Greater Media's Peter Smyth is sirius.  He wants the merger between Sirius and XM to be stopped by the Federal Communications Commission.  The merger, says Smyth, contradicts the FCC's policy of not allowing a single company to own more than a small number of radio stations in a given market.  Says Smyth, "The Department of Justice's conclusion about the market in which XM and Sirius compete directly contradicts the FCC's recent decision when it decided not to relax its broadcast local ownership caps."   more>> (9 May 2008)

XM is sirius about money.  The satcaster has scheduled a conference call for Monday, 12 May, at 11:30 AM(ET) to discuss its first quarter results.  XM investors or those just interested in listening to some weak excuses can call (877) 265-5808.  The call can also be accessed via the XM website.   more>> (8 May 2008)

Don't forget the blues.  XM doesn't.  The satcaster is carrying the Blues Music Awards tonight at 6:30 PM(ET) live from the Birthplace of the Blues, the Mississippi Delta.  Says Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour, "I can think of no better location to host the Blues Music Awards than the undisputed birthplace of the Blues, right here in the Mississippi Delta."  The event takes place at Harrah's Casino Tunica in Tunica, Mississippi.  It is being spaced on XM channel 74.   more>> (8 May 2008)

Satellite radio is getting a little more competition.  Cliff Burnstein is jumping into the fray with a company called Primosphere (see RUsirius.com story dated 13 September 2007).  Burnstein had been an original bidder when the Federal Communications Commission opened the bidding for digital radio but lost out to Sirius and XM.  He's looking to compete by purchasing assets from existing communications satellites without having to launch any of his own.  His plan is similar to that of Georgetown Partners (see RUsirius.com story dated 18 March).   more>> (8 May 2008)

The WORD is on XM.  Popular top-40 station WORD in Spartanburg, South Carolina, is being revived as it was in the 1960s on the satcaster's Sonic Sound Salutes this Friday, 9 May.  "We're going to create WORD exactly the way it sounded," said Terry "Motormouth" Young.  The spacecast takes place on XM channel 6 at 4:00 PM(ET). more>> (8 May 2008)

Harris is cool.  The company, along with the National Association of Broadcasters and iBiquity, won a "Cool Stuff" award for its FlexStar HDE-200 Exporter (see RUsirius.com story dated 14 April).  Designed to help minimize HD Radio technology implementation costs, the HDE-200 supports the delivery of multiple program streams over a single, dedicated connection. more>> (7 May 2008)  

XM is going on the road for kids.  The satcaster has announced the second annual XMKiDS Traveling Roadshow cross-country initiative to help Wal-Mart raise $10 million for Children's Miracle Network.  The show kicks off next Monday, 12 May, from Orange County, California.  The XMKiDS on-air team, including "Absolutely Mindy," Kenny Curtis and Jinx, broadcasts a live show from Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., on Friday, 23 May.  Stops in between include Seattle, Denver, Chicago and Boston.     more>> (7 May 2008)

CBS Radio is taking on the satcasters.  As part of a series of presentations, CBS Radio boss Dan Mason has revealed a new online media player.  Saying broadcast radio "is not dead," Mason introduced Play It. It includes contextual ads, links to advertisers' sites and content from CBS stations.  It also allows listeners to create their own, personalized custom stations.   more>> (6 May 2008)

Joe Madison is now completely XM-rated.  The WOL talker is leaving the Washington station, the flagship station of Radio One, to join the satcaster's payroll.  "Historically, Madison's show has been available on both XM and WOL/Radio One," said Radio One general manager Michelle Williams.  "Talks between XM and Radio One to continue that arrangement are in the very early stages."   more>> (6 May 2008)

Get ready for some hockey!  The American Hockey League and XM have announced that the satcaster will be carrying three games from the 20087 Calder Cup Playoffs.  The action consists of Games 3 and 4 of the East Division Finals between the Wilkes-Barre/Scranon Penguins and the Philadelphia Phantoms, and Game 3 of the North Division Finals between the Toronto Marlies and the Syracuse Crunch.  All games or on XM channel 204.   more>> (6 May 2008)

Terrestrial radio is siriusly searching for the next Howard Stern.  The elusive quest for the next "King of All Media," however, has proven tougher than many radio execs thought it would be when they started.  One thing's for certain.  He's not Adam Carolla, Danny Bonaduce, David Lee Roth or Shane French.   more>> (4 May 2008) 

Holly holy he's Sirius.  Neil Diamond is hosting an exclusive music channel for two weeks on Sirius channel 3.  "Neil Diamond Radio" features four decades of his music including a preview of songs from "Home Before Dark," his latest offering.  A solitary man no more>> (3 May 2008)

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.  That seems to be the attitude taken by two prominent Democrat members of Congress regarding the Federal Communications Commission's pending approval of the satellite radio merger.  Reps. John Dingell, Mich., chairman of the House Commerce Committee, and Ed Markey, Mass., chairman of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet, told FCC Chairman Kevin Martin in a memo that price constraints should be followed should the deal be approved.  They also said that device manufacturers should be allowed to incorporate other technologies, including HD Radio, into new satrads without interference from the satcasters.  "It would be contrary to the public interest, for example, to permit the merged company to bar HD Radio chips or iPod compatibility" from being included in a new satellite radio device, "whether that device is freestanding or installed in an automobile," the memo to Martin stated.   more>> (2 May 2008)

It's time to get Sirius about Mom.  The satcaster is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Mother's Day with "Radio Mom," an exclusive channel beginning tomorrow and continuing through Mother's Day, 11 May.  Sirius greetings and memories will be shared by Sirius hosts like Martha Stewart, Barbara Walters, Deepak Chopra, Richard Simmons, Jane Pratt, Jim Breuer and Mary O.  Sirius listeners are also being encouraged to share their personal messages about their mothers by calling 877-33-SIRIUS.  "Radio Mom" is being carried on Sirius channel 119.   more>> (2 May 2008)

