News Articles From Days Gone ByDespite indications that the Sirius/XM merger is moving toward approval, numerous consumer groups are holding steadfastly to their objections.
(30 November 2007)
The Consumer Federation of America , Consumers Union and Free Press say that since they filed their initial petition with the Federal Communications Commission there have been "hundreds, if not thousands" of pages of testimony objecting to a "merger to monopoly." In supplemental comments filed this week the groups say, "The offer of a regulatory fix, an ill-defined and deceptive al la carte pricing program of unspecified duration and value does not and cannot compensate consumers for the loss of competition." more>>
Sathead NASCAR fans listening to Tony Stewart on Sirius have finally been notified about the "Stewie" recipients (see RUsirius.com story dated 1 November).
(30 November 2007)
The awards were announced during a special broadcast of Tony Stewart Live and include a "Golden Stewie Award" for A.J. Foyt. Other award winners include Bill France Jr. (Lifetime Achievement), Juan Pablo Montoya (New Kid on the Track) and Kevin Harvick (Best Original Drama for edging out Mark Martin to win his first Daytona 500). more>>
Sirius has announced that it is honoring World AIDS Day this Saturday, 1 December, with a special broadcast on OutQ (channel 109).
(29 November 2007)
"A Celebration of Life and Hope" is being hosted by Larry Flick from Noon (ET) until 6 PM(ET). The event features exclusive musical performances and discussions with medical experts, activists and Sirius listeners. Performers include Cyndi Lauper , Jimmy Somerville , Mark Cohn and Leann Rimes . more>>
XMers who like football will be pleased to know that the satcaster carrying the 2007 Big 12, SEC and ACC football championship games this Saturday, 1 December.
(29 November 2007)
XM Sports Nation is also being spaced live from the three host cities with pre-game coverage Friday and Saturday. Top-ranked Mizzou plays #9 Oklahoma in the Big 12 Championship Game at 8 PM(ET) on Big 12 (channel 241). The SEC Championship Game features #5 LSU against #14 Tennessee at 4 PM(ET) (channels 200 and 201) and the ACC Championship Game kicks off at 1 PM(ET) with #6 Virginia Tech playing #12 Boston College (channels 191 and 192). more>>
Politics gets Sirius this Saturday as the satcaster spaces the Iowa Brown & Black Presidential Forum at 8 PM(ET) on Sirius Left (channel 146).
(29 November 2007)
The event is the nation's oldest continuous minority presidential forum in which all candidates address issues affecting African-Americans and Latino-Americans. As part of the coverage, Sirius' Mark Thompson, host of Make It Plain, is spacing his program live from Iowa on Friday, 30 November, at 5 PM(ET). Said Iowa State Representative Wayne Ford, "The Iowa Brown & Black Forum was founded to spark a national conversation about issues important to the minority community - from economic development to health care to immigration. Partnering with Sirius ensures that we reach voters from all backgrounds across the country." All eight Democratic presidential candidates are expected to participate. more>>
As both Sirius and XM are anxiously awaiting the decision of the Government on their proposed merger sales appear to be softening for non-vehicular applications.
(28 November 2007)
The subject is of particular interest because both satcasters are concerned that a weakening new car market will reduce their subscriber growth. These pressures further emphasize the need to get the merger approved, a decision now in the hands of the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice. Although approval by the FCC has been the primary thrust of the satcasters' efforts to date, there is still a real possibility that it may be challenged on antitrust grounds. As the approval process enters the home stretch the research firm The Stanford Group says there is a 60% chance the deal will fly. Goldman Sachs is considerably less sanguine. They put the odds at just 30%. more>>
NHL comish Gary Bettman apparently gets at least fair grades for his first show on XM (see RUsirius.com story dated 12 November).
(28 November 2007)
With few exceptions the boss took questions from listeners who must have been planted by Hillary staffers. Most callers asked softball questions and generally praised Bettman for the state of the game, which he assured listeners was in great shape. There were no questions about strikes, past or future, and only one hostile inquiry about the management of the Toronto Maple Leafs. With only one exception, all callers were from the United States. more>>
Directed Electronics is more Sirius than ever.
