Community Forums

Ingrid · 05-26-2010, 08:13 AM

I'm looking at an ONYX + Car kit satellite radio to install in our 5-er. The concept is pretty straight forward. Power source is a power adapter socket (aka cigarette lighter type socket), Aux in from the unit to the existing stereo system, select an FM radio station not in use locally, synchronize the two and voila, satellite radio should feed over the stereo (after subscribing of course). The alternative would be a "Fully Portable" unit that looks a bit like the old transistor radios we used to have in the '60s but I'm afraid the sound will be marginal.

Has anyone tried this, and if so, how did it turn out? What would you do differently if you had to do it all over again.

Many thanks

Theberrys · 05-26-2010, 10:19 AM

Ingrid

I use a portable XM radio in the coach, house, and car. It's a SkyFi 3 installed in all 3 locations. The sound is as good as any FM Radio station. My hookups are the same as you describe. Attached are pictures of the RV install and the Radio in the house. As a result I only pay 1 subscription and use it everywhere.

Dick

Ingrid · 05-26-2010, 05:21 PM

Brilliant Dick,

That's exactly what I wanted to know. At the moment I have an annual subscription for the XM Radio in my car, so I'll have to pop for another, but XM are offering a $9.95/month "Family Plan" deal if I purchase one of the "portable" units and commit to a year. At least now I know it will be worthwhile, and we can bring it into the house during off season.

Thanks so much !

John Hilley · 05-27-2010, 09:21 AM

One of the problems with installing in a fiberglass vehicle is the antenna. I have used both a 1' sq piece of sheet metal glued to the roof and a marine XM antenna. I currently use the marine antenna. Terk XM marine antenna.

Sirius marine antenna

Tincup · 05-27-2010, 09:47 AM

Ingrid,

I just bought an Onyx system like you describe, actually I upgraded from an older radio. I used the existing power and antenna so there was no problem there. I use the portable unit outside in a sun room and it works just fine, the audio quality is fine for my ear. The only drawback I can see is the inability to adjust the bass or treble on the portable unit if you wanted to "fine tune" the music you're listening to. I think you'll be happy with the Onyx.