Greetings to all,

I purchased a Space Blue Cooper S for my wife, but obviously I plan to drive it from time to time . Options include HK audio, Premium package, DSC, cold weather, and auto tranny (wife cannot drive stick--don't ask....)

I'd like to get sat radio, and several friends recommend Sirius.

Can you folks give me your take on aftermarket receivers, car kits, install, etc.

I would much prefer the direct line in, but that's apparently a $695 option

Thanks and looking forward to motoring around the nation's capital in the new MINI!

Jibba

 

And I'm quite happy. It wasn't the cheapest option, but they wired it through the factory stereo so that all the factory controls - including the steering wheel buttons - all work with the satellite receiver (which they tucked behind a body panel in the boot).

 

I have the OEM SIRIUS receiver as well. I am VERY happy with it, but you're right, it's not an inexpensive option.

Provided you are set on SIRIUS (I love it, but there are also die-hard XM fans out there), your other option would be to get the OEM Aux Input plug, which would allow you to directly plug in any stereo device, such as an iPod or yes... an external satellite receiver. Then you'd just need to figure out a mount for the receiver, and run a stereo wire to the Aux Input plug (it is basically like a headphone jack).

You won't get control of the receiver from your stereo controls though, and you'll have to contend with either unplugging and removing (or hiding) the receiver, or risking "smash and grab" theft of it.

 

Yep, I had a feeling that the OEM receiver install was going to be the favored route, despite the steep price.

I think this is one that is a good investment--the thought of my wife trying to change CDs or fumbling with the receiver/iPod while driving is downright scary.

Thanks for the feedback.

Jibba

 

Do a search on Blitzsafe. The parts for XM are about $150 max including xmdirect. Easy connection to the CD changer wires in the back of the car. It will be a direct connect to the HU, change the stations from the HU, very clean.

If not a DIY type, just take it to any high end stereo place like Tweeters or audio connection and they will do it. Takes about 30 minutes.

 

I bought a SKYFi2 from Crutchfield - about $80. I had a local auto radio shop install it for about $100. Works great!

See my Gallery for a picture.

 

I installed XMDirect on my 2004 MCS with H/K; works fine; back then it cost about $250 and I did the install myself; I think that the parts are now less costly.

 

I went with the Blitzsafe & XM direct. Total cost was $150 with $50 coming back as a rebate for the XM direct. The install took all of twenty minutes. There is a good how to to be found on NAM. I love having the XM radio that works through the stock head unit. Sorry I have no knowledge of Sirius radios.

 

I am an XM fan, but that is besides the point. I too went with a Blitzsafe unit, spent around $150 and installed in about 20 min. Works great. I would think they would have a "Sirius Direct" unit that would do the same thing.

Differences on XM/Sirius
Howard Stern-Sirius-doesn't make me laugh anymore
NFL-Sirius
XM-All college football-go buckeyes
XM-MLB

I picked XM to get my college football. Other than that both have just about the same programming at the same price.

 

I've done this option on two other BMW's and plan on doing it on my MINI. It's quite straightforward, there is no difference in functionality from a dealer install, and is significantly less expensive.

A friend picked up a used BMW Sirius unit and installed through the CD changer wires. Same result.

 

Was that done on the HK unit or the OEM?

Thanks,

Jibba

 

That was done with the standard head unit. It is my understanding that this setup will also work with the HK.