Satellite Tuner vs. FM Modulator

Stereo, security systems, vehicle electronics, and electrical-related discussions
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shane_c
Posts: 342
Joined: Mon Jan 30, 2006 2:57 am

Satellite Tuner vs. FM Modulator

Post by shane_c »

It seems that most people are going the route of getting satellite radio with the FM modulator. Anyone out there using the satellite tuner and controlling it through a sat. ready deck? I've heard if you do it that way that it's CD quality sound as opposed to FM quality. Is this correct? Do you still need to run an antenna if you do it this way?
2006 Vibe (base) - Platinum Silver, 5 spd, ABS, Power Package, Infinity Speakers, Dynomax muffler, Cosmo SR intake - SOLD
NSimkins
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Joined: Sat Jun 08, 2002 5:43 am

Re: Satellite Tuner vs. FM Modulator (shane_c)

Post by NSimkins »

Quote, originally posted by shane_c »It seems that most people are going the route of getting satellite radio with the FM modulator. Anyone out there using the satellite tuner and controlling it through a sat. ready deck? I've heard if you do it that way that it's CD quality sound as opposed to FM quality. Is this correct? Do you still need to run an antenna if you do it this way? You'll get the best possible sound quality with a satellite-radio ready deck with one of the compatible external "direct connect" tuners. This gives you a solid connection from the tuner straight into the deck itself.Yes, you will still need to run an antenna to the tuner to obtain the signal.My setup includes a Kenwood deck with the Kenwood Sirius Tuner (which I store in one of the side storage areas in the rear hatch). The antenna is run from the back roof and fed through the weatherstripping into the storage area into the tuner. From there, the tuner cable runs to the front of the vehicle into the rear of the Kenwood deck.I have a few pictures of my Kenwood deck itself, here. I don't have any pictures of the tuner or antenna but could take some pics if requested.
Jahntassa
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Joined: Wed Jul 09, 2003 2:06 pm

Post by Jahntassa »

As said, the satellite radio itself needs it's own antenna to pull the signal from the satellites.You'll get 'near' CD Quality sound, but it'll still sound better than FM Modulation
2003 Vibe GT Lava"He inched his way up the corridor as if he would rather be yarding his way down it.""For a moment, nothing happened. Then, after a second or so, nothing continued to happen." - Douglas Adams...we all miss you
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