(27 November 2007)
The company has announced that it is entering into an amendment to its distribution agreement with the satcaster to extend their contract to 31 August 2008. "We are pleased to announce both this extension to our existing agreement with Sirius as well as enhancements to the agreement that we expect to improve our financial results in this important category going forward," said Directed prez James Minarik. "Since the fall of 2004 Directed Electronics and Sirius Satellite Radio have partnered to make Sirius the number one aftermarket satellite radio and, successfully increasing Sirius' aftermarket share from approximately 30% to consistently over 60%." more>>
Forget the recession!
(27 November 2007)
XM says it's expecting car radio sales to remain solid even if U.S. auto sales continue to slow. XM boss Gary Parsons says he expects retail subscriber growth to resume in the fourth quarter due to the holiday shopping season but says they may decline during the first two quarters of next year. Speaking at the Reuters Media Summit in New York, Parsons commented, "From our standpoint, we see a pretty solid, projectable growth trajectory coming from the new car marketplace." According to Parsons, 70 percent of XM's new subscribers purchase the service for their cars. more>>
Volvo is moving into the HD Radio world in a big way.
(27 November 2007)
The automaker will be the first in the U.S. to offer HD receivers in almost all of its models. According to Dirk Bott, Vice President Brand, Business & Product, Volvo of North America, "We believe Volvo will have the largest standard equipped HD Radio technology fleet in the world. Our drivers expect the highest quality in every aspect of their vehicles. Adding HD Radio capability to our S40, T5, V50 T5, C30, C70, S80, V70 XC70 and XC90 models truly makes our audio systems state of the art, giving Volvo drivers an even more enjoyable driving experience." The big more to HD Radio begins in the Fall of 2008. more>>
Continuing the big push for HD Radio in Brazil that started last year (see RUsirius.com news archive story dated 13 July 2006), Harris has been conducting technology seminars at the first HD Radio Conference in Sao Paolo.
(27 November 2007)
The presentations covered topics such as AM and FM implementations, the benefits and features of the technology and future opportunities. The HD Radio Conference in Brazil is the latest in a series of international seminars and conferences similar to the one held in the Dominican Republic earlier this year (see RUsirius.com news archive story dated 15 August 2007). more>>
Ford continues to be Sirius.
(27 November 2007)
The automaker says it is looking to have the satcaster's satellite radio services in approximately 70 percent of Ford and Mercury 2009 vehicles next year. According to the company, more than 1 million Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles have already shipped with factory-installed Sirius satrads. more>>
HD Radioheads who like to listen in their cars could do worse than trying out the new offering by JVC.
(26 November 2007)
The KT-HDP1 is a portable HD receiver with an easy-to-use programming interface and lots of customization features. It's also inexpensive, retailing for around $130. more>>
Lexus, at least in Canada, is Sirius.
(24 November 2007)
The automaker and the satcaster have announced an expansion of their partnership to bring Sirius satrads to Canadian Lexus drivers beginning next month. Customers are allowed to specify the package for all 2008 Lexus models as a dealer installed option. All packages come with a trial Sirius subscription. more>>
What appeared to be a groundswell of opposition to the Sirius/XM merger is beginning to look like a desperate hoax by the National Association of Broadcasters.
(24 November 2007)
The Washington Post has been tracking down the senders of 60 anti-merger emails received by the FCC but has found what looks like voter registration statistics from the last Chicago election. The Post apparently managed to reach ten "senders" but nine denied that they had ever sent anything to the FCC. more>>
Not to be outdone by Sirius' Doctor Radio (see RUsirius.com story dated 12 November), XM's ReachMD (channel 157) is teaming with Cambridge, MA based Sermo to enable physicians from across the country to access selected programming segments directly and to discuss them in real-time.
(24 November 2007)
ReachMD is also spacing ongoing reports on physician options and attitudes about the content that is discussed within the Sermo online community. Says Sermo veep for research initiatives Alex Frost, "By combining the real-time discussion and engagement that takes place in the Sermo physician community with the innovative programming and broadcast network of ReachMD, the two organizations will amplify the voices and opinions of the nation's physicians in a powerful new way that directly influences healthcare." more>>
Think the Sirius/XM merger is moving ahead expeditiously?
(21 November 2007)
Think again. Georgetown Partners is responding to the Federal Communications Commission's hearings on the deal with a submission pointing out various disingenuous statements and inaccuracies in the Sirius/XM filing. The submission points out that not a single third party that is on record with the FCC opposes Georgetown's proposed solution to the fundamental flaws in the proposed merger. Georgetown also points out the risk to family-oriented programming from a satellite radio monopoly considering Mel Karmazin's proclivity to promote programming generally considered to be indecent. more>>
Think again.