Bill Bradley is Sirius about Jimmy Carter.  The former senator interviews the former president on Sunday, 4 May at 9:30 AM(ET) on Sirius Stars (channel 102).  In the interview, Carter shares his views on, among other topics, the Middle East, religion and the current Democrat primaries.  Carter also hawks his new book, A Remarkable Mother, written about his late mother Lillian Carter.  On why a lasting peace has never been forged in the Middle East, Carter has this to say in the interview, "The main reason is that no succeeding President has really made a major effort with any chance to succeed and of course the Israelis have got to have the United States making a major effort.  I can't say that Bill Clinton didn't try but he didn't start until the last year of his term because of political consequences."   more>> (2 May 2008)

Not so fast!  That's the word from Sirius and XM as they extend their merger deadline yet again, giving the Federal Communications Commission more time to decide whether or not to approve.  The deadline had been extended on 1 March (see RUsirius.com story dated 1 March) to today.  The second extension moves it to 15 May.  Is this the final offer?   more>> (1 May 2008)

Directed Electronics continues to be Sirius.  The electronics giant has extended its product distribution agreement with the satcaster to 31 January 2009.  Said Directed prez Jim Minarik, "Together with Sirius over the past three years we have achieved the No. 1 position in aftermarket satellite radio sales, and are once again pleased to extend our relationship.  By extending the contract from Aug. 31, 2008 , into 2009, we have the opportunity to generate significant sales of Sirius-branded products this year, given that roughly 50 percent of our 2007 satellite radio sales occurred in the fourth quarter."  The agreement also limits Directed's exposure to product warranty costs.   more>> . (30 April 2008)

Nate Davis may not be Sirius but that's fine with him.  The XM president and chief executive received more than $8 million last year in compensation and stock awards according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The compensation came in a year when the value of XM stock fell 15 percent to $12.24 a share.   more>> (30 April 2008)

Rutgers baseball is now XM-rated.  The satcaster is carrying the Scarlet Knights' game against Cincinnati this Saturday, 3 May, as its "Big East Game of the Week."  The game is the second of a three-game series at Marge Schott Stadium in Cincinnati.  Happy Jersey denizens can finally forget about Don Imus, turn off the Bruce Springsteen records, park the Camaro and listen to the game on XM.  The spacecast starts at 4:00 PM(ET) on channel 203.   more>> (30 April 2008)

Sirius is taking more steps to get you out of your car.  The satcaster is making its programming available on Logitech Squeezebox and Transporter network music players to anyone willing to shell out the $13 a month subscription charge.  The move offers further evidence that Sirius wants to keep its business going on home and portable devices even if its automotive sales begin to decline.   more>> (30 April 2008)

XM is apparently less sirius about Europe.  As a result of the satcaster's terminating its agreement with AOL, European listeners will no longer be able to receive XM streams for free.  XM is still available for a monthly service charge but it's only compatible with either Windows or the Mac OS-X operating systems.  Linux hackers need not apply.   more>> (30 April 2008)

Satellite radio awaits the FCC's decision.  Sirius and XM have postponed their annual shareholder meetings pending further information about the timing of the anticipated merger.  The satcasters are waiting for the final word from the Federal Communications Commission on whether or not the deal will be approved.  The merger has already been approved by the Department of Justice (see RUsirius.com story dated 24 March).  Both Sirius and XM have said they would file amendments to their annual reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission.   more>> (29 April 2008)

Danica Patrick joins Junior on XM.  The female open wheel racing sensation is being interviewed by NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. on his show, "Dale Jr. Unrestricted," this Thursday, 1 May, on XM Sports Nation (channel 144) at 7:30 PM(ET).  The show will be re-run at 10:30 PM(ET) on Thursday and again on Saturday, 3 May, at 1:30 and 6:30 PM(ET).  "Danica is a talented driver, and she backs up that talent with the kind of commitment and dedication you've got to have to succeed," Earnhardt said.  "We've hung out a little, and I'm glad to see her hard work pay off."  Patrick won her first major race on 20 April when she finished first in the Indy Japan 300.   more>> (29 April 2008)

Jensen has a new way for us to enjoy HD Radio.  The JiMS-525 and JiMS-525A are two iPod/HD speaker systems that allow users to dock and charge iPods and iPhones while at the same time playing music from them through the system speakers or listening to HD Radio.  The system is also compatible with HD Radio iTunes tagging.   more>> (29 April 2008)

HD Radioheads, get ready for eRockster.  Radio giant Clear Channel is introducing the new format, primarily aimed at HD subchannels, to its stable of radio stations.  The programming is based on the lineup of the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival , an event that this year featured superstars like Madonna, Prince and Pink Floyd's Roger Waters along with hundreds of indie rock bands, DJs and electronic acts.  eRockster was introduced this weekend on Clear Channel's KAJR in Indio, CA.   more>> (28 April 2008)

Are we sirius about free satellite radio?  Apparently attorneys general for four states are.  Attorneys general for Maryland, Connecticut, Ohio and Washington want the Federal Communications Commission to force a merged Sirius/XM to lease bandwidth to a third entity for a free satellite radio service.  According to a letter sent to FCC chairman Kevin Martin, "Should the FCC approve the proposed merger, the only way it can preserve valuable competition is to introduce a new competitor to the SDARS (Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service) arena."  It is speculated that Maryland Attorney General Douglas Gansler has a hidden agenda.  Georgetown Partners (see RUsirius.com story dated 18 March) is based in Bethesda, MD and is the only entity that has made a pitch to lease satellite spectrum from Sirius and XM.   more>> (26 April 2008)

