Droo not only helps our TSS-Radio customers through email, but he also does the vast majority of our repair work from his workshop in Maine. Pretty far from our warehouse in Chicago!

So if you have a Sirius or XM Radio that needs a repair, you can contact Droo via email at sales@tss-radio.com. Let him know what model of radio you have and what issues you are experiencing. Droo will get back with you and let you know if he is able to fix your radio. He’ll give you a quote and an address where you can send the radio. The repair itself may take a few days or a week to fix and he will then promptly send the radio back to you via US Priority Mail.

After it’s fixed, the issue is guaranteed for 6 months. Twice as long as the factory warranty on new radios!

Common repairs Droo performs are listed below:

• Repairing dock connectors on the Universal Sirius Radios, such as the

• SIRIUS Sportster 3
• SIRIUS Sportster 4
• SIRIUS Sportster 5
• SIRIUS Starmate 3
• SIRIUS Starmate 4
• SIRIUS Starmate 5
• SIRIUS Starmate 8
• SIRIUS Stratus
• SIRIUS Stratus 4
• SIRIUS Stratus 5
• SIRIUS Stratus 6

-Screen replacement for the Sirius XM Mirge, the XM Xpress RC and the XM Xpress RCi. If the backlight of your radio screen went dull this is what you will need.

-Replacing the Dials on XM XMP3s and XMP3is.

-Repairing the Stiletto 2 Internal Antenna. Sometimes people will drop their Stiletto 2 too many times and the internal antenna within it will no longer work. This will fix it so you are once again able to get reception in the portable mode.

-Repairing the Power and Antenna Connections on Starmate Replays (Model ST2).

Unfortunately we no longer have parts or tuners to repair older Sirius Sportsters and Sportster Replay Radios. Since these radios were discontinued more than 6 years ago we don’t have access to the parts. We would highly suggest upgrading to a newer model radio like the Sirius Starmate 8 or a SiriusXM Edge and starting over with new Home Kits or Boomboxes or Car Kits if you need them. If you end up moving to the SiriusXM Edge then you will be able to access the 20+ Xtra Channels that are now available on that receiver.

So if you need a repair on your Satellite Radio please reach out to us via email so we can help you get back to listening to SiriusXM.

sales@tss-radio.com

-Taylor

The SXV200V1 and Antenna

The question is what scenarios do you need an Aftermarket SiriusXM Tuner? In other words is your Car Compatible with the SXV200V1? It’s an Aftermarket Tuner so if your Car Stereo is SiriusXM Ready from the Factory you will need a Factory Tuner and NOT an Aftermarket tuner. An Aftermarket Tuner is made to work with Aftermarket Stereos (those Stereos that didn’t come from the factory when the car was made). A lot of people prefer the features and look of an Aftermarket Stereo as they often have the most up to date technology. Popular Aftermarket Radio Brands are Alpine, Eclipse, Pioneer, JVC, Sony, Kenwood, Clarion, Dual, and Panasonic.

Packaging for the SXV200V1

The SXV200V1 is compatible with those Aftermarket Stereos that show the “SiriusXM Ready” Logo. Radios with the “Sat Ready” “Sirius Ready” or “XM Ready” logos will require a different Aftermarket Tuner. The Sirius ones can be found here and the XM ones will be found here. Or if you still have trouble just reach out to us. 312-846-6606 or sales@tss-radio.com

Make sure your radio displays the SiriusXM Ready Logo

Unlike some previous tuners requiring multiple parts, the SXV200V1 is simple and connects to the back of the Aftermarket Stereo in the back with it’s proprietary 10 pin plug. It includes a magnetic mount SiriusXM antenna which can be mounted on the roof or trunk of your vehicle or if you are really picky inside the windshield by the dash (just make sure it get’s good enough reception there). It’s really that simple. The toughest part will be accessing the space behind the Aftermarket Radio. And if this isn’t something you are comfortable with find a local car stereo installer. Yelp is a great resource to find a good one. Just look for one with good reviews.

