Wednesday, July 20, 2005
The Next Hot Satellite Radio Stock
WorldSpace raises its price as demand perks up for the overseas satellite radio provider.
If you're an investor in XM Satellite Radio(Nasdaq: XMSR) or Sirius(Nasdaq: SIRI), you can rest easy when you hear that satellite radio provider WorldSpace is going public. The country's duopoly is secure; there is no third entity clawing away at the domestic airspace.
In fact, if you like XM or Sirius, WorldSpace may be an intriguing possibility for your ultimate growth portfolio. The company raised its IPO price to a range between $16 and $18 a share yesterday -- $2 higher than originally planned.
Story continues below ↓ advertisement
WorldSpace has been pumping out satellite radio streams in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia since 1999. It was originally launched as a free service but rolled toward the more promising monthly-subscriber model a year later.
WorldSpace was an early investor in XM. It also provided XM with some of the necessary technology to kick off its business. Yesterday, XM returned the favor by announcing a $25 million investment in WorldSpace that would also expand their partnership.
Digital radio is clearly one of the more exciting emerging industries. XM and Sirius expect to combine for 8.2 million subscribers by the end of the year. The potential of WorldSpace and its coverage map, which spans the globe, is enormous. So, however, are the risks.
Satellite radio isn't the only terrestrial-radio killer out there. Companies like Apple Computer(Nasdaq: AAPL), Yahoo!(Nasdaq: YHOO), Napster(Nasdaq: NAPS), and RealNetworks(Nasdaq: RNWK) are all selling song downloads that give music fans a tailored listening experience. Podcasting's popularity and the growth spurt at Audible(Nasdaq: ADBL) are opening up options for aficionados of the spoken word.
That's why WorldSpace may be even more compelling than the domestic providers, since it taps into developing markets that lack similar distractions. Naturally, a lack of disposable income in many of WorldSpace's broadcasting regions will be working against its marketing efforts. No one said it would be easy. Then again, perhaps that's why it seems so worthwhile.
Tune into some of these related stories:
* David Gardner recently interviewed XM CEO Hugh Panero.
* Maybe traditional radio won't die without a fight.
* Talk shop with sharp Fools who know the sector well in the XM discussion board.
Longtime Fool contributor Rick Munarriz thinks it's cool that Sirius broadcasts The Motley Fool Radio Show four times over the weekend. He does not own shares in any of the companies mentioned in this story, though he is a satellite radio subscriber.He is also part of theRule Breakersnewsletter research team, seeking out tomorrow's ultimate growth stocks a day early.The Fool has adisclosure policy.
If you're an investor in XM Satellite Radio(Nasdaq: XMSR) or Sirius(Nasdaq: SIRI), you can rest easy when you hear that satellite radio provider WorldSpace is going public. The country's duopoly is secure; there is no third entity clawing away at the domestic airspace.
In fact, if you like XM or Sirius, WorldSpace may be an intriguing possibility for your ultimate growth portfolio. The company raised its IPO price to a range between $16 and $18 a share yesterday -- $2 higher than originally planned.
Story continues below ↓ advertisement
WorldSpace has been pumping out satellite radio streams in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia since 1999. It was originally launched as a free service but rolled toward the more promising monthly-subscriber model a year later.
WorldSpace was an early investor in XM. It also provided XM with some of the necessary technology to kick off its business. Yesterday, XM returned the favor by announcing a $25 million investment in WorldSpace that would also expand their partnership.
Digital radio is clearly one of the more exciting emerging industries. XM and Sirius expect to combine for 8.2 million subscribers by the end of the year. The potential of WorldSpace and its coverage map, which spans the globe, is enormous. So, however, are the risks.
Satellite radio isn't the only terrestrial-radio killer out there. Companies like Apple Computer(Nasdaq: AAPL), Yahoo!(Nasdaq: YHOO), Napster(Nasdaq: NAPS), and RealNetworks(Nasdaq: RNWK) are all selling song downloads that give music fans a tailored listening experience. Podcasting's popularity and the growth spurt at Audible(Nasdaq: ADBL) are opening up options for aficionados of the spoken word.
That's why WorldSpace may be even more compelling than the domestic providers, since it taps into developing markets that lack similar distractions. Naturally, a lack of disposable income in many of WorldSpace's broadcasting regions will be working against its marketing efforts. No one said it would be easy. Then again, perhaps that's why it seems so worthwhile.
Tune into some of these related stories:
* David Gardner recently interviewed XM CEO Hugh Panero.
* Maybe traditional radio won't die without a fight.
* Talk shop with sharp Fools who know the sector well in the XM discussion board.
Longtime Fool contributor Rick Munarriz thinks it's cool that Sirius broadcasts The Motley Fool Radio Show four times over the weekend. He does not own shares in any of the companies mentioned in this story, though he is a satellite radio subscriber.He is also part of theRule Breakersnewsletter research team, seeking out tomorrow's ultimate growth stocks a day early.The Fool has adisclosure policy.
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
XM Satellite Radio is investing $25 million for an undisclosed number of shares in WorldSpace
XM Satellite Radio is investing $25 million for an undisclosed number of shares in WorldSpace, which offers similar services in other markets including Europe and Asia, XM said Tuesday.
Under the agreement, XM and WorldSpace will work together to develop new offerings, technology, and distribution and supplier networks. XM can also acquire additional WorldSpace stocks worth $3.75 million and has the option of investing in future projects in other countries.
WorldSpace, which was one of the principal founding shareholders of XM, has recently filed for an initial public offering of its stock. The company raised the expected price of its planned initial public offering on Tuesday to $18 to $20 per share, from $16 to $18.
WorldSpace in 1999 sold its interest in XM, which is licensed to use and develop WorldSpace's technology, according to the filing.
WorldSpace broadcasts subscription-based news, music and educational programs in markets such as Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East using its own satellites--AfriStar and AsiaStar. It also owns spectrum licenses in various countries to deliver audio as well as multimedia content.
Earlier this month, XM announced a stock deal worth $198 million to acquire privately held WCS Wireless. The WCS deal lets XM, which has 4.4 million subscribers, have access to more wireless spectrum licenses, particularly in frequency bands adjacent to those used by its own satellite radio service.
Reuters contributed to this story.
Under the agreement, XM and WorldSpace will work together to develop new offerings, technology, and distribution and supplier networks. XM can also acquire additional WorldSpace stocks worth $3.75 million and has the option of investing in future projects in other countries.
WorldSpace, which was one of the principal founding shareholders of XM, has recently filed for an initial public offering of its stock. The company raised the expected price of its planned initial public offering on Tuesday to $18 to $20 per share, from $16 to $18.
WorldSpace in 1999 sold its interest in XM, which is licensed to use and develop WorldSpace's technology, according to the filing.
WorldSpace broadcasts subscription-based news, music and educational programs in markets such as Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East using its own satellites--AfriStar and AsiaStar. It also owns spectrum licenses in various countries to deliver audio as well as multimedia content.
Earlier this month, XM announced a stock deal worth $198 million to acquire privately held WCS Wireless. The WCS deal lets XM, which has 4.4 million subscribers, have access to more wireless spectrum licenses, particularly in frequency bands adjacent to those used by its own satellite radio service.
Reuters contributed to this story.
Monday, July 18, 2005
Kagan: Satellite Radio Potential Is Sky High
By Chuck Taylor, Billboard Radio Monitor
Kagan Research forecasts that consumer interest in satellite radio is aiming for the sky. In a new report, the company forecast that low churn, new programming and exclusive agreements with auto manufacturers will boost subscriptions for XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio to 46.8 million, with revenues of $7.6 billion, by 2014.
In the short term, the two players will face increased competitive pressure from emerging technologies. "As wireless technology expands and access to free music Web sites and on-demand services increases, satellite radio will lose potential customers to alternative sources in the battle for consumers' attention," said Michael Buckley, a Kagan analyst.
Strong automotive partnerships offer some protection from competitive challenges, and by 2014, 75 percent of new subscribers will come from the OEM connection, the Kagan report estimated. (Roughly half of XM’s subscribers come from its automotive partners and 25 percent of Sirius’ subscribers.)
Among respective bright spots for satcasters: Ford's renewed commitment to Sirius; the impact of Hyundai's decision to factory-install XM radios in 100 percent of its new vehicles; and Toyota's split of the post-production market between XM and Sirius and its impact on new subscriptions.
Kagan also studied the companies' business models and how soon expensive content agreements will break even with cash flow. XM is estimated to achieve positive cash flow by third-quarter 2007. Sirius, with its second-mover disadvantage and higher programming expenses, is not expected to generate positive cash flow until 2008. (Other reports have predicted earlier dates for those milestones.) Once positive cash flow is achieved, Kagan forecasts a steady increase in EBITDA for both companies, with XM topping $2 billion and Sirius reaching $1.4 billion in 2014.
The researcher also believes that the sat radio industry will foster $27.9 million in total net ad revenue in 2005, rising to $854.4 million by 2014.
Kagan Research forecasts that consumer interest in satellite radio is aiming for the sky. In a new report, the company forecast that low churn, new programming and exclusive agreements with auto manufacturers will boost subscriptions for XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio to 46.8 million, with revenues of $7.6 billion, by 2014.
In the short term, the two players will face increased competitive pressure from emerging technologies. "As wireless technology expands and access to free music Web sites and on-demand services increases, satellite radio will lose potential customers to alternative sources in the battle for consumers' attention," said Michael Buckley, a Kagan analyst.
Strong automotive partnerships offer some protection from competitive challenges, and by 2014, 75 percent of new subscribers will come from the OEM connection, the Kagan report estimated. (Roughly half of XM’s subscribers come from its automotive partners and 25 percent of Sirius’ subscribers.)
Among respective bright spots for satcasters: Ford's renewed commitment to Sirius; the impact of Hyundai's decision to factory-install XM radios in 100 percent of its new vehicles; and Toyota's split of the post-production market between XM and Sirius and its impact on new subscriptions.
Kagan also studied the companies' business models and how soon expensive content agreements will break even with cash flow. XM is estimated to achieve positive cash flow by third-quarter 2007. Sirius, with its second-mover disadvantage and higher programming expenses, is not expected to generate positive cash flow until 2008. (Other reports have predicted earlier dates for those milestones.) Once positive cash flow is achieved, Kagan forecasts a steady increase in EBITDA for both companies, with XM topping $2 billion and Sirius reaching $1.4 billion in 2014.
The researcher also believes that the sat radio industry will foster $27.9 million in total net ad revenue in 2005, rising to $854.4 million by 2014.
