I just noticed this today, but XM Satellite Radio has recently put up a comparison page, essentially a rebuttal to Sirius' "Why We Rock" comparison page that's been up for quite a while.

XM's page does a side-by-side comparison between the two company's content, with an obvious bias (gasp) towards XM. The first few comparisons are maybe the only valid ones to look at, as the rest are just there to give the overwhelming (and transparent) feeling that what you want is "Not Available" from Sirius.

Poorly executed by XM in my opinion.

Sure, have a comparison page. That's fine, minus the slew of arguments from Marketing-types who feel it's ridiculous to mention the competition when you're the market leader. But at least make it something that gives a realistic comparison between the two services. At least try to make it somewhat objective, even if the outcome just happens to be the same. It's worthless to point out that Sirius doesn't have Opie and Anthony or Quincy Jones, or at the very least don't make them each line items.

Now, Sirius' page isn't exactly an objective source either with terms like "slim pickings", "nickel-and-diming", and "wannabes" being thrown around in what's supposed to be a product comparison. Then again, no one will ever actually expect an objective view from either companies. And the fact remains that Sirius is still the "underdog", so attacking the market leader is acceptable within reason, so they're free to do whatever they want.

My advice to XM is to change the page and make it something a bit more intelligent rather than the oh-so-dramatic "Not available" boxes. How about comparing Sports vs Sports? (like maybe the MLB vs NFL?) Rap vs Rap? Country vs Country? etc. Flex your muscles a bit with good writing and a visual comparison of exactly what you get.

Neither XM or Sirius should be hiding behind "cute marketing" tactics - they should be proud of what they offer and flaunt it.