Now onto the fun part, the features. Every SXV200 will have the ability to receive the most channels available via the Satellites. It will allow you to access all of these channels which includes the 20+ Xtra Channels that many other Satellite Radios are not capable of doing. Receiving all of the channels will be based upon the subscription package you choose. In addition depending on the Aftermarket Stereo you have you may also have the capability to.

-Pause, Rewind and Replay up to 60 minutes of live Satellite Radio

-Get alerts when your favorite song, artist or team is playing

-Discover new music and tag for purchase with iTunes® radio tagging

So if you have a “SiriusXM Ready” Aftermarket Stereo/Radio this should be a no brainer. And frankly, I’m jealous. Especially because I would love to listen to Tiesto’s Club Life Radio, or RockBar, or Carlin’s Corner in my car. I just don’t have a radio capable of that.

If you need more help as always email us sales@tss-radio.com or call us during our working hours at 312-846-6606. MSRP is $79.99, but of course since we are TSS-Radio we have it for a much better price than that.

-Taylor

SiriusXM 1st Wave is dedicated to classic 80′s alternative music. When tuning into to channel 33, you will hear music from artists like The Smiths, The Pretenders, The Cure, The Clash and all of your other favorites from the era. Fans of Sirius XMU’s “Old School” show should definitely check out 1st Wave, if you haven’t already! Besides the regular playlists that are chock full o’ classic alternative, you can also catch “This Is The Day”,  a show that highlights 1st Wave artists’ birthdays, major moments in alt music history that occurred on that day, and tons of other date-related content! Catch “This Is The Day” hosted by Richard Blade every weekday at 3pm.

1st Wave is also a great choice for weekend listening! Friday nights at 9pmEST you can tune in for 360 minutes of classic alternative party tunes with former MTV “120 Minutes” host Dave Kendall…and that’s just getting your weekend started! Saturday nights are a must-listen as well with the “Saturday Night Safety Dance”! The S.N.S.D. is a whopping 8 HOURS of continuous dance mixes from artists like Depeche Mode, New Order, Pet Shop Boys and more. 1st Wave is the perfect party soundtrack every Saturday night! Tune into the “Saturday Night Safety Dance” each Saturday at 8pmEST.

If that weren’t enough, Sunday nights on 1st Wave really brings it home. Check out “Dark Wave” each Sunday night at 10pm to catch music from artists like Bauhaus, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Love & Rockets and more! You definitely won’t find shows like this on FM.

1st Wave Product Suggestion:

XM XpressRCi with PowerConnect Car Kit

If you are a fan of Sirius XM’s 1st Wave, you are clearly a music lover and there’s no better choice for a music lover than the XM XpressRCi. The XpressRCi allows you to save and store up to 10 songs on your radio for later listening! It also features the Replay function that lets you pause and rewind up to 60 minutes of live radio, so if you wanna hear a song again – the XpressRCi has got you covered! The XpressRCi includes a PowerConnect car kit for easy installation in your vehicle and can be used at home or on the go with the optional XM home kit or SiriusXM boombox.

This past Monday SiriusXM launched Studio 54 Radio, a brand new channel dedicated to the best classic dance and disco. The channel is being executive produced by legendary DJ John “Jellybean” Benitez (who also happened to produce early Madonna songs like “Borderline” and “Holiday”), will also lend the channel some classic mixes of 70′s and 80′s dance hits from his personal collection. In addition to Jellybean Benitez, Studio 54 Radio has some other figures from Studio 54′s heyday in the mix. Original Studio 54 DJ Nicky Siano will be spinning tunes every week along with other special guest DJs from the era.

Somewhat surprisingly, music will not be the only content on Studio 54 Radio. The channel will also feature a weekly interview show hosted by Studio 54 doorman Marc Benecke and Myra Scheer, who was owner Steve Rubell’s executive assistant. The Marc and Myra Show will feature special guests who worked at Studio 54, club regulars, and celebrities who frequented – all unedited. As Jellybean Benitez told the New York Times: “It’s the only place you’ll be able to hear what actually happened there.”