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Sirius Satellite Radio to Broadcast Exclusive Conversations With Lance Armstrong as Part of Special Reports From 2005 Tour de France
irius Satellite Radio to Broadcast Exclusive Conversations With Lance Armstrong as Part of Special Reports From 2005 Tour de France 'Lance in France' ... Off The Bike and On The Mic' to air daily on FACTION channel
NEW YORK, June 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SIRIUS Satellite Radio (Nasdaq: SIRI - News) announced today an exclusive series that will allow subscribers to follow Lance Armstrong in a personal way during his quest for an historic seventh consecutive Tour de France victory when Lance in France ... Off The Bike and On The Mic, debuts July 2, the first day of the Tour.
An offshoot of Armstrong Radio, Lance's weekly radio show on SIRIUS, Lance in France ... Off The Bike and On The Mic will be a series of daily reports focusing on Lance throughout the 2005 Tour de France. Broadcast from locations along the route of the Tour and hosted by Mark Higgins, producer/co-host of Armstrong Radio, a new report is scheduled to air at 4:00 pm ET every day of the race on SIRIUS Faction, channel 28. The reports will be rebroadcast at 8:00 pm ET and the following day at 8:00 am ET and 12:00 pm ET, also on Faction.
Over the course of the competition, the series will feature several exclusive conversations with Lance, who will give his perspective in his own words as he proceeds through the final race of his legendary career.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity this show gives me to connect with the fans on such a personal level during my final Tour de France," said Armstrong. "The fans have been so supportive of me over the years and having them along for my last race will make this experience that much more special."
The series will include a day-to-day look at the atmosphere surrounding the Tour itself and a behind-the-scenes perspective on the riders' lifestyles both on and off the bike, focusing on their daily and nightly routines as they proceed through the most significant race of their careers.
Armstrong, arguably the greatest cyclist the sport has ever known and one of the most inspiring competitors in all of sport, announced in April that following this year's Tour, he will retire from competitive cycling.
"The connection that exists between Lance and his fans goes way beyond the sport of cycling," said Scott Greenstein, SIRIUS President of Entertainment and Sports. "He is truly an inspiration to millions of people. We're fortunate that he has decided to return for one last race, and SIRIUS will provide listeners with an unprecedented, privileged glimpse into his world while he attempts to make history once again."
Armstrong joined SIRIUS in January to host a weekly program on Faction, a channel created specifically to appeal to action sports enthusiasts with an innovative mix of music and talk. Armstrong Radio airs every Sunday at 9:00 p.m. ET on Faction, channel 28.
About SIRIUS:
SIRIUS delivers more than 120 channels of the best commercial-free music, compelling talk shows, news and information, and the most exciting sports programming to listeners across the country in digital quality sound. SIRIUS offers 65 channels of 100% commercial-free music, and features over 55 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95. SIRIUS also broadcasts live play-by- play games of the NFL and NBA, and is the Official Satellite Radio partner of the NFL.
SIRIUS radios for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are manufactured by Alpine, Audiovox, Blaupunkt, Clarion, Delphi, Jensen, JVC, Kenwood, Pioneer, Sanyo and XACT Communications. Available in more than 25,000 retail locations, SIRIUS radios can be purchased at major retailers including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Office Depot, Sears, Target, Wal-Mart and RadioShack. SIRIUS is also available at heavy truck dealers and truck stops nationwide.
SIRIUS radios are currently offered in vehicles from Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jeep®, Lincoln-Mercury, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Nissan, Scion, Toyota, Porsche, Volkswagen and Volvo. Hertz currently offers SIRIUS at major locations around the country.
Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the key factors that have a direct bearing on our operational results are: our dependence upon third parties, including manufacturers of SIRIUS radios, retailers, automakers and programming partners, our competitive position and any events which affect the useful life of our satellites.
NEW YORK, June 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SIRIUS Satellite Radio (Nasdaq: SIRI - News) announced today an exclusive series that will allow subscribers to follow Lance Armstrong in a personal way during his quest for an historic seventh consecutive Tour de France victory when Lance in France ... Off The Bike and On The Mic, debuts July 2, the first day of the Tour.
An offshoot of Armstrong Radio, Lance's weekly radio show on SIRIUS, Lance in France ... Off The Bike and On The Mic will be a series of daily reports focusing on Lance throughout the 2005 Tour de France. Broadcast from locations along the route of the Tour and hosted by Mark Higgins, producer/co-host of Armstrong Radio, a new report is scheduled to air at 4:00 pm ET every day of the race on SIRIUS Faction, channel 28. The reports will be rebroadcast at 8:00 pm ET and the following day at 8:00 am ET and 12:00 pm ET, also on Faction.
Over the course of the competition, the series will feature several exclusive conversations with Lance, who will give his perspective in his own words as he proceeds through the final race of his legendary career.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity this show gives me to connect with the fans on such a personal level during my final Tour de France," said Armstrong. "The fans have been so supportive of me over the years and having them along for my last race will make this experience that much more special."
The series will include a day-to-day look at the atmosphere surrounding the Tour itself and a behind-the-scenes perspective on the riders' lifestyles both on and off the bike, focusing on their daily and nightly routines as they proceed through the most significant race of their careers.
Armstrong, arguably the greatest cyclist the sport has ever known and one of the most inspiring competitors in all of sport, announced in April that following this year's Tour, he will retire from competitive cycling.
"The connection that exists between Lance and his fans goes way beyond the sport of cycling," said Scott Greenstein, SIRIUS President of Entertainment and Sports. "He is truly an inspiration to millions of people. We're fortunate that he has decided to return for one last race, and SIRIUS will provide listeners with an unprecedented, privileged glimpse into his world while he attempts to make history once again."
Armstrong joined SIRIUS in January to host a weekly program on Faction, a channel created specifically to appeal to action sports enthusiasts with an innovative mix of music and talk. Armstrong Radio airs every Sunday at 9:00 p.m. ET on Faction, channel 28.
About SIRIUS:
SIRIUS delivers more than 120 channels of the best commercial-free music, compelling talk shows, news and information, and the most exciting sports programming to listeners across the country in digital quality sound. SIRIUS offers 65 channels of 100% commercial-free music, and features over 55 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95. SIRIUS also broadcasts live play-by- play games of the NFL and NBA, and is the Official Satellite Radio partner of the NFL.
SIRIUS radios for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are manufactured by Alpine, Audiovox, Blaupunkt, Clarion, Delphi, Jensen, JVC, Kenwood, Pioneer, Sanyo and XACT Communications. Available in more than 25,000 retail locations, SIRIUS radios can be purchased at major retailers including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Office Depot, Sears, Target, Wal-Mart and RadioShack. SIRIUS is also available at heavy truck dealers and truck stops nationwide.
SIRIUS radios are currently offered in vehicles from Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jeep®, Lincoln-Mercury, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Nissan, Scion, Toyota, Porsche, Volkswagen and Volvo. Hertz currently offers SIRIUS at major locations around the country.
Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the key factors that have a direct bearing on our operational results are: our dependence upon third parties, including manufacturers of SIRIUS radios, retailers, automakers and programming partners, our competitive position and any events which affect the useful life of our satellites.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
XM vs Sirius Satellite Radio
So you want to switch to satellite radio, but you aren't sure with which service to go with? Two of the biggest names in satellite radio today, XM and Sirius, both offer a large variety of music stations that you would never hear on regular commercial radio. And most of the music channels, for both services, are commercial free. Of course, nothing is truely free. Both Sirius and XM charge you a service fee to listen to their music channels - someone has to pay for those satellites!
So what is the difference between Sirius and XM?
First of all, Sirius and XM both offer the same commercial-free music service broadcasted via satellites. Sirius offers 120 channels, or feeds, of music, sports, and entertainment programming. For this service, Sirius charges a flat monthly subscription fee of $12.95 for residents of the continental US. XM currently charges, on the other hand, has 122 channels broadcasting similar content (68 of which are music channels), and charge a slightly smaller monthly fee: $9.95. XM currently has the largest share in the satellite marked with 2 million customers.
So why does Sirius charge more? Sirius claims to have superior sound quality thanks to their statistical multiplexing technology, which provides additional bandwidth across all SIRIUS streams. This is supposed to increase overall sound quality and resolution. There has been little feedback however, to verify whether or not this system really enhances sound quality to a noticeable degree. In addition, Sirius is offering free audio feeds through the internet to its paying customers, something XM charges a couple dollars a month extra for. So if you plan on listening to the radio via the net often, you can expect to pay about the same no matter which company you go with. Sirius also claims to have 24 hour customer service - something XM radio has yet to fully achieve. Oh, and one more thing. Sirius has 2 NPR channels, for you NPR fans out there: NPR Now and NPR Talk. Pretty cool.
So does that mean Sirius is better? Well, that depends. XM has some neat stuff too, like a bunch of cool XM Satellite Radio receivers and displays. They also have the biggest broadcasting network right now, and are probably the most likely to expand services significantly in the near future. Overall, they are just about equal, and you are better off going with either of these services than any other.
This Sirius vs XM satellite radio review was brought to you by SciNet Science and Technology Search Engine. SciNet is not affiliated with or specifically endorses Sirius or XM satellite radio. Please consult the XM and Sirius product information and configurations before you purchase either device or service. It is also a good idea to seek other product review and information as necessary.
About the Author
Bradley James is a senior editor at SciNet.cc, a website containing many helpful consumer electronics review articles. For more information on XM and Sirius satellite radio technology, please visit our XM vs Sirius satellite radio webpage.
So what is the difference between Sirius and XM?
First of all, Sirius and XM both offer the same commercial-free music service broadcasted via satellites. Sirius offers 120 channels, or feeds, of music, sports, and entertainment programming. For this service, Sirius charges a flat monthly subscription fee of $12.95 for residents of the continental US. XM currently charges, on the other hand, has 122 channels broadcasting similar content (68 of which are music channels), and charge a slightly smaller monthly fee: $9.95. XM currently has the largest share in the satellite marked with 2 million customers.
So why does Sirius charge more? Sirius claims to have superior sound quality thanks to their statistical multiplexing technology, which provides additional bandwidth across all SIRIUS streams. This is supposed to increase overall sound quality and resolution. There has been little feedback however, to verify whether or not this system really enhances sound quality to a noticeable degree. In addition, Sirius is offering free audio feeds through the internet to its paying customers, something XM charges a couple dollars a month extra for. So if you plan on listening to the radio via the net often, you can expect to pay about the same no matter which company you go with. Sirius also claims to have 24 hour customer service - something XM radio has yet to fully achieve. Oh, and one more thing. Sirius has 2 NPR channels, for you NPR fans out there: NPR Now and NPR Talk. Pretty cool.
So does that mean Sirius is better? Well, that depends. XM has some neat stuff too, like a bunch of cool XM Satellite Radio receivers and displays. They also have the biggest broadcasting network right now, and are probably the most likely to expand services significantly in the near future. Overall, they are just about equal, and you are better off going with either of these services than any other.
This Sirius vs XM satellite radio review was brought to you by SciNet Science and Technology Search Engine. SciNet is not affiliated with or specifically endorses Sirius or XM satellite radio. Please consult the XM and Sirius product information and configurations before you purchase either device or service. It is also a good idea to seek other product review and information as necessary.
