Can you please tell me the pros and cons of the Delphi XM Roady, the Delphi XM Skifi and the XM Commander? And how about the quality of sound when played through your existing MINI FM radio? I have a 2004 Mini w/standard radio (not HK) on order. Also, which requires a dealer installation and which can I do myself keeping in mind I am severely tool challenged. Thanks.

 

Here are some past threads on XM

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...mp;topic=20913

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...mp;topic=17750

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...mp;topic=17736

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...mp;topic=16631

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...mp;topic=15395

You can PM NAM members that have posted they have XM.

 

The XM Direct is pretty easy to install. You can find out more on it here:
http://www.radiosandmore.com/prod_de...R-D-001-BMW101

 

Blitzsafe is coming out with an adapter to connect a SkyFi to the CD changer harness (I believe). Benefits include seeing track info on your head unit, controlling the receiver with the MFSW, hidden application and having the portability of the SkyFi. Check out this thread:

http://www.xmfan.com/viewtopic.php?t...ht=mini+cooper

Unfortunately, it looks like it's a little delayed.

 

So, the ultimate question is... is the stock head unti satellite radio-ready? Can I just get a receiver and antenna and be good-to-go, or do I need to upgrade the head unit?

 

I've got both the Roady for my wife's car and the SkiFi for my Mini. Got the Roady first because it seemed easy: insert casette adapter into slot and run the antenna wire. My experience with the Roady left me less than satisfied: lots of wires hanging out, and the casette adapter made a rumbling noise. But I loved the music and wanted XM for my Mini, so I went with the SkiFi. Good move. Clean setup and sound. And I can pop the unit out and plug it into the XM boombox in the kitchen and listen in our home. Another plus of the SkiFi is that the lighting matches the Mini dash lighting. SkiFi is the clear winner.

 

2003 and later MINI's are satellite ready, however you must use the MINI Sirius system or the new XM-Direct unit to get full function satellite rado on the current MINI head unit.

I had the MINI system, but removed it for the XM Direct unit. I love it!