Studio 54 Radio Product Suggestion:

XMp3i XM Receiver and Mp3 Player with Home Kit

What better way to enjoy classic dance music and disco than on the go! With the XMp3i you can dance your way through the day, wherever you are. The XMp3i allows you to listen to and record live satellite radio practically anywhere while offering the convenience of a Mp3 player. With the XMp3i and Studio 54 Radio, you’ll never be without your favorite dance hits! In addition to the awesome portability, the XMp3i also includes a home kit, so it’s the most versatile satellite radio out of the box as well. And if you really never wanna miss a beat – add a car kit to use your XMp3i everywhere you are!

Shade 45 is Eminem’s exclusive channel for SiriusXM. Shade 45 features uncensored hip hop from artists like founder Eminem, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, G-Unit and more! The channel also features some of the biggest hip hop DJs doing live on-air mixes, original programming, countdown shows, and tons of special events. Shade 45 is a must-listen for serious hip-hop fans.

Shade 45 recently announced that Sway Calloway, best know as a former MTV VJ, will be taking over mornings on the channel. “Sway in the Morning” will feature special guests, in-studio interviews, song premieres, music news and more live every weekday morning from 8am-Noon. Eminem says of Sway in the Morning: “I got my start on radio with Sway and so it only makes sense for things to come full-circle and have him join the family at Shade 45. I’m looking forward to the honor of Sway making mornings better on Shade 45 for a long time to come.” Look for Sway starting Monday, July 18th.

In addition to Sway joining the Shade 45 crew, you can also hear great shows like “The All Out Show with Lord Sear and Rude Jude” every weekday at 4pm ET, “Smashtime Radio with DJ Clinton Sparks” Mondays at 8pm ET, “G Unit Saturdays featuring DJ Whoo Kid” Saturdays at 10am ET and TONS more! There are special shows almost every night of the week featuring unique mixes, world premiere songs, and lots of in-studio guests.

Shade 45 Product Suggestion:

SiriusXM Portable Sound System

Hip-hop is all about booming bass, so what better way to listen to Shade 45 than with a great sounding boombox! The SXABB1 offers 30 watts of power and a 2-way speaker system to give you amazing sound quality and ultra-portability. The boombox includes an AC power adapter & antenna and is compatible with several Sirius and XM radios – making it ready to go right out of the box. You can also use the SXABB1 with batteries, plug in an iPod or other Mp3 player into the AUX port, or listen with headphones. The SXABB1 is a must-have accessory for any Shade 45 fan!

Learn more about Shade 45 on their website, or ask us questions about out product suggestion at sales@tss-radio.com.

Our first installment will focus on Sirius XMU, channel 35. Hope you like it and feel free to let us know what channels you’d like to learn more about or general suggestions on Twitter! Follow and tweet us at @TSSRadio.

Sirius XMU is North America’s Indie Rock station. Focusing on music from independent, unsigned, and under the radar bands and musicians, Sirius XMU is a truly unique channel. Besides offering a great playlist, Sirius XMU also features special features like their wonderful Sirius XMU Sessions series. Sessions is a half hour of stripped-down, live performances and interviews with groundbreaking indie artists. Sessions has featured exclusive, in-studio performances from artists like The Decemberists, Spoon, Broken Bells, She & Him and more.

In addition to regular playlists hosted by Sirius XMU DJs like Jake Fogelnest, Jenny Eliscu, and others, Sirius XMU also features some of the internet’s most popular bloggers every day on their Blog Radio show. Blog Radio airs each weekday at Noon (EST) and is hosted by bloggers from GorillaVsBear.net, HipsterRunoff.com, BrooklynVegan.com and more. Blog Radio is the only place on radio to find cutting edge artists and tracks.

Sirius XMU also presents listeners with the most buzzed and blogged about tracks of the week on the Download 15 countdown show and takes a look at the history of indie rock on the Sirius Old School Show each Sunday. Fans of indie rock, or anybody interested in discovering new music, will find something great on Sirius XMU.

