Satellite Radio: How Much Does It Cost?

Satellite radio is extremely popular these days and it is increasing in popularity more and more every day. If you are not certain what satellite radio is, you can look at it like cable or satellite TV. In essence, satellite radio is a subscription only service. It has a colossal assortment of radio stations that are not accessible on the ordinary AM or FM services.

Satellite Radio: How Much Does It Cost?

Satellite Radio: How Much Does It Cost?

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Satellite Radio: How Much Does It Cost?

Satellite Radio: How Much Does It Cost?

If you are asking yourself how much satellite radio costs, then the answer is the annoying one: it depends. It depends, because there are several variables, such as the apparatus itself, installation fees and monthly fees. Equipment from the countless manufacturers varies a lot as well.

For instance, Bose is more expensive than a Chinese item from Walmart. Installation charges vary depending on where you live and who you use and the monthly fee will depend on which package or bundle you choose. So, unfortunately, the answer is: it depends.

There is also a one-off 'activation fee'. This costs about if you do it by phone and about if you do it over the Internet. However, the push is on to get you signed up, so there are frequently promotions on doing away with this ridiculous rip-off fee. As if you will not be paying enough in monthly charges for the rest of your life!

If you want to install satellite radio in your car, you have two alternatives, if your existing radio is not 'satellite ready'. You can either buy a new car stereo that is 'satellite ready' or you can purchase a satellite signal receiver and decoder unit and plug it into your present radio. This decoder can be hidden away under the driver's seat or stashed in the boot of the car. You will also need a new antenna on the roof.

Costs differ outrageously, but let's average it out at 0 for a decent, new, satellite-enabled, ready to go stereo fitted and working or 0 for a cheap system using your own radio, but also ready to receive satellite broadcasts. So, you could say, on average, for about 0 you can be listening to satellite broadcasts.

However, just as with laptop computer prices, demand causes downward pressure on prices and by the time you read this article, the price could have halved. Let's hope so.

Portable satellite radio receivers can be a bit cheaper, mostly because there are no installation fees and come out at around 0.

Then there are the monthly subscription fees. As I said above, this depends on the package you select. The average charge is - a month, but specific channels can be extra. For instance, you could receive the Playboy channel for free at one time, but the normal cost is .95 per month.

Sport can cost more, especially for a finals match. Sometimes, you can get a discount for paying annually and Sirius even has a one-off, lifetime option at 0. Perhaps the best thing to do is keep an eye on the promotional deals and be ready to pounce quickly when a suitable one comes up.

Satellite Radio: How Much Does It Cost?