(21 November 2007)
Georgetown Partners is responding to the Federal Communications Commission's hearings on the deal with a submission pointing out various disingenuous statements and inaccuracies in the Sirius/XM filing. The submission points out that not a single third party that is on record with the FCC opposes Georgetown's proposed solution to the fundamental flaws in the proposed merger. Georgetown also points out the risk to family-oriented programming from a satellite radio monopoly considering Mel Karmazin's proclivity to promote programming generally considered to be indecent. Sirius is serving up a healthy plate of Thanksgiving programming this weekend with live coverage of the Graceland Holiday tree lighting ceremony, Jimmy Buffett's Radio Margaritaville Annual Thanksgiving Concert and a special broadcast of Arlo Guthrie's "Alice's Restaurant Massacree." More features include Dionne Warwick making a Thanksgiving visit to Soul Town (channel 53), Tommy Lee and Aero from Area 33 (channel 33) from the Pacha nightclub in New York and Fred Imus's Thanksgiving special from the trailer. more>>
The Jonas Brothers are now XM-rated.
(21 November 2007)
The pop stars are slated to host their own limited edition music series for the satcaster starting on 23 November. The weekly show, "I'm With The Band," features the Jonas Brothers as DJs and exclusive backstage access with details on their national sold-out tour with Hannah Montana. Said Michelle Boros, program director of "Top 20 on 20," "By teaming up with the Jonas Brothers for this special series, XM is providing fans with an unparalleled, behind-the-scenes look at the biggest tour of the year." more>>
XM is extending a little cheer for the holiday season .
(20 November 2007)
.. courtesy of AirTran .The airline is giving every passenger a voucher covering three months of free XM service for those purchasing and activating an XM satrad between 23 November and 31 December. The vouchers are being distributed to passengers along with XM headsets and include details on how to get the free three months of XM. more>>
Food junkies unite!
(20 November 2007)
Sirius is spacing "Thanksgiving Hotline" tomorrow on Martha Stewart Radio. Martha and some of the world's top chefs will be taking calls and sharing tips and recipes with listeners. The list of participating chefs includes Lidia Bastianich, Bill Telepan, Ed Brown and John Barricelli. The special programming runs from 7:00 AM(ET) until 7:00 PM(ET) on Sirius channel 112. more>>
HD Radio continues its rollout.
(20 November 2007)
Proponents of the new format are now turning their attention to medium and smaller group owners. The BIA Financial Network has prepared an analysis for Radio World on the subject and has found that Inner City , the largest of the group, owns 17 stations but that none are currently broadcasting in HD. Sandusky has 40% of its ten stations providing HD broadcasts. Buckley is transmitting in HD on 15% of its 20 stations. more>>
XM is making it easier for previous listeners to become XM-rated once again.
(20 November 2007)
The satcaster is offering three free months of service regardless of when a unit was purchased, as long as a six month subscription is purchased. "This holiday season is the ideal time to get XM," said Vernon Irvin, XM's Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. Anyone wishing to take advantage of the offer is encouraged to check the details on the XM website. more>>
Directed Electronics is reorganizing its execs.
(20 November 2007)
The supplier of Sirius satrads and accessories has named Kevin Duffy to the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. In a deal reminiscent of the New York Yankees' negotiations with Joe Torre, the company has also accepted the resignation of its former Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Ron Dutt. more>>
The Sirius/XM merger is picking up additional support from yet another member of Congress.
(19 November 2007)
Representative Rich Boucher (D-Va) says that the merger would not create a monopoly and speaks his opinion in an article for Business Week . The co-founder and co-chair of the Conressional Internet Congress believes the merger should not be looked at as it relates specifically to satellite radio. Instead, says Boucher, the merger needs to be seen as part of the larger radio market, including terrestrial radio. more>>
Sirius is getting, well, serious.
