SIRIUS Satellite Radio's GLBT channel, Sirius OutQ (ch 106), will be providing live coverage of the Gay Games VII from July 15th through July 22nd.
OutQ will broadcast the entire event - from the Opening Ceremony from Soldier Field to the Closing Ceremony from Wrigley Field - with interviews, profiles and stories of the athletes, directors and performers along the way.
Look for Sirius OutQ hosts offering colorful commentary and... behind-the-scenes facts about the event as well.
It's always stinks when you have a typo, especially when it's on a printed piece. And it especially stinks when it's your phone number.
Like when XM Satellite Radio recently sent out 78,000 postcards asking subscribers to update their billing information... only to realize the number was off by one-digit. (doh!)
Unfortunately, the wrong number goes to a small business, who with only 8 employees fielded over 1,200 calls on Friday alone. And since it was sent out via a 3rd party, the calls may continue for another 2 weeks.
WorldSpace (you know, that other satellite radio provider) has inked a deal with Sodielec to develop terrestrial repeater prototypes across Western Europe, starting in Italy.
Valued at 800,000 Euros the contract includes prototype design and development as well as guaranteed pricing for subsequent large-scale production of at least one model.
The Sodielec prototypes in Q4 2006 with production and deployment slated for 2007.
The folks over at GSI got their hands on some new Sirius Plug-and-Play receiver photos. The first is of the upcoming Brix Streamer GT3 ST3TK1B, which is essentially Brix's version of the Sirius Starmate Replay. The second photo is of the Brix Streamer 3 SP3TK1B, which is the Brix version of the Sirius Sportster 4.
Streamer GT3: 
Streamer 3:
It's important to note that these are meant to be middle-tier units, so the Replay functions will not be available in either unit. The display is also an Amber display, rather than the cool blue. This gives a clear upgrade path for the consumer.
Both units will be compatable with the same docking connector. That will allow you to snap the unit into the SUPV1 Sirius Universal Vehicle Kit, the SUPH1 (Universal Home Kit) and the SUBX1 (Universal Boombox). Very nice.
UPDATE: Looks the new units are expected to be available November 2006. Also from this page, there will be support for "'Smart' Docks & Accessories" which I hope means there will be some universal portable systems for future plug-and-play receivers.
Looking for deals on the new Sirius Stiletto? Look no further than below:
UPDATE: Orbitcast is completely obsessed with the new Sirius Stiletto, so if you're part of the thousands looking for info on the upcoming device, check out all the links below:
Keep checking back with Orbitcast, because if there's any info or news involving the Stiletto, you know we'll be covering it.
Thanks to quick photo work by The Deal, we (finally) have a photo of the pre-release version of Sirius' fully-portable satellite radio/MP3 player as Mel Karmazin is holding up at the Convergence 2.0 conference earlier this week.
To your right you can see Mel holding the device while he's talking about it's live on-the-go features, and that he promises that it will come out by the end of this summer.
If that's not enough, the boys over at Tech Effect were nice enough to provide a monsterous close-up photo of the device (which we believe will be known as the SIRIUS Stiletto SL100-TK1).
So without further adeau, here's what we have:
Now, the only point of reference for size we have is Mel's hand (which isn't a very scientific unit of measurement) and the connector - which looks identical to the Sportster 4's connector. So... that would put the connector's dimensions at just over 1" wide and 1/4" high,which gives us a reference point for how thick and wide the device is. Then again, this could just be a prototype.
[via Tech Effect]
(Engadget, Gizmodo, GSI, SSG and Sirius Backstage found it too)
Thanks to everyone who sent this in!
In Forbes today, Bear Stearns analyst Robert Peck noted that XM's website peaked around Father's Day at levels "significantly higher" than average, indicating a possible increase in interest around the holiday. By contrast, Sirius Satellite Radio's traffic stayed within the average range - spiking after Father's Day.
Curious. This peaked my interest. So I embarked onto good ol' Alexa to get a clearer picture:
Here's the Alexa graph showing the past month's worth of reach trending. I say "trending" because Alexa is great to determine exactly that - it's not an absolute measurement. Anyway.
So xmradio.com saw a significant spike in traffic just before Father's Day, yet sirius.com saw a spike after Father's Day. This could be translated in different ways as the post-Father's Day traffic could very well be from online activations (a good sign for Sirius). While the pre-Father's Day traffic for XM could be an indication that their TV spot made a difference. Ohh the speculation.
Whatever the causes, I'm pretty much convinced that the post-Father's Day traffic is from activations or from new subscribers checking out the service. Good news since this period is so important for consumer electronics sales.
But there's one thing that doesn't add up... Stern started streaming just before Father's Day.
Well well, looks like Willie's Place is going to XM afterall. XM Satellite Radio just announced that country music legend Willie Nelson will join XM, to launch "Willie's Place" (XM 13), formally known as "Hank's Place."
In his new role, Nelson will provide creative direction for the channel, as well as contribute exclusive programming to "Willie's Place" and other XM music channels.
"Willie's Place" will begin broadcasting July 10.
In addition to changing the channel name, XM is building new studios for "Willie's Place" in Carl's Corner, TX, located in the Willie Nelson's BioDiesel Truck Stop. "Willie's Place" will begin broadcasting live from Carl's Corner in 2007.
Willie Nelson is very popular with truckers (a key community for satellite radio). Peter Bell, a Texas biodiesel supplier said it perfectly to Wired News:
"What Willie brings to this is the ability to communicate directly with a truck driver. That kind of community is hard for people to get to. When he starts talking, these folks really listen to him.... It's like having Tiger Woods talk about golf clubs."
SIRIUS Satellite Radio has signed on Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame inductee Bill Gaither to host a new Souther Gospel music program.
The show, entitled Bill Gaither’s Homecoming Radio will feature classic as well as new southern gospel music, and will debut on Sunday, July 9th on SIRIUS ch 62, The Roadhouse.
The three-hour program will be broadcast at 9am ET and again at 9pm ET every Sunday.
XM Satellite Radio has inked a deal with the National Press Club to launch From the National Press Club - a news and current events program.
The hour-long, weekly show will feature broadcasts from international and national guest speakers, high-profile press conferences and other "newsworthy" events taking place at the National Press Club.
The show will debut on Saturday, July 1st @ 9pm ET on XM Public Radio (ch 133). The debut episode will feature remarks from special guest Vice President Dick Cheney made at the annual Gerald R. Ford Foundation's Journalism Awards luncheon.
[Press Release]
Starting this fall, SIRIUS Satellite Radio will launch Variety Radio News. Powered by reporters and editors of Variety magazine, Variety Radio News will deliver entertainment news multiple times each hour of every day.
Oddly enough, Variety Radio News will air on SIRIUS' Los Angeles channel (ch 150).
Bridge Ratings has released a survey that outlines the effect of digital media on terrestrial radio listening. The results are broken down on overall listenership, and then broken down by format. Overall, Internet radio caused the most amount of loss, with Satellite Radio coming in at #2. Here's the breakdown:
Satellite Radio caused 36% of respondants to listen to less traditional radio, while 23% actually listened to more radio and 41% said it had no effect. Overall, satellite radio caused a -12% loss in listening to traditional radio.
When broken down by format, here's how satellite radio listeners responded when compared to :
Time Spent with Various Media Persons 15-64
| Format Preference | % Listen |
Radio Hrs per wk |
Satellite Hrs per wk |
| Adult Contemp | 15.6% |
7.10 |
6.25 |
| Adult Hits | 2.1% |
7.15 |
5.25 |
| Alternative | 3.5% |
7. 25 |
7.75 |
| Contemporary Hits Radio | 12% |
6.50 |
6.00 |
| Country | 9.3% |
7.45 |
5.75 |
| New AC/Smooth Jazz | 2.5% |
8.25 |
7.25 |
| News/Talk | 19% |
5.75 |
6.50 |
| Oldies | 5% |
5.75 |
5.00 |
| Rock | 10% |
6.50 |
8.25 |
| Spanish | 12% |
7.75 |
4.75 |
| Urban | 11% |
6.25 |
5.50 |
This is pretty interesting. An article in today's Washington Times highlights the draw to Bob Dylan's show on XM Satellite Radio:
Rock legend Bob Dylan draws about 1.7 million listeners on XM Satellite Radio, making his weekly show one of the most popular that the subscription service offers, said XM President and Chief Executive Officer Hugh Panero.
Washington-based XM has more than 6 million subscribers. Mr. Panero would not tell us which programs draw the biggest audience on a daily basis, but he did say that "The Opie & Anthony Show," along with XM's comedy and news channels, tend to be the most popular.
Now, neither XM or SIRIUS expose the number of listeners for each of their channels. It's unfortunate because us fanboys would love to sit there and pick over any of these numbers - but then again, it's competitive intelligence. As long as no one is talking, why show your hand? (It would also serve as great market research for terrestrial radio.)
But XM has shown us a glimpse, here's the breakdown:
Total number of XM Radio Listeners* - 13.6 million
XM's The '70s - 2.1 million listeners
XM's The '80s - 1.9 million listeners
XM's 20-on-20 - 1.8 million listeners* Yes, "listeners" are different than "subscribers"
So... after seeing those numbers, knowing that Theme Time Radio Hour is bringing in about 1.7 million XM listeners is pretty damn impressive indeed.
Are you not getting your fix of Diamond Dave since he was fired from CBS Radio? Well, wipe away those precious tears because David Lee Roth is coming to SIRIUS Satellite Radio... but only for a little while.