It's not just blind faith, Steve Winwood is Sirius.  The pop musical star is taking over the satcaster's "The Spectrum" (channel 18) this weekend to promote "Nine LIves," his latest offering.  He'll introduce and play each of the nine songs from the new album before its initial release on 29 April.  The big event runs from this morning through 8:00 PM(ET) tomorrow.   more>> (26 April 2008)

Brazil continues to be sirius about HD Radio.  According to Broadcast Electronics 300 broadcasters from Brazil showed up at an HD Radio event sponsored by iBiquity at this year's National Association of Broadcasters' show in Las Vegas.  BE says that Brazilian Minister of Communications Helio Costa "spoke optimistically of the future of radio in general and HD Radio technology in particular."   more>> (26 April 2008)

Tom Ray is sirius about HD Radio.  The WOR engineer has written a book of advice to radio engineers and managers who want to convert their stations to digital.  Called "HD Radio Implementation: The Field Guide for Facility Conversion," the book is written in a folksy style that puts readers at ease while describing what can sometimes be a difficult subject.  Tom describes studios, AM HD, FM HD and how to make it all work.   more>> (24 April 2008)

ENCO Systems is a Pick Hit.  The developer of Digital Audio Delivery for HD Radio (see RUsirius.com story dated 28 March) has been awarded a coveted Pick HIt award at this year's National Association of Broadcasters show in Las Vegas.  The company was honored for RAMA, a Remotely Administered Metadata Appliance designed for radio stations and networks to provide ancillary data to HD Radio.  Said ENCO prez Eugene Novacek, "We have had the good fortune to be awarded to Pick HIt awards in the past, most recently in 2004 and it is always a gratifying experience."   more>> (24 March 2008)

The results continue to look bad for satellite radio.  The latest Jacobs Media survey (see 22 April story below) indicates that a merger between Sirius and XM would do little to encourage additional subscribers.  In fact, half of the respondents said that the merger would have no influence on their decision.  Said Fred Jacobs, "Only four in ten of those whose vehicle came installed with satellite radio say they'll absolutely stay with the service.  And nearly a third indicate they'll likely discontinue or aren't sure about the status of their subscription.  Clearly, there's a lot of churn happening, putting pressure on satellite radio to sell new subscriptions just to stay even."   more>> (23 April 2008)

Ondas is still sirius about Europe.  The Spanish media company (see RUsirius.com story dated 15 January) continues to provide competition to WorldSpace in the European market (see RUsirius.com story dated 10 April), this time with an agreement from The Netherlands.  The agreement provides Ondas with exclusive rights to construct, launch and locate up to two geostationary satellites to support satellite radio.  "The European market is clearly segmented into two components.  To work and be acceptable in the car industry the radios should receive the signals from directly above, and operate in the higher frequency that car companies have already deployed in the US.  However, for some key applications, such as handheld receivers, and aftermarket radios, those devices receive better when supplemented from lower elevations, and in some cases already operate at lower frequencies," writes Dave Krueger, Ondas' Chief Operating Officer.  Can a merger with WorldSpace be far behind?   more>> (23 April 2008)

Two new HD Radio products are on the way.  The IS808B from iLive of St. Louis is ready for shipment in June.  The system comes with a fold-out iPod dock and iTunes Tagging.  It's expected to sell for $149.  iLuv's i168 is priced at $89.99 and is a one-piece clock radio with FM multicasting, megadata display, 20 FM and 10 AM presets, digital analog tuning and LCD display.   iLuv , of Port Washington, NY, claims it will be the lowest-priced home HD Radio on the market.   more>> (22 April 2008)

Danica is now XM-rated.  Racing sensation Danica Patrick is ready to talk about her first win at the Indy Japan 300 on the "Andretti Green Racing Hour," today at 7:00 PM(ET) on XM Sports Nation (channel 144).  "Danica Patrick is a superstar who has worked tirelessly to become a champion, and the entire XM family congratulates Danica on this huge victory," said XM senior vice president of news, sports and talk programming Kevin Straley.  The entire Indy Japan 300 will be replayed after the special at 8:00 PM(ET).   more>> (22 April 2008)

Are you Sirius?  According to a recent survey by Jacobs Media it depends on whether you purchased a satellite radio receiver on your own or simply had one pre-installed on your new car.  The survey indicates that people who involuntarily received a satrad with a three-month subscription in a new car are less likely by 26 percentage points to maintain the subscription once it expires.   more>> (21 April 2008)

Radio America is sirius about Paltalk .  The popular talk radio network, currently teamed with both XM and Sirius, is entering into an agreement with Paltalk to allow listeners to interact with Radio America hosts and guests in real-time.  "We have been very successful over the past year in forging solid partnerships with a number of the top radio networks throughout the country, bringing our users compelling programing they can experience through community chat," said Gary Baumgarten, Director of News and Programming at Paltalk.  Radio America's lineup currently features Michael Reagan, G. Gordon Liddy, Doug Stephens, Greg Knapp, Car and Driver Radio, Road and Track Speed Radio, Talkin' Baseball, The Garden Rebel and Dr. Bob Martin.   more>> (21 April 2008)

The National Radio Hall of Fame may have some new entrants.  The organization has nominated three satellite radio personalities to this year's class. They are Bob Costas and Laura Schlessinger, both affiliated with XM, and Sirius' Howard Stern.  A national online balloting process will determine the winners.   more>> (21 April 2008)

