Pioneer Inno (XM)

Pros: Really small, controls easy to use, nice accessories

Cons: Needs proper placement for 100% reception , maximum volume level could be higher, watch included belt clip

Summary: I received the Pioneer Inno about 5 days ago with the intent of using it primarily for walking with the dog and replacing an existing XM unit in the home. I also have a separate XM unit in my truck. I’ve used the Inno for about 6 hours while walking and about 3 hours in the docking port in the house as of this writing.

Upon purchasing the Inno, my primary concerns were reception, size and ease of use.

Concerning the reception, the Inno receives signal about 93% to 95% of the time. Placement of the Inno with it’s built-in antenna is critical. It must face a south east to south west view of the horizon. I clip the Inno to the collar of my sweatshirt while walking south, and clip it to the rear back pocket of my pants while walking north. Dense overhead tree growth will reduce the reception as will tall buildings. XM has no terrestrial transmitters in my town (in Grand Island Nebraska), and at best we only have 10 FM radio stations. I’ve owned several walkman/headphone type FM radios in the past and they too lose signal about 1% or 2% of the time, verses the Inno, about 3% to 5% of the time, all attributed to placement if the Inno with it’s built-in antenna. However, XM content vastly makes up for the difference. Reception in my home with the included antenna and docking port is 100% of the time.

The size of unit is incredible, it’s small, smaller than a deck of cards including the battery. The controls are very easy to use. The display works well, and as like most devices such as cell phones with color displays, the display is difficult to read in direct sunlight with sun glasses on. Take off the shades, and it can be read. The included black leather-ette case with belt hook has snaps that can’t be trusted. They work loose and out pops the Inno. The volume could use a bit more boost and is not loud enough for me, I like my rock loud. But the included headphones are OK. Battery life is about 2 to 3 hours between charges. I have not tried the built-in FM transmitter.

I have ordered the Belkin F5X002 antenna/headphones. They have been back ordered and are not available anywhere that I have found until Belkin ships them. If the reviews are correct, I expect the headphones to bring the reception to near 100% while walking.

In conclusion, I think the Inno is one very cool little unit. I’m rating it a 7 without the Belkin headphones, otherwise it would be a 9 or 10. Bluetooth would be cool as well. I recommend it.