About the Author
Bradley James is a senior editor at SciNet.cc, a website containing many helpful consumer electronics review articles. For more information on XM and Sirius satellite radio technology, please visit our XM vs Sirius satellite radio webpage.
Monday, April 11, 2005
AOL, XM Satellite Announce New Partnership to Expand Radio Offerings, Boost AOL Site Traffic
Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) -- XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. and America Online Inc. are planning to add some of the satellite service's programming to AOL's radio offerings in a bid to bring a sample of paid radio to a wider audience, while boosting traffic at AOL's signature site.
Under the partnership announced Monday, XM and AOL will share content for their respective platforms.
Web surfers will be able to access 20 XM channels on AOL's radio section, along with its current roster of about 130 stations, for free. A new version of AOL's "premium" radio service will have 70 XM channels and be available for a monthly fee, which has not been set, XM spokesman David Butler said. Read more...
NEW YORK (AP) -- XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. and America Online Inc. are planning to add some of the satellite service's programming to AOL's radio offerings in a bid to bring a sample of paid radio to a wider audience, while boosting traffic at AOL's signature site.
Under the partnership announced Monday, XM and AOL will share content for their respective platforms.
Web surfers will be able to access 20 XM channels on AOL's radio section, along with its current roster of about 130 stations, for free. A new version of AOL's "premium" radio service will have 70 XM channels and be available for a monthly fee, which has not been set, XM spokesman David Butler said. Read more...
North American Mercedes-Benz vehicles for 2005 now sports Delphi Satellite Radio Receivers
by: Jenny McLane
Mercedes-Benz is globally recognized as a trendsetter and leader in innovation when it comes to advancing the luxury and comfort in its vehicles. Throughout the years it has introduced various features that not only have become endeared to the thousands of Benz owners but has also been emulated by other car companies. Recently another innovation that the car company ahs introduced was Ipod connectivity. Recognizing the phenomenal success and impact of Apple's Ipod, Mercedes-Benz now offers full connectivity with this gadget in all its models. Now, Benz owners can now enjoy their music collection on their state-of-the-art Benz audio systems while traveling.
Last March 15, another innovation was introduced by Mercedes Benz. This time it has tied up with Delphi Corporation, a leading manufacturer of retail satellite radio receivers. All 2005 Mercedes Benz vehicles in North America will now feature a factory installed Satellite Radio Receiver as standard equipment. Satellite radio offers its listeners hundreds of choices of music and other programming stations. It is also one of the fastest growing entertainment applications today.
With satellite radio on board, Benz vehicles offer a new dimension of entertainment. Owners will now have access to dozens of programs that are sure to keep anyone entertained while traveling. In 2002, DaimlerChrysler chose Delphi to manufacture and supply radio receiver units for its dealer installed units. The company opted for factory installed units.
Delphi is one of the leaders in this technology, having produced over 4.5 million OEM and retail satellite radio receivers. Delphi also makes satellite-ready head units. In addition, audio/video units that incorporate navigation as well as various playback devices such as DVD's, CD's, MP3's and cassettes are also manufactured by the company.
With this tie-up, Mercedes-Benz continues to offer its consumers the best innovations and features for the utmost in comfort and entertainment. Mercedes-Benz has been a leader in innovation in the automotive industry, offering vehicles that have become benchmarks of automotive and design excellence.
Meanwhile, when it comes to excellent and high quality Mercedes-Benz parts, it pays to choose nothing but the best Benz auto parts possible. There are dozens of auto parts stores, most of them with online stores, which offer an extensive array of top-notch Mercedes-Benz parts. One of the leading names is Auto Parts Train, a highly-recommended online auto parts store based in California, USA.
About The Author
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.
Mercedes-Benz is globally recognized as a trendsetter and leader in innovation when it comes to advancing the luxury and comfort in its vehicles. Throughout the years it has introduced various features that not only have become endeared to the thousands of Benz owners but has also been emulated by other car companies. Recently another innovation that the car company ahs introduced was Ipod connectivity. Recognizing the phenomenal success and impact of Apple's Ipod, Mercedes-Benz now offers full connectivity with this gadget in all its models. Now, Benz owners can now enjoy their music collection on their state-of-the-art Benz audio systems while traveling.
Last March 15, another innovation was introduced by Mercedes Benz. This time it has tied up with Delphi Corporation, a leading manufacturer of retail satellite radio receivers. All 2005 Mercedes Benz vehicles in North America will now feature a factory installed Satellite Radio Receiver as standard equipment. Satellite radio offers its listeners hundreds of choices of music and other programming stations. It is also one of the fastest growing entertainment applications today.
With satellite radio on board, Benz vehicles offer a new dimension of entertainment. Owners will now have access to dozens of programs that are sure to keep anyone entertained while traveling. In 2002, DaimlerChrysler chose Delphi to manufacture and supply radio receiver units for its dealer installed units. The company opted for factory installed units.
Delphi is one of the leaders in this technology, having produced over 4.5 million OEM and retail satellite radio receivers. Delphi also makes satellite-ready head units. In addition, audio/video units that incorporate navigation as well as various playback devices such as DVD's, CD's, MP3's and cassettes are also manufactured by the company.
With this tie-up, Mercedes-Benz continues to offer its consumers the best innovations and features for the utmost in comfort and entertainment. Mercedes-Benz has been a leader in innovation in the automotive industry, offering vehicles that have become benchmarks of automotive and design excellence.
Meanwhile, when it comes to excellent and high quality Mercedes-Benz parts, it pays to choose nothing but the best Benz auto parts possible. There are dozens of auto parts stores, most of them with online stores, which offer an extensive array of top-notch Mercedes-Benz parts. One of the leading names is Auto Parts Train, a highly-recommended online auto parts store based in California, USA.
About The Author
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.
Sunday, April 10, 2005
Hear Music @ Starbucks : XM Satellite Radio Ch. 75
The coffeehouse sound, 24/7 Hear Music, the audio ingredient to your Starbucks experience is now on XM Satellite Radio.
Making great music synonymous with great coffee, Hear Music has been introducing us to countless new artists while paying tribute to the legends in Starbucks stores and on compilation CDs. Now you can access the Hear Music song library in living rooms, offices, car stereos and online, coast to coast and 100% commercial free on XM channel 75.
With over 2.5 million subscribers and more than 130 channels, XM Radio is the premier satellite radio service. Get XM Satellite radio or, if you’re already a subscriber, stop by channel 75 and dial in our special blend of daily inspiration. Find out more - at our partner Top Satellite Radio
Making great music synonymous with great coffee, Hear Music has been introducing us to countless new artists while paying tribute to the legends in Starbucks stores and on compilation CDs. Now you can access the Hear Music song library in living rooms, offices, car stereos and online, coast to coast and 100% commercial free on XM channel 75.
With over 2.5 million subscribers and more than 130 channels, XM Radio is the premier satellite radio service. Get XM Satellite radio or, if you’re already a subscriber, stop by channel 75 and dial in our special blend of daily inspiration. Find out more - at our partner Top Satellite Radio
Delphi XM MyFi™
MyFi's Have Everything you need to take XM where EVER you GO! On the Road, in the home, or just on your person like a walk-man!
The World's First XM Portable
The Delphi XM MyFi™ is the world's first XM2go receiver — a personal XM satellite radio. The MyFi includes everything you need to enjoy XM anywhere - in the home, in the car, and on the go.
The First of its Kind
MyFi is a revolution in portable Audio, playing XM's Ultimate Play list™ anytime, effortlessly.
The Delphi XM MyFi comes with all of the accessories needed to enjoy XM at home, at work, in any vehicle or on the go. As the most advanced satellite radio available, the MyFi offers everything you need to enjoy XM anywhere:
* Hand-held MyFi receiver
* Rechargeable, integrated battery
* Complete home accessory kit
* Complete vehicle accessory kit
* First-ever built-in XM antenna
* Headphones
* Remote control
* Belt clip/stand
* Carrying case
All You Need to Enjoy XM Anywhere
Includes car kit, home kit, rechargeable battery, headphones, antennas and more.
* Memory Mode
Store up to 5 hours of fresh new XM content - with no computer downloading or list management. Absolutely no computer needed.
* Live Mode
Hear over 130 digital XM channels live coast to coast by satellite.
* Rechargeable Battery
Automatically charges and provides 5 hours for travel or play.
* Built-in Wireless FM Transmitter
MyFi can wirelessly transmit to any FM radio speaker system, car, home or portable.
* Info Extras
Large, illuminated six-line LCD display with personal stock ticker, sports score ticker, clock, alarm & more.
The World's First XM Portable
The Delphi XM MyFi™ is the world's first XM2go receiver — a personal XM satellite radio. The MyFi includes everything you need to enjoy XM anywhere - in the home, in the car, and on the go.
The First of its Kind
MyFi is a revolution in portable Audio, playing XM's Ultimate Play list™ anytime, effortlessly.
The Delphi XM MyFi comes with all of the accessories needed to enjoy XM at home, at work, in any vehicle or on the go. As the most advanced satellite radio available, the MyFi offers everything you need to enjoy XM anywhere:
* Hand-held MyFi receiver
* Rechargeable, integrated battery
* Complete home accessory kit
* Complete vehicle accessory kit
* First-ever built-in XM antenna
* Headphones
* Remote control
* Belt clip/stand
* Carrying case
All You Need to Enjoy XM Anywhere
Includes car kit, home kit, rechargeable battery, headphones, antennas and more.
* Memory Mode
Store up to 5 hours of fresh new XM content - with no computer downloading or list management. Absolutely no computer needed.
* Live Mode
Hear over 130 digital XM channels live coast to coast by satellite.
* Rechargeable Battery
Automatically charges and provides 5 hours for travel or play.
* Built-in Wireless FM Transmitter
MyFi can wirelessly transmit to any FM radio speaker system, car, home or portable.
* Info Extras
Large, illuminated six-line LCD display with personal stock ticker, sports score ticker, clock, alarm & more.
Saturday, April 09, 2005
XM Satellite in Baseball Deals
Thursday April 7, 5:45 pm ET
XM Satellite Radio Signs Multiyear Marketing Pacts With Several Baseball Teams
NEW YORK (AP) -- XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. on Thursday said the company agreed to multiyear marketing partnerships with several Major League Baseball teams, including the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago White Sox.
The direct-satellite radio broadcaster said that under the agreements, XM Satellite will be the official satellite radio partner of each team. The company did not specify the terms of the deals.
XM Satellite Radio shares closed up $1.27, or 4 percent, to $31.50 on the Nasdaq.
Last fall, XM Satellite and Major League Baseball signed an 11-year deal to broadcast games played by every MLB team.
The agreements between XM Satellite and the teams include a variety of customized activities to promote XM radio and the company's sports, music, news, talk and entertainment programming, including prominent signs and promotions at each team's venue throughout the season, the company said.
