Last week XM announced that they've received FCC approval for three key receivers. One concern (at least for me) is whether the signal now will be so weak that it becomes more or less useless. Many for instance have complained about the FM modulator strength on the Sirius Sportster 4.

But rather than reducing the signal, XM has setup a method to bring the signal closer to the antenna itself. XM's new FM modulator consists of an additional third wire that is installed in close proximity to the car's antenna (not attached to the car's antenna as previously reported). The wire simply can be attached to the glass or elsewhere inside the vehicle, and only needs to be near the car's antenna (say, 18" or so).

This fix protects the sound quality for a positive consumer experience, as well as satisfies the excessive emissions issue. The downside? It makes installation a lil' harder - especially for vehicles where the antenna is located in the rear.