XM, XM, XM, ............. I need my XM ................ But how ??????

 

Just buy a portable unit and hook it up through the aux input.
It's not as neat as a custom intall, but it's well under $100.00, and you can use the unit on your home equpment, as well, with a home kit.
Based on discussions on this board, MINI does not offer XM as a factory or a dealer install, but there are probably a number of aftermarket installers that can set up a custom install if you want the unit integrated, rather than the portable unit.

 

There isn't an integrated solution that I know of. I just went over to the XMFan.com store and bought a Delphi Xpress RC. Someone mentioned that it'll match my piano black interior perfectly.

 

There is an integrated XM radio solution but for the R53 1st gen MINIs and retails for around $250. But I am not sure if one has been made available for the R56 and R55.

BMW/MINI offers Sirius radio as optional OEM.

Your best bet is an aftermarket XM receiver. What I don't like about those is the antenna that requires routing to the roof of the car.

Does anyone know of either XM or Sirius receiver with a windshield mounted antenna?

 

I just ordered a Delphi Xpress RC as well. That color screen looks awsome. I am going to put it on a Kuda mount. Probably the one to the right of the radio. I'm going to put a Garmin Nuvi with the other Kuda mount next to the speedo.

 

Who has hooked an XM radio up to the factory Sirius antenna connector under the seat?

I hear there is a bit of signal loss due to the tuning of the antenna, but how much? Does it affect the operation of the XM radio?

 

I just posted in the general Audio/Nav area about this topic and am glad that some fellow Clubman owner's are seeking the same solution as I am. You have to keep me in the loop as the Delphi Xpress RC seems to be the unit that I want to install.

When are you guys going to start on this project? If you use the Aux jack input, will the sound be okay? How will you power it (via the cigarette lighter or tap into the power from the car's wires)?

 

Since this is mostly an audio question and answer, I made a new response detailing my Mini's system plan here.

 

The Aux input is the best type of XM connection for a portable unit,as it provides the cleanest signal to your cars's audio system.

 

Yes I also second using the aux input jack over a wireless FM transmitter for your XM or Sirius receiver. I already have the OEM iPod adaptor, so the aux jack will be available for a future satellite radio receiver.

Again, are any of these receivers available with a windshield mounted antenna?