The boys over at XM411 got the awesome opportunity to install and play with the upcoming XM CommanderMT. Finally the upgrade to the classic XM Commander, which (as the "MT" moniker indicates) integrates usage of the XM Mini-Tuner, will be available in June.

It's mainly targeted to those who would like to retain their current car stereo headunit, maintain a clean dashboard - all the while reaping the benefits of portability that the Mini-Tuner provides. The XM CommanderMT seems oddly simple, but would be attractive to many.

The downside? Installation isn't for the lighthearted. "Installation is relatively simple as long as you are comfortable with opening up your vehicle’s dashboard," it's noted in the XM411 review. The reality is that for most, opening up your dashboard isn't simple at all. The XM411 review goes on to describe other details of the install.

Personally, I think people who will want to have a clean dashboard, also wouldn't mind dropping a few bucks for a professional install. Me? I'd get one of the upcoming XM Mini-Tuner headunits instead.

[XM411] 

You didn't think I forgot about a feature list for the upcoming Audiovox XpressEZ did you? Have no fear, all the preliminary details for Audiovox's entry-level unit are all right here:

• Entry-Level Unit with Simplified User Interface
  
• Large, Easy-to-Read LCD Display Shows the Channel, Artist and Song Title via a Bright, Three-Line Display
  
• Favorites Button Gives the Option to Program up-to 10 XM Channels
  
• Move Quickly Through XM Channels with the Tune and Press Dial
  
• Universal Connector - Easily Move XpressEZ Between the Car, Home and Audio System with Compatible Accessories
  
• Sleep Mode
  
• Includes:  Vehicle Kit with Plug & Play Docking Station, XM SureConnect, 12-Volt Power Adapter and Magnetic Roof Mount Antenna
  
• Available: June 2007
  
• MSRP: $69.99
  

Introducing the new Audiovox Xpress EZ and Xpress Replay XM Satellite Radio receivers. I've heard whispers about these two new plug-and-play receivers since CES, but until recently I've never had any photos of them. Well, here's the full (unofficial) deets...

The 2 additions to Audiovox's Xpress line allows for different price points for customers with of course various levels of features. Note that as I understand it, the Audiovox Xpress is unchanged, these are two new receivers that are rounding out Audiovox's offering.

First, let's take a look at the entry-level version, the Xpress EZ:

The Audiovox Xpress EZ (XMCK5) rocks a big, easy to read, three-line display. It also sports a simplified interface, with a single knob to navigate through the Xpress EZ's menus, and three buttons for additional functionality. You also get 10 user presets for your favorite XM channels.

The Xpress EZ includes an external antenna, docking cradle with DC adapter and mounting bracket (though no remote control). Expect to see the XpressEZ to go for an MSRP of only $69.99.

Then there's the top-of-the-line Xpress, the XpressR (aka the Xpress Replay):

The killer feature for the Audiovox XpressR (XMCK20) is the display. It's the first satellite radio ever to feature a splitscreen display - so (finally) you'll be able to view both the XM channel you're currently listening to, plus five other channels - all at once. The XpressR also has an automatic backlight dimmer that adjusts for day/night conditions, oh and... it has a 6-line display. Oh yeah.

The Audiovox Xpress Replay - as you can guess from the name - also features replay functionality allowing you to pause/rewind live content within a 30-minute buffer. The XpressR also has a five-way tuner knob, numbered keys for direct channel entry and 30 presets for your channel favs.

It includes a magnetic antenna, docking cradle with DC adapter, cassette adapter, mounting brackets and remote control. Look for the Xpress Replay to MSRP at $129.99. 

Both XpressEZ and the XpressR will be available in June.