DLR will be dropping by SIRIUS' Outlaw Country (ch 63) this Friday, June 30th @ 11am ET, to discuss his new album - Strummin’ with the Devil. And if you miss it, you'll be able to catch him again on Monday, July 3rd @ 11am ET for the replay.
[via Sirius Fan Network]
Thanks Todd!
Lots of rumors and speculation going around about the possible retail delays from Sirius. Here's a compilation of all the chatter (yes, some of it is conflicting):
And that's all so for now.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum has added the "baseball" episode from Bob Dylan's Theme Time Radio Hour music show on XM Satellite Radio, to its archive.
The one-hour episode contains Dylan singing an a cappella rendition of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game," along with classic baseball calls, such as Curt Gowdy's legendary call of Ted Williams' home run in his final at-bat with the Boston Red Sox, and baseball original compositions, such as Buddy Johnson's "Did You See Jackie Robinson Hit That Ball" and "The Ball Game" by Sister Wynona Carr, among others.
The CD will be added to the National Baseball Hall of Fame Library archive, which features more than 10,000 hours of recorded audio and video, and will be available for researchers to access.
The word on the street is that Sirius has halted shipments to all retail outlets. Requests for comment from Sirius have gone unanswered, but the rumor is coming in from various sources.
More details as they come in...
If you take a look at XACT's website, you'll notice that only the XACT Visor has a "buy" button next to it.
Similarly, on Directed Electronics' website the Sirius Starmate Replay, along with the Sirius One, are no longer available.
Combined with Audiovox removing both XM and Sirius radios from their website, and it definitely smells like something's up.
A couple days ago a loyal reader noticed that all Sirius plug-and-play units were being listed as "out of stock" on Sirius' online store. Not sure if this was a glitch or a restocking issue, I held back from jumping to any conclusions. Yesterday, GSI had gotten word that Sirius units were actually pulled because the radios are getting a retool over FCC transmitter issues. Following a possible FCC inquiry, Sirius will most likely be shipping receivers with weaker FM transmitters in the near future. (Interestingly enough, the NAB results contradict reports that the Sportster 4 has a weak FM transmitter.)
UPDATE: The NAB tested the previous generation Sportster Replay SPTK2, not the Sportster 4 as previously stated.
Even with a vehicle's insultating properties, the Sirius S50 still came in at an average of 56.7dBuV/m.
So what about the antennas? Apparently the supplied antenna is only a #20 guage wire (which is a no-no for some reason). Also the Sirius antenna connectors consist of a standard 2.5mm audio connector, and that violates the FCC requirement that the connector be a unique connector. The whole intent of this requirement is to prevent the use of an antenna that can be used to boost the signal beyond required emission levels.
[GSI]
[View the NAB Report] (PDF)
Thanks tim!
Here's a phenominal feature of Hugh Panero in the New York Times' "The Boss" (a weekly column featuring a first-person account by a corporate leader). It's extremely humanizing and has some incredibly personal information that I don't think has ever been published before.
It's truly a great read. View it here. (PDF)
SIRIUS Satellite Radio has inked a deal with Barbara Walters to air a weekly two-hour series that replays many of the interviews Walters has conducted since joining ABC in 1976. The two-hour series, entitled Barbara Walters' Best of the Very Best, will begin next year on SIRIUS Stars (ch 102).
Walters has also agreed to host "Ask Barbara Anything," a one-hour show where she will take calls from listeners. This show will air four-times a year.
"It is a wonderful way for them to be heard," Walters told The Associated Press. "So many of them are classics. It is everything from Lucille Ball and John Wayne and Bing Crosby and George Burns to Matthew McConaughey and Julia Roberts."
This is an old article about the Sirius and XM merger
Orbitcast has been relentlessly covering the satellite radio merger since the rumors began in early 2005. If you're researching the Sirius/XM merger, you may want to check the Merger tag, or the Merger Category which will give you a comprehensive listing of all articles involving the proceedings.
For the latest news, information and rumors on the Sirius-XM merger, just keep checking Orbitcast, or subscribe to the RSS feed.
Below is the archived article...
Reuters reports: SIRIUS Satellite Radio CEO Mel Karmazin said today at a conference in New York that Sirius is definitely not up for sale. But when inevitably asked the question about an XM and SIRIUS merger, he had this to say:
"Regarding XM - would we like to buy them? Sure. We'd love to buy them. Price would matter, so that would be an issue ... (and) there would definitely be the regulatory issue," said Karmazin.
Mel was very clear about one thing regarding mergers, "If we do another deal, I'm gone." Referring to the stuggles he had with Summer Redstone after the CBS/Viacom merger.
It sure is headline material. "XM and SIRIUS merger?" Stuff that newspapers lap up. But I'm going to go out on a limb here and say I'm against the idea. I've put together a list of 5 reasons why I think XM and SIRIUS should not merge after the jump...
I'm not really sure if this is a big deal or not, but it appears that Audiovox has pulled all their satellite radios from their website. That includes both Sirius and XM units.
If you go to Audiovox's website and do a model number search on "sir" (for Sirius) or "xm" (for, uhm, XM) you'll find a few antennas, boomboxes, adapters, etc - but no plug-and-play receivers or anything manufactured by Audiovox. The Audiovox satellite radio landing page shows nothing either.
Very odd.
UPDATE: If you look at the archived version of Audiovox's website, you'll notice that both "Sirius Satellite Radio" and "XM Satellite Radio" are listed in the navbar under the MOBILE section. These are no longer there.
XM Satellite Radio will be featuring special Superman programming this week just as the movie Superman Returns is arriving in theaters across the country.
The cast of the movie, including Kevin Spacey, Kate Bosworth, Brandon Routh, Parker Posey and others, will descend upon Ethel (XM 47) this Wednesday starting at noon (Eastern) and continuing all day.
The director of Superman Returns, Bryan Singer, will appear on Cinemagic (XM 27) starting on Monday @ 2pm ET to talk about his latest project with Dave Z on Reel Time. They'll discuss the evolution of the project, the difficulties of writing a script on a superhero who is virtually indestructable, and the amazing score from composer John Ottman. Encores will be replayed all week.
Speaking of John Ottman, also on Cinemagic, the movie's composer will discuss the music behind the Superman Returns starting on Wednesday at Midnight ET and lasting all day long. Every hour will feature a cue with liner notes from Ottman and background behind each cue.
And then on Radio Classics (XM 164) tune in for a Man of Steel Marathon. Before he hit the big screen, Superman was a radio star and Radio Classics will feature the entire old time radio storyline that originally aired over a two week span in February 1948.
At Friday's Digital Media Conference, XM Satellite Radio President and CEO Hugh Panero showed no hesitation when discussing the battle between XM and the RIAA.
"As long as there are entrepreneurs trying to find new ways to make consumers happy, there have been people... who try to stifle change," said Panero. "This is just a normal cycle that occurs following an attack of paranoia."
Panero added that XM is currently negotiating with the RIAA to resolve industry concerns. "While I can't comment on the specifics, we've put very meaningful deals on the table. Our goal is to find a business solution to what's become a business issue."
With XM Satellite Radio and the RIAA going head-to-head against each other, XM is making sure that the Artist Community understands their commitment to them.
It's a smart move, and a necessary one, because music is the center of satellite radio. There's also, in my opinion, no better method for unsigned artists and back-album tracks to get airplay. Terrestrial radio has abandoned them.
Another point that is being brought up over and over again, and it's a key one for artists to consider: the satellite radio industry is the single largest contributor of sound recording performance royalties to artists and record labels.
And this is an industry arguably still in its infancy. Imagine 5 years from now. This is something that the RIAA isn't grasping for some reason, or perhaps they're a lil' too greedy and those tens of millions of dollars already being paid to them just isn't enough. Disgusting.
[XM Radio Open Letter to the Artist Community]
Thanks cb!
SIRIUS Satellite Radio will be featuring Gretchen Wilson in a special acoustic performance on SIRIUS New Country (ch 60). "The Redneck Woman" has hand picked a seven-piece acoustic band to play the popular hits you know and love.
The SIRIUS New Country Soundstage performance will play tonight, June 23rd @ 6pm ET and will be rebroadcast on Sunday, June 25th @ 12 pm ET.
And on July 4th, SIRIUS New Country will be turning off the electricity and will be playing 100% acoustic songs all day long.
SIRIUS Satellite Radio applied for 16 new repeaters today. Well actually, they filed two days ago, then withdrew it yesterday, and then re-submitted today (correcting some errors in the first app).
A majority of the new Sirius repeaters are in coastal cities. Here's a list of the cities applied for:
Here's the STA description:
Description: Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. herein requests a modification of its Special Temporary Authority to operate sixteen additional satellite digital audio radio service terrestrial repeaters.
[Download the STA Application] (PDF)
This is assumably in preparation for the upcoming Sirius Wearable.
Opie & Anthony were featured in Reuters yesterday, which is a testiment that O&A's exposure on terrestrial radio is driving their awareness levels - and media attention - and as a result the awareness of XM. It's an interesting approach for exposure for XM Satellite Radio, and one that always is under constant debate here in the comments. This directly addressed in the article:
XM called the deal a success as well. "We're getting enormous branding and exposure for XM," said executive vice president of programming Eric Logan.
"The benefit to XM subscribers is that they get the uncensored show. I think we're turning new people on to XM, which is translating into new subscribers," Cumia said.
