Satellite Radio

[Outbumn]

Our Suncruiser came with a Magnadyne M9900CDS radio. We did not get the satellite radio option when we purchased the coach. My first question is do I need a standalone satellite tuner and antenna to receive satellite radio? Second, since some of the radio finctions are not working and I need to replace the radio, is there a better satellite radio that works in Winnebago coaches?

[GaryKD]

Hi Outbumn,

The satellite radio service will work in your coach. It matters not what brand of radio you buy. Radio technologies are a commodity. Buy the radio that has the features you want/need. This is the hard part, figuring out what you want. The features range from very simple to very complex. Just some of the features are:

1. AM & FM radio
2. Stereo radio
3. HD radio
4. Satellite radio
5. GPS
6. Connection capability to the iPOD and iPOD like devices
7. Large hard drives to you can put your own music on the hard drive and play it on the coach speakers
8. MP3 player connectivity

The number of antennas that will go on the coach roof, will depend on the different services you want.

The installation is a DIY project, if you are handy and confident. Otherwise, have the shop where you buy the unit install it. The connections should be industry standard. If you are going to have the unit professionally installed, try to purchase a unit from a place that is familiar with coaches. Holes may need to be drilled for the new antenna wire(s). The satellite antenna is an example of this.

[W8RLM]

I have the same radio in my 2006 Winnebago Journey. To get satellite reception, you need Magnadyne's satellite module which plugs into the back of he radio. The module comes with an antenna and plenty of wire. The price of the module was over $200.00. For that price, I would buy a new radio from Best Buy, etc. Best Buy makes a satellite module which plugs into the back of the Magnedyne, but it is incompatible with the Magnedyne (personal experience).

In addition, the display of the title, performer, etc. is very difficult to use, and forces you to take your eyes off of the road to hit the right button the radio.

Overall, I'd replace the radio.

W8RLM - Bob

[Outbumn]

Guess the question I forgot to ask is are after market radio's (like from Best Buy) are compatibly with the surround sound system in Winnebago coaches? I think I have read posting on this site where people have replaced radio's and the surround sound would not work with the new radio.

[GaryKD]

Hi Ron,
You got me on that one. Guess I shouldn't be, but I am surprised. All the components should comply with industry standard specs. It may be time to call Winnebago and see if they can provide an answer.