Entered CNET Catalog: 08/12/2003
SKU: XMPC1000
Manufacturer: Delphi Corp.
Manufacturer description
While you work, while you play, XM PCR delivers the ultimate computer audio experience. It provides total control - an interactive listening experience like no other, giving you full access to XM Radio's 100 channels of pure digital crystal clear sounding, and simply amazing radio. XM PCR is easy. Simply use the PC display to control and customize what you listen to. XM PCR doesn't hog bandwidth. In fact, it doesn't even require an Internet connection. It's not Internet, it's Satellite Radio. And, it won't slow down your computer either.Product summary
The good: Lets you see all 100 stations at a glance; customizable alerts for favorite artists; makes it easy to save song information; low price.
The bad: Sound quality limited by the computer speakers unless the PC is hooked up to a stereo; no Macintosh version.
The bottom line: A viable alternative to standalone XM receivers, the computer-based PCR works like a champ.
Editors' review
- Editors' Choice: No
- Reviewed on: 09/08/2003
The PCR is a combination of hardware and software. The hardware consists of a black, 5.12-by-1.34-by-4.76-inch XM receiver; a satellite antenna with a 20-foot cord; and the cables for connecting the receiver to your computer and speakers. The software component is an onscreen interface from which you control your radio. The PCR is Windows-only--sorry, Mac users. Adventurous listeners can also try third-party PCR software, available through sites such as XMFan.
We quickly installed the included software and plugged the receiver into our Windows 98 Second Edition test system. Only one glitch occurred: our computer said it didn't have the necessary USB driver and asked for a certain installation disc. We canceled the request, and the PCR worked fine.
You can either wall-mount the antenna or set it down flat. It needs to be near a south-facing window to receive the satellite signal.
A guide on the PCR's main screen shows you what's playing on all 100 XM channels. Around the display are the program's option buttons: Jump Back (which returns you to the last station), Settings, Signal Level, Quick Tips (useful since there are few printed instructions), Channel Guide, Favorite Artists, and View Saved. You can also save the current song's artist and title. Irritatingly, no volume control is available; all you get is a mute function.
The computer interface delivers much more flexibility than most standalone receivers can. Four customizable tabs on the main screen provide quick access to the channels you listen to the most. Even better, Favorite Artists lets you create one or more lists of your best-loved singers and bands by choosing from among those most recently played. Just typing in names isn't an option, so you need to wait for the right songs to come along. Whenever a station plays someone on the selected list (you can use only one at a time), an onscreen notification appears in a new window. Then you click a button to go to that channel, ignore the message, or disable the pop-up announcements.
We got great performance during our testing, rarely receiving anything but a strong, clear signal. Of course, unless you hook up your PC to your stereo, the quality of your computer speakers will limit the sonics. Even at its best, XM radio doesn't sound as realistic as CD, but the fidelity will satisfy most people, especially if they're used to listening to MP3 files. See our guide to satellite radio for more on the XM service in general.
As for the program, the interface could use some refinement. You need to right-click the custom tabs to add channels; dragging in stations would be easier. And XM should add volume control. But like the hardware, the software performed well, and mastering it was a breeze.
User opinions
Select a User Opinion to view: 1 2 3 4out of 4 user reviews
XM-PCR is the greatest for listening while you work
Pros: simple to set up, antenna gets good reception sitting on top of monitor, radio is powered by USB, Last 10 channels and fave's can be saved seperately
Cons: XM has taken this off of the market apparently to appease recording industry and push new streaming online service.
out of 4 user reviews
Great for its intended purpose
Pros: Perfect with a third party software product like Timetrax.
Cons: XM OEM software not so good
out of 4 user reviews
High audio quality and ease of use for a bargain price
Pros: Excellent audio quality gives you access to over 120 channels of music, talk and more. The programming of all the channels is superb, my favorite is channel 44 - Fred. I have mine on virtually every waking hour. Contrary to the CNet review, the XM PCR can
Cons: The software is somewhat mediocre, but the satellite company supports development of third party software. TimeTrax by NeroSoft allows recording of individual tracks to MP3 files, so you can use the XM PCR to create an instant MP3 collection.
out of 4 user reviews
Mac software *is* available
Pros: You can get MacXM and use the XMPCR with your Mac (as long is has Jaguar or better installed).
Cons:
