Maybe I'm just seeing things, but the latest HD Radio "plug-and-play" offering - the JVC KT-HDP1 - looks strikingly similar to the Sirius Starmate line of satellite radios.

Here's the JVC KT-HDP1:

Now here's the Starmate 4:

But that's not really close enough to the JVC HD Radio... so let's look at the old-school Starmate Replay:

Ah yes, there's the resemblance. But HD Radio isn't competing with Satellite Radio, isn't that right? There's no reason why they would create a similar looking product. Not at all to create confusion at retail... would they? Nah, that's just paranoia.

Still, imitation is indeed the purest form of flattery, because this HD Radio plug-and-play looks far better than HD Radio's previous plug-and-play offering.

Just in case you're at the edge of your seat with credit card in hand, the JVC KT-HDP1 will MSRP for a mere $149.95, and that includes a built-in FM transmitter. That's right, you can go from "CD quality" digital HD Radio, right back to good ol' analog FM without skipping a beat. Ah, the beauty of innovation... err, imitation.

[via Engadget]
Thanks Todd!

Sirius has launched a promotion offering two of its top selling satellite radio receivers for free, but only for current subscribers.

The Sportster 4 and Starmate 4 - two of Sirius' best selling units - are available to current subscribers for free if you order by September 15th (and activate the new sub by September 30th).

Not a bad deal if you're looking to give someone else your old clunky unit and upgrade. The Sportster 4 if offered on Sirius' store for $149 before rebate, and the Starmate 4 runs for $119 before rebate.

[Sirius]