We compared the SkyFi2 with the original SkyFi and immediately noted the new model's higher volume level. That's nice; most folks thought the original wasn't loud enough. As we switched back and forth between the two models, we noted the SkyFi2 sounded a tiny bit more detailed and had slightly wider stereo separation. The talk channels' sound quality varied, but the better ones, such as XM's new public radio channel, sounded almost as good as the music channels.
At $100, the bevy of subtle and substantive improvements makes the SkyFi2 an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a versatile and semiportable XM radio. That goes double if you already have one or more of the compatible adapters for the original SkyFi. If the rewind function is appealing--and you're looking for a more portable solution with bundled accessories--consider instead upgrading to Delphi's $350 XM MyFi.
Editor's note: We have changed the rating in this review to reflect recent changes in our rating scale. Click here to find out more.
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