HD Radio is becoming increasingly popular.  Sales of digital radios climbed to 330,000 last year, a jump from 40,000 in 2006.  The numbers indicate an increasing awareness of the new medium as well as its acceptance.  Said Don Pollnow of Renda Broadcasting , "The thing that is cool about an HD radio is its CD-quality sound.  If you're listening to an analog FM stereo and you go over to HD, you can really hear the difference.  It's just a much cleaner, better signal.  It's a much better sound than satellite radio.   more>> (21 April 2008)

The music biz may not be Sirius.  Although a merger between the two satcasters may remove the duplication of effort it would also reduce the number of promotional opportunities available to the music business.  "It's great that their combined (channels) will have a larger audience but it's also at the expense of the exposure," says Virgin Records veep for promotion Dave Reynolds.  "It takes away 50% of my chance of being exposed correctly."   more>> (20 April 2008)

Byron Dorgan isn't Sirius.  The senator from North Dakota wants the Federal Communications Commission to stop the merger between the satcaster and rival XM saying the agency should not follow the "illogical" decision of the Justice Department.  In a letter to FCC Chairman Kevin Martin, Dorgan says, "This merger is contrary to the public interest.  I hope that the FCC will stand up for competition in the public interest and deny this merger."  Dorgan is a high-ranking member of the Senate Commerce Committee.   more>> (20 April 2008)

Bubba the Love Sponge is taking his act on the road.  Sirius' second most popular personality (behind Howard Stern) is in "Bubbapalooza," featuring Todd Alan "Bubba the Love Sponge" Clem along with show regulars Ned, Manson, Brent Hatley, Spice, 25 Cent, Hammil and Miller.  The show is featured tomorrow in at the Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville, IN, near where Clem grew up in Warsaw.  Says Clem, "We tell it like it is and we're not afraid to put opposing views on the air."  Clem's career in terrestrial radio had been revived in 2006 when Howard Stern put him on Sirius after his famed indecency fine.   more>> (18 April 2008)

ReachMD is free on weekends.  The only multi-channel media, education and information company for medical professionals is now offering free continuing medical education (CME) on weekends on XM Channel 157 (see RUsirius.com story dated 6 February).  The channel can be received by any XM satrad with or without a subscription.   more>> (18 April 2008)

New Zealand continues its pursuit of digital radio.  RadioWorks is using a combination of a terrestrial and satellite-based infrastructure (see RUsirius.com dated 7 April) to distribute digital content to subscribers.  The system is based on SuperFlex Pro from International Datacasting and AVW, its distribution partner in New Zealand.   Says IDC chief executive Ron Clifton, "We are extremely proud that RadioWorks is upgrading their satellite distribution system to their stations with SuperFlex Pro Audio."   (17 April 2008)

Toyota wants HD Radio.  The automaker has announced that the Scion brand will be offering HD as an option in select audio systems in the near future.  Says Jason Adang, Toyota USA's manager for accessory audio and electronics planning, "Since Scion customers are in tune with audio technology, it makes sense that we enhance our already outstanding audio offerings for them.  Digital HD Radio technology is ideal for our youthful, tech-savvy customers who will enjoy the wide range of content available on HD Radio channels."   more>> (17 April 2008)

KSLU is going XM...again  The radio station of Saint Louis University is being featured on the satcaster's "Student Exchange Program" from 3:00-5:00 PM(ET) this Sunday, 20 April on XMU (channel 43).  The programming includes KSLU's Assistant Music Director Alison Arida hosting the Indie Rock show.  The event marks the second time KSLU has been selected by XMU (see RUsirius.com story dated 31 January 2008).  Non-XM subscribers can listen-in to the XMU online stream.   more>> (17 April 2008)

TELUS is going XM.  The leading Canadian telecommunications company is now offering the satcaster's programming on cell phones.  Up to 50 XM channels are being offered to TELUS clients or anywhere from $8 to $15 a month, including an introductory "day pass" for $3 per 24 hours.  "Satellite radio is rising in popularity everywhere and TELUS is proud to offer its mobility clients the XM Satellite Radio service in real-time streaming," said TELUS veep David Neale.   more>> (16 April 2008)

POTUS '08 is going to Philly.  XM's presidential election channel is broadcasting live from Philadelphia's landmark restaurant Pat's King of Steaks on 22 April as Pennsylvania voters go to the polls to choose either Barack or Hillary for president.  Anchors Joe Mathieu and Rebecca Roberts are providing a complete play-by-play of all the day's action starting at 4:00 PM(ET) on the day of the big primary.  Says Pat's owner Frank Olivieri Jr., "The national spotlight is on Pennsylvania come April 22.  It's a big day for our state, and we are very happy to welcome XM to Pat's for this national broadcast."   more>> (16 April 2008)

Sirius is going to Graceland.  NASCAR legend Tony Stewart is hosting "Tony Stewart Live" from Elvis' place on Monday, 12 May on Sirius NASCAR (channel 128) from 8:00-10:00 PM(ET) to provide listeners with a glimpse into the personal life of "The King."  Prior to the show, Stewart is making an appearance as a guest DJ on Elvis Radio (channel 13) for a selection of his favorite Elvis songs.  Part of Stewart's visit includes talk about Elvis' collection of cars in the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum.  Says Stewart, "I can't sing and I can't act, but I do like Elvis' music and I can collect cars."   more>> (16 April 2008)

Ludwig Enterprises is going HD...sort of.  The Nevada based company is buying the test equipment of Pegasus Data in Edison NJ to continue engineering its new Digital FM radio services.  The subscriber based service attaches fifty digital broadcast channels to an existing FM radio signal.   more>> (16 April 2008)