(19 November 2007)
The satcaster is teaming with Professor Jeffrey Sachs to produce "One World," a program featuring the world's top level experts, politicians and other well known guests. Sachs is curently a Professor and Director of The Earth Institute at Columbia University and Special Advisor to Unitied Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon. He has worked with international problems like poverty reduction, debt cancellation and disease control and is the author of the bestselling book The End of Poverty. "Sirius programing is defined by shows like One World: exclusive, thought-provoking and engaging, and the time for this show is now," said Sirius' President of Entertainment and Sports Scott Greenstein. Said Sachs, "I hope that, with the national, and even global, reach Sirius affords my show, we can empower listeners to truly make a difference." One World launches early in 2008 on Sirius Stars (channel 102). more>>
Brazil continues to march forward with HD Radio.
(17 November 2007)
Rede Itatiaia in Belo Horizonte is receiving the first Broadcast Electronics FMi 35DT transmission system capable of combining conventional FM and HD Radio broadcasts. "We are preparing for HD Radio and making the transition into digital with the continued assurance of BE transmitters," said Rede Itatiaia Veep Claudio Emanuel Cameiro. more>>
Visitors to this year's Los Angeles Auto Show can expect to be bombarded by HD Radio promotions.
(17 November 2007)
In a marketing blitzkrieg, the HD Radio street team is handing out HD-Radio lanyards and VIP cards, which can be used to register to win I-Sonic Entertainment Systems, during the two weeks of the show. Inside the LA Convention Center, happy attendees can hear HD Radio in exhibits from BMW, Ford and Mini. more>>
Sirius is getting sirius about Stream .
(17 November 2007)
The satcaster is awarding the Sergeant Bluff, Iowa-based company with an expansion of its customer-service call center. The center has been handling inbound calls from Sirius customers since it opened in September of last year. An additional 200 employees are being hired to handle additional calls anticipated during the holiday season. more>>
Satellite radio moguls and enthusiasts should be aware that there's yet another player in the game.
(17 November 2007)
Slacker (see RUsirius.com news archive story dated 18 May 2007) is ready to roll out its portable player. Ready to play back music downloads, the device is made to provide radio style service with the capacity for 15, 25 or 40 music channels that can be personalized online by the user. The company has started to take pre-orders deliverable early in December. They have a suggested retail price of $200 to $300. Slacker veep for marketing Jon Sasse says they're holding back launching in stores to build consumer awareness. Says Sasse, "We expect customer acquisition to come through the free radio service and then convert them to the device from there." more>>
The Consumer Electronics Association is sirius about Directed Electronics.
(16 November 2007)
The company has been recognized with eight Innovations Awards this year, three for Sirius products alone. For Sirius accessories, DE has been honored for the SIR-WRS1 Echo Signal Repeater System, the HON-SC1 SiriusConnect Interface for Honda and the FM-SC1 SiriusConnect Universal FM Interface. The satcaster has also been awarded for several of its other products (see story dated 14 November). more>>
Fans of Clemson and Boston College will be pleased to know that their big game tomorrow is being spaced nationwide by XM.
(16 November 2007)
"There are Clemson fans all over the country, and everyone can listen to Saturday's game on an XM radio," said XM executive vice president for programming Eric Logan. The game can be heard on XM channel 192 starting at 7:45 PM(ET). more>>
America Online is now XM-rated.
(15 November 2007)
The internet service provider and the satcaster have announced plans to launch a Web-based radio service that will offer about 200 channels. The service, which will cost an estimated $5 a month, will be available for free to AOL subscribers. more>>
Canadian Satellite Radio has announced the appointment of Michael Moskowitz as the company's new Chief Executive Officer and President.
(15 November 2007)
Current boss John Bitove will continue in his role with the tile of Executive Chairman of Canadian Satellite Radio Holdings. Said Bitove, "We are very pleased to announce MIchael Moskowitz as the new Chief Executive Officer for XM Canada and are confident that his background will result in a positive benefit to our shareholders." Moskowitz is the former prez of America International of Palm, Inc, encompassing Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. more>>
Nissan is now more XM-rated than ever.
(15 November 2007)
The satcaster and the auto manufacturer have announced that XM satrads would be available as factory-installed options on the second-generation Nissan Murano, currently on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show. "2009 Nissan Murano buyers will now be able to experience the variety of more than 170 channels of music, sports, news, talk and entertainment, along with the power of live, real-time traffic data," said Joe Verbrugge, senior vice president, automotive accounts and international operations, for XM. more>>
Billionaire George Soros is Sirius.