The thought that giving something away for free, in order to get them to pay for more of it, isn't anything new in this world. Free samples and trial periods are something we've all experienced. A majority of people will opt to stay with the free - that's a given - but the increased exposure you get from giving it away ultimately adds to the bottom line.
It's in creating that desire in people to get more of the service that will truly make a difference.
[Reuters]
Just as we thought, the NAB stirred the FM Modulator pot with their own testing so they could go crying to the FCC. Surprise surprise. This from Billboard Radio Monitor:
[...] NAB spokesperson Dennis Wharton says, “Our tests showed that 13 of the 17 wireless devices (76%) exceeded field strength limits set by the FCC. Six of those devices exceeded the FCC field limit by 2,000%. One device transmitted a signal that was 20,000% stronger than allowed by FCC rules. Many of the devices also transmitted signals that were substantially wider in bandwidth than permitted by the FCC, resulting in potential interference to 1st and 2nd adjacent channels as well.”
The NAB has sent letters to both FCC chairman Kevin Martin as well as Senate Commerce Committee chairman Ted Stevens and co-chairman Daniel Inouye notifying them of the results.
If they spent this much time on creating innovative programming, they'd have masterpieces.
SIRIUS Satellite Radio has just announced Fangoria Radio, a new horror-themed entertainment radio show made in association with Fangoria Magazine. Hosted by non-other than Twisted Sister frontman and horror film producer/actor Dee Snider - Fangoria Radio will air for 3-hours every Friday nights from 10pm - 1am ET on SIRIUS Stars (ch 102).
Fangoria Radio will debut on Friday, June 23, 2006. That's tomorrow.
Dee Snider, along with his sidekick, the celebrated 'Scream Queen' and radio veteran Debbie Rochon, will conduct interviews with celebrities in the horror world, take listener call-ins, provide updates on horror movies, and even hold some special on-location visits to the biggest horror films in production.
Fangoria Magazine editor Tony Timpone will appear frequently on the program to provide his trademark insight and opinions on the latest horror news and happenings.
Interesting... looks like Mr. Willie Nelson may have a new satellite radio program in the works. Aside from talking about his BioWillie biodiesel stations, my guess would be that this will feature concerts from his Willie's Place Theater.
Willie's Place Theater is a sort of full service, year-round, live music venue; reminiscent of a Branson, Missouri Opry house, boasting an 80ft stage and an intimate 850 seats. It's meant specifically for truckers - which makes broadcasts from it perfect for satellite radio. Question is... which one?
UPDATE: Interesting. The Attorney of Record is Robert A. Rosenbloum... the same Attorney of Record for the Radio Margaritaville filing. Me thinks this'll be a new SIRIUS show.
Thanks Matt!
UPDATE 2: Looks like Willie Nelson is going to XM afterall.
| Word Mark | WILLIE'S PLACE |
| Goods and Services | IC 038. US 100 101 104. G & S: Satellite radio broadcasting services |
| Standard Characters Claimed | |
| Mark Drawing Code | (4) STANDARD CHARACTER MARK |
| Design Search Code | |
| Serial Number | 78906924 |
| Filing Date | June 13, 2006 |
| Current Filing Basis | 1B |
| Original Filing Basis | 1B |
| Owner | (APPLICANT) Nelson, Willie INDIVIDUAL UNITED STATES c/o MR & Associates 36 Mill Plain Road, Room 406 Danbury CONNECTICUT 06811 |
| Attorney of Record | Robert A. Rosenbloum, Esq. and Kristen L. Fancher, Esq. |
| Type of Mark | SERVICE MARK |
| Register | PRINCIPAL |
| Other Data | The name(s), portrait(s), and/or signature(s) shown in the mark identifies Willie Nelson , whose consent(s) to register is submitted. |
| Live/Dead Indicator | LIVE |
AllAccess.com is reporting that the FCC is considering opening the 17/24 GHz bands to a new broadcasting satellite service.
Opening of this spectrum could bring "a new generation of innovative satellite services to American consumers -- providing a mix of video, audio, data and multimedia services to residential and business subscribers."
On June 25th, SIRIUS Satellite Radio's living-legend DJ Cousin Brucie will be inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Association Hall Of Fame.
The Cuz has already been inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame, the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, and the Cable and Broadcast Hall of Fame, and is included in the pioneering rock radio DJ exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.
You can hear Brucie on Wednesday Night with the Cuz and Cousin Brucie's Saturday Night Party on SIRIUS 60s Vibrations and Talkin' With the Cuz on SIRIUS Stars on Wednesdays.
[via SSG]
XM is bringing on the funny.
This July is Comedy Month, and XM Satellite Radio is celebrating by running "Laugh Out Loud Month" (el oh el!) with special comedy features that're sure to give you the ol' elbow jab in the ribs.
Check out xmradio.com for more details and a full schedule. (tee hee!)
I normally don't like covering anything about terrestrial radio ratings - mostly because I feel the Arbitron ratings system has more holes in it than swiss cheese. But for the XM folks, this news points to increased exposure on a highly targeted audience. Whether you're a fan of them or not, the fact is that O&A on terrestrial provides daily brand awareness to XM Satellite Radio as they have free reign to plug XM.
Anyway, back to the ratings.
In the just released Arbitrends:
WYSP/Philadelphia bumped up in Persons 12+ (from 1.5 to 2.4), Persons 18-34 (from 1.8 to 4.1), Persons 25-54 (from 1.9 to 3.2) and Men 18+ (from 2.3 to 3.9).
In WFNY (formally WXRK Krock) in New York City, the Opie & Anthony Show doubled the David Lee Roth's ratings - which admittedly wasn't too hard to do - with Persons 12+ (1.1 - 2.3), Persons 18-34 (1.4 - 4.2), Persons 25-54 (1.6 - 3.4) and Men 18-34 (1.9 - 4.0).
Keep in mind that these Arbitrend ratings are only for the first month of on terrestrial radio.
[via FMQB]
UPDATE: WBCN/Boston Arbitrends are in, and here's the breakdown:
Persons 12+ (from 1.6 to 3.4), Persons 18-34 (from 2.3 to 6.7), Persons 25-54 (from 1.5 to 4.1), and Men 18-34 (from 1.9 to 5.3).
With XM now in the good graces with the FCC over their radio FM transmittion capabilities, many have been wondering about how this affects the Pioneer Inno and Samsung Helix. What is going to happen to the FM transmitter on thse units?
As some are aware (and if not, you are now), the Inno's firmware was updated recently to disable the FM Modulator while you have the Inno in handheld mode or on the Home Dock. This new firmware was also included in all the latest Inno units being shipped out this month. Previously, you were able to plug in the headphones, or dock it in the Home Dock, and instantly you were a walking radio station.
As a refresher, the modifications that XM did to reduce FM transmission was the simply the addition of a ferrite bead. This lowers the FM transmissions just enough to pass the FCC's testing. Great, add a 25-cent part, and everyone's happy.
Now, here's the kicker. Keep in mind that the vehicle itself will actually lower the emissions levels of the FM modulator. But in handheld mode, you don't have the vehicle's insulating effects. So in order to get the emissions low enough to pass in handheld mode, it would compromise the reception you would have in the car. In other words, lowering the FM transmitter in the firmware would make vehicle levels useless.
And that's why it's only available while on the car dock. XM wanted it to work best where it was most needed by the average customer.
The CEA (Consumer Electronics Association) posted an advertisement in a Capitol Hill publication urging legislators to oppose restrictions on satellite radio. The ad pulls no punches, highlighting some of the self-benefitting dreck that the RIAA, MPAA and ASCAP have spouting over the past. century.
View the full ad here (PDF)
Let's hope this makes a difference. Emailing your local Congressmen will definitely help make a difference. And with mid-term elections right around the corner, perhaps we should keep a tally of those who supported anti-satellite radio (and anti-fair use) legislation?
[via Ars Technica]
The sleuths over at Sirius Backstage have discovered the Sirius SL100-TK1 radio listed in one of Crutchfield's company databases, along with new car/home kits, and antenna headphones.
The naming convention of "SL100" indicates that the Sirius Stiletto moniker will likely be the name of the device, and that it will have 100 hours worth of storage (or 2Gb disk space).
I spent some time trolling through Crutchfield's site swapping out image names wiith "SK100TK1" but to no avail (so don't bother).
UPDATE: The photo above is most definitely not a photo of the new Sirius Wearable unit. It was originally found on SIRIUS' homepage, and thought to be a leaked image... but lo-and-behold it's just a stock photo.
XM is running a promotion for the Pioneer Inno now, allowing for $100 off for a limited time. Sure there's the regular terms and conditions (such as a 6-month service commitment) but the deal is pretty damn good.
So anyway, to find this deal just go here and enter this coupon code:
XM Promo Code: 2PRK2S4UE
Offer good while supplies last.
Thanks Jonathan!
Looks like General Motors is up to something. In a recent U.S. Patent application, GM has spec'd out a method for "customized music delivery" to vehicles. Here's the abstract first:
A system and method for customized music delivery to a vehicle including determining a playlist, storing the playlist on a server, selecting content corresponding to the playlist, transmitting the content to the vehicle by satellite, and storing the content in a telematics unit.
The overall concept is that the user would be able to create a custom playlist that is stored remotely on a server, and access that playlist - via satellite - anywhere in your car. They specifically cite SDARS and give several examples of usage (including video). The integration could be with the 'telematics unit' either connected to the vehicle's satellite radio receiver, or embedded within.