"We are at an abyss," said Tim Robbins to the NAB.  That's the way he began his speech to the National Association of Broadcasters' Show in Las Vegas.  In a profanity-laced tirade against everything from salacious images of starlets to the iniquities of the Bush Administration, Robbins praised satellite radio for providing listeners what they wanted and slammed NAB members for being "just businessmen."  Said Robbins, "Shouldn't broadcasters see themselves as part of a larger picture, isn't there an obligation to honestly report on what's going on, to pursue stories past their headlines?  Haven't criminal acts occurred in government?  Shouldn't there be accountability for inept policy decisions?  Shouldn't someone be fired?  And you know something?  I didn't hear any of that, because I am still thinking about that starlet getting out of the car without the panties."   more>> (15 April 2008)

PACE is Sirius about "Backseat TV."  The Premier Automotive Suppliers' Contribution to Excellence award was presented to Sirius for the innovative system that beams live television into the rear seat of any vehicle.  It marks the second time that Backseat TV has received an award, the last being from the Consumer Electronics Association, which recognized its technology, design and engineering last year (see RUsirius.com story dated 14 November 2007).  At this year's PACE Awards, Sirius and partner for Backseat TV Delphi earned top honors in the Information Technology and Services category.  Said Delphi's Ken Erickson, "This is a great honor for Delphi.  We are extremely proud of the accomplishment which was achieved by effectively teaming with Sirius."   more>> (15 April 2008)

There's a sirius new book on HD Radio.  It's primarily intended for consumption by radio engineers and general managers but its publication is indicative of the emphasis being placed on the new technology by terrestrial radio operators.  "HD Radio Implementation: The Field Guide for Facilities Conversion," includes an introduction to HD Radio, "The Studio Facility," covering the necessary components for HD conversion and "Audio Processing for HD Radio," on coding basics.  It's by Buckley Broadcasting Vice President and Corporate Director of Engineering Tom Ray.   more>> (15 April 2008)

The NAB is making HD Radio more affordable.  As promised (see RUsirius.com story dated 11 April), the National Association of Broadcasters has announced a new program to make it easier for terrestrial broadcasters to convert to HD Radio.  "Exporter" technology, the result of a partnership among iBiquity and four broadcast equipment manufacturers, should significantly reduce a radio station's cost to upgrade to HD.  The new technology is being introduced at this year's NAB Show in Las Vegas.  Says NAB President David Rehr, "NAB is playing a critical role in the creation of new technologies to benefit our members and promote the future of broadcasting."  Exporter uses devices like Broadcast Electronics' new HD transmitter (see RUsirius.com story dated 10 April) to combine multicast audio channels with a station's main audio channel into a format suitable for transmission.  Broadcast Electronics, Continental, Harris and Nautel are cooperating with iBiquity in the new venture.   more>> (14 April 2008)

Sirius is celebrating.  The satcaster has announced that OutQ is celebrating America's first 24/7 radio channel for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community with a two-hour retrospective marking OutQ's fifth anniversary.  The program will be anchored by QutQ News Director Tim Curran and will include discussions with individuals like Tanya McCloskey and Marcia Kadish, the first gay couple to be married in Massachusetts.  "OutQ: Five Years in Review" premieres on Monday, 14 April at 5:00 PM(ET) on OutQ (channel 109).   more>> (12 April 2008)

Wisconsin isn't Sirius.  The state is among those trying to block the merger between Sirius and XM (see RUsirius.com story dated 28 March).   Wisconsin Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen has requested that the Federal Communications Commission stop the merger, saying in a memo that the deal would eliminate competition in the satellite radio industry, result in higher prices for services and reduce the channels available to rural Wisconsin listeners.  FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has declined to comment.   more>> (11 April 2008)

Tom Brokaw is Sirius.  The famed newsman is joining legendary DJ Bruce "Cousin Brucie" Morrow for an interview about the 1960s.  The two will share memories about the era and its music.  "There was so much going in the '60s, and Tom personally witnessed the changes that were taking place," says Morrow.  "His observations are invaluable and his reporting historic."  Brokaw will also be hawking his new book, "BOOM! Voices of the Sixties," on Vibrations (channel 6) this Sunday, 13 April, at 9:00 PM(ET).  The spacecast repeats on Tuesday, 15 April, at 10 PM(ET) and on Saturday, 19 April, at 9:00 AM(ET).   more>> (11 April 2008)

Clear Channel is getting real traffic competition.  The broadcasting giant is not the only one anxious to deliver real-time traffic on HD Radio (see RUsirius story dated 9 January).  Other major commercial radio groups and National Public Radio are also jumping on the bandwagon.  The new "Traffic Consortium" is being formed by Beasley, Bonneville, Cox, Emmis, Entercom, Greater Media, NPR and Radio One.  "Our purpose is to further accelerate consumer HD receiver penetration and create new revenue," said Paul Brenner, administrative agent for the consortium and Emmis' vice president for integrated technology.   more>> (11 April 2008)

Get ready for HD Radio.  That's one of the themes for this year's National Association of Broadcasters' Show in Las Vegas.  The NAB says its HD Radio Technology Advancement Task Force will make an announcement on Sunday that should boost the implementation of the technology by stations.  "A technology development project just completed by NAB's HD Radio Technology Advancement Task Force will be unveiled, involving improved and lower-cost implementations of HD Radio equipment for broadcasters," says the NAB.  It is suspected that at least part of the announcement has to do with yesterday's news from Broadcast Electronics (see story below).   more>> (11 April 2008)

KELP goes XM.  The famed El Paso station is today's target for XM's "Sonic Sound Salutes."  Radio station jingles from the 60s are being played, along with recordings of the DJs and announcers and local chatter from the era.  The big event gets underway today at 2:00 PM(ET).   more>> (11 April 2008)

American Public Media is moving to HD.  Harris has delivered 13 HD Radio transmitters to the group for an initiative targeted for completion by December.  The producer of "A Prairie Home Companion" is installing a FlexStar multicasting platform at its transmission facilities to accommodate its program distribution system.  Upgrades to existing Harris Z-Series analog transmitters are also part of the rollout.   more>> (11 April 2008)