(15 November 2007)
The man famous for currency trading, breaking the Bank of England and supporting Hillary Clinton now has 1.21 million shares of Sirius and 103,265 shares of XM. The investments come amidst the ongoing merger talks between the two satcasters and the Government. more>>
The Consumer Electronics Association has awarded Alpine and Polk for their HD Radio products featuring iTunes Tagging (see RUsirius.com story dated 4 October 2007), the TUA-T550HD and the i-Sonic Entertainment System 2 respectively.
(15 November 2007)
Said iBiquity Prez Bob Struble, "We are delighted to be honored by the Consumer Electronics Association in this year's Innovations Awards. iTunes Tagging is one of the many advanced features that leverage the powerful digital pipeline afforded to broadcasters by the HD Radio system." more>>
It's official!
(14 November 2007)
Shareholders of both Sirius and XM have approved the planned $5.1 billion merger between the two satcasters. Sirius investors approved the issuance of stock to help the company pay for the acquisition of XM. Meeting in Washington D.C., XM shareholders voted overwhelmingly to accept the deal that must still be approved by the Government. "We remain optimistic that the merger will be approved by the end of the year," said XM in a statement. more>>
The Consumer Electronics Association is sirius about Sirius.
(14 November 2007)
The organization has recognized three of the satcaster's products for advancements in consumer technology, design and engineering. The products are the Backseat TV audio/video tuner, the Stiletto 2 portable satrad and the Sportster 5 dock & play system. Said Sirius Prez, Operations and Sales, Jim Meyer, "Whether it's introducing technologies like Backseat TV or further developing our Stiletto 2 and dock & play radios, Sirius is committed to offering consumers an unbeatable combination of the best technology and the best audio and video entertainment." more>>
Ford is the first auto manufacturer to get Sirius about the satcaster's new data service suite.
(14 November 2007)
To mark the occasion the automaker is showcasing "Sirius Travel Link" on the 2009 Lincoln MKS at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show . When combined with Ford's next-generation navigation, Travel Link will provide users with a suite of data services including traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and movies. Said Ford's Director of Electrical Systems Engineering Jim Buczkowski, "Whether understanding the current traffic conditions on a daily commute, reviewing a five day weather forecast or seeing how your favorite sports teams performed, Sirius Travel Link combined with our next-generation navigation system provides up-to-the-minute information that will certainly enhance our customer's ownership experience." .
Members of The Dillinger Escape Plan , not satisfied only to be guests at XM, are also scheduled for an appearance on Sirius' Hard Attack (channel 27).
(14 November 2007)
Guitarist Benjamin Weinman joins Sirius host Jose Mangin for a candid edition of "Hard Files" tomorrow at 7:00 PM(ET). The band's vocalist Greg Puciato spoke yesterday with Katie Brutal on XM's Liquid Metal. Weinman's Sirius spot re-spaces on Friday at noon (ET), Saturday at 3:00 PM(ET) and Sunday at 6:00 PM(ET).
XM is planning to space a game that is of increasing importance as the college football season winds down.
(14 November 2007)
Second ranked Oregon plays Arizona tomorrow starting at 6 PM(PT) on channel 193. Said XM Veep, programming, Eric Logan, "Oregon is carrying its highest ranking ever into a regular-season game when the play Arizona this week, and people all over the country can hear the game on XM." more>>
If the decision to merge Sirius and XM were simply left to the investors the deal would be easily approved.
(13 November 2007)
Shareholders of both satcasters are expected to approve the merger in separate shareholder meetings today in New York and Washington. The vote paves the way for final approval by the Federal Communications Commission, which is still looking at possible anti-competitive effects. more>>
Former Federal Communications Commission Chairman Reed Hundt is sirius about satellite radio.
(13 November 2007)
He should know what he's talking about since the rules and regulations for Sirius and XM were formulated during his tenure from 1993 through 1997. And he thinks the proposed merger is "pro-competitive, " saying, "I think that if XM and Sirius combined, it will be pro-compeitive in all likelihood. It seems to me that that is far more likely than not. It seems to me that what has happened over time is that these two firms have proved when kept apart to be incapable of mounting the really serious competition against terrestrial radio that I had always hoped for." A copy of the complete interview with Hundt has been filed with the FCC as part of the case supporting the merger. more>>
He should know what he's talking about since the rules and regulations for Sirius and XM were formulated during his tenure from 1993 through 1997.
