Solid, basic choice for vehicles without integrated XM

I frequently drive long distances and I wanted to have something interesting to listen to, especially live NHL games. The Xpress EZ kit seemed like a great deal for $30 CDN at Future Shop because it included the receiver, car dock and wiring, and a home stereo kit as well.

Installing it in the car is not exactly what i'd call "EZ" but the main problem is that it's messy. The dock easily attaches to a vent, but there are THREE wires that need to be connected to the dock in order for it to work: the satellite antenna (which they recommend be installed on the roof or trunk lid of the car), the cigarette lighter power cable, and then audio out cable. If that sounds like a bit of a mess of wires all over your dashboard, you would be correct but this is the case with all portable satellite radio docks (unless they can use batteries).

Because the wires bothered me so much, I ended up running the necessary wires for power and audio input through the center console in my Mazda3 to the ashtray, and used velcro tape to secure the kit to the ashtray door. The wires are hidden and the receiver is easier to control. Many people won't be comfortable taking apart the car's center console (understandably) and it is probably more difficult in some vehicles. After a very brief and drop-out laden time spent inside the car in front of the windshield, the antenna has been moved to the roof as XM recommends and I've had a perfect satellite signal ever since. It has a strong magnet which holds in place 100% on the outside of the vehicle and the small wire can be routed through weather stripping and tucked under the car's trim to get to the receiver at the front of the car. Again, not something EZ to do for many people.

The receiver itself is nice. it's compact, works well, and has a clear display. I wish it had individual buttons to save presets instead of the single "favorites" button which cycles through them but that's why they have a more expensive version of this kit.