XM is doing great...in Canada.  XM affiliate Canadian Satellite Radio reported a rise in revenue to $9.2 million in the second quarter ended 29 February.  That is up from $4.9 million in the same period a year ago.  The company's loss for the quarter fell to $17.8 million from $27 in the same period last year.  There also isn't much talk of a merger with rival Sirius.  Says CSR prez Michael Moskowitz, "You've got to keep your head down and keep focused on the business because ultimately that's what's going to drive this thing in the future."   more>> (10 April 2008)

First Italy, then Switzerland, now Germany?  WorldSpace continues to creep into Europe (see RUsirius.com story dated 21 March).  The international satcaster has received approval from Germany's Federal Network Agency, the Bundesnetzagentur, to use 12.5 MHz of spectrum in the L-band (1479 - 1492 HMz) for a terrestrial repeater network.  The repeaters will work in conjunction with WorldSpace's satellite network to provide satellite radio to happy German drivers as they motor down the autobahns.  "This is a significant development for WorldSpace," said WorldSpace boss Noah Samara.  "We are very happy to receive authorization for our mobile satellite radio services in Germany.  This achievement confirms the remarkable recent trajectory of our business in Europe, and supports our current discussions with potential partners who have large commitments in these markets."   more>> . (10 April 2008)

HD Radio awareness is apparently declining.  That's the word from a recent study, "Infinite Dial: Radio's Digital Platforms," by Arbitron and Edison Media Research.  The study puts consumer awareness of HD Radio at 24 percent, a number that is significantly lower than the 77 percent cited by the HD Digital Radio Alliance (see RUsirius.com story dated 31 March).  Says Edison veep Tom Webster, "Clearly, when we see an awareness curve that looks like this, change is necessary to bring about change.  If broadcasters want to move the needle of awareness of HD, more and different measures are therefore called for."   more>> (10 April 2008)

Broadcast Electronics has a new HD transmitter.  To be announced at this week's National Association of Broadcasters' convention in Las Vegas, the FXi 60/250esp is BE's latest exciter with direct-to-channel FM carrier generation for FM-HD or HD Radio only broadcasts.  Says BE HD Radio Product Manager Ted Lantz, "What this new exciter will mean to our customers is more efficient operation with better overall system performance which, along with dual RF outputs, plug-in HD Radio modules, and user enhanced features we've put into the box, will reduce their cost of ownership."   more>> (10 April 2008)

NAB is on the HD Radio FASTROAD.  The National Association of Broadcasters' Flexible Advanced Services for Television & Radio On All Devices ( FASTROAD ) has awarded a contract to BIA Financial Network and Broadcast Signal Lab to come up with a way to provide an interactive, on-screen program guide for HD Radio.  The display would be specific to local broadcasters and would apparently allow happy listeners to look at all the programming choices available in their areas.  The project has three initial goals: create an Electronic Program Guide (EPG) architecture, recommend target markets for field testing and deliver a final EPG specification.   Unique Interactive is assisting in the project.   more>> (9 April 2008)

Foreign-made cars don't seem very Sirius...or XM.  It appears that the inclusion of free Sirius or XM service has little or no impact on sales of foreign-made automobiles, with some manufacturers either reducing the number of vehicles with satrads or simply phasing the service out altogether.  According to a recent Tickermine survey, 63% of Mitsubishi dealers, 57% of Honda dealers and 38% of Toyota dealers were offering free satellite radio.  Of Toyota dealers, 61% did not offer satellite radio.  In addition, 40% of Suzuki dealers are apparently offering satellite radio with takers overwhelmingly favoring XM over Sirius.   more>> (9 April 2008)

Americans like radio.  That's the result of a new survey by American Media Services, which says that 61% of American adults listen to the radio at least once a day and that about 70% listen the same or more than they did five years ago.  According to AMS Chairman Edward F. Seeger, "The findings are interesting from many standpoints.  They show that 'regular' radio remains a strong industry even while other audio devices are available."   more>> (8 April 2008)

The NAB has been lobbying.  Not to be outdone by satellite radio (see RUsirius.com story dated 7 March), the National Association of Broadcasters has been ferociously lobbying the Government on digital television, radio, and to attempt to stop the Sirius/XM merger.  Altogether, the organization is estimated to have spent more then $4.6 million during the second half of 2007.   more>> (8 April 2008)

Clear Channel continues to march forward with HD Radio.  The terrestrial broadcasting giant has now expanded its implementation of iTunes tagging to more than 340 of the stations in its stable.  Says Clear Channel boss John Hogan, "With the vast majority of our HD primary stations now offering this exciting feature, we're demonstrating how radio's collaboration with the iPod benefits consumers."   more>> (7 April 2008)

New Zealand may not be ready for HD Radio.  The island nation is considering a different approach to digital broadcasting, freeing up frequencies currently being used either by television or the military.  The VHF frequencies between 157 MHz and 230 MHz are currently being considered for digital audio broadcasting (DAB).  Commercial broadcasters have apparently been talking about HD Radio but questions remain regarding the cost and availability of receivers currently used in the United States.   more>> (7 April 2008)

It's time to get Sirius about jazz.  The satcaster is celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month with a full lineup of special programming on Jazz Cafe (channel 71) and Pure Jazz (channel 72).   Featured guest hosts include Jeff Lorber and Al Jarreau on Jazz Cafe and Jon Faddis, Bob Mintzer and Junior Mance on Pure Jazz.   more>> (7 April 2008)