Sirius XMU Product Suggestion:

Grace Wireless Allegro Internet Radio

Sirius XMU is one of the most technology-forward channels on SiriusXM, so it only makes sense that a fan of Sirius XMU would probably get a lot of enjoyment out of the Grace Wireless Allegro Internet Radio. The Allegro is a portable internet radio that allows you to stream the SiriusXM internet feed, Pandora, or one of many thousands of internet radio stations. Listen to your favorite Sirius XMU shows anywhere with Wi-Fi, or discover even more great new music!

Learn more about Sirius XMU on their website, or ask us questions about out product suggestion at sales@tss-radio.com.

Vehicle Antennas

Mini XM Car Antenna

The Mini XM Car Antenna is the smallest satellite radio antenna on the market. At around 1 square inch, it is probably the most unobtrusive antenna you’ll find. High gain and  a 20ft. antenna cable make this antenna a great solution for customers looking for a small and strong antenna. Works with any single-input XM radio.

XM Car Antenna

The XM Car Antenna is included with most XM Plug and Play Radio models. It is a low profile, high gain antenna that works with all single-input XM radios. It features rubber feet on the bottom to protect your vehicle’s finish and has a 23 ft. attached cable that can easily routed under interior molding for a clean look.

Browning Magnetic Car Antenna for XM

This antenna from Browning features a slightly thicker cable that tends to be more durable than some of the XM branded antennas. It has the same high gain and 20ft. cable, and utilizes the standard SMB connection, making it compatible and ideal for any single input XM radio. It also includes an adhesive pad for customers who would like a more permanent mounting solution.

XMicro XM Magnetic Vehicle Antenna

The XMicro is a versatile antenna that can be used with older FAKRA style XM Radios or standard, single input SMB antenna connections. It features a low profile, 23 ft. cable, magnetic base, and rubber feet to protect your vehicle’s finish. It’s a great option for customers who currently have an older radio, but who may be considering upgrading.

XM Home Antennas

XM Home Antenna

The XM Home Antenna is the most common type of XM antenna for home use. It is included with all current XM boomboxes and home kits, and is sold separately as a replacement. This antenna has a 20ft. cable and can be easily mounted indoor or outdoor for use. Compatible with most XM single input docking stations or radios.

Terk XM Outdoor Home Antenna XM6

The Terk XM6 is a weather resistant, high performance outdoor antenna for use with most XM Radios. The XM6 uses standard RG6 coaxial cable for extra durability and longer cable runs (can drive up to 100ft.) It includes a F to SMB adapter cable to plug into any standard single input XM docking station or boombox.

Pixel Technologies Pro-500 or Pro-600

The Pixel Pro-500 and Pro-600 are professional grade antennas that work with both Sirius and XM satellite radios. Featuring 12 and 8.5 dBi Gain (respectively) these Pixel antennas are the strongest on the market. Both antennas utilize standard RG6 coaxial cable and include F to SMB adapter cables to plug into your satellite radio. In addition, both antennas can drive up to 200ft. of cable without any additional external amplifiers.

Give the gift of SiriusXM Satellite Radio

Satellite radio is a great gift for anyone who spends a lot of time in their car, is an avid sports fan, a news junkie, or just about anyone else. With commercial free music and exclusive talk from stars like Howard Stern, a satellite radio is bound to please even the pickiest of Dads.

Check out these special deals on Satellite Radios just for Father’s Day:

XM Snap!

The XM Snap! is the easiest and most affordable way to get into satellite radio. Featuring 5 preset channels and easy plug and play installation, even the most technology challenged Dad can install and use the XM Snap! within minutes.  Get the XM Snap! for only $47.99.

Refurbished Starmate 5 with PowerConnect Vehicle Kit

The Refurbished Starmate 5 with PowerConnect Car Kit is another affordable way to give the gift of satellite radio. Refurbished radios look brand new and come with a brand new car kit, so they make great inexpensive gifts. Like the XM Snap! the Starmate 5 is easy to install (and use) and offers all of the great SiriusXM programming – with the added bonus of being able to use it outside of the car. With optional accessories like a boombox or home kit, Dad can listen to Sirius XM practically anywhere! Get the Refurbished Starmate 5 with PowerConnect Vehicle Kit for only $67.99

Cool gifts for the iPad fan

Seems like everybody has an iPad these days and a Dad in your life is probably no exception. Help him get the most out of his iPad with one of these great accessories!

