In the years since the FCC made the 2.3 gigahertz (GHz) S band available for Digital Audio Radio Service, satellite radio has grown in popularity and sophistication. The technology, pioneered by XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio (which later merged), broadcasts clear, static free digital signals via orbiting satellites to specialized receivers found in cars and home stereo systems.
In addition to near CD quality digital sound, these services offer a wide variety of channels for music, talk, news and sports. Moreover, they provide coast to coast coverage without interference from environmental or man-made obstructions that often plague AM and FM terrestrial radio transmissions.
Typically, satellite radio is a subscription based service. Subscribers purchase a satellite radio receiver that is activated with the payment of a monthly fee to a satellite radio provider. The receiver decodes the satellite’s encrypted digital signal and transmits it to your car’s audio system.
One of the main reasons that people choose to subscribe to satellite radio is that they have access to a much wider selection of programming than traditional AM and FM stations. In fact, many popular radio hosts, like Howard Stern, jumped on the satellite wagon early and are only available to subscribers.
If your factory car radio is “satellite ready,” you can add satellite radio to your vehicle without replacing the head unit. The easiest option is to purchase a dock-and-play tuner, which can be moved from car to car with ease and connects to your existing radio using an aux input jack or by way of an FM transmitter.
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