.

Rick

 

I am going to do it, I just have to figure out when and how. I am not sure I want Circ City to do it as I said above. I would rather find a good custom shop that won't tear the crap out of my console and aluminum trim.

 

I just saw an ad for the Pioneer FM903XM... is this an in dash unit?
This ad says it uses FM modulation as a connection to your 'existing audio system'...
...convinient, but is there any signal degradation?

 

Rick, that is the same unit as in the link in the first post of this thread.

 

The jury is still out on this, but half the XM RADIO reviews on the 'net use the FM modulator and claim no noticable difference to the line-in or full receiver replacements. I'm sure there's SOME quality loss, as FM is nowhere near as efficient/sensitive as a line-in, but since the signal is so close and pretty good, it sounds like the reviewers can barelly tell, if at all. That's good enough for me. I'd prefer to keep the stock MB radio unit.

Rick

P.S. It should be noted that XM Radio and Sirius Radio have announced that their 2nd Generation receivers will receive "either" companies signal (thanks to a joint-agreement), giving the owner the option to switch companies easily or get both at once. The current first generation units will only receive their respective companies signal. It's the price of being an early adopter.