Delphi - Roady XT XM Radio Receiver Review

When XM introduced satellite radio a few years ago, add-on XM receivers were a pricey thing.  I remember seeing early ads citing prices that were in the area of $200 and up.

But as the product started to mature and had to compete with a new rival. Sirius Satellite Radio,  prices predictably started to tumble.

Today, XM offers their Delphi Roady XT receiver for just $5.99 plus shipping and handling and a modest one-time registration fee.

Delphi Roady XT XM Radio Receiver

Smaller than a pack of cigarettes, the Roady XT offers an awful lot of satellite radio for next to nothing.

It gives you 30 pre-sets across 3 bands.  You can also access any station directly by entering its 3 digit code into the receiver.  Channels can be segregated into sub-groups to make it easier to do a quick scan.

Getting Started

Everything you need to get started is included in the kit they send you.  The receiver, antennae, cassette adapter and power adapter.  It your car stereo has no cassette adapter an included FM Modulator can be used.  A remote control, while not included with the kit is available as an optional buy.  Interestingly, the remote will cost you more than the promotional cost of the kit!

Installation is very simple (really), and should take you less than 30 minutes if you just read the instructions first.  Reading instructions first is a really good habit to develop in general.  Activating the service can be done either on-line or over the phone.  Typically, after the activation sequence, you should have reception within about 30 minutes.

There are a few recommended mounting locations and all the needed parts to accomplish them.  I have my Roady XT mounted on my air conditioning vent on my dashboard.

A couple of observations

Due to its very small size, occasionally my thick fingers have trouble finding the right buttons to push.   A remote would help this out.

When you install the kit yourself, give location some thought.  The closer to your AM/FM unit and your cigarette lighter receptacle, the fewer (or shorter) will be any exposed wires.

My Viewpoint

If you're looking to experience XM Satellite Radio without making a large dent in your wallet, the Delphi Roady XT XM Radio Receiver is an inexpensive, easy to install way of going about it.  It's hard to argue with the price.  Try it.

Regards,

Rudi