Audiovox SIR-CK1-A Sirius Satellite Radio Shuttle Car Kit with Built-In FM Transmitter

Your Sirius receiver pops right into the docking interface, which fastens to a metal mount with an adhesive base (supplied screws let you bolt it in place if you wish). The docking unit offers connections for a Sirius antenna (included), a terrestrial antenna for FM radio (not included), and 2 minijack .125-inch audio outputs: 1 for FM radio and 1 for Sirius radio (1 minijack-to-RCA interconnect included).

Obviously, if you only have 1 input in your vehicle's amplifier/receiver, you'll feed it the Sirius output. If, like most people, you have no inputs in your car/vehicle stereo, don't worry: the SIR-CK1-A has a built-in FM transmitter. The transmitter lets you simply tune to 1 of 4 FM stations on your radio to hear music from your Sirius receiver, with no cables or other hookups required (apart from the Sirius antenna).

The most complicated aspect of the setup isn't making the required connections. It's positioning the antenna, which needs to be mounted on the outside of your vehicle (it clips firmly to your roof or trunk courtesy of a ferociously strong magnet). This means you'll need a hole, duct, or port somewhere in your vehicle's exterior through which you can pass the antenna cord. The cord itself is about 19 feet long, giving you extra footage for tucking the cord safely and seamlessly between seats, under floor mats, etc., on its way to the receiver mount.

In our testing, we found the kit well suited to the receiver. Proper reception definitely hinges on having the antenna outside your vehicle; don't think you can cut any corners by draping the antenna over your dashboard. Properly affixed, reception was by and large excellent. When it wasn't excellent, however, it was non-existent--such is the all-or-nothing nature of digital radio. If your commute entails driving under frequent overpasses, this may not be the kit for you (though of course your receiver will work in the home using a home docking kit or Sirius boombox).

From a sonic perspective, be aware that sound quality suffers slightly when using the built-in FM transmitter. This is inevitable, as FM radio quality has inherently lower quality than Sirius satellite radio, and listening through your tuner will subject your music to background noise, occasional analog static, and other FM anomalies. None of which cramps the great tunes available through the Sirius service--it remains exciting and highly listenable, irrespective of your hookup mode. --Michael Mikesell

Pros:

• Simple hookup
• FM transmission a plus for cable-free listening
• Includes stereo minijack-to-RCA interconnect
• Ample installation options available
• Provides stellar on-the-go entertainment

Cons:

• Potentially tricky antenna installation
• Periodic lost-signal mutes from overpasses and other obstructions
• Cigarette-lighter DC power only (no battery operation)

What's in the Box
Sirius docking station, stereo analog "Y" adapter cable (left/right RCA to .125-inch minijack), an antenna, a DC cigarette-lighter power adapter, a mounting plate, mounting hardware (washers, screws, a spare fuse, an alcohol swab, and an adhesive pad), a thin adhesive strip, and a user's manual.