It sounds like a great system. GM would be solving all the connection problem that people have had with iPods (to the point now that an iPod cord is considered a "feature" in some cars now). My only concern would be with how human's would interface with the system. Selecting a playlist while driving could be a pretty dangerous endeavor.
Unless... XM has already solved this problem.
Thanks Tim!
XM Radio is enlisting the help of their subscriber base in the war against anti-satellite radio legislation with an open letter to subscribers. In it XM states:
... the big record labels want more—so they are suing XM and pressuring Congress to pass legislation that would make it tougher for satellite radio to bring you new technology and more music choices. They are pressuring Congress to pass legislation that would prevent XM listeners like you from being able to use our new radios. These radios allow XM subscribers to record music you hear on XM for personal use so you can listen later—in the same way TiVo allows you to record TV shows for later viewing.
On this page, XM has set up an easy way for you to write to your Senators, and to spread the word to others. XM obviously is not going to take the RIAA's strong-arm tactics lying down. Good for them.
[via AllAccess]
Samsung has launched a neato product page about the Helix and Nexus portable receivers. On it they're running a sweepstakes to win an XM Ready Samsung digital home entertainment system that only requires an email address (hell, I entered).
(On a slightly related note: word has it that Samsung is advertising the Helix on Engadget, though I haven't seen the ad anywhere in rotation yet.)
Thanks cb!
XM Satellite Radio has asked the FCC for a special temporary authority (STA) to relocate the XM-1 satellite ("Roll") to 115.1 degrees West Longitude, to operate it at that location for a period of time, and then drift it to 85.2 degrees WL orbital location.
At it's new home, XM would stop transmitting on XM-1 and keep it as a convenient in-orbit spare for the XM-3 satellite ("Rhythm") currently operating at the nearby 85.1 degrees WL location.
XM Radio also requested a STA to test the upcoming XM-4 satellite ("Blues") at 110.7 degrees WL for 90 days following launch, and then drift it to the 115-degree WL orbital location once testing is completed. Launch of XM-4 is expected in September 2006.
[Radio World]
[FCC Report SAT-00368] (PDF)
Popular Branson-area radio DJ Bob Mitchell, will host Branson Coast to Coast starting on Sunday, July 2nd on SIRIUS Prime Country. Mitchell, who was named to the Country Radio Broadcasters’ Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 2005, will welcome special guests each week, including such major country music artists as Pam Tillis, Ronnie Milsap, Oak Ridge Boys and many more who perform in Branson, Missouri regularly.
Branson - known as the “Live Music Show Capital of the World” - hosts up to 65,000 visitors per day and boasts 45 theatres. It's been a successful Midwestern family vacation destination for many years, and the music industry’s rapid expansion in the past decade has launched the Branson community into world-class tourism.
Mitchell will broadcast from Branson every Sunday from 12pm-3pm ET, with replays on Sunday 9pm-midnight ET and Tuesday 12-3am ET.
XM Satellite Radio recently applied for a U.S. Patent for transmitting the digital satellite radio signal over HD Radio. One of the inherit problems with the current FM modulator method is that while XM takes all this effort to broadcast digitally up to the satellites, and back down to the receivers, it then gets converted to an analog signal when transmitted over FM. It works great because FM radios are readily available, but at the cost of sound quality.
This new patent application would preserve the digital signal, but utilizing HD Radio. Instead of transmitting to traditional FM, XM will send the satellite radio signal over an IBOC (in-band over carrier) digital audio broadcast. The patent application further extends the capabilities of the Digital FM Modulator by allowing other mediums like MP3, CD or other alternatives to be re-transmitted onto an HD Radio.
You have to love the irony behind XM taking advantage of HD Radio for its own use.
[XM's Digital FM Modulator Patent Application] (PDF)
Mark Ramsey of Hear 2.0 is suggesting it just might be. He considers the fact that Howard Stern is now streaming online to be a pivotable moment for Sirius Satellite Radio as a company - transforming them from a company that sells radios to one that sells content.
Instead of the "pain" the customer feels of having to plunk down cash for a receiver, now subscribing to Sirius is "as easy as buying a book on Amazon." According to Ramsey, the online streaming alone will again re-ignite the subscription flame and send the hoards running towards Sirius with credit cards in hand.
Now, I'd love for Mark's scenario to come true though honestly I don't think it would happen. He's making it a bit bigger of a deal than it really is. But hey, he's trying to make a point here. Stern is online now and there's one less barrier of entry to listen to him. The Radio itself. Will it drive more Stern fans to subscribe? Maybe, but it's not like Sirius was advertising "Howard Stern is coming... all over America (but not online)." Instead I think it's an added benefit for current subscribers, and probably will drive WoM from subscribers to non-subscribers.
But back to the Radio itself. Is the satellite radio receiver yet another hurdle for adoption? Or maybe the receivers are still just too complicated (Bob Lefsetz's biggest complaint) for Joe Sixpack to give a shit about it?
One of the advantages that terrestrial has - other than being free to listen to - is that the AM/FM radio is ubiquitous. They're EVERYWHERE and for the most part are SIMPLE to use. Yet satellite radios need to be setup with suction cups and vent clips and long wires and antennas that need to be pointed in wacky directions. Imagine Joe Sixpack's surprise when he buys a "plug and play" receiver, only to realize that it has no speakers?
Yes, Mark's point here is that terrestrial needs to stop looking at HD Radio to solve their problems, and instead look at their weakness (content). But the message applies right back to satellite, only we should look at our own weakness (complexity). Because in order to listen to all that great content, the consumer still needs to know how to turn the radio on.
[Hear 2.0]
The boys over at Sirius Backstage caught this one. Today's channel update might be giving us a glimpse about things to come. The update has changed the names of some channels: PRI is now Talk, BBC News is now News, and BBC Mundo is now Spanish News.
With these being the three channels that are controlled by Public Radio International (BBC News/Mundo are distributed in the United States by PRI), could this be a sign that the PRI + Sirius agreement is coming to an end?
Noe, the channel name changes don't appear to be reflected on SIRIUS' Website (here and here), but that doesn't mean we can't speculate about it.Bridge Ratings has just released a graph that reflects their data since October:
Bridge does state that with the start of Stern streaming online, they'll continue to track and report on the affect this may have on Sirius subscriber adds. It'll be interesting to see if a change does in fact occur as the buzz about Howard is getting somewhat renewed as of late (streaming, the tapes have arrived, CBS Radio settlement, etc).
This past Friday, John McHugh and Maggie Lee got married, and rather than opting for a band or DJ, they chose Sirius Satellite Radio to spin the tunes at the reception.
Maggie Lee, 22, had contacted Sirius back in February and asked if they'd play a few songs for them, but she didn't expect that a whole broadcast would be dedicated to them. The couple's playlist was broadcast, along with added personalized dedications, were played on SIRIUS' Standard Time (ch 75).
Aside from the uber-cuteness/geeky factor here, this story (which the AP ate up) is an interesting case of people's perception of what satellite radio provides. The thought that an in-person DJ is easily substituted by a satellite stream says something. Sure, there have been people who've done the same things with iPods, but I wonder if anyone has attempted this with their local terrestrial radio station?
[MSNBC]
TWICE is reporting that Audiovox has pushed back the ship date for the XM Passport to sometime in August. The delay is because Audiovox, the supplier of the XM Passport and Connect-and-Play technology, is waiting to clear out inventory of the previous gen Connect-and-Play units - which is expected to occur in August.
The Passport tuner, which will retail at a incredibly cheap $29.99, will be accompanied by a whole entourage of XM Passport capable devices in the months that follow and will also get the time-table shift.
Goodies like a CD player and a CD/DVD player will ship in August, followed by a mini-system in September or October. Three mini-systems and a boombox are slated for Oct or Nov. In Sept or Oct, expect to see three under-cabinet LCD TVs as well.
Oh but wait, there's more. Audiovox also plans to have a half-DIN flat-panel controller with Passport slot to connect to XM-ready head units in August; and a portable DVD player with Passport slot for September.
Audiovox's Jensen brand will have a handheld navigation system with an XM Passport slot in September, which will include XM traffic-data reception, audio/video playback, and roughly 2.5-three hours of satellite-reception time on its rechargeable battery (whoa). Jensen will also have one of the first in-dash CD players to offer SecureDigital (SD), USB, iPod control and charging, and XM capability, bundled with an iPod charger.
Just in time for the Holidays. That's all I care about...
[TWICE]
The keen eared crew over at Sirius Fan Network caught this one. Playboy Radio's Christie Hefner recently announced on the air that Playboy Radio has amassed over one million opted-in Sirius subscribers.
That's a pretty impressive number considering that Playboy Radio only started broadcasting in March.
Sirius subscribers have the option to opt-in to Playboy Radio either by calling or by visiting Sirius' website. By default subscribers do not receive Playboy Radio, so getting one million opt-ins is a pretty impressive conversion rate.
With local television stations carrying only 23% of MLB games now - with a total of seven major-legue teams being exclusive on cable - some feel that the same result is inevitable for radio. Edison Media Research's President Larry Rosin said to the WSJ, "it is probably inevitable that baseball radio broadcasts will go to a 100% subscription model... It will happen because there's too much money in it not to do it."
