Installation Costs of Satellite Radio
Provided By: CarInsurance.com
Satellite radio is growing by leaps and bounds. More national known personalities are switching to this broadcast method. To not be left out in the cold you will need a satellite radio, but just how much will this new endeavor cost you?
Satellite radio has two types of costs associated with it. The first type is the start up or installation costs while the second cost is the subscription cost. The different is that the installation cost should be a one time expense while unless you get a lifetime plan the subscription cost will be ongoing.
The costs involved in the start up and subscriptions costs will differ depending on what satellite radio company you choose, XM or Sirius. Which one to choose will be a personal choice but you will need to decide before you purchase equipment since Sirius satellite gear will only work with Sirius as XM satellite apparatus will only work with XM satellite radio. The costs involved are quite similar so it is likely your choice will be determined by the programming of the satellite radio company.
Besides the equipment itself there is also a one time activation fee that is part of your start up costs for satellite radio. The equipment needed for this endeavor includes a tuner or receiver, antenna and mounting hardware. There are many types of satellite radio receivers and now some include the antenna so it is not needed separately.
You will need to determine what type of satellite radio you want. There are ones made for you home, automobile or even a plug and play type that can go from your house to your car and back. There are also “boomboxes” and the newest type is a portable satellite radio receiver that is small and easy handheld like an MP3 player.
Here is a breakdown of satellite radio costs:
Activation:Both Sirius and XM satellite radio require an activation fee to start up your relationship with their services. For Sirius radio the activation fee is $15 or if done online for an annual plan or greater it is only $10. For XM radio the activation fee is $14.95 or if done online it is only $9.95
Car Installation Costs:Costs for installation for satellite radio will depend on the type of component you have purchased and want installed. There are basic and advanced installations. The basic installation would be for a radio only and advanced for a radio with other components, such as compact disc player.
Labor for installation for a satellite only radio - $40 to $75Labor for installation for a satellite radio with other components, such as CD - $60 to $80
Sirius car radio and car kit - $50 to $100Plug and play unit - $80 to $150XM car receiver - $100 to $125
Antenna - $30 to $70Mounting apparatus - $20 to $40
Activation - $15Plus subscription fees starting at $12.95
The total cost for having a satellite radio installed in your car is down from the last few years when it would could nearly $500. For now around $200 you should be able to get a basic satellite radio receiver and have it installed. Of course if you want a better system you will pay more for the satellite radio component.
Home installation costs:Home unit prices have also come down the past few years. Installation can typically be done by the homeowner thus cutting down more on the start up costs.
Sirius home table top receiver - $300XM home tuner - $220
Antenna - $30 to $70Activation - $15Plus subscription fees starting at $12.95
Again your actual expenses will depend on what type of tuner or receiver you purchase for your home. For some satellite channels they now allow you to get it streaming on your computer. So you might choose a car unit but then pay the extra cost to allow you to pick it up on your computer as well.
Plug and Play / Boomboxes / Portable Satellite Radio Costs:These types of units allow you to use your satellite radio in different places. The plug and play components can be used in either your house or home. Portable radios resemble portable MP3 players and allow you to take the use the unit anywhere you want. To get proper coverage from the satellite your house would need to be equipped with the correct amount of cables, antennas and home kits.
Home Kit - $50 to $300Receiver - $100 - $125Boombox - $100Portable player - $200 - $300Plug and Play unit - $80 to $150
Activation - $15Plus subscription fees starting at $12.95
It seems everything is going portable now. Satellite radio is no different. Unfortunately at times you might not be able to pick up the signals from the satellite as well as a home or car unit but the capability to carry your satellite radio with you will probably make up for those times you have issues.
The equipment and start up expenses for satellite radio do not have to be expense. Both satellite radios have special promotions and rebates on their equipment regularly. The prices for satellite radio units have come down, as installation costs have as well. You could read the manual yourself and skip the professionals from installing the equipment if you choose.
Wonderful! Easy! Great! Quick
Michelle B.
Sanford, FL
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