Date:         Fri, 27 Jun 2003 01:02:32 -0400
Reply-To:     caverat <caverat@ATTBI.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         caverat <caverat@ATTBI.COM>
Subject:      RE- Sirius and NPR
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

-- I have the XMPCR, which connect to the USB on your computer and outputs
-- to the sound card or powered speakers
-- I intend to build a computer for my camper using the VIA EDEN
-- Motherboard and use the XMPCR for tunes.

The XMPCR is a neat piece of equipment.  For those that don't know what it is, it is satellite radio for your PC that does not require an internet connection but still requires a subscription.  Find out more about it at www.xmradio.com.  That's a neat ideal on how to make your XMPCR mobile.  I use my free Sirius radio for my camper tunes.  Much lower power requirements for places without electricity.  I've run it for hours at high volume with a powered subwoofer and was able to crank the van right up.  I did purchase a voltmeter that I plan to install to keep an eye on the power drain since I don't have a second battery.  I also prewired up some extra connections into the front door speaker wires that I can easily tie some all-weather speakers into that I place outside when I'm camping so my friends can enjoy the service too.  That is how I have gotten several people to sign up.  Hearing it for yourself is what sells the service.  People eventually begin to wonder what is on when they finally realize you don't have a 100 CD changer in your van.

-- Even though Sirius carries NPR, it does not carry All thing considered or
-- Morning edition. These are pretty important if you are an NPR listener

Your normal radio will still allow you to get these.  NPR did not want to alienate its broadcasters and has chosen to allow some popular programming to remain only on their free service.  NPR as it is known today on free radio will not change, but it is expanding its service and will offer programming exclusive to the Sirius satellite radio market.  XM is a good service too and it has exclusive deals like at 24/7 channel devoted to Nascar.  It also currently has some neater equipment options such as the XMPCR, the very popular SkyFi,  and a boombox, but Sirius is rapidly catching up and will have a 2nd generation unit on the shelves in July that will make the SkiFi much less attractive.  For example, the new Sirius unit will be wireless, while the SkyFi requires a direct FM modulated or cassette-based connection to hook into your existing radio.