That could spell real good news for XM Satellite Radio as they will hold the exclusive rights to all major-league baseball games for over-the-air broadcasts. The MLB's own online subsription Internet radio, MLB Radio, will undoubtedly benefit as well.
And since revenue between XM Radio and MLB Radio is split evenly among the 30 teams, there's an added financial driver to make this happen. With already 23% of XM subscribers signing on primarily to hear the MLB, the revenue driven (and shared) due to exclusivity would make dropping terrestrial radio the inevitable future.
[Wall Street Journal (subscription req'd) via Inside Radio]
Related to this weekend's Interoperable Technologies disocervy, it looks like XM Satellite Radio is helping out in the recruiting effort to hire engineers. See the job description below:
Job Title: Electrical/Computer Engineer (Job #1219)
Company Name: XM Satellite Radio
Job Description:
Duties & Responsibilities
[More]
This Father's Day, Broadcasting & Cable gives us an extremely indepth interview with "The Godfather" of Sirius Satellite Radio, Mel Karmazin. Mel pulls no punches in this interview, starting off with some nasty comments about the NAB, in respoinse to their recent complaint to the FCC to include satellite radio in indecency regulations.
"I'm a little embarrassed to see where the NAB is today," said Mel Karmazin in the interview.
It goes on to talk about Janet Jackson and current state of indecency in America, the "big four" in Radio come 2007 (and that would be, Sirius, XM, Clear Channel and CBS Radio), Sirius' stock, and that's just half of it.
Definitely worth the read.
[via GSI]
Thanks Todd!
Dual-subscribers of both Sirius and XM Satellite Radio may have hope afterall of consolidating both their subscriptions into a single unit - very soon.
Introducing Interoperable Technologies, a joint effort supported and funded by both XM and Sirius, working to bring dual-subscription satellite radios to market. XM and Sirius both share ownership in the company.
Interoperable Technologies, founded in 2003, is in the process of designing and architecting these dual-mode satellite radios, with the help of regular consultations from both XM and Sirius. In 2005 they successfully completed the design of a radio capable of receiving both services, and have a timeline to bring a reciever to market this year.
For only $26/month you get over 300-channels of superior content in a single unit. I can't wait.
The world premiere of the new video by The Ark, “One of Us Is Gonna Die Young” is available exclusively now through June 26th, on SIRIUS.com.
The Ark is one of Sweden’s biggest bands, featured regularly on the SIRIUS Scandinavian music program Nordic Rox, which can be heard Sundays from 8 to 11 pm ET on The Spectrum, (ch 18).
That's right folks, Howard 100 and Howard 101 are now streaming ONLINE!
A Howard Stern fan approached Opie & Anthony during the XM "Walk Over" on today's show. The Stern fan first came up to the microphone and said, "This is Opie and Anthony's whole audience here? I just wanna say, uhm, Howard Stern has a huge cock and I love him."
The Stern fan then continued and was allowed to say his anti-O&A/pro-Stern comments on the air (calling O&A "douchebags"). There was some back and forth - where the unnamed Stern fan claimed Opie & Anthony steal "a lot shit [from Stern]" - Anthony responded with "steal a lot of shit? Yeah, like his radio stations!"
At that point the Stern fan then threw Ben Sparks against a wall and was subdued by "Club Soda Kenny" and "Master Po" who pinned the Stern fan down and made him apologize on air. His alleged reason for the attack was that Ben Sparks (Opie & Anthony's Producer) spit on him. He was held until the NYPD came.
"Alright, that worked out well... that was the best walk yet!" Anthony said afterwards.
The whole incident was caught on video, but as far as we know all video is in the hands of the NYPD pending investigation.
Listen to audio of the Walk Over incident (MP3)
FMQB is reporting that audio of the incident will not be rebroadcast during XM's replay of the show. This probably also means it will not be available on Audible either. Confirmed - the audio is not on the Audible version either.
Thanks to Scott B for sending in the photo!
Inside Radio has a more dramatic take on Bridge Ratings' recent findings answering the question of how many Howard Stern listeners followed him to Sirius:
Maybe 1.3 million, says Bridge Ratings. And Dave Van Dyke finds “an apparent apathy” among those who’ve not already trailed him to Sirius. Bridge asked 3,200 Stern fans why they haven’t yet subscribed and 26% said they were listening to their “second choice” show on terrestrial radio. 15% said they didn’t miss Stern enough to shell out the $13 a month.
Not included in that report: 25% said costs were too high, and 20% don't see the value in satellite radio.
The guys over at FMQB had a chance to sit down with Opie & Anthony and crew after the show a few weeks back, and have featured them for their latest e-FMQB article. It's a very detailed article, and even non-fans might want to take a gander at it as it paints a great picture of what the show is about.
Then again, with quotes like these:
"So many radio shows are cowards, but we aren’t afraid of any other radio show. There is no show in the country that we don’t want to argue with. As soon as we get badmouthed, we attack immediately."
...maybe this is just inciting a riot in the Orbitcast comments.
Whatever. It's still a great interview and you should check it out.
[FMQB]
A reader sent in this full-page ad which ran in today's New York Daily News. Great promotion by Sirius, and the New York market is a no-brainer.
Check it out after the jump...
It's not a good day for earthly radio. Not only are indecency fines now 10 times more expensive, but they're also getting slapped around by Eliot Spitzer for pay-for-play charges.
George W. Bush has signed into law legislation that increases the fines $32,500 to $325,000 per violation. And of course, the NAB has to whine a bit more by stating: "If there is regulation, it should be applied equally to cable and satellite TV, and satellite radio."
Meanwhile, with EMI settling with Spitzer over payola charges, this marks the third record label in recent months who has admitted to essentially bribing radio stations to give artists airtime. Some EMI artists who have benefited from the payola scheme include the Rolling Stones, Coldplay, Norah Jones, and Gorillaz.
As a result, EMI has agreed to the immediate cessation of payments and other inducements to radio stations, discontinuance of independent promoters as a pass-through for securing airplay, hiring of a compliance officer to monitor promotion practices, and implementation of an internal system to detect any future abuses.
Introducing the SIRIUS-ready JBL MR18 Marine Satellite Radio Receiver from Prospect Electronics. The 180-watt AM/FM/CD/SIRIUS-ready receiver features JBL's Electronic Shock Protection - which spins the CD faster and builds up a buffer - allowing for music to play cleanly even in choppy waters.
The JBL MR18, which runs for just under $300, features a waterproof flip-down face along with a slew of other neato features. In order to receive SIRIUS, you need the JBL SIR2.5 Sirius Satellite receiver.
[via GSI]
As part of XM Satellite Radio's expanded EAS initiative, XM is also working to develop a crank-powered satellite radio receiver that would allow listeners to receive signal during power outages. So during emergency situations where terrestrial radio networks are down and cell phone networks are rendered useless, you'll be able to receive emergency notices without any power source.
Not only would this be useful for government agencies, but the benefits for the civilians who live in areas where power outages are common for crisis situations (which is pretty much... anywhere).
Keep in mind that XM's Emergency Alert Channel (XM 247) is received free-of-charge to any XM receiver. So even non-subscribers have the capability of getting timely updates in disaster situations.
(Eton terrestrial-based Crank Radio pictured)
XM Satellite Radio has recently pitched the US Government on expanding their EAS (Emergency Alert System) broadcasts to include a crisis command and control initiative.
You'll recall during the Hurricane Katrina relief effort, XM enabled a dedicated channel (ch 248 - Red Cross Radio) and distributed satellite radio receivers out to relief workers, so they could receive updates and information while in the field. This is something that cell networks and terrestrial radio simply cannot provide.
Satellite Radio can provide many benefits to government agencies working in an emergency situation. As first reports come in during a crisis, instructions can be transmitted simultaneously to multiple resources - alleviating confusion on the field, and directing assests to where they are most needed.
The XM radios can be restricted to only receive only government selected channels (such as only news, and government channels). Further, since each individual receiver is assigned a unique Radio ID, XM has the ability to send a voice or data message to an individual radio or a select group of radios. Since the signal is encrypted, a secure message is sent to key decision-makers or field agents in the field through a robust network.
Very impressive stuff. As 9/11 and Katrina showed us, communication in the field should be a high priority, and the usage of an existing satellite-based, highly redundant system is pretty much a no-brainer.
RadioShack has a very nicely integrated product section dedicated soley to Sirius Satellite Radio. The integration of Sirius' content into RadioShack's site is really very well done. Just click through on the links from this page and you'll see what I mean. It links to pretty much everything you'd want to know about satellite radio and Sirius in general - all within the RadioShack site.
Really quite impressive.
According to Banc of America analyst Jonathan Jacoby, XM's RoadyXT radio got the stamp of approval for meeting the FCC standards for FM emissions. The FCC compliance was granted with the addition of a 25-cent part (a ferrite bead) which restricts the FM emissions enough to meet FCC limits.Satellite Standard Group is reporting that the May NPD Group retail satellite radio reports have been released, and the preliminary results are:
Sirius: 54%
XM: 46%
At the same time, Bridge Ratings released their own 15 week projected satellite radio retail sales totals:
Sirius: 49.8%Facinating. So who's right? Now, I need to note that the timelines are not the same between the two retail reports above. And of course, as we always hear, NPD Group doesn't take into account Walmart sales. And, Bridge also only surveyed 7 markets. So... that brings us back to the original question - who's right?