"This partnership gives XM the opportunity to provide unparalleled access to the national pastime," said Hugh Panero, president and chief executive, in a statement.
XM Satellite Radio provides coverage to more than 3.7 million subscribers.
The company's shares rose 5 cents to $31.58 in after-hours trading.
XM Satellite Radio Signs Multiyear Marketing Pacts With Several Baseball Teams
NEW YORK (AP) -- XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. on Thursday said the company agreed to multiyear marketing partnerships with several Major League Baseball teams, including the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago White Sox.
The direct-satellite radio broadcaster said that under the agreements, XM Satellite will be the official satellite radio partner of each team. The company did not specify the terms of the deals.
XM Satellite Radio shares closed up $1.27, or 4 percent, to $31.50 on the Nasdaq.
Last fall, XM Satellite and Major League Baseball signed an 11-year deal to broadcast games played by every MLB team.
The agreements between XM Satellite and the teams include a variety of customized activities to promote XM radio and the company's sports, music, news, talk and entertainment programming, including prominent signs and promotions at each team's venue throughout the season, the company said.
"This partnership gives XM the opportunity to provide unparalleled access to the national pastime," said Hugh Panero, president and chief executive, in a statement.
XM Satellite Radio provides coverage to more than 3.7 million subscribers.
The company's shares rose 5 cents to $31.58 in after-hours trading.
Monday, April 04, 2005
Get a Free Delphi MyFi XM2Go
Get a Free Delphi MyFi XM2Go
We are giving away XM2Go's all of the month of April. Sign up here We will be taking entries all month and the winner will be notified by e-mail.
We have launched our store to give customers the best prices on the the hottest and highest quality products. Many stores take a selling approach, however we strive to give you the facts. We want you to be an educated consumer so that you will continue to shop with us in the future...
We hope you will join us in saving at TopSatelliteRadio.com
We are giving away XM2Go's all of the month of April. Sign up here We will be taking entries all month and the winner will be notified by e-mail.
We have launched our store to give customers the best prices on the the hottest and highest quality products. Many stores take a selling approach, however we strive to give you the facts. We want you to be an educated consumer so that you will continue to shop with us in the future...
We hope you will join us in saving at TopSatelliteRadio.com
Sunday, April 03, 2005
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA IS THE FIRST AUTOMAKER TO ADD STANDARD XM SATELLITE RADIO TO ITS FULL VEHICLE LINEUP
HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA IS THE FIRST AUTOMAKER TO ADD STANDARD XM SATELLITE RADIO TO ITS FULL VEHICLE LINEUP
Washington D.C., March 23, 2005 --
Hyundai Motor America and XM Satellite Radio today announced that Hyundai will be the first automaker to launch XM as standard, factory-installed equipment in every vehicle across its entire model line-up.
Starting in 2006, XM radios will be factory-installed in all Hyundai models, beginning with the all-new Sonata, Santa Fe, Elantra, and the upcoming replacement for the XG350 premium sedan. By year-end 2006, 75% of Hyundai's sales volume will be XM-equipped, with the remaining models following quickly thereafter, totaling well over 500,000 units by 2007.
"XM is the leading satellite radio provider, and our unique partnership establishes Hyundai as the industry leader in the application of standard satellite entertainment and data systems," said Robert Cosmai, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "Just as we've done in achieving our position as an industry-leader in value, quality, and standard safety features, here again we are setting a new benchmark as the first automaker to launch standard XM satellite radio across our complete model line-up."
"Including XM as standard equipment in all of its vehicles makes this one of the most aggressive automotive rollouts of XM Satellite Radio ever," said Hugh Panero, President and CEO of XM Satellite Radio. "Hyundai is one of the fastest-growing automakers in the world today, and it has earned outstanding ratings for quality, reliability, and safety. We know that Hyundai customers are going to love XM's award-winning programming as they travel from coast to coast."
Washington D.C., March 23, 2005 --
Hyundai Motor America and XM Satellite Radio today announced that Hyundai will be the first automaker to launch XM as standard, factory-installed equipment in every vehicle across its entire model line-up.
Starting in 2006, XM radios will be factory-installed in all Hyundai models, beginning with the all-new Sonata, Santa Fe, Elantra, and the upcoming replacement for the XG350 premium sedan. By year-end 2006, 75% of Hyundai's sales volume will be XM-equipped, with the remaining models following quickly thereafter, totaling well over 500,000 units by 2007.
"XM is the leading satellite radio provider, and our unique partnership establishes Hyundai as the industry leader in the application of standard satellite entertainment and data systems," said Robert Cosmai, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "Just as we've done in achieving our position as an industry-leader in value, quality, and standard safety features, here again we are setting a new benchmark as the first automaker to launch standard XM satellite radio across our complete model line-up."
"Including XM as standard equipment in all of its vehicles makes this one of the most aggressive automotive rollouts of XM Satellite Radio ever," said Hugh Panero, President and CEO of XM Satellite Radio. "Hyundai is one of the fastest-growing automakers in the world today, and it has earned outstanding ratings for quality, reliability, and safety. We know that Hyundai customers are going to love XM's award-winning programming as they travel from coast to coast."
Indecent Oversight The FCC’s crackdown on profanity could lead to censorship.
By Deborah Potter
A reporter is on the air live at an antiwar demonstration when the crowd behind her begins to chant obscenities. True or false: The station broadcasting the story can be fined for its coverage.
The latest ruling by the Federal Communications Commission appears to suggest the answer is "true." The decision stems from an incident last year at the Golden Globe Awards, when U2 singer Bono said the F-word and NBC carried it live. The FCC investigated and said the indecency rule did not apply because Bono used the word as an adjective, "to emphasize an exclamation." This spring, however, after the furor over the Janet Jackson "wardrobe malfunction" at the Super Bowl, the commission overturned the Bono decision. The F-word, the FCC said, is indecent and profane regardless of context.
It's those last three words — "regardless of context" — that have broadcast journalists concerned. In the past, the FCC considered the context in which profanities were uttered in deciding if a broadcaster could be fined for indecency. Sexually explicit comments by Bubba the Love Sponge and Howard Stern could get a station in trouble — no doubt about it. Clear Channel Radio dropped both shock jocks this year after being hit with record fines. But a fleeting comment on a newscast or during live news coverage generally did not merit sanctions. Now, stations worry that will no longer be the case.
But no one is really sure, because the FCC hasn't specifically said how the decision might apply to news. "Right now, the problem for us is there are no rules," Rod Fritz, news director at Boston's WRKO-AM radio, said at a panel discussion at the April convention of the Radio-Television News Directors Association. "There's no line. We don't know where the line is."
In a petition to the FCC, CBS affiliate stations cautioned that the indecency rule could "fundamentally alter the manner in which local broadcasters engage in news gathering." The stations went so far as to warn that if the ruling stands, many of them would stop airing newscasts between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. when the regulations apply.
That's probably hyperbole, but there's good reason for all the anxiety. Until now, being found in violation of FCC rules for indecency merited not much more than a slap on the wrist — a maximum fine of $27,500 per show, no matter how many profanities were aired. But the FCC has started fining stations for each profane utterance, and Congress could raise the fine to as much as $500,000 per incident. One provision under consideration would start proceedings to revoke a station's license if it's repeatedly found in violation. "You do the math," said Washington, D.C., attorney Kathleen Kirby, who represents broadcast clients. "Half a million [dollars] times however many utterances, that amounts to enterprise-threatening fines."
Some stations already are choosing to be extra cautious. In Phoenix, when a speaker used profanity during the funeral of former football player and Army Ranger Pat Tillman, several stations covering the event live pulled the plug. Los Angeles station KTLA-TV used digital technology to blur the expletives spray-painted on a vandalized car that was shown in a news story. "That's the kind of safeguard we have built into our news operation," said KTLA News Director Jeff Wald, also on the RTNDA panel. "It's going to be a chilling effect." To keep unexpected expletives from getting on the air during live coverage, LIN Television Group is equipping all 24 of its stations with signal delay devices specifically for use on local newscasts, at a total cost of $200,000.
But there's more at stake here than the financial health of broadcast companies. Unless the FCC clarifies whether stations can be penalized just for reporting the news, the indecency ruling is tantamount to censorship. News managers living in fear of a career-ending fine could base coverage decisions not on news value but on the risk that profanity might get on the air. As a result, journalists may be hamstrung in their ability to report the whole truth.
Imagine that an obscenity is uttered not by a rock star, but by an elected official referring to an opponent. Stations unwilling to air the exact words used because of the threat of sanctions will leave viewers and listeners less than fully informed.
But not all viewers. FCC regulations apply only to over-the-air broadcasters, not to cable news channels. For the federal government to tell some journalists they can't report the news fully while placing no such limitations on others clearly undermines the protections of the First Amendment.
Broadcast journalists should be free to exercise their own editorial judgment about what to put on the air and when, unfettered by the fear that one misstep could put them out of business. There's a difference between raunchy language used to titillate and shock, and obscene comments that make news or that get on the air by accident during live coverage. The FCC should be clear about that difference.
This article was originally published by American Journalism Review, August/September 2004http://www.ajr.org
By Deborah Potter
A reporter is on the air live at an antiwar demonstration when the crowd behind her begins to chant obscenities. True or false: The station broadcasting the story can be fined for its coverage.
The latest ruling by the Federal Communications Commission appears to suggest the answer is "true." The decision stems from an incident last year at the Golden Globe Awards, when U2 singer Bono said the F-word and NBC carried it live. The FCC investigated and said the indecency rule did not apply because Bono used the word as an adjective, "to emphasize an exclamation." This spring, however, after the furor over the Janet Jackson "wardrobe malfunction" at the Super Bowl, the commission overturned the Bono decision. The F-word, the FCC said, is indecent and profane regardless of context.
It's those last three words — "regardless of context" — that have broadcast journalists concerned. In the past, the FCC considered the context in which profanities were uttered in deciding if a broadcaster could be fined for indecency. Sexually explicit comments by Bubba the Love Sponge and Howard Stern could get a station in trouble — no doubt about it. Clear Channel Radio dropped both shock jocks this year after being hit with record fines. But a fleeting comment on a newscast or during live news coverage generally did not merit sanctions. Now, stations worry that will no longer be the case.
But no one is really sure, because the FCC hasn't specifically said how the decision might apply to news. "Right now, the problem for us is there are no rules," Rod Fritz, news director at Boston's WRKO-AM radio, said at a panel discussion at the April convention of the Radio-Television News Directors Association. "There's no line. We don't know where the line is."
In a petition to the FCC, CBS affiliate stations cautioned that the indecency rule could "fundamentally alter the manner in which local broadcasters engage in news gathering." The stations went so far as to warn that if the ruling stands, many of them would stop airing newscasts between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. when the regulations apply.