Is WorldSpace going broke?  The international satcaster has announced that its independent registered public accounting firm, Grant Thornton, has expressed doubt about the company's ability to continue on its current financial resources.  As of 31 December 2007 there were cash and cash equivalents in the amount of approximately $3.6 million.  WorldSpace acknowledges that it needs to raise additional capital this year.   more>> (5 April 2008)

iBiquity likes iTunes.  The HD Radio purveyor says that the first HD Radio supporting iTunes tagging, Polk Audio's I-Sonic ES 2 (see RUsirius.com story dated 4 February), is now available at retail outlets.  Says iBiquity Digital Prez Bob Struble, "iTunes Tagging is an early example of the outstanding capabilities HD Radio technology will enable beyond new multicast content and higher quality audio."  The I-Sonic ES 2 is available at Apple Stores and will be on the shelves at Best Buy starting in June.   more>> (5 April 2008)

Did you say hockey?  XM is carrying every game of this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs starting on Wednesday, 9 April.  This year Pierre McGuire joins the XM team of Phil Esposito, Gary Green, Denis Potvin, Bill Clement, Jim Tatti, Scott Laughlin, Jamie Shalley, Bob McKenzie, Don LaGreca and E.J. Hradek on NHL Home Ice.  To wrap up this year's NHL season Esposito, co-host of "In the Slot," is announcing his Espo Awards on Monday, 7 April along with Most Valuable Player, Coach of the Year, Top Rookie, Toughest Player and Most Difficult Name to Pronounce.   more>> (3 April 2008)

NavTraffic continues to expand its environmental footprint.  XM has announced that its award-winning traffic service is now being made available in 22 General Motors vehicles in the 2009 model year.  The models include the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Buick Enclave, Saturn Vue and Hummer H2.   more>> (2 April 2008)

WorldSpace is sirius about Christopher Lawrence.  The international dance music aficionado is joining the satcaster's lineup with "Rush Hour," a monthly show featuring the best in underground trance, progressive, psytrance and techno.  Lawrence will be joined by Fery Corsten and Armin van Buuren for the show featured on "The System," WorldSpace's dance station, on the second Tuesday of each month at 4:00 PM(ET).   more>> (2 April 2008)

HD Radio marches forward.  Harris has now delivered 13 HD Radio transmitters to American Public Media for its group-wide HD Radio broadcast initiative.  Says American Public Media director of engineering Doug Thompson, "We are familiar with the reliability of Harris transmitters, having standardized on Harris for analog FM transmission."   more>> (2 April 2008)

The popular BlackBerry is now XM-rated.  Together with QuickPlay , XM is making 20 channels of its programming available to BlackBerry users for $7.99 a month.  Happy BlackBerry-heads can now hear XM's most popular music channels plus The Virus and XM Comedy.  Says XM Veep and Chief Marketing Officer Vernon Irvin, "Together with QuickPlay, XM Radio Mobile will provide BlackBerry users with access to a compelling selection of XM's acclaimed music and comedy programming virtually anywhere they go."  That's hot!   more>> (1 April 2008)

How interoperable are Sirius and XM?  That's a question currently being considered as the Federal Communications Commission ponders the proposed satellite radio merger.  Sirius and XM are said to be offering "a la carte" programming choices as part of the deal but this means that consumers, even those who already subscriber to satellite radio, would have to shell out another $200 for a new satrad.  Worse, the new interoperable receivers may not even be available for several more years.  Sirius and XM have said they plan to offer eight options at price ranges starting at $6.99 a month for 50 channels.   more>> (31 March 2008)

R.E.M. is getting Sirius.  In conjunction with the band's 14th studio album, "Accelerate," a new channel premieres today hosted by Michael Stipe, Peter Buck and Mike Mills.  "Radio R.E.M." is expected to provide insights from the band on the inspiration for each song on Accelerate together with conversations on a variety of topics.  "R.E.M.'s creative contributions to music are unparalleled and for three decades these rock pioneers have defined what it means to be alternative," said Sirius President, Entertainment and Sports Scott Greenstein.  "Sirius is the only place R.E.M. fans will be able to listen to music from the band's entire catalog, every song from its new release, and hear exclusive interviews from the band's prolific members."   more>> (31 March 2008)

The HD Digital Radio Alliance is sirius now.  Beginning today, the organization is rolling out a new marketing blitzkrieg to make consumers aware of the new technology.  Starting with the tagline, "HD Radio - It's Time to Upgrade!" the campaign will post online and radio ads on 700 stations in 100 markets.  Said the alliance's Diane Warren, "Phase one of our marketing over the past two years focused on targeting consumers to 'discover' HD Radio.  Clearly our tagline and theme of 'HD Radio - Discover It!' worked extremely well.  The next step in our marketing will speak to the reasons to 'upgrade' to an HD Radio."  Consumer awareness of HD Radio now stands at 77 percent.   more>> (31 March 2008)

Canadians aren't very sirius about the merger.  The problem, it seems, is content.  According to an agreement reached with the Canadian government, XM Canada and Sirius Canada each have to provide a channel dedicated to Canadian content for every nine other channels.  This has meant roughly twenty Canadian channels for each satcaster.  Should the Federal Communications Commission follow the Justice Department in approving the merger, the Canadian fear is that the number of Canadian channels would drop by half.  "It's going to be really interesting to see how this all shakes out," says Ian Morrison of Friends of Canadian Broadcasting.  "Definitely it's going to be the Canadian tail getting wagged by the American dog."   more>> (31 March 2008)

 iBiquity continues to be sirius about HD Radio.  The inventor of the technology is reaching out once again to venture capitalists to the tune of $15 million to fund the continuing battle against satellite radio, Internet radio and iPods.  Investors include Grotech Partners , Bear Stearns savior J.P. Morgan , New Venture Partners and Pequot Private Equity .   more>> (29 March 2008)