The US Open will air live on XM Satellite Radio's PGA TOUR Network (channel 146) from Thursday, June 15th through Sunday, June 18th - meanwhile spectators at the championship can pick up complimentary XM radios to hear the broadcast at the event. This XM broadcast marks the first time the championship will be carried on satellite radio.
Del McCoury - GRAMMY-winning bluegrass artist, guitarist and lead vocal singer in the Del McCoury Band - will be hosting a new bluegrass music show starting June 24 on SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The show, Hand Picked with Del McCoury, launches on Saturday June 24th, and will air weekly at 3pm ET on SIRIUS Bluegrass, channel 65.
Hand Picked with Del McCoury will feature traditional as well as progressive bluegrass music chosen and hosted by McCoury, whose notable career spans five decades.
Opie and Anthony announced the launch of the Opie and Anthony Traveling Virus Comedy Tour - a "comedy festival" of sorts, the Traveling Virus Comedy Tour features a huge lineup of ridiculous comics with other events in the works. See below for Traveling Virus dates and linkage:
Opie and Anthony Traveling Virus Tour 2007 Official Dates:
Jones Beach Amp., Wantagh, NY: June 16th
Confirmed Lineup:
Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT, June 30th
Confirmed Lineup:
Tweeter Center, Mansfield, MA, July 21st
Confirmed Lineup:
DTE Energy Pavillion, Detroit, MI, August 4th
Confirmed Lineup:
Nissan Pavilion, Bristow, VA, August 18th
Confirmed Lineup:
PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, NJ, August 25th
Confirmed Lineup:
Tweeter Center at the Waterfront, Camden, NJ: September 15th
Confirmed Lineup:
More info like additional comedians or dates for the Opie and Anthony Traveling Virus Comedy Tour may be announced in the coming weeks.
Looks like there's a new XM Radio commercial making the rounds, this time highlighting (gasp!) XM's content.
Aside from the commercial with the stuff falling from the sky, I'd say this would be one of my favorites. Not because it's wacky or funny or has a cute jingle - in fact, quite the opposite. There's no deep meaning that needs to be translated (my main objection to the Inno commercial), or a ho-hum approach to showing different on-air talent (like the Snoop commercial).
Instead this commercial says three things - "Content, Affordable, Perfect Gift" - and it says it quickly and simply.
Thanks to candlebougie whoever it was at Wackbag who uploaded this.
We heard that for XM Satellite Radio to get back into the good graces, all that was needed was the addition of a 25-cent part. Well, lo-and-behold, here's the first modification applied to a Roady XT in the form of a ferrite bead. More than likely what you see here will be molded for production purposes... but you get the idea.
Check out more pics after the jump...
A House panel has approved draft language of the Section 115 Reform Act (S1RA), which addresses various aspects of digital song licensing and royalty distribution. S1RA is backed by the Digital Media Alliance (DiMA), National Music Publishers Association (NMPA), and - who else - the RIAA.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation has strongly opposed S1RA and has been joined by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), Sirius Satellite Radio, RadioShack, and XM Satellite Radio (to name a few) in voicing their opposition to S1RA.
EFF Deeplinks has a ton of additional info as well as a Coalition Letter Opposing S1RA, where both XM and SIRIUS took part in submitting. My favorite line from the letter:
"The bill is a back-handed technology mandate that will stifle innovation."
[via Digital Music News]
HD Radio has a dirty little secret. No, it's not the fact that it doesn't actually stand for "high definition" radio (it doesn't), though that alone illustrates the level of dignity behind the technology.
Nope, the dirty little secret is that HD Radio's coverage is far less than regular analog radio. About 60% of analog radio's reach even.
I'll quote Robert Conrad, respected owner of WCLV-FM, courtesy of Audiographics:
We were told back in the beginning that the HD coverage would be equal to the analog signal. Unfortunately, the industry is now finding out this is not the case, that the HD coverage is considerably less, something like 60% of the analog coverage. We've also found that even in a strong HD signal area, a dipole antenna is required.
We were also told that the HD would lessen interference with adjacent channel signals. That also appears not to be the case.
This is really very discouraging and is leading us to wonder why we should bother to promote HD. To do so will only disappoint, and, perhaps, antagonize a significant segment of the audience who finds that the system doesn't deliver.
That means that if you buy an overpriced HD Radio unit, you may not be able to listen to the same station that you heard advertising the benefits of HD Radio in the first place. Youch.
Both XM and Sirius will presenting be at the Deutsche Bank Media & Telecom Conference, on June 13th (that's tomorrow). Sirius will be presenting at 8:20am ET, while XM will be at 11:40am ET. Times have been updated: Sirius will be at 11:20am ET and XM will be at 2:40pm ET.
Online webcasts of the event are available below:
FMQB has an incredible interview with XM Satellite Radio's Chief Creative Office Lee Abrams. It covers everything from O&A and CBS Radio, to Lee's incredible history, to the faults (and advantages) of terrestrial radio, and to even (gasp!) the current state of XM's stock. It's quite the worthwhile read.
I personally just love how Lee isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Spit in the face of convention and do what you feel is right. Gotta respect that.
[FMQB]
SIRIUS Canada and BMW Canada have inked a long term deal that will make SIRIUS Satellite Radio receivers a factory and dealer option for BMW vehicles sold in Canada.
Starting this fall, SIRIUS Satellite Radio will be available in select Canadian BMW models bundled with a subscription to SIRIUS Canada's satellite radio service.
By 2007, all BMW models will be SIRIUS Satellite-ready.
Wade Jessen - Billboard magazine’s chart manager for country, bluegrass, Christian and gospel music - will host a show on SIRIUS Satellite Radio entitled Rear View with Wade Jessen: The History of Country Music. The weekly program will feature Jessen playing rarities and deep cuts from his personal music library, and will include his deep knowledge and passion for classic country music.
Launching on Saturday, June 24th, Rear View with Wade Jessen: The History of Country Music will be broadcast on SIRIUS' The Roadhouse (ch 62) on Saturdays from 9am to 12pm ET, with a repeat broadcast Sundays from 6 to 9pm ET.
SIRIUS Satellite Radio has added legendary NFL receiver Jerry Rice to the roster of expert hosts on SIRIUS NFL Radio (ch 124) starting on Tuesday, June 13th. Rice will co-host "The Afternoon Blitz" with Adam Schein from 3-7 pm ET and will be heard three days a week on SIRIUS every week throughout the year.
"SIRIUS is the Super Bowl Champion of satellite radio companies," said Rice. "I'm going to approach my broadcasting career with the same energy and enthusiasm I had during my playing career and we’ll put on a fun and informative show for all the listeners out there."
That's the question that Electronic Business is asking and with little foundation behind the question other than the fact that they didn't renew after a 3-month trial period. Yes, the stocks have been pummeled lately, but that's based more off of investor confidence (after a series of negative events) and not whether this is a viable business model.
Satellite radio's biggest barrier to entry is that you need to pay for it.
But this is a thought that will eventually disappear, just as it did for TV. People have no problem paying for movies (Netflix isn't necessarily cheap in comparison). They have no problem paying for music (CD sales still dominate, regardless of RIAA whining and higher prices). Cable. Satellite TV. Mobile phones. Broadband internet. The list goes on.
There lies another issue. The consumer is under attack from different services to pay a monthly fee. Satellite radio has the benefit of no contracts and the cancel-at-anytime freedom. But everywhere we look, there's another "service" looking to get us to pay a reoccuring monthly fee. Eventually, Joe Sixpack is going to reach his peak in the number of subscriptions he's willing to have auto-billed to his credit card. There's a hidden gold mine in annual or lifetime offers to current subscribers - SIRIUS and XM should pursue that.
So where's the problem? Why are we still asking whether "satellite radio will last" this far into the game? Because people still think of it as "just Radio." And many people aren't willing to enter in a credit card - or even buy new equipment - that is for "just Radio."
Both satcasters need to take a long hard look at how they're positioning the product. Is it really the "Best Radio on Radio" or "Beyond AM, Beyond FM?" Or is it something more? As the product evolves with mobile TV, interactive personal audio players, voice recognition, parking assistance, traffic monitoring, weather service and a whole slew of new widgets in the works - the XM and SIRIUS look more like "Satellite Services" than "just Radio" - and it all revolves around one thing: your car.
So will satellite radio last? Absolutely. But not in the form of "radio" - but in the form of "the connected car."
You might recall late last year that Howard Stern's former accountant, Gary Herwitz, was busted for inside trading of SIRIUS stock. Well, yesterday a federal judge sentenced him to two years probation and a $20,000 fine (and a complete a mental health treatment program).
Herwitz, who faced up to 16 months behind bars, bought 25,000 shares of SIRI in September 2004 prior to Howard's announcement to move to satellite radio.
"No purpose would be served in sentencing the defendant to a period of incarceration," the judge said, citing undisclosed family issues.
[NY Post]
With Sirius' announcement to introduce a geostationary satellite to their entourage of birds, let's learn a little about this new satellite: SIRIUS FM-5.
According to the SS/L press release, SIRIUS FM-5 is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2008 and will carry an X-band uplink and S-band downlink payload. The satellite will be one of the most powerful ever constructed, with end-of-life power capability at more than 20 kilowatts.
SIRIUS FM-5 is based on SS/L's 1300 platform and will have a specified service life of 15 years. It will carry a range of technologies, including a 9-meter unfurlable reflector, which will allow for highly-concentrated transmissions to small, advanced devices.
