XM
Latest
Copyright Royalty Board sets new satellite radio license fees
It's not nearly as hotly-debated as the change to the webcasting rates, but our nation's esteemed Copyright Royalty Board has just issued a new set of license fees for satellite broadcasters -- also known as Sirius and XM. The new rates come after a year of legal wrangling -- the main point of contention was hashing out what revenue to measure to determine the license fees, and it looks like the broadcasters won on this one -- advertising and subscriptions count, but not hardware sales and data services. That said, the rates still look like they're pretty fair, all around: the six-year plan has the companies paying six percent of applicable revenues through 2008, 6.5 percent in 2009, seven percent in 2010, 7.5 percent in 2011, and eight percent in 2012. Of course, hopefully by then that pesky merger will finally be completed, so the rates will have to be adjusted further, but it's nice to know that the tunes are going to keep coming for a while longer.[Via OrbitCast]
XM / Sirius merger decision coming today?
Over nine months after the two satellite radio companies announced their intentions to merge, XM and Sirius may finally find out the fate of their plans today, if the Justice Department issues a ruling as is being rumored. Orbitcast reports that the general consensus among industry watchers is that the DOJ will hand down a decision before the closing bell on Wall Street -- a prediction further buoyed by Bear Stearns analyst Robert Peck, whose contacts in DC claim that a ruling is "imminent." As you're probably well aware, this proposed marriage is no ordinary merger, with strong opposition coming from terrestrial broadcasters who cite anti-trust concerns, but who are really just fearful of the market power such an entity would yield. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops...
Sirius shareholders on board for XM deal
No surprise here, but Sirius shareholders voted overwhelmingly today to approve the $5 billion acquisition of XM. Those kids with the cash are behind the deal 96 percent strong, and Sirius says it hopes to finish the deal by the end of the year, with some obvious regulatory hurdles to clear first. C'mon FCC and DoJ, we know you want to do the right thing here, make it happen.
Jensen's NVXM1000 Rock'N'Road XM / GPS system on sale now
Given that the last time we heard about Jensen's NVXM1000 was nearly 11 months ago, we won't hold it against you if you just can't bring back the memories of this well-spec'd XM mini-tuner / navigator hybrid. The $799.99 Rock'N'Road, as it's so affectionately dubbed, is finally ready to take to the streets, and it's packing a 4.3-inch color touchscreen, support for XM Instant Traffic, weather, sports and stocks, 11 million POIs, an 8GB hard drive, wireless FM modulator, an integrated media player / photo viewer, USB connectivity and a SD expansion slot. And if you just so happen to find yourself in a participating GM, Toyota, Honda, Nissan or Hyundai dealership, you can get hooked up with the rebadged Advent ADV800XM for the same amount of dough. Now, whether or not this thing's actually worth all eight Benjamins is another story, but it's available today for those who adamantly feel it is.
Jesse Jackson speaks out against the Sirius / XM merger
The proposed Sirius / XM merger has always ruffled a few feathers at the NAB (and the NAB has certainly ruffled back), but it's another thing entirely when a national political figure like Jesse Jackson comes out opposed to the deal. Jackson, who spoke at the FCC hearings on the merger yesterday, said that allowing Sirius and XM to combine would essentially create a monopoly in the satellite radio market, eliminating the potential for diverse ownership and possibly squelching minority voices on the dial. Control of the media has always been a hot-button issue for activists of all stripes, and we can certainly see why Jackson would oppose such a merger on those grounds, but another organizations with a similar agenda, the NAACP, has actually issued statements supporting the merger, saying that combined, XM / Sirius would ""strengthen its commitment to diversity." It's obviously a thorny issue with a lot of viewpoints, so please -- let's keep the comments civil, shall we?
Updated Delphi MyFi XM2go receiver rocks the FCC
Details are a little sketch and there's only a shot of the device's battery compartment, but it looks like a new MyFi-branded XM2go receiver is on the way, cause that's what XM's telling the FCC and the FCC don't take kindly to lies. The unit, labeled as Delphi model number SA10113A and XM part number XMTSK01665-01, seems like it shares at least the same basic shape as the previous MyFi radio, but hopefully we'll get a better look at this bad boy soon.