That's probably hyperbole, but there's good reason for all the anxiety. Until now, being found in violation of FCC rules for indecency merited not much more than a slap on the wrist — a maximum fine of $27,500 per show, no matter how many profanities were aired. But the FCC has started fining stations for each profane utterance, and Congress could raise the fine to as much as $500,000 per incident. One provision under consideration would start proceedings to revoke a station's license if it's repeatedly found in violation. "You do the math," said Washington, D.C., attorney Kathleen Kirby, who represents broadcast clients. "Half a million [dollars] times however many utterances, that amounts to enterprise-threatening fines."
Some stations already are choosing to be extra cautious. In Phoenix, when a speaker used profanity during the funeral of former football player and Army Ranger Pat Tillman, several stations covering the event live pulled the plug. Los Angeles station KTLA-TV used digital technology to blur the expletives spray-painted on a vandalized car that was shown in a news story. "That's the kind of safeguard we have built into our news operation," said KTLA News Director Jeff Wald, also on the RTNDA panel. "It's going to be a chilling effect." To keep unexpected expletives from getting on the air during live coverage, LIN Television Group is equipping all 24 of its stations with signal delay devices specifically for use on local newscasts, at a total cost of $200,000.
But there's more at stake here than the financial health of broadcast companies. Unless the FCC clarifies whether stations can be penalized just for reporting the news, the indecency ruling is tantamount to censorship. News managers living in fear of a career-ending fine could base coverage decisions not on news value but on the risk that profanity might get on the air. As a result, journalists may be hamstrung in their ability to report the whole truth.
Imagine that an obscenity is uttered not by a rock star, but by an elected official referring to an opponent. Stations unwilling to air the exact words used because of the threat of sanctions will leave viewers and listeners less than fully informed.
But not all viewers. FCC regulations apply only to over-the-air broadcasters, not to cable news channels. For the federal government to tell some journalists they can't report the news fully while placing no such limitations on others clearly undermines the protections of the First Amendment.
Broadcast journalists should be free to exercise their own editorial judgment about what to put on the air and when, unfettered by the fear that one misstep could put them out of business. There's a difference between raunchy language used to titillate and shock, and obscene comments that make news or that get on the air by accident during live coverage. The FCC should be clear about that difference.
This article was originally published by American Journalism Review, August/September 2004http://www.ajr.org
Friday, April 01, 2005
Satellite Radio: the waves of the future?
Satellite Radio: the waves of the future?
Satellite Radio – Its here! Satellite radio is a new service being offered by two companies, XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Both companies are offering over 100 channels of streaming music and entertainment. High quality sound is achieved through the use of satellites orbiting high above. Satellite radio is commercial free and free from regulations by federal committees. The impossible, is now possible, hearing the same radio station across North America and from coast to coast. All made possible by XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio.
Normal radio has been around for decades and is part of many people’s lifestyle. This is changing. Regular radio is monitored and regulated by the Federal Communications Commission, whom has fined several radio stations and media companies within the last 3-4 years. The FCC has only fined radio stations a maximum of $27,500 per show no matter how man profanities were aired. Recently the FCC has been upping the ante and in conjunction with Congress has decided to raise the fine up to $500,000 per incident per station (Potter). A slap on the wrist has turned into a business-changing event. “Sexually explicit comments by Bubba the Love Sponge and Howard Stern could get a station in trouble — no doubt about it. Clear Channel Radio dropped both shock jocks this year after being hit with record fines.”(Potter) Recently Howard Stern has made a move to Sirius Satellite Radio in an effort to preserve his career and free speech. Consumers are reaching towards satellite radio as a way to hear unregulated news and content. Recently XM Satellite Radio has claimed to have over 3 million subscribers paying $9.99 per month and Sirius claims to have over 1.3 million customers paying $12.95 per month. Many of those customers pay an additional $2.99 per month for premium content such as the upcoming Howard Stern Show.
Several normal radio stations and media outlets are realizing the potential to get their message across in a broad fashion. XM has launched a morning show, which is hosted by Bob Edwards, whom was fired earlier this year by National Public Radio. "The Bob Edwards Show" will air on a public satellite radio channel that also features news and programs from Public Radio International, among others. Sirius has its own public radio channel carrying NPR programs. Consumers and companies are demanding free speech and it seems that satellite radio is the vehicle.
XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have designed satellite broadcast systems that differ but they achieve the same high quality of satellite radio. A milestone of this success is the fact that satellite radio signals that are available across the United States and into Mexico and Canada. Rock and Roll – No it’s not a genre any more! XM Satellite Radio has two satellites named Rock and Roll, which remain in parallel geostationary orbit to provide radio coverage throughout the United States. Sirius Satellite Radio has chose to use three satellites in an inclined elliptical orbit. This configuration provides 16 hours per satellite of signal, which gives a great redundancy if any satellite were to fail. Playing it smart, Sirius and XM both have spare satellites, which can be called on in a moments notice if needed.
XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio have Earth based broadcast stations that are used to send up information to the satellites, which is then dispersed through out the globe. Sirius and XM both have disk jockeys that manage, create and program music which is then sent up to the satellites. The information is then taken in by the satellites and sent through a rebroadcast of the streams to earth. The Major advantage of this is that, unlike earth-based radio stations whose signals reach listeners 150 miles away, satellite radio signals have a huge reach, and are receivable anywhere within the continental United States and hundreds of miles in each direction of the borders. Satellite Radio is growing to become a worldwide network and offerings are growing throughout the world. XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio are making it happen.
Unregulated Satellite Radio is the answer for free speech in a government regulated airwaves arena. Not only can listeners hear unbiased information but also they can listen to it anywhere in the United States. Media giants are jumping to get the piece of the pie regarding satellite radio, as the new wave of the future is satellite radio.
Sources:
Arbitron Inc, comScore Media Metrix; “Rated Satellite Radio Networks Approach Five Million Listeners “02/02/05
Greenberg, Daniel; “Satellite Radio That's Well Received” Special to The Washington Post, December 12, 2004; Page F07
Potter, Deborah; “A Challenge from the Sky” Local stations feel the heat from satellite radio. American Journalism Review, October/November 2004. http://www.ajr.org
Potter, Deborah; “Indecent Oversight” The FCC’s crackdown on profanity could lead to censorship. American Journalism Review, August/September 2004 http://www.ajr.org
Munarriz , Rick Aristotle Munarriz; “Sirius Impressions” January 13, 2005 Motely Fool: Fool.com
XM Acquires Effanel Music; February 3, 2005: Story featured in www.radioink.com
Satellite Radio – Its here! Satellite radio is a new service being offered by two companies, XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Both companies are offering over 100 channels of streaming music and entertainment. High quality sound is achieved through the use of satellites orbiting high above. Satellite radio is commercial free and free from regulations by federal committees. The impossible, is now possible, hearing the same radio station across North America and from coast to coast. All made possible by XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio.
Normal radio has been around for decades and is part of many people’s lifestyle. This is changing. Regular radio is monitored and regulated by the Federal Communications Commission, whom has fined several radio stations and media companies within the last 3-4 years. The FCC has only fined radio stations a maximum of $27,500 per show no matter how man profanities were aired. Recently the FCC has been upping the ante and in conjunction with Congress has decided to raise the fine up to $500,000 per incident per station (Potter). A slap on the wrist has turned into a business-changing event. “Sexually explicit comments by Bubba the Love Sponge and Howard Stern could get a station in trouble — no doubt about it. Clear Channel Radio dropped both shock jocks this year after being hit with record fines.”(Potter) Recently Howard Stern has made a move to Sirius Satellite Radio in an effort to preserve his career and free speech. Consumers are reaching towards satellite radio as a way to hear unregulated news and content. Recently XM Satellite Radio has claimed to have over 3 million subscribers paying $9.99 per month and Sirius claims to have over 1.3 million customers paying $12.95 per month. Many of those customers pay an additional $2.99 per month for premium content such as the upcoming Howard Stern Show.
Several normal radio stations and media outlets are realizing the potential to get their message across in a broad fashion. XM has launched a morning show, which is hosted by Bob Edwards, whom was fired earlier this year by National Public Radio. "The Bob Edwards Show" will air on a public satellite radio channel that also features news and programs from Public Radio International, among others. Sirius has its own public radio channel carrying NPR programs. Consumers and companies are demanding free speech and it seems that satellite radio is the vehicle.
XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have designed satellite broadcast systems that differ but they achieve the same high quality of satellite radio. A milestone of this success is the fact that satellite radio signals that are available across the United States and into Mexico and Canada. Rock and Roll – No it’s not a genre any more! XM Satellite Radio has two satellites named Rock and Roll, which remain in parallel geostationary orbit to provide radio coverage throughout the United States. Sirius Satellite Radio has chose to use three satellites in an inclined elliptical orbit. This configuration provides 16 hours per satellite of signal, which gives a great redundancy if any satellite were to fail. Playing it smart, Sirius and XM both have spare satellites, which can be called on in a moments notice if needed.
XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio have Earth based broadcast stations that are used to send up information to the satellites, which is then dispersed through out the globe. Sirius and XM both have disk jockeys that manage, create and program music which is then sent up to the satellites. The information is then taken in by the satellites and sent through a rebroadcast of the streams to earth. The Major advantage of this is that, unlike earth-based radio stations whose signals reach listeners 150 miles away, satellite radio signals have a huge reach, and are receivable anywhere within the continental United States and hundreds of miles in each direction of the borders. Satellite Radio is growing to become a worldwide network and offerings are growing throughout the world. XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio are making it happen.
Unregulated Satellite Radio is the answer for free speech in a government regulated airwaves arena. Not only can listeners hear unbiased information but also they can listen to it anywhere in the United States. Media giants are jumping to get the piece of the pie regarding satellite radio, as the new wave of the future is satellite radio.
Sources:
Arbitron Inc, comScore Media Metrix; “Rated Satellite Radio Networks Approach Five Million Listeners “02/02/05
Greenberg, Daniel; “Satellite Radio That's Well Received” Special to The Washington Post, December 12, 2004; Page F07
Potter, Deborah; “A Challenge from the Sky” Local stations feel the heat from satellite radio. American Journalism Review, October/November 2004. http://www.ajr.org
Potter, Deborah; “Indecent Oversight” The FCC’s crackdown on profanity could lead to censorship. American Journalism Review, August/September 2004 http://www.ajr.org
Munarriz , Rick Aristotle Munarriz; “Sirius Impressions” January 13, 2005 Motely Fool: Fool.com
XM Acquires Effanel Music; February 3, 2005: Story featured in www.radioink.com
Thursday, March 31, 2005
Satellite Radio – Its here!
Satellite Radio – Its here!
Satellite radio is a new service being offered by two companies, XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Both companies are offering over 100 channels of streaming music and entertainment. High quality sound is achieved through the use of satellites orbiting high above. Satellite radio has been commercial free and free from regulations by federal committees. The impossible, is now possible, hearing the same radio station across north America and from coast to coast.
XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have designed satellite broadcast systems that differ but they achieve the same high quality of satellite radio. A milestone of this success is the fact that satellite radio signals that are available across the United States and into Mexico and Canada. Rock and Roll – No its not a genre any more! XM Satellite Radio has two satellites named Rock and Roll which remain in parallel geostationary orbit to provide radio coverage throughout the United States. Sirius Satellite Radio has chose to use three satellites in an inclined elliptical orbit. This configuration provides 16 hours per satellite of signal, which gives a great redundancy if any satellite were to fail. Playing it smart, Sirius and XM both have spare satellites, which can be called on in a moments notice if needed.
Earth based broadcast stations are used to send up information to the satellites, which is then dispersed through out the globe. Sirius and XM both have disk jockeys that manage, create and program music which is then sent up to the satellites. The information is then taken in by the satellites and sent through a rebroadcast of the streams to earth. The Major advantage of this is that, unlike earth-based radio stations whose signals reach listeners 150 miles away, satellite radio signals have a huge reach, and are receivable anywhere within the continental United States and hundreds of miles in each direction of the borders. Satellite Radio is growing to become a world wide network and offerings are growing throughout the world.
So How Does Satellite Radio Work: First, a receiver decodes and plays the received signals through an antenna. In the beginning, some cars have used a tuner that accepts the antenna signals and then passes them to a satellite radio-ready radio for playing. Ad the concept has grown out of the car and into the home, home kits for satellite radio use direct RCA inputs for home theater and traditional stereo systems. A Growing number of choices is occurring and each company is developing a broad scope of products for consumers. Already we are seeing receivers for car-only, boom boxes, computer-only, and portables for use in car and home configurations. The companies making these products are, Audiovox, Delphi Skyfi, Terk, and plenty others are jumping on board.
So is it work paying $10 - $12 monthly for the signals. Both Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio are betting that it is! Where else can you get commercial free channels or streams of music anywhere in the United States which has unique news, talk, and sports content available in your car or home? The programming is growing and getting bigger with additions such as the National Football League
Key Selling point for some: The Service is subscription-based and therefore the programming is not censored.
XM Satellite Radio or Sirius Satellite Radio – it’s your choice!
Satellite radio is a new service being offered by two companies, XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Both companies are offering over 100 channels of streaming music and entertainment. High quality sound is achieved through the use of satellites orbiting high above. Satellite radio has been commercial free and free from regulations by federal committees. The impossible, is now possible, hearing the same radio station across north America and from coast to coast.
XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have designed satellite broadcast systems that differ but they achieve the same high quality of satellite radio. A milestone of this success is the fact that satellite radio signals that are available across the United States and into Mexico and Canada. Rock and Roll – No its not a genre any more! XM Satellite Radio has two satellites named Rock and Roll which remain in parallel geostationary orbit to provide radio coverage throughout the United States. Sirius Satellite Radio has chose to use three satellites in an inclined elliptical orbit. This configuration provides 16 hours per satellite of signal, which gives a great redundancy if any satellite were to fail. Playing it smart, Sirius and XM both have spare satellites, which can be called on in a moments notice if needed.
Earth based broadcast stations are used to send up information to the satellites, which is then dispersed through out the globe. Sirius and XM both have disk jockeys that manage, create and program music which is then sent up to the satellites. The information is then taken in by the satellites and sent through a rebroadcast of the streams to earth. The Major advantage of this is that, unlike earth-based radio stations whose signals reach listeners 150 miles away, satellite radio signals have a huge reach, and are receivable anywhere within the continental United States and hundreds of miles in each direction of the borders. Satellite Radio is growing to become a world wide network and offerings are growing throughout the world.
So How Does Satellite Radio Work: First, a receiver decodes and plays the received signals through an antenna. In the beginning, some cars have used a tuner that accepts the antenna signals and then passes them to a satellite radio-ready radio for playing. Ad the concept has grown out of the car and into the home, home kits for satellite radio use direct RCA inputs for home theater and traditional stereo systems. A Growing number of choices is occurring and each company is developing a broad scope of products for consumers. Already we are seeing receivers for car-only, boom boxes, computer-only, and portables for use in car and home configurations. The companies making these products are, Audiovox, Delphi Skyfi, Terk, and plenty others are jumping on board.
So is it work paying $10 - $12 monthly for the signals. Both Sirius Satellite Radio and XM Satellite Radio are betting that it is! Where else can you get commercial free channels or streams of music anywhere in the United States which has unique news, talk, and sports content available in your car or home? The programming is growing and getting bigger with additions such as the National Football League
Key Selling point for some: The Service is subscription-based and therefore the programming is not censored.
XM Satellite Radio or Sirius Satellite Radio – it’s your choice!
Satellite Radio Subscription Costs
XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio subscription costs vary and are changing though recent promotions.
XM Satellite Radio Subscription Costs
If you agree to a commitment ranging from two to five years and prepay you can lower your effective monthly charge to as low as $7.48.
XM Satellite Radio’s monthly service charge is $9.99.
Adding up to four additional receivers only costs $6.99 each, per month. Certain special channels cost a little more, for example, Playboy Radio, a premium service, is an additional $2.99 per month. Commercial and Business subscriptions cost $24.99 per month. Business subscriptions are a little more expensive due to additional royalties that must be paid when potentially more people are listening to the station.
Sirius Satellite Radio Subscription Costs
Sirius Satellite Radio’s monthly service charge is $12.95. With a year or 2 year commitment, Sirius offers lower monthly rates.
Check out this hot deal going on right now! For $499.99, your radio is live for life! Sirius is currently offering a pretty good deal on a lifetime subscription that is radio-attached.
With Sirius you can activate as many as three additional radios for $6.99 each per month. Business subscriptions are $24.99 per month.
XM Satellite Radio Subscription Costs
If you agree to a commitment ranging from two to five years and prepay you can lower your effective monthly charge to as low as $7.48.
XM Satellite Radio’s monthly service charge is $9.99.
Adding up to four additional receivers only costs $6.99 each, per month. Certain special channels cost a little more, for example, Playboy Radio, a premium service, is an additional $2.99 per month. Commercial and Business subscriptions cost $24.99 per month. Business subscriptions are a little more expensive due to additional royalties that must be paid when potentially more people are listening to the station.
Sirius Satellite Radio Subscription Costs
Sirius Satellite Radio’s monthly service charge is $12.95. With a year or 2 year commitment, Sirius offers lower monthly rates.
Check out this hot deal going on right now! For $499.99, your radio is live for life! Sirius is currently offering a pretty good deal on a lifetime subscription that is radio-attached.
With Sirius you can activate as many as three additional radios for $6.99 each per month. Business subscriptions are $24.99 per month.
Government Censorship Gives Consumers New Entertainment Options
Government Censorship Gives Consumers New Entertainment Options
The Federal Communication Commission’s campaign for censorship of media, particularly the television and radio outlets have lead to a flurry of consumers moving their eyes and ears to uncensored media formats. Although the FCC has good intentions, I believe that consumers will use their spending power in a way of voting against current regulations and censorship.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was formed in 1934 under the Communications act of 1934 with the purpose of regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable. This agency is independent and is directly responsible to congress and its jurisdiction covers all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. possessions. Five commissioners make up the FCC’s directors, all are appointed by the President and are then confirmed by the acting senate for a 5-year term. Specifically, “The Media Bureau develops, recommends and administers the policy and licensing programs relating to electronic media, including cable television, broadcast television, and radio in the United States and its territories. The Media Bureau also handles post-licensing matters regarding Direct Broadcast Satellite service. (FCC.gov)”
Recent events such as the complaints against various television licensees concerning their February 1, 2004, broadcast of the Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show and the lewd remarks by Howard Stern in his national radios broadcasts have left the FCC with a difficult decision. Nearly 542,000 complaints flooded into the FCC (Adelstein) after the broadcast of the Super Bowl and have given attention to the some of the American public’s fear of a desensitized country. During the Half Time Performance, Janet Jackson’s breasts were bared for all to see when Justin Timberlake ripped off part of her clothing. CBS, which aired the Super Bowl, and MTV, whom produced the halftime show, both said they had no idea the performance would include a the display that it did. Apologies were offered by both companies for the incident. Justin Timberlake referred to the flash as a "wardrobe malfunction." "I am sorry that anyone was offended by the wardrobe malfunction during the halftime performance of the Super Bowl," Timberlake said in a statement. "It was not intentional and is regrettable."(Chamy)
Sparking an investigation by the Federal Communications Commission, as well as an avalanche of criticism against CBS and MTV, the FCC was forced to make a comment on the situation. FCC Chairman Michael Powell described the flash as "classless, crass (and) deplorable." Powell also stated that he suspects the show was a "stunt" rather than an accidental “wardrobe malfunction. (Horovitz)” His feelings may have been correct, a story posted on MTV.com earlier that week had the headline "Janet Jackson's Super Bowl show promises 'shocking moments.'" Bob Costas, NBC sports anchor stated his disgust by saying "It was a complete breakdown of common sense and common decency. The NFL doesn't usually leave much to chance. Either they completely dropped the ball, or they're being disingenuous (about being taken by surprise)."(Horovitz)
In response to this event, the FCC decided to crack down on several different aspects of the media. Under current rules a find of $550,000 was levied against CBS, which adds up to only about a dollar per complaint for the more than 542,000 complaints taken by the FCC (Adelstein). Television stations have been forced to make changes in their broadcasting formats. In an attempt to avoid another of five-star family fare turning into an X-rated joke the Super bowl XXXIX broadcasters, FOX, are taking several measures. In an attempt to bring back family viewing of the event, the National Football League has decided to take the reigns this year by signing off on every song sung, every outfit worn and every dance performed. The Super Bowl has become a cultural event and is also a huge business generator for the broadcasting station, this year revenues were expected to be close to $140 million (FOX.com). However in an act of defiance with careful cautions, the Fox executives were against any delay in broadcast. "We don't believe it's necessary," said David Hill, CEO of Fox Sports Television Group. After all, Paul McCartney — no threat to do the unexpected — is the halftime entertainer, he says. "When there's no potential issue, why bother with a delay?"(Horovitz)
Howard Stern is one of the raunchiest, disgusting and provocative radio hosts in America – and millions of people love him! Sterns language prompted the FCC to fine the parent company of several stations, which he airs on the amount of $495,000(Adelstein). When the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that it would impose a $495,000 fine on Clear Channel for "indecent" content on Stern's show this prompted Clear Channel Communications to end Sterns contract. In light of this announcement, John Hogan, Clear Channel's President, said he felt he had no choice but to can Stern, for his show "has created a great liability for us and other broadcasters who air it. (Hilden)" Hogan also said he feared Clear Channel could be de-licensed if it did not get rid of Stern. Stern then lashed back through his own personal website stating, "It is pretty shocking that governmental interference into our rights and free speech takes place in the U.S." He then prominently posted a quotation from a Supreme Court decision: "If there is a bedrock principle of the First Amendment, it is that the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable." One of the most interesting parts about this case is that Howard Stern has been speaking this way for several years. The government’s actions seem to be inappropriate and belated a great deal. The Bush administration had more than 3 years from the time of the event to do something, yet it has chosen to ignore Stern until it has now become convenient to peruse him. In response to the fines being levied against him, Stern has decided to move his show to Sirius Satellite Radio starting in 2006 (Coniff).