Remember that XM's new satellite - XM-5 - will be built by SS/Loral as well. Also as part of SS/Loral's 1300 series, XM-5 will have an end-of-life power capability of over 18 kilowatts and will feature two large, unfurlable mesh antennas. XM-5 is scheduled for completion in 2007 and will be held as a ground spare (XM-4 will be launched later this year).
In SIRIUS Satellite Radio's 10-k filing this year, they had the following to say about augmentation of their satellite constellation:
We expect to augment or replace our satellite constellation by 2012. We may elect to augment our operating satellites with our fourth, spare satellite or with new satellites that we may purchase to meet our business needs. Decisions regarding our satellite constellation may affect the estimated useful life of our existing satellites, and we may modify the depreciable life accordingly.
With 140 terrestrial repeater towers under Sirius' belt, and a "significant number" of repeaters being added this year, it's obvious that Sirius feels that they need more redundancy in its signal. It also definitely seems like Sirius is working to improve reception for portable/wearable receivers. Great news for subscribers (really great), but none of this stuff is free either.
UPDATE: At a recent conference, SIRIUS Satellite Radio's David Frear stated that all satelllites will be replaced by 2012 (as per the 10-k statement above), at one year intervals starting by 2010 (or even sooner). Question is, are they replacing them all with geostationary satellites now?
XM Satellite Radio, in partnership with the Human Rights Campaign, will launch "The Agenda with Joe Solmonese" on July 17th, exclusively on XM. The live talk show hosted by Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese will include a mix of politics, entertainment and cultural news in a weekly conversation to engage Americans about GLBT equality.
Every week, "The Agenda" will mix current events with lifestyle topics, and will include headline guests, like celebrities Cyndi Lauper and George Takei; political leaders like Sen. Russ Feingold, D-Wis., and Sen. Lincoln Chafee, R-R.I.; religious leaders like Episcopal Bishop Gene Robinson and national and local community leaders who are fighting for equality on the front lines.
The Agenda will premiere on Monday, July 17th, on XM LIVE (ch 200) in its regular weekly timeslot from 6-8 p.m. Eastern Time, with additional encore broadcasts airing throughout the week.
Andrew Wilkow - who has hosted a daily talk program on WGY/Albany since 2003 and also hosts a weekend talk show on WABC-AM/New York - has signed with SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Wilkow's move to SIRIUS takes his contemporary approach to conservative talk radio to a national and diverse audience.
"Now is the time for a new school of conservative voices with a whole new style and passion, which is what my show is all about. Moving to SIRIUS lets me take that style and passion nationwide. I am honored to be given this opportunity," said Wilkow.
Wilkow's show will air on SIRIUS Patriot (ch 144) weekdays from 12-3pm ET, starting on August 1st.
SIRIUS Satellite Radio has entered into an agreement with Space Systems/Loral for the design and construction of a new satellite that will be one of the most advanced and powerful communications satellites ever built.
Construction of the satellite is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2008.
SIRIUS plans to launch the satellite on a Proton rocket under a contract previously announced between SIRIUS and International Launch Services (ILS). The satellite will be launched into a geostationary orbit to complement SIRIUS' existing three satellites currently operating in a highly elliptical geosynchronous orbit. This unique hybrid constellation will provide unparalleled redundancy, enhanced coverage and exceptional performance.
The aggregate cost of designing, building, launching and insuring the launch of the satellite will be approximately $260 million. As part of its commitment to SIRIUS, Loral has agreed to provide a $100 million vendor financing facility.
UPDATE: We now know what the trademark is all about, check out all the Sirius Stiletto links below for more information:
Looks like Sirius has recently registered the trademark: Stiletto. My guess? "Stiletto" sounds like a great name for a fancy new wearable satellite radio receiver. Let the speculation ensue.
| Word Mark | STILETTO |
| Goods and Services | IC 009. US 021 023 026 036 038. G & S: Electronic hardware device for receiving satellite broadcast transmissions, and playing, recording, organizing, manipulating, and reviewing text, data and audio files |
| Standard Characters Claimed | |
| Mark Drawing Code | (4) STANDARD CHARACTER MARK |
| Design Search Code | |
| Serial Number | 78892447 |
| Filing Date | May 25, 2006 |
| Current Filing Basis | 1B |
| Original Filing Basis | 1B |
| Owner | (APPLICANT) Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. CORPORATION DELAWARE 36th Floor 1221 Avenue of the Americas New York NEW YORK 10020 |
| Attorney of Record | Erica D. Klein |
| Type of Mark | TRADEMARK |
| Register | PRINCIPAL |
| Live/Dead Indicator | LIVE |
Thanks Rubicon!
Sirius Satellite Radio will be providing six hours of live coverage of Broadways biggest night - the 60th annual Tony Awards. Tune in to SIRIUS' Broadway's Best (ch 77) - this Sunday, June 11th from 6pm to midnight ET - for exclusive interviews of 2006 Tony Award nominees and previous winners.
Segments of SIRIUS interviews will include 2006 Tony Award nominees Harry Connick, Jr. (The Pajama Game), Sutton Foster (The Drowsy Chaperone), Michael Cerveris (Sweeney Todd), Phil Collins (Tarzan the Musical) and Chita Rivera; along with previous Tony winners Bernadette Peters, Matthew Broderick, Marvin Hamlisch, Brian Stokes Mitchell and Betty Buckley.
"This is going to be the biggest thing. The second wave of the revolution," said an excited Howard Stern over the acquisition of CBS Radio's archives of The Howard Stern Show.
20 years. 23,000 hours of uncensored content. All for only $2 million? Incredible.
"A dream of mine has come true," said Stern. "I could never imagine that I would be announcing this, but circumstances are strange."
"It is nothing short of miraculous that this material is available," he continued. "I had resigned myself to the fact that this material would never be available again. I had decided that, most likely, the material would have had to be destroyed."
Personally, my vote goes for an all-day-long channel. With that much footage available, give it to the subscribers!
[via FMQB]
With the introduction of the Pionner Inno and Samsung Helix, advertisers looking to capture the 'small screen' audience now have a new opportunity available to them. XM is now selling ad inventory to be displayed on the Inno's color screen - currently limited to still logos and artwork. Soon though, the XM2go receivers will have the ability to display moving graphics and video clips (via JPEG video).
The service has just been launched, so there's alot of ad inventory available - but advertisers looking to tap into a very captive satellite radio audience should definitely look into this. Eventually we will see push-to-purchase functionality - allowing for not just an alternative delivery - but instantaneous purchases (and tracking).
Just in time for prom season, SIRIUS Satellite Radio’s Big 80s is revealing the The Most Awesome Prom Songs of the Big ‘80s as determined by Sirius' online poll. Listen in as Sirius Big 80's hosts Mark Goodman, Alan Hunter and Nina Blackwood host the special countdown.
The Most Awesome Prom Songs of the Big ‘80s premieres this Saturday, June 10th from 2pm-4pm ET, with replays throughout the weekend.
Howard TV - Howard Stern's On Demand channel - will be available exclusively on Personal TV through Rogers On Demand. Howard TV is only available through Rogers Cable and is not available on satellite or through any other television provider in Canada.
Canadian Howard Stern fans will get unlimited access to uncensored Howard Stern content totaling more than 30 hours of new programming each month, including: Daily Shows, Best Of The Week, Favourite Guests, From The Vault, Wacky & Weird - and lots more.
NAB Chairman/CEO David Rehr recently sent a letter to the FCC urging the commission to investigate satellite radio's offering of free trial subscriptions XM and Sirius have included in cars. The concern? According to the NAB, these free satellite radio subscriptions are allowing listeners to hear potentially offensive and indecent material without having paid for it. The NAB is also concerned with recent reports of radios being able to pick up satellite radio broadcasts that are "bleeding through" onto FM radios.
Rehr says that the NAB is "concerned about the unequal regulatory treatment between free over-the-air and satellite radio."
Rehr also discusses free trials of satellite radio in new cars and in rental cars, and says that "To the extent that satellite radio service is now received free by nonsubscribers, this undermines the frequently-made argument that satellite radio should be regulated very differently than traditional broadcast radio simply because satellite is a subscription service."
You can read the full letter to the FCC here (PDF)
[via FMQB]
The brainchild of Stevie Wonder, songwriters/producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff and Motown founder Berry Gordy, among others; June was officially declared "Black Music Month" by President Jimmy Carter in 1979. Both XM and SIRIUS have kicked off their special music features and programming throughout the month of June.
From the very first match to the final, XM Satellite Radio will capture all of the action of the 2006 FIFA World Cup as it happens from Munich, Germany. XM - who is the exclusive English radio broadcaster (terrestrial or satellite) - will broadcast live 24/7 coverage, play-by-play on dedicated English and Spanish-language channels, game analysis and daily recaps.
It all kicks off June 9th, with 32 countries going head-to-head for 31 days, ending on the World Cup Final in Berlin on July 9th. This only happens once every four years kids, so be sure to join Andres Cantor, Jeff Agoos, Phil Schoen, Dave Johnson, Christopher Sullivan and others as the action unfolds.
XM is currently broadcasting pre-match coverage, including call-in shows, interviews, and specials, 24 hours a day on XM Deportivo 147 (Spanish) and on XM Channel 148. For the full schedule of World cup matches visit http://worldcup.xmradio.com.