Onkyo intros the HT-SP908 and HT-SP904 do-it-all home theater systems
Have you ever been sitting at home at night, looking at your 19-inch CRT television and listening to your Victrola phonograph and thought, "Shazam! This setup stinks!"? Well, perhaps you're in dire need of an introduction to Onkyo's HT-SP908, a home theater in a box which does everything... and we mean everything. The progressive-scannin', multi-format-playin', 7.1 system offers 90-watts per channel, an iPod dock, XM and SIRIUS radio compatibility, 720p / 1080i / 1080p upscaling, 1080i and 1080p HDMI in / out, component in / out, optical and coaxial audio in / out, plus playback of DVD Video, Video CS, CD, CD-R/RW, DVD+/-R/RW, MP3, WMA, WMV, MPEG 4-AAC, DivX, and JPEG formats. If that's not enough, it also makes lunch, breaks up with annoying girlfriends, and organizes your t-shirts by color. The HT-SP908 is available now for $1099, a slimmed-down, 5.1 version called the HT-SP904 is also currently on shelves for $899.Read -- HT-SP908Read -- HT-SP904
NAB pleads for FCC delay, looks for ways to subvert XM / Sirius merger
As the constant battle between the National Association of Broadcasters and nearly everyone else continues on over the potential XM / Sirius merger, the entity is now asking the FCC to put a stop on the 180-day clock for considering the junction. Reportedly, all the NAB wants is "time to go through documents it said it is getting through a Freedom of Information Request filed in March," and it seemingly feels that some of the articles it's still waiting for contain proof of "serious apparent wrongdoing by XM and Sirius executive and senior-level employees regarding the operation of FM modulators / translators and / or terrestrial repeaters." Of note, both of the aforementioned sat radio providers shot back by stating that the NAB's "allegations are unfounded and its recent filing is just an attempt to stall the process." From the outside looking in, we'd say that sounds just about right. [Warning: PDF read link][Via BroadcastingCable]
XM XpressRC gets evaluated
We'll admit, the XM XpressRC sure looked mighty nice from a distance, and judging by CNETs take on it, it's equally fine up close. Quite frankly, this device was hailed as a notch above the alternatives, boasting a full-color display "that not only jumped out at you with its beauty, but could be easily read and understood while driving." Granted, not everything was entirely peachy, as the reviewer took issue with the knob's design and the small power button -- both grumbles that could certainly be overlooked. Additionally, the unit's ability to pause / rewind up to an hour of programming was very appreciated, and the other small bonuses (i.e. SongSaver) filled out the feature set quite nicely. All in all, this little gizmo was seen as "the way to go" if you've been scouting a device of this nature, but the $170 pricetag could still be a hindrance.
Pioneer intros Elite X-Z9 audio system
Pioneer hasn't forgotten the audiophiles out there, and their new X-Z9 is for those who still listen to stereo music. The X-Z9 combines a SACD/CD deck and integrated digital amplifier (50W to each channel) in one chassis. All you have to do is connect the included speakers and you've got an audio listening station. In case you prefer music of the ripped variety, there are additional inputs available: Sirius/XM; interoperation with a PC via Home Media Gallery; iPod integration and USB drives. Supported digital formats include WMA, MPEG4-AAC, MP3 and FLAC. Available in October for $1799.
Pioneer intros well-spec'd AVIC-N4 in-dash navigation system
Less than a month after Pioneer loosed details on its AVIC-X3, along comes word that we can also expect an AVIC-N4 in the not-too-distant future. This single-DIN unit boasts a motorized, flip-out seven-inch touchscreen, optional iPod / Bluetooth compatibility, CD or DVD playback, XM / XM NavTraffic-readiness, and a Tele Atlas database for routing you around. Regrettably, the lack of an internal HDD means that you'll be forced to insert the map DVDs in order to access guidance, but users can feel free to toss in discs with MP3, WMA, AAC, or DivX files when the drive is clear. Furthermore, the unit can even accept tunes streamed in wirelessly from a mobile handset when utilizing the CD-BTB200 adapter, as it understands both A2DP and AVRCP protocols. So, now that you've found a satisfactory replacement for that aging factory head-unit, you've only got to scrounge up $1,600 to make the swap.[Via NaviGadget]
New Pioneer Elite A/V receivers hit the streets
We've checked out the deets on two of Pioneer's new A/V receivers in their Elite range, the VSX-92TXH and VSX-94TXH and now they are finally shipping. As you'd expect from the Elite moniker, these units are pretty packed with goodies. They're both THX approved, 7.1 channel receivers rated at 130 and 140 Watts per channel, respectively. These are fully HD-ready by any sensible definition of "HD". For your eyes, they can pass 1080p, 24Hz video along their four HDMI 1.3a ports. Upscaling of analog video is handled by a Faroudja DCDi chip for all your digitally-deficient components. For your ears, these receivers handle Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD Master Audio audio signals. If you can't get enough THX goodness in your theater, these units also have Neural-THX Surround, the latest in audio trickery to get your ears to suspend disbelief. There's the usual gaggle of inputs on these units, on top of which Pioneer has added iPod, XM and Sirius device support. [Thanks, Mark]
Yamaha announces feature-packed RX-Z11 home theater receiver
Normally home theater receivers aren't considered anything special, content to switch inputs and power speakers, letting the plasma flat-panel take all the glory. But Yamaha has thrown all the goodies and features into the RX-Z11 receiver, with THX Ultra2 Plus certification for quality assurance, five HDMI 1.3a inputs and two outputs, four component inputs and two outs, and support for five audio and two video zones. It also supports the newest audio codecs, including Dolby TrueHD, and DTS Master Audio. To finish off the features, the receiver also supports terrestrial HD and XM satellite radio, network capabilities and internet radio, and includes an iPod dock for external media. The RX-Z11 comes out in November, for an undisclosed (but surely expensive) price.