(12 November 2007)
And he thinks the proposed merger is "pro-competitive, " saying, "I think that if XM and Sirius combined, it will be pro-compeitive in all likelihood. It seems to me that that is far more likely than not. It seems to me that what has happened over time is that these two firms have proved when kept apart to be incapable of mounting the really serious competition against terrestrial radio that I had always hoped for." A copy of the complete interview with Hundt has been filed with the FCC as part of the case supporting the merger. Sirius is finally providing an answer to the question "Is there a doctor in the house?" The satcaster is launching "Doctor Radio," a venture with NYU Medical Center. The new programming premieres on Sirius channel 119 early next year and promises to feature more than two dozen respected doctors as regular weekly hosts. Said Robert I. Grossman, the Saul J. Farber Dean and CEO of NYU Medical Center, "Every American is affected by medical issues. And so to have NYU's expert team of teaching doctors, and other world-class experts, easily accessible to Sirius' diverse national audience represents a level of connection and outreach we could not accomplish any other way." Among the subjects being addressed are how to know if you are at risk for a heart attack, what parents can do to cope with ADD children and stories from the operating room. more>>
Puckheads everywhere will finally get to hear what the boss is thinking.
(12 November 2007)
"NHL Hour" premieres on XM this season with Commissioner Gary Bettman and featuring a rotation of NHL executives. Said XM Canada Boss John Bitove, "This program sets the bar high - it marks the first time fans of a professional sports league will have direct access to the sport's top decision makers." Fans may even have the opportunity to know when to expect the next work stoppage. more>>
Rockers As I Lay Dying are guesting on Sirius' Hard Attack this Tuesday, 13 November, at 3 PM(ET).
(10 November 2007)
They plan to answer listeners' questions and plug their latest release, "An Ocean Between Us." more>>
WorldSpace is getting sirius about numbers.
(9 November 2007)
The international satcaster has announced its results for the third quarter of 2007. During the period ending on 30 September the company reported 177,644 subscribers worldwide, a loss of 12,689. The poor performance reflects a loss of subscribers in INdia and the planed cessation of marketing efforts in Europe ahead of the company's efforts to test and subsequently commence mobile service there. more>>
Duran Duran is getting Sirius.
(9 November 2007)
To celebrate the release of Red Carpet Massacre on 13 November, the satcaster is handing over control of its Super Shuffle (channel 12) to British rockers Simon Le Bon, Nick Rhodes, John Taylor and Roger Taylor. "Duran Duran continues to stand the test of time in fashion, music and culture," said Sirius President of Entertainment and Sports Scot Greenstein. "We are thrilled to five fans this intimate, in-depth, exclusive experience with of music's most enduring and exciting bands." more>>
The Federal Trade Commission is no longer investigating XM.
(9 November 2007)
The FTC is closing its inquiry into the satcaster's marketing and customer service practices, an inquiry launched in April 2006. No actions have been taken. more>>
It's time to get Sirius about the holidays as the satcaster follows suit with XM (se RUsirius.com story dated 5 November).
(9 November 2007)
Sirius Holiday (channel 2) features a mix of traditional stuff with Nat Cole, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Paul McCartney and others. Christmas Country is on Roadhouse (channel 26) and features holiday music performed by the likes of Martina McBride, George Strait and Garth Brooks. Classical Christmas on Sirius Pops (channel 86) features classical pieces like Handel's Messiah and Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker. more>>
Canadian Satellite Radio gets sirius next Thursday.
(9 November 2007)
On 15 November the Canadian XM affiliate holds a conference call at 11 AM(ET) to discuss its fourth quarter and 2007 year end financial results. Chairman John Bitove, and Chief Financial Officer Michael Washinushi are presenting at the event and will be available for questions afterwards. Investors and those just interested in a few laughs can dial in at (800) 732-6179 or simply access the company's website. more>>
The worldwide market for digital radio, including satellite radio and HD Radio, grew by 61% during 2006.
(9 November 2007)
In the United States, the digital radio source of choice is satellite radio with HD Radio making some inroads starting in 2007. According to a survey conducted by In-Stat, 77% of respondents were aware of HD Radio in 2007, up from 57% in 2005. more>>
What does a company do when its appears to be having some difficulties?