XM Satellite Radio will be broadcasting exclusive musical performances from the CMA Music Festival "Fan Fair" on XM's Highway 16 (ch 16), from June 7th to June 11th in Nashville, TN. Tune in for live performances and special broadcasts from XM's studio inside the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Scheduled performers include Wynonna, Keith Anderson, Bryan White, Julie Roberts, Little Big Town, Jason Aldean and Chely herself.
SIRIUS' New Country will be all over the event as well, with their own coverage of the CMA Music Fest. Big Zak Evans, Corey Duke and Al Skop will be canvassing Nashville and doing their shows from several locations around town, as well as doing interviews and covering the press conferences and fan club parties.
[XM Highway 16]
[SIRIUS New Country]
The Philadelphia Inquirer takes a look at celebrities playing DJ in the realm of satellite radio. They examine the Bard, Snoop Dogg, Rancid, Tom Petty and Bob Dylan, on XM; as well as the stars on SIRIUS like New York Dolls front man David Johansen, hip-hop producer Prince Paul, Eminem and Little Steven.
Unfortunately the article isn't necessarily the most complimentary. Of all the star DJs, the only kind words were for Johansen and Bob Dylan (who they blessed with being their 'best celebrity DJ on satellite radio').
What I don't think they understand is that the celebrity DJ isn't really "what makes satellite radio different from an iPod" - because that's done by the channel programming on it's own. Celebrities bring awareness, that's it. Yes, a majority of these people don't have much experience as jockeys and don't spend a whole lot of time on the air either. But its the name recognition that allows people to associate SIRIUS or XM with something they're familiar with. "Snoop is on The Rhyme! Eminem has his own channel!" Then they subscribe because there's an emotion connection.
Aside from Talk Radio, there's really not many (any?) celebrity DJs left on radio. Gone are the days of high school girls storming the local radio station's van. That passion from the listener (and from the station) is long gone. As a result, there's no emotional connection.
So instead, take celebrities and nurture them into DJs. It gets people listening to the service and falling in love with it (and realizing what they've been missing). Once they experience satellite radio, that emotional connection will return.
Perhaps that's why terrestrial has begun to adopt the same approach themselves? Too bad it won't work.
SiriuCE has been updated to work with the changes made to Sirius' website at the beginning of June that broke the previous version of SiriuCE. SiriuCE v1.14 now works on your Windows Mobile phone, MS Smartphone and Pocket PC.
Download SiriuCE v1.14 here.
Satellite Standard Group posted an interesting article on the increased awareness of the Pioneer Inno due to XM's battle with the RIAA. Hidden in that article is a curious statement by the RIAA about other companies who have agreed to increased "distribution" licenses... and Sirius is among them:
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) wants a broader and more expensive license to cover the additional devices. Its lawsuit, filed in New York, claims "massive wholesale infringement" and seeks $150,000 in damages for every song copied by XM customers using the next-generation devices. Apple's iTunes, Yahoo (NASDAQ: YAHOO), Rhapsody, Napster (NASDAQ: NAPS) and XM's chief rival Sirius Satellite Radio (NASDAQ: SIRI) have already agreed to more expensive distribution licenses to download songs, according to the RIAA.
Yikes. Hopefully this remains only to the download of songs (trackable through the Zing/Sirius player?) and doesn't compromise their position for the compulsory broadcast license.
[SSG]
XM Canada just announced that they have over 80,000 subscribers. You'll recall that competitor SIRIUS Canada announced breaking 100,000 subscribers early in May.
Is "The Stern Effect" taking hold with our friends up North as well? Sure looks like it.
UPDATE: An interesting note on semantics here. The Sirius Canada announcement never mentioned whether the 100,000 subscribers were paid subscribers or unpaid promotional subscribers. Since XM Canada is a publicly traded company, they must explicitely state this differentiation, while Sirius Canada does not. Use that information however you like.
According to Inside Radio, West Coast ad buyers are being told by sales reps that CBS Radio is only giving Adam Carolla “another month or two” to improve ratings - or his show will be cut. Supposedly they're also being told that CBS Radio is considering putting Opie and Anthony on the Carolla stations.
Adam Carolla replaced Howard Stern in many West Coast markets in January. Based out of KLSX in Los Angeles, The Adam Carolla Show is syndicated in Phoenix, San Francisco, Portland, San Diego, Las Vegas, Sacramento, Seattle, Reno, Fresno and Palm Springs.
Here's an interesting deal. XM Canada and Toyota Canada announced the signing of a multi-year agreement today, offering XM Canada in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
Starting on August 6th, XM Canada will supply their satellite radio service to select Toyota and Lexus vehicles.
Under the agreement, XM Canada will offer free activation plus 3-months of free satellite radio service. An additional 3-months is then matched by Toyota Canada, providing a full trial period of 6-months to the customer.
[Press Release (PDF)]
As more coverage for the upcoming Zing-power Sirius player comes in, we're getting a better picture of what to expect from this device. WSJ's D:Notebook has some great coverage:
The company has a partnership with Sirius that lets subscribers listen to satellite radio — the audience was wowed to hear “live” satellite radio playing over the diminutive device — though the music is streamed through a wireless Internet connection, not from the heavens. [...]
He showed off a device that will be available from Sirius later this year, that was somewhat larger than the slick Zing production model [pictured]. “That’s too bad, because [yours is] pretty cool,” said an impressed Mr. Mossberg
So the Zing prototype we're all seeing is a bit smaller than the actual Sirius unit. Ok great, that could be from added storage capacity since the Zing device shown has 8Mb of flash storage. But, we're still not hearing any word about whether the Zing-technology is supplimental or the core technology behind this Sirius-branded unit.
A recent Forbes article quotes BofA Analyst Jonathan Jacoby (and we all know how SIRI investors feel about Jacoby) seemed to hint that this device will in fact receive live satellite radio while the Wi-Fi reception is a "fix" for weak coverage. He also brings up that the device will "launch later this summer" - which falls in line with Sirius' statements of a live wearable launching this summer.
So is the Zing-enabled Sirius device the same as the upcoming Sirius wearable? Or is it an evolution of the S50 - with recorded satellite radio capabilities on-the-go and live capabilities when in Wi-Fi range? Oh the speculation!
As widely rumored earlier this week, Opie and Anthony have added four additional markets to their synidcation list - bringing the total number of markets up to 11 total.
Starting next Monday, June 5th, the first half of The Opie & Anthony Show will be heard in Detroit (WXYT 1270AM), Columbus (WAZU 107.1FM) and Rochester (WZNE 94.1FM). On Monday, June 26th, O&A will be added to XM Satellite Radio's hometown - Washington, FC (WJFK 106.7FM).
While this growth is undoubtedly a good thing for O&A, the question still remains whether the same benefits will be felt by XM Satellite Radio. Several stations have picked up XM advertising spots, and XM is freely plugged throughout the terrestrial broadcast (and even in the CBS Radio press release), but whether this is driving the desire for listeners to convert is still up in the air.
A very nice review of the new SIRIUS Sportster4 was written in Canada's The StarPhoenix. One thing I like about it is how they keep the review short and sweet, but pack some powerful comments. They grab your attention pretty quickly with the opening sentence:
If you subscribe to Sirius satellite radio and listen only to Howard Stern, then ignore this product and buy the cheapest receiver available.
Funny.
JJI Electronics has the Sportster 4 in stock and on-sale for $139.99.
Looks like CNET has given us a photo of the upcoming Zing Wi-Fi MP3 Player - this very well could be the first actual glimpse we get at the new SIRIUS Wearable device - or at least something close to it.
Pictured above is the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled Zing prototype shown at D4. These "Wi-Fi Radios" have the ability to share music among friends, download music and upload data, and of course features a Buy Button (via Yahoo). There's also push-to-talk functionality via a Wi-Fi network as the device has a built-in speaker and microphone.
CNET makes it quite clear - the device allows you to stream SIRIUS content over a Wi-Fi network - not satellite. And state that the first Zing-powered players should ship this year, carrying the Sirius brand.
Connect the dots.
[CNET Alpha Blog]
Thanks tim!
Agere Systems detailed today its new advanced system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip set for Sirius Satellite Radio manufacturers. This new Agere SoC will be incorporated into SIRIUS Satellite Radio receivers that are used in automotive, home, portable and navigation applications - scheduled for delivery to consumers next year.
Agere says its new chip set will be smaller in size as well as have new features, lower power consumption, improved audio performance and other fun enhancements.
That's all fine and dandy, but that's just all press release mumbo-jumbo. The fact that Agere filed for a Satellite Radio over WiFi patent is more interest to me and that this press release comes on the tails of the Zing-powered SIRIUS device being unveiled is just much more than sheer coincidence.
Zing issued a press release today where they officially announce the partnership between Zing and Sirius Satellite Radio. The release reads:
ZING also announced it is working with SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ: SIRI), the fastest growing satellite radio service and its first collaborator, to stream live digital SIRIUS programming over mobile devices.
Bob Law, Senior Vice President and General Manager Consumer Electronic Division for SIRIUS commented: “The market for digital audio on-the-go is exploding. We are working with ZING to expand the availability of SIRIUS content on new platforms and bring the best in satellite radio programming to an increasingly mobile audience.”
Closing with:
The ZING engine is also the first portable audio and entertainment solution that can combine wireless and satellite radio capabilities.
Definitely sounds like the Sirius partnership is at the core of Zing's business plan.
Introducing Zing. A software platform that can work across any type of wireless connection, from WiFi to 3G, allowing digital media devices to connect to music services or other online content sources.