The five year multimillion dollar deal with Sirius will start Jan. 1, 2006. It has enormous implications for the 40-plus terrestrial stations that currently air his show, including Infinity powerhouses KLSX Los Angeles; WCKG Chicago; WYSP Philadelphia; KITS San Francisco; WBCN Boston; WJFK Washington, D.C.; and Stern's WXRK New York flagship (Coniff). Stern has been battered over the past year with the FCC’s decision but his decision to continue working in radio has really been a stance for free speech across America. "Howard coming to Sirius is great news for the music business," Greenstein of Sirius said. "I was going to get out of radio," Stern said. "I was going to get back into books and movies, reinvent myself. Then I realized that it wasn't that I hated radio: It was the situation. This is a whole new future. It was time for me to say, 'I am abandoning the old way of doing things."' The threat of satellite radio has been recognized by traditional radio. The National Assn. of Broadcasters convention in San Diego in 2005 was frantically discussing the issue of censorship and the emerging media of satellite radio. Several radio general managers and executives seemed to be speaking in hushed tones about the implications (Reuters). Fortunately the problem of censorship in traditional radio has been answered through the revolution of satellite radio. Stern is probably one of the happiest radio hosts and will continue to lead the revolution. "This is the day satellite has become a business," he said. "I've already gotten so many calls from people who want to defect. I'm going to put Clear Channel out of business.” Said Stern. Howard Stern has some of the most loyal listeners in radio and have moved their listening habits with Stern has he has moved from books, pay-per-view, movies, TV and now Sirius Satellite Radio. Sirius is making a reasonably safe bet that Stern’s millions of fans will follow him again and become subscribers (Sirius.com). This deal is just part of the reason that Satellite Radio is becoming a household name and brand. The hope for Sirius and the music industry is that this movement will translate into a huge increase in subscriptions to Sirius, as well as an important outlet to expose music, which will be free from government regulation. Stern believes that Clear Channel Communications does not stand for free speech, and this violates his own principles. His decision to migrate to satellite radio is a creative decision. He acknowledges that his walking away from an empire where advertising rates are higher than ever and listeners are growing at a steady pace.
One of the latest rulings by the Federal Communications Commission appears to suggest that news stations are also under fire (Bivins). This decision stems from an incident at the Golden Globe Awards, when U2 singer Bono said the F-word and NBC carried it live. The FCC investigated and said the indecency rule did not apply because Bono used the word as an adjective, "to emphasize an exclamation." However, after the furor over the Janet Jackson "wardrobe malfunction" at the Super Bowl, the commission overturned the Bono decision. The F-word, the FCC said, is indecent and profane regardless of context. (Potter)
The three words "regardless of context" are what have broadcast journalists concerned. In the past, the FCC considered the context in which profanities were uttered in deciding if a broadcaster could be fined for indecency. Sexually explicit comments by Bubba the Love Sponge and Howard Stern could get a station in trouble — no doubt about it. Clear Channel Radio dropped both shock jocks this year after being hit with record fines (JAC). Comments on a newscast and during live news coverage, in the past have not merited sanctions. Stations now worry that will no longer be the case.
The FCC hasn't specifically said how this recent decision would apply to news broadcasts. "Right now, the problem for us is there are no rules," Rod Fritz, news director at Boston's WRKO-AM radio, said at a panel discussion at the April convention of the Radio-Television News Directors Association. "There's no line. We don't know where the line is." (Potter)
Petitioning the FCC, CBS affiliate stations gave a rebuttal to the indecency rule. They stated that this new rule could "fundamentally alter the manner in which local broadcasters engage in news gathering." (CBS) The stations went so far as to warn that if the ruling stands, many of them would stop airing newscasts between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. when the regulations apply.
This may be taking things a little too far, but they do feel threatened and they do have just cause for concern. Until now, being found in violation of FCC rules for indecency merited not much more than a slap on the wrist and little more than a maximum fine of $27,500 per show regardless of how many profanities were aired. But the FCC has started fining stations for each profane word used. The United States Congress, whom directly controls the FCC, has raised the fine to as much as $500,000 per incident (Hilden). One provision under consideration would start proceedings to revoke a station's license if it's repeatedly found in violation. With this type of ramifications being taken out on the stations, the parent companies of these media giants have little choice to shape up and drop some of their more risky on-air personalities.
Consumers are moving their eyes and ears to non-regulated media. Recently two satellite radio companies have been vying for new subscribers by enticing them with programming ranging from Howard Stern to the Playboy Channel, to NASCAR and live Major League Baseball broadcasts. Sirius and XM Satellite Radio are free from FCC regulation, meaning that any subscriber paying $12.95 per month will have access to their content. The 2 companies are so confident that subscribers want this content that they do charge additional $2.99 per month for access to premium content such as Howard Stern’s Show which is to debut in 2006.
Satellite radio is a new service being offered by two companies, XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Both companies are offering over 100 channels of streaming music and entertainment. High quality sound is achieved through the use of satellites orbiting high above. Satellite radio has been commercial free and free from regulations by federal committees. The impossible, is now possible, hearing the same radio station across North America and from coast to coast. All made possible by XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio.
XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have designed satellite broadcast systems that differ but they achieve the same high quality of satellite radio. A milestone of this success is the fact that satellite radio signals that are available across the United States and into Mexico and Canada. Rock and Roll – No it’s not a genre any more! XM Satellite Radio has two satellites named Rock and Roll, which remain in parallel geostationary orbit to provide radio coverage throughout the United States. Sirius Satellite Radio has chose to use three satellites in an inclined elliptical orbit. This configuration provides 16 hours per satellite of signal, which gives a great redundancy if any satellite were to fail. Playing it smart, Sirius and XM both have spare satellites, which can be called on in a moments notice if needed. Satellite Radio, with the combined availability and freeness from regulations promises to give consumers unregulated content at any time or any place.
The Federal Communication Commission is making the effort to censor the American public from indecent pictures and vulgar language. At this time of this article, XM Satellite Radio had 3.4 million subscribers (Xmradio.com) and Sirius had 1.6 million subscribers (Sirius.com), all of whom are willing to pay a monthly fee. This does act as a testament of what is to come regarding this medium of entertainment and information dissemination. Consumers are voting against the way that media is censored through their purchasing power. I do believe that the FCC is doing their job and will continue to do their job, however they do have plenty of roadblocks in their way and I do foresee more in the future. While the FCC has a duty to perform, businesses will continue to cater to the public’s need and interests – in this case the consumers are winning.
The Federal Communication Commission’s campaign for censorship of media, particularly the television and radio outlets have lead to a flurry of consumers moving their eyes and ears to uncensored media formats. Although the FCC has good intentions, I believe that consumers will use their spending power in a way of voting against current regulations and censorship.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) was formed in 1934 under the Communications act of 1934 with the purpose of regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable. This agency is independent and is directly responsible to congress and its jurisdiction covers all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. possessions. Five commissioners make up the FCC’s directors, all are appointed by the President and are then confirmed by the acting senate for a 5-year term. Specifically, “The Media Bureau develops, recommends and administers the policy and licensing programs relating to electronic media, including cable television, broadcast television, and radio in the United States and its territories. The Media Bureau also handles post-licensing matters regarding Direct Broadcast Satellite service. (FCC.gov)”
Recent events such as the complaints against various television licensees concerning their February 1, 2004, broadcast of the Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show and the lewd remarks by Howard Stern in his national radios broadcasts have left the FCC with a difficult decision. Nearly 542,000 complaints flooded into the FCC (Adelstein) after the broadcast of the Super Bowl and have given attention to the some of the American public’s fear of a desensitized country. During the Half Time Performance, Janet Jackson’s breasts were bared for all to see when Justin Timberlake ripped off part of her clothing. CBS, which aired the Super Bowl, and MTV, whom produced the halftime show, both said they had no idea the performance would include a the display that it did. Apologies were offered by both companies for the incident. Justin Timberlake referred to the flash as a "wardrobe malfunction." "I am sorry that anyone was offended by the wardrobe malfunction during the halftime performance of the Super Bowl," Timberlake said in a statement. "It was not intentional and is regrettable."(Chamy)
Sparking an investigation by the Federal Communications Commission, as well as an avalanche of criticism against CBS and MTV, the FCC was forced to make a comment on the situation. FCC Chairman Michael Powell described the flash as "classless, crass (and) deplorable." Powell also stated that he suspects the show was a "stunt" rather than an accidental “wardrobe malfunction. (Horovitz)” His feelings may have been correct, a story posted on MTV.com earlier that week had the headline "Janet Jackson's Super Bowl show promises 'shocking moments.'" Bob Costas, NBC sports anchor stated his disgust by saying "It was a complete breakdown of common sense and common decency. The NFL doesn't usually leave much to chance. Either they completely dropped the ball, or they're being disingenuous (about being taken by surprise)."(Horovitz)
In response to this event, the FCC decided to crack down on several different aspects of the media. Under current rules a find of $550,000 was levied against CBS, which adds up to only about a dollar per complaint for the more than 542,000 complaints taken by the FCC (Adelstein). Television stations have been forced to make changes in their broadcasting formats. In an attempt to avoid another of five-star family fare turning into an X-rated joke the Super bowl XXXIX broadcasters, FOX, are taking several measures. In an attempt to bring back family viewing of the event, the National Football League has decided to take the reigns this year by signing off on every song sung, every outfit worn and every dance performed. The Super Bowl has become a cultural event and is also a huge business generator for the broadcasting station, this year revenues were expected to be close to $140 million (FOX.com). However in an act of defiance with careful cautions, the Fox executives were against any delay in broadcast. "We don't believe it's necessary," said David Hill, CEO of Fox Sports Television Group. After all, Paul McCartney — no threat to do the unexpected — is the halftime entertainer, he says. "When there's no potential issue, why bother with a delay?"(Horovitz)
Howard Stern is one of the raunchiest, disgusting and provocative radio hosts in America – and millions of people love him! Sterns language prompted the FCC to fine the parent company of several stations, which he airs on the amount of $495,000(Adelstein). When the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that it would impose a $495,000 fine on Clear Channel for "indecent" content on Stern's show this prompted Clear Channel Communications to end Sterns contract. In light of this announcement, John Hogan, Clear Channel's President, said he felt he had no choice but to can Stern, for his show "has created a great liability for us and other broadcasters who air it. (Hilden)" Hogan also said he feared Clear Channel could be de-licensed if it did not get rid of Stern. Stern then lashed back through his own personal website stating, "It is pretty shocking that governmental interference into our rights and free speech takes place in the U.S." He then prominently posted a quotation from a Supreme Court decision: "If there is a bedrock principle of the First Amendment, it is that the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable." One of the most interesting parts about this case is that Howard Stern has been speaking this way for several years. The government’s actions seem to be inappropriate and belated a great deal. The Bush administration had more than 3 years from the time of the event to do something, yet it has chosen to ignore Stern until it has now become convenient to peruse him. In response to the fines being levied against him, Stern has decided to move his show to Sirius Satellite Radio starting in 2006 (Coniff).