(8 November 2007)
It hires a new vice president. In the case of HD Radio manufacturer Broadcast Electronics (see yesterday's RUsirius.com story) his name is Chuck Miklich. He is being hired by CEO Joseph W. Roark to assume responsibility for all manufacturing, global sourcing and lean business activities. Said Roark, "Chuck's expertise comes at a critical time as we address the challenges of global growth in our broadcast markets." Miklich has previously served as Director of Operations for Harris Broadcast Communications Division. more>>
Led Zep is now officially XM-rated.
(8 November 2007)
The satcaster has announced the launch of a new channel, "XM LED," dedicated to the music of rock icons Led Zeppelin starting today on XM 59. It will feature the band's complete audio catalog, interviews, and other unique content. "With this channel, XM has created the comprehensive Led Zeppelin experience," said XM executive veep for programming Eric Logan. "Often cited as a primary influence for a who's who of modern day musicians, Led Zeppelin is one of the most important rock acts from the last half-century and 'XM LED' will provide fans with the sounds an insights tat have made them such enduring rock icons." more>>
It appears possible that the merger between XM and Sirius could be approved as early as 5 December, the date that would constitute 180 days since a second request to the satcasters for information.
(7 November 2007)
Apparently, Thomas O. Barnett, who heads the Department of Justice's anti-trust division , is expected to approve the deal despite opposition from his staff. That leaves the shareholder vote, currently scheduled for 13 November and the final approval of the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC has already asked both satcasters for additional data (see below). more>>
HD Radio is coming to Thailand.
(7 November 2007)
Fatima Broadcasting International has begun multicasting in HD using Harris transmitters, making it one of the first HD Radio broadcast services in the Asia-Pacific region. Fatima won the rights to broadcast over a country-wide sub-carrier service for 85 FM stations last year from the Public Relations Department of Thailand's government. Said Fatima CEO Sangchai Apichatthanapath, "The Harris transmitter installations have allowed us to launch a reliable HD Radio service in two distinct regions of Thailand, offering a superior technical platform with aplenty of bandwidth to take advantage of the multicast capabilities in the HD Radio standard." more>>
With the retirement of its CEO, the resignation of its global sales veep and the layoff of some employees, Broadcast Electronics appears to be headed into tougher times.
(7 November 2007)
The so-called "bellwether" of the broadcast industry is also a primary manufacturer of HD Radio transmitters and other equipment. "We did have a reduction in staff over the summer," said vice president for strategic marketing Neil Glasman. "But the company still has more employees today than a year ago." No specific comments were made as to the number of employees who lost their jobs. more>>
The merger inches forward.
(6 November 2007)
The Federal Communications Commission is now asking Sirius and XM for additional data as they move toward a decision. The latest request seeks detailed information about almost every aspect of the businesses. Answers are expected to assist the FCC in shaping conditions should the deal be allowed to go forward. more>>
Martha Stewart is apparently Sirius about the NFL.
(6 November 2007)
The satcaster has announced that Martha Steward Living Radio (channel 112) is spacing an exclusive series of interviews revolving around Taste of the NFL, a one-of-a-kind charitable food and wine-tasting event. Every Monday and Friday from now until the Super Bowl a different chef is featured with Martha to discuss a signature Taste of the NFL dish, take calls, and share anecdotes. Martha Steward Living Radio is also satcasting live from the annual Taste of the NFL event on Super Bowl Weekend. more>>
Audiovox is getting sirius about HD Radio.
(6 November 2007)
The manufacturer is putting out two new HD Radios through its Jensen brand. The receivers, designated the HD5112 and HD5212, are the first HD Radio car receivers with both HD and satellite radio capability. They're expected to retail for $149.99 and $159.99 respectively. more>>
European audiophiles should start to get sirius about the Denon S-52 (see RUsirius.com news archive story dated 25 July 2007).
(5 November 2007)
The continental version features DAB instead of HD Radio in addition to a CD player, an iPod dock and wireless streaming. more>>
College hoops junkies can now be XM-rated.
(5 November 2007)
The satcaster is spacing more than 1000 college basketball games this season, starting on 6 November when Kentucky hosts Central Arkansas at Rupp Arena in Lexington. "You can hear college basketball games from all over the country on XM Radio," said XM senior vice president of news, talk and sports programming Kevin Straley. "You can follow your team wherever you are." XM is the satellite home this year for 16 of the top 25 teams in the pre-season ESPN/USA Today college basketball poll. more>>
XM is getting sirius about the holidays.