Some states aren't Sirius yet.  A group of state attorneys general are urging the Federal Communications Commission to impose restrictions on the Sirius/XM merger should it decide to approve the deal.  They say that they were "disappointed" by the Justice Department's approval on Monday.  Said attorneys general from 11 states including Ohio, Missouri, Connecticut and Iowa in a statement, "The combination of these companies will result in a single corporation controlling access to all nationally available satellite radio."   more>> (28 March 2008)

XM's ready to play ball.  For fans who just can't wait until Monday the satcaster is launching a special channel this weekend featuring songs about baseball, audio from historic games and comedy sketches.  Featured will be Abbott and Costello's famous "Who's on First?," Terry Cashman's "Talkin' Baseball" and Dave Frishberg's "Van Lingle Mungo."  It's hosted by XM senior program director Lou Brutus and will run for 48 hours.   more>> (28 March 2008)

Afrika Bambaataa is now XM-rated.  The hip hop pioneer is joining the satcaster for Zulu Beatz on The Rhyme (channel 65) starting on 5 April at 10:00 PM(ET).  He'll be hosting the show together with The Cutman LG and Mickey Bentson and will feature classic hip hop records reflecting the genre's evolution.   more>> (28 March 2008)

It looks like DAD is getting sirius about HD Radio.   ENCO Systems Digital Audio Delivery system is adding iTunes Tagging support.  The implementation is being delivered in an upcoming release of the product.   more>> (28 March 2008)

The satcasters are still developing.  Standard & Poor's Ratings Services leaves both Sirius and XM on "developing" status until the Federal Communications Commission approves their merger.  Both satcasters were placed on developing watch on 4 March (see RUsirius.com story dated 10 March) over concerns about standalone refinancing risks should their union not be allowed by the Government.   more>> (27 March 2008)

The sale of Clear Channel is on the schneid.  The agreement to take the broadcasting giant private with the help of Bain Capital (see RUsirius.com story dated 14 February 2008) is apparently collapsing due to a stagnant economy.  There is speculation, however, that Bain is actually waiting to see how the proposed merger between SIrius and XM plays out before making a final decision.  Bain has been in an agreement to acquire Clear Channel for $39.20 a share.  The deal had been expected to close at the end of 2007.   more>> (26 March 2008)

Ol' Blue is getting Sirius...and XM-rated.  Ol' Blue, USA is taking officials from law enforcement to the studios of WBAB on Long Island to participate in "Ask the Law," on 25 and 26 March.  The program is being carried by Sirius' "Loading Dock" and XM's "Midnight Trucking Radio Network" in 7-hour segments.  The purpose of "Ask the Law" is to enable truckers to ask authorities about safety and legal issues concerning commercial vehicles.   more>> (26 March 2008)

The Papal Archives Channel is coming to Sirius.  The satcaster has announced that it would launch the special channel to coincide with the visit to the United States of Pope Benedict XVI from 15 to 20 April.  It is expected to carry archival recordings of Masses and speeches from historic Papal Visits including those of Pope John Paul II in 1979, 1987 and 1995.   more>> (26 March 2008)

Clear Channel is as mad as hell.  And they're not going to take it anymore.  They want the Federal Communications Commission, now that the Justice Department has approved the Sirius/XM merger, to impose it decency laws on the satcasters as a condition or their union.  "One of the primary potential dangers to free, over-the-air radio posed by this merger is siphoning popular, including 'edgy' content, with consequent loss of advertising revenue," wrote Clear Channel in a missive to the FCC.  "That potential harm is mitigated if broadcast decency rules were to apply to the merged entity."   more>> (25 March 2008)

What they said was going to happen is going to happen at last...they think.  The much awaited merger between Sirius and XM has finally been approved by the Justice Department.  Said DoJ antitrust czar Thomas Barnett, "We just simply found the evidence did not support a challenge to the transaction under antitrust laws."  He went on to note that there was insufficient evidence that the merger "would substantially lessen competition or harm consumers."  The satcasters are still awaiting approval by the Federal Communications Commission.   more>> (24 March 2008)

XM Canada is sirius.  The XM affiliate has announced its achievement of 400,000 subscribers as of 19 March, a period of just over two years since its inception.  Said Michael Moskowitz, XM Canada President and Chief Executive Officer, "An increasing proportion of our subscriber base is coming from our rapidly growing automotive channel, which is a key segment of long-term success in our industry."   more>> (24 March 2008)

The merger inches forward.  Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin has asked his staff to start drafting documents on the deal but cautioned that a decision may not come this quarter.  Said Martin, "I'm not sure we'll make it by the end of the first quarter any longer.  I've got the staff drafting various options.  I haven't figured out what I think we should do on it yet."   more>> (21 March 2008)

Ricky Skaggs is Sirius.  The 13-time Grammy winner is taking over the satcaster's Bluegrass channel (channel 65) for an entire week starting 23 March at 3 PM(ET).  "Skaggs Place" is expected to feature Ricky's own music as well as some of his favorites.  The launch is scheduled to coincide with the release of "Honoring the Fathers of Bluegrass 1946-1947," Skaggs' new album, on 25 March.   more>> (21 March 2008)

First Italy, now Switzerland.  The ever expanding world of WorldSpace is crawling into Switzerland with the approval by the Office Federal de la Communication (OFCOM) of the international satcaster's terrestrial repeaters.  WorldSpace will be using the 1479.5 to 1492 MHz band for which it has priority rights throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.  WorldSpace is expected to start service in Italy next year and then begin rolling out service elsewhere on a country-by-country basis. more>> (21 March 2008)

"The Little Mermaid," or part of it, is Sirius.   Norm Lewis ,