The five year multimillion dollar deal with Sirius will start Jan. 1, 2006. It has enormous implications for the 40-plus terrestrial stations that currently air his show, including Infinity powerhouses KLSX Los Angeles; WCKG Chicago; WYSP Philadelphia; KITS San Francisco; WBCN Boston; WJFK Washington, D.C.; and Stern's WXRK New York flagship (Coniff). Stern has been battered over the past year with the FCC’s decision but his decision to continue working in radio has really been a stance for free speech across America. "Howard coming to Sirius is great news for the music business," Greenstein of Sirius said. "I was going to get out of radio," Stern said. "I was going to get back into books and movies, reinvent myself. Then I realized that it wasn't that I hated radio: It was the situation. This is a whole new future. It was time for me to say, 'I am abandoning the old way of doing things."' The threat of satellite radio has been recognized by traditional radio. The National Assn. of Broadcasters convention in San Diego in 2005 was frantically discussing the issue of censorship and the emerging media of satellite radio. Several radio general managers and executives seemed to be speaking in hushed tones about the implications (Reuters). Fortunately the problem of censorship in traditional radio has been answered through the revolution of satellite radio. Stern is probably one of the happiest radio hosts and will continue to lead the revolution. "This is the day satellite has become a business," he said. "I've already gotten so many calls from people who want to defect. I'm going to put Clear Channel out of business.” Said Stern. Howard Stern has some of the most loyal listeners in radio and have moved their listening habits with Stern has he has moved from books, pay-per-view, movies, TV and now Sirius Satellite Radio. Sirius is making a reasonably safe bet that Stern’s millions of fans will follow him again and become subscribers (Sirius.com). This deal is just part of the reason that Satellite Radio is becoming a household name and brand. The hope for Sirius and the music industry is that this movement will translate into a huge increase in subscriptions to Sirius, as well as an important outlet to expose music, which will be free from government regulation. Stern believes that Clear Channel Communications does not stand for free speech, and this violates his own principles. His decision to migrate to satellite radio is a creative decision. He acknowledges that his walking away from an empire where advertising rates are higher than ever and listeners are growing at a steady pace.
One of the latest rulings by the Federal Communications Commission appears to suggest that news stations are also under fire (Bivins). This decision stems from an incident at the Golden Globe Awards, when U2 singer Bono said the F-word and NBC carried it live. The FCC investigated and said the indecency rule did not apply because Bono used the word as an adjective, "to emphasize an exclamation." However, after the furor over the Janet Jackson "wardrobe malfunction" at the Super Bowl, the commission overturned the Bono decision. The F-word, the FCC said, is indecent and profane regardless of context. (Potter)
The three words "regardless of context" are what have broadcast journalists concerned. In the past, the FCC considered the context in which profanities were uttered in deciding if a broadcaster could be fined for indecency. Sexually explicit comments by Bubba the Love Sponge and Howard Stern could get a station in trouble — no doubt about it. Clear Channel Radio dropped both shock jocks this year after being hit with record fines (JAC). Comments on a newscast and during live news coverage, in the past have not merited sanctions. Stations now worry that will no longer be the case.
The FCC hasn't specifically said how this recent decision would apply to news broadcasts. "Right now, the problem for us is there are no rules," Rod Fritz, news director at Boston's WRKO-AM radio, said at a panel discussion at the April convention of the Radio-Television News Directors Association. "There's no line. We don't know where the line is." (Potter)
Petitioning the FCC, CBS affiliate stations gave a rebuttal to the indecency rule. They stated that this new rule could "fundamentally alter the manner in which local broadcasters engage in news gathering." (CBS) The stations went so far as to warn that if the ruling stands, many of them would stop airing newscasts between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. when the regulations apply.
This may be taking things a little too far, but they do feel threatened and they do have just cause for concern. Until now, being found in violation of FCC rules for indecency merited not much more than a slap on the wrist and little more than a maximum fine of $27,500 per show regardless of how many profanities were aired. But the FCC has started fining stations for each profane word used. The United States Congress, whom directly controls the FCC, has raised the fine to as much as $500,000 per incident (Hilden). One provision under consideration would start proceedings to revoke a station's license if it's repeatedly found in violation. With this type of ramifications being taken out on the stations, the parent companies of these media giants have little choice to shape up and drop some of their more risky on-air personalities.
Consumers are moving their eyes and ears to non-regulated media. Recently two satellite radio companies have been vying for new subscribers by enticing them with programming ranging from Howard Stern to the Playboy Channel, to NASCAR and live Major League Baseball broadcasts. Sirius and XM Satellite Radio are free from FCC regulation, meaning that any subscriber paying $12.95 per month will have access to their content. The 2 companies are so confident that subscribers want this content that they do charge additional $2.99 per month for access to premium content such as Howard Stern’s Show which is to debut in 2006.
Satellite radio is a new service being offered by two companies, XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio. Both companies are offering over 100 channels of streaming music and entertainment. High quality sound is achieved through the use of satellites orbiting high above. Satellite radio has been commercial free and free from regulations by federal committees. The impossible, is now possible, hearing the same radio station across North America and from coast to coast. All made possible by XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite radio.
XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio have designed satellite broadcast systems that differ but they achieve the same high quality of satellite radio. A milestone of this success is the fact that satellite radio signals that are available across the United States and into Mexico and Canada. Rock and Roll – No it’s not a genre any more! XM Satellite Radio has two satellites named Rock and Roll, which remain in parallel geostationary orbit to provide radio coverage throughout the United States. Sirius Satellite Radio has chose to use three satellites in an inclined elliptical orbit. This configuration provides 16 hours per satellite of signal, which gives a great redundancy if any satellite were to fail. Playing it smart, Sirius and XM both have spare satellites, which can be called on in a moments notice if needed. Satellite Radio, with the combined availability and freeness from regulations promises to give consumers unregulated content at any time or any place.
The Federal Communication Commission is making the effort to censor the American public from indecent pictures and vulgar language. At this time of this article, XM Satellite Radio had 3.4 million subscribers (Xmradio.com) and Sirius had 1.6 million subscribers (Sirius.com), all of whom are willing to pay a monthly fee. This does act as a testament of what is to come regarding this medium of entertainment and information dissemination. Consumers are voting against the way that media is censored through their purchasing power. I do believe that the FCC is doing their job and will continue to do their job, however they do have plenty of roadblocks in their way and I do foresee more in the future. While the FCC has a duty to perform, businesses will continue to cater to the public’s need and interests – in this case the consumers are winning.
TopSatelliteRadio.com Offers a Rebate for the new Delphi MyFi XM2GO
To receive your rebate, you must:Purchase a Delphi MyFi From TopSatelliteRadio.comPurchase Date must fall between April 1-April 30Your Rebate form must be postmarked within 7 days of your purchase.Please start your service with XM Radio within 15 days from receiving your order.We have launched our store to give customers the best prices on the the hottest and highest quality products. Many stores take a selling approach, however we strive to give you the facts. We want you to be an educated consumer so that you will continue to shop with us in the future.We hope you will join us in saving at TopSatelliteRadio.comAbout TopSatelliteRadio.com Top Satellite Radio is a resource for consumers seeking the history and facts about satellite radio. We also sell electronics related to Satellite Radio. If you would like to partner with us or have a question, please let us know.
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
TopSatelliteRadio.com Offers a Rebate for the new Delphi MyFi XM2GO
TopSatelliteRadio.com Offers a Rebate for the new Delphi MyFi XM2GO
To receive your rebate, you must:
Purchase a Delphi MyFi From TopSatelliteRadio.com
Purchase Date must fall between April 1-April 30
Your Rebate form must be postmarked within 7 days of your purchase.
Please start your service with XM Radio within 15 days from receiving your order.
We have launched our store to give customers the best prices on the the hottest and highest quality products. Many stores take a selling approach, however we strive to give you the facts. We want you to be an educated consumer so that you will continue to shop with us in the future.
We hope you will join us in saving at TopSatelliteRadio.com
About TopSatelliteRadio.com Top Satellite Radio is a resource for consumers seeking the history and facts about satellite radio. We also sell electronics related to Satellite Radio. If you would like to partner with us or have a question, please let us know. http://www.topsatelliteradio.com/
To receive your rebate, you must:
Purchase a Delphi MyFi From TopSatelliteRadio.com
Purchase Date must fall between April 1-April 30
Your Rebate form must be postmarked within 7 days of your purchase.
Please start your service with XM Radio within 15 days from receiving your order.
We have launched our store to give customers the best prices on the the hottest and highest quality products. Many stores take a selling approach, however we strive to give you the facts. We want you to be an educated consumer so that you will continue to shop with us in the future.
We hope you will join us in saving at TopSatelliteRadio.com
About TopSatelliteRadio.com Top Satellite Radio is a resource for consumers seeking the history and facts about satellite radio. We also sell electronics related to Satellite Radio. If you would like to partner with us or have a question, please let us know. http://www.topsatelliteradio.com/
Friday, March 18, 2005
TopSatelliteRadio.com is pleased to offer several satellite radio receivers and components.
TopSatelliteRadio.com is pleased to offer several satellite radio receivers and components. We have launched our store to give customers the best prices on the the hottest and highest quality products. Many stores take a selling approach, however we strive to give you the facts. We want you to be an educated consumer so that you will continue to shop with us in the future. Many products are available from the following companies: Delphi, AudioVox, Terk, Cambride Soundworks, and Xact.
We look forward to offering you several products at unheard of prices - including:
Delphi XM MyFi
Delphi SkyFi 2
Delphi Skyfi
Delphi Roady 2
Audio System
CD Audio System
SkyFi 2 Vehicle Kit
SkyFi 1 Home Kit
Roady Home Kit
Sirius Home Kit
Sirius Universal Kit
Deluxe Portable Sirius Boom Box
Sirius Power Pod Pack
We look forward to offering you several products at unheard of prices - including:
Delphi XM MyFi
Delphi SkyFi 2
Delphi Skyfi
Delphi Roady 2
Audio System
CD Audio System
SkyFi 2 Vehicle Kit
SkyFi 1 Home Kit
Roady Home Kit
Sirius Home Kit
Sirius Universal Kit
Deluxe Portable Sirius Boom Box
Sirius Power Pod Pack