(5 November 2007)
The satcaster is already starting to assemble its schedule of programing to ring in the season. Featured this year are Holly (XM 103), Holiday Traditions (XM 104), Music City Holiday (XM 105), A Classical Christmas (XM 106), Special X-Mas (XM 107) and Radio Hanukkah (XM 108). more>>
The proposed satellite radio merger is getting more support, this time from ISS.
(3 November 2007)
The leading independent proxy advisory service is recommending that Sirius and XM stockholders vote "FOR" the proposed deal. According to ISS, "From a strategic viewpoint, it appears that combination would allow shareholders of both companies to participate in the expected benefits of a larger entity." more>>
Sirius just can't give away enough channels (see story dated 31 October).
(3 November 2007)
The satcaster is now dedicating an entire channel to cultural icon and industry mogul Shawn Corey " Jay-Z " Carter for one week "Jay-Z Nation" premieres on 5 November at 5 PM(ET) on Hip-Hop Nation (channel 40). Said Sirius President of Entertainment and Sports Scott Greenstein, "Jay-Z is one of the preeminent creative forces in the music industry. Over the last decade, he has truly changed the face of hip-hop and music culture." more>>
XM may regret ever having hired Bob Edwards (see RUsirius.com news archive story dated 29 July 2004).
(2 November 2007)
The former NPR host spoke before the Federal Communications Commission and said that he saw further consolidation and fewer voices in the broadcasting business. Said Edwards, "The drive to consolidate ownership of media seems to ignore the disaster that consolidation has brought to local news and public affairs on radio in this country. The commission should not intensify the continuing evisceration of broadcast localism as a result of consolidation by adopting rules enabling even more consolidation." Media consolidation, said Edwards, "has been the enemy of localism in broadcasting." Edwards did not indicate whether he was for or against the proposed Sirius/XM merger. more>>
The Rev.
(2 November 2007)
Jesse Jackson has come out against the proposed Sirius/XM merger. Speaking at the Federal Communications Commission's localism hearing, Jackson, founder of the Rainbow Push Coalition said the merger "would eliminate the potential for any meaningful competition in the satellite radio market which would, in turn, permanently block the potential for diversity of ownership and control by minorities in the only medium capable of nationwide broadcasting." more>>
If you're a dedicated XMer, Toyota may be the car for you.
(1 November 2007)
The automaker has announced that the 2009 Toyota Corolla and Matrix will be the first Toyota brand vehicles to offer XM as a factory-equipped feature. XM NavTraffic is also being included as an option. Said Steve Cook, executive vice president, Automitove, XM, "The availability of XM as a factory-installed feature on these two models is an important milestone. The combination of XM Radio and XM NavTraffic will deliver an outstanding entertainment and driver information package for Corolla and Matrix buyers." more>>
Can it be that Jerry Seinfeld is Sirius?
(1 November 2007)
The comedian sat down for an exclusive conversation with Jim Breuer on the satcaster's Raw Dog Comedy Uncensored (channel 104). Seinfeld discussed his upcoming "Bee Movie," an animation comedy featuring his voice. Seinfeld also co-wrote and co-produced the film. The interview is being spaced on Friday, 2 November at 11:00 AM(ET) and at 6:00 PM(ET) and throughout the weekend. more>>
Life must be good.
(1 November 2007)
Korean consumer electronics manufacturer LG Innotek is now offering a series of HD Radio modules for the auto market. The modules include an aftermarket unit, an ultra small module and a universal tuner box. "LG Innotek product introduction is significant because it comes at a time when HD Radio technology is booming in the automotive market,," said iBiquity Chief Operating Officer Jeff Jury. "These new automotive modules provide a wide range of easy to implement alternatives for manufacturers incorporating HD Radio technology in the growing number of aftermarket automotive radios coming to market." The modules are being introduced at this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association ( SEMA ) show in Las Vegas. more>>
Racing legend Tony Stewart is finally Sirius about the "Stewies" (see RUsirius.com story dated 16 October).
(1 November 2007)
He's announced the categories and the winners of the awards for a show to be satcast on Sirius NASCAR (channel 128) on Thursday, 29 November at 6:00 PM(ET). The award categories are the Golden Stewie (honoring a legendary driver from 1960 to 1985), Best Duet, Best Original Drama, New Kid on the Track, Best Stunt Sequence, Best Original Comedy, Best Engineering and Special Effects, Dazed and Confused, I Got Dumped and the Special Achievement award. more>>