For more than a year, I have followed the news of the XM-Sirius merger. I have had XM radio for nearly six years now and really looked forward to getting the best of both services.
The first sign came a few weeks ago when XM subscribers could start to buy the “Best of Sirius” package, which featured the Howard Stern station, NFL games and a few other things. I didn’t have any need for that stuff and waited to see what the rumored “a la carte” packages would bring. I even considered buying a new radio unit if that helped me get a better channel selection.
The company announced some good news today. They have migrated some channels from each service to the other one, meaning I have a whole lot more to listen to in my car without paying more money or buying a new radio unit. I couldn’t be happier.
At first glance, I think XM listeners got the better end of the deal. I am excited about having channels dedicated to Elvis, Springsteen, Jimmy Buffet and Sinatra. I got in the car today and only a few had migrated over to my radio. I hope it’s just a software thing and they all show up soon.
I’m addicted to E Street Radio and love to listen to the Grateful Dead on my commute home. The Mad Dog Russo show is also on XM but it feels funny listening to him without Mike Francesca.
I got the Best of Sirius because we’re on the road a lot on Sunday’s and where I live, I can’t pick up the Redskins. Plus it is cool hearing the Eagles announcer whose name I can never remember but he gets into the games. I love listening to that guy.