I'm looking to upgrade my HU with a unit that includes XM radio. I've noticed most systems come "satellite radio ready," but how many actually interface well with XM?

For example, I was just about to pull out my credit card for a new Alpine 9856 when I found out that it will only show the channel information--no track or artist info.

Can anyone recommend something that will work well for under $200? My budget is at $600 for the HU, the satellite adapter, modifry's DCI, and installation...possibly new speakers as well.

Many thanks!

 

My old Pioneer Premier HU said it would only show the channel information as well. In fact, no one at the shop where I bought it knew any differently including the Pioneer rep. My g/f found out by mistake that it would by pressing the "programming" (P) button. It cycles through channel information, artist, and song title. I dont really know how you would check to see if that is the case with the Alpine as well.

The HU that interface with the XM via IPBUS work very well. As I said, mine is considerably older at this point, but it is great. I absolutely hate FM modulating. It sounds like $*** in my opinion.

I hope that helps. Sorry I can't be more specific. I will leave that for one of the seasoned pros here.