XM announces split-screen XpressRC radio
While we're a bit skeptical of the company's claims to "redefine the listening experience," XM's new XpressRC radio does indeed look to be fairly impressive as far as satellite radios go, with it boasting a full-color split-screen display among other notable new features. That screen will let you view information for your current channel on the left side, while letting you browse up to three other channels on the right side. Apart from that, the radio will give you a 60-minute buffer to let you pause and replay programming, and you'll be able to store up to ten of your favorite songs with the new "Songsaver" feature. As with other satellite radios, you'll also be able to move it between vehicles, and make use of various docks and speaker systems for a little out-of-vehicle listening. Look for this one to set you back $170 when it rolls out this fall.Read - XM Press ReleaseRead - XM Product Page
Hilton's Sight+Sound suites deliver DirecTV, HD niceties
As the HDTV movement continues to reshape the average hotel room experience, Hilton has made sure it doesn't get left behind. Recently, the chain launched 25 "home theater-like" Sight+Sound rooms at the Hilton Chicago O'Hare International Airport, while 30 guest rooms at the Hilton San Francisco received the makeover. Among the amenities are a 42-inch LG plasma, Yahama's YSP-800 Digital Sound Projector, Monster cabling, DirecTV programming including 14 HD channels and a number of XM radio stations, and a high definition menu system from LodgeNet. Additionally, guests can hook up their DAPs or external audio sources to a unique "connectivity panel," and just in case you forget to pack an extra bag of cables, the specially equipped rooms should provide all the copper you need. Notably, this here setup sounds like one of the most fully-featured HD offerings found in a "standard" hotel, and now that it's been available for a few months, have any of you had an opportunity to indulge?
United offers gadgets aplenty in new Business seats
Not one to let Qantas get all the attention for its tricked out airline seats, United has now introduced some upgraded amenities of its own. In addition to offering some low-tech improvements like lie-flat seating, the airline's new United Business cabin also gets a boost in the gadget department, including some new 15.4-inch LCDs, a USB port, and an iPod adapter to let you charge your iPod and play your own music and videos on the seat's entertainment unit. You'll also get 20 channels of "stored XM-branded audio," with an additional 30 channels of other "stored audio" also available for you to create a playlist from, with some noise canceling headphones thrown in for good measure. Look for the first planes with the upgraded seats to roll out sometime this fall.[Thanks, Tom]
XM CEO Hugh Panero steps down
Word just hit the street that XM CEO Hugh Panero will be leaving the satellite radio provider in August, and the current president and COO, Nate Davis will be taking his place. This isn't exactly surprising news if you take a look at the recent business the company has been doing. First there's the XM / Sirius merger, of course, which has taken longer to complete than any other in FCC history, then there's the outages, subscriber backlash over programming, patent lawsuits, copyright lawsuits, and of course, the much-loved CEO name-calling. Really, who could blame the man from wanting to get away from the inevitable spit-roast someone was about to make of him? Of course, we've had our eye on Panero for some time now, and it seems possible that a change of leadership may be just what the satellite kingpin needs right now.[Via Orbitcast]
XM, Sirius planning new post-merger pricing options
XM and Sirius have already talked a bit about some of their post-merger pricing schemes, but it looks like that's not all they have in store, with Reuters now getting word of some additional changes coming once the deal is done. Specifically, the companies are now saying that they'll be offering a subscription package "priced 46 percent below current levels," along with an option for customers to buy packages of their favorite channels. While exact pricing is still unclear, the "a la carte" programming would apparently be available "within one year following the merger" -- whenever that actually happens.
Integra's DTR-5.8 receiver does HDMI 1.3a, XM / Sirius
If you've been scouting a leading-edge AV receiver with just about every amenity out there (including HDMI 1.3a), Integra's latest offering is likely to fit the bill. The DTR-5.8 sports a standard black enclosure, twin HDMI 1.3a inputs (and one output), built-in decoding for DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby TrueHD, and Dolby Digital Plus lossless, and a Faroudja DCDi chip for de-interlacing 480i signals. Home automaters will adore the range of control options, including a bi-directional RS-232 port, RIHD (Remote Interactive over HDMI) system, three programmable 12-volt triggers, dual IR inputs, and three unique assignable IR code sets. This two-zone, 7.1-channel unit even boasts a 90-watt-per-channel amplifier and XM / Sirius compatibility, but you're looking at a stiff $800 if these luxuries just can't be done without. Click on for a shot of the rear.
XM's CommanderMT receiver finally launches
It won't go down as the timeliest of launches, but the Audiovox-built CommanderMT that we peeked back at CES is finally up for grabs. The in-dash receiver was designed to operate with any AM / FM radio and sports a four-line display, jog dial, and the ability to "alert you whenever your favorite songs, artists, or sports teams are being played on another channel." Additionally, the Mini-Tuner compatibility ensures that you can take your XM subscription with you when you exit the vehicle, and while it may have lost some of its luster during the six months you've been anxiously waiting, interested consumers can snag one of their own "later this month" for $179.99. Continue on for a few in-car snapshots.[Via Orbitcast]