Haier Audio ViewXL iPad Speaker Dock

The Haier Audio ViewXL iPad Speaker Dock is the ultimate iPad accessory! Offering 20 Watts of power, 4 speakers and 2 woofers, this dock turns your iPad into a portable movie theater. The Haier Audio ViewXL also features a video out port, so connect it to your big screen flat panel and watch anything the ‘net has to offer. Get the Haier Audio ViewXL for the special low price of $99.99.

iLuv Portfolio Case with Bluetooth Keyboard for iPad 2

This portfolio case from iLuv turns Dad’s iPad 2 into a laptop all while protecting it in a stylish case! The Bluetooth keyboard features a USB port for fast and convenient charging, a long battery life, and keys specific to iPad 2 functions. The case is a durable faux leather with a retractable kick stand for movie viewing or typing. Get the iLuv Portfolio Case with Bluetooth Keyboard for only $69.99 this Father’s Day!

Other great gift ideas!

Bosch Deluxe Power Box Sirius-Ready Jobsite Radio

Does your Dad work outside? Is he always in the garage or yard? If you answered yes to either of those, he would probably love the Bosch Deluxe Power Box Sirius-Ready Jobsite Radio. The Bosch Power Box is an ultra-durable AM/FM radio with a built in Sirius docking station (radio and antenna NOT included), USB port, SD port and Auxiliary input. Dad can listen to any of his favorite audio devices with this rugged boombox, and he won’t have to worry about damaging it at a job site! Get the Bosch Deluxe Power Box on sale for $269.99.

Coloud NHL or Marvel Headphones

If a Dad in your life is a big time hockey or comic book fan, these headphones from Coloud will make a perfect, inexpensive gift! Great sound quality and team spirit all in one cool set of headphones. Great for a Dad who listens to hockey on the portable XMp3i satellite radio or any other guy who wants to show off his favorite comic book character or team! Grab the Coloud NHL or Marvel headphones for a special Father’s Day price of only $29.99.

If you have questions about these, or any of our other products, please email us at sales@tss-radio.com or call 773.772.4340.

What are the differences between credit and debit cards?

A credit card is an independent credit line that is not associated with your banking account and is subject to interest charges. Even though your debit card has a Visa or Mastercard logo, it does not function like a traditional credit card. Debit cards never accrue interest because the funds are taken directly out of the available balance in your banking account.

Advantages/disadvantages

Credit card advantages:

Safer for online shopping – Credit cards often offer more protection from fraudulent charges or provide more recourse if fraudulent charges are made. If you see an authorized transaction, a seller doesn’t ship your product, etc., you can dispute the credit card transaction. If someone obtains your debit card, you will often get the funds restored to your account, but you will most likely have to wait a much longer time.

Extended warranty programs – Many credit card companies offer extended warranties on products you purchase using their credit cards.

Rewards cards – Most major credit card companies offer several types of rewards cards. This means when you use your credit card you gain points you can use toward flights, free gifts and more. These types of programs are not available on most debit cards.

Credit card disadvantages:

Interest charges – Every purchase you make using a traditional credit card is subject to interest charges. This can make you end up paying much more for a product than if you were to have just paid for it outright.

Fees – If you fail to pay your traditional credit card bill on time you will be subject to a late fee. Many cards also have annual fees.

Debit card advantages:

No interest – Since funds come directly out of your banking account you are never charged interest on a debit card transaction. Interest charges associated with traditional credit cards can often mean you end up paying way more for a product if you do not pay off the balance right away.

Can’t spend money you don’t have – Many customers like to use debit cards so they avoid future debt. If you do not have money available in your bank account, a debit card transaction will be declined, where as a credit card will allow you to spend above your current means.

Debit card disadvantages:

Holds - Every time you attempt a transaction with a debit card there is a hold for that amount placed on your bank account. That means, even if the transaction is declined due to an address mismatch, numbers entered incorrectly, etc., the amount you were attempting to purchase will not be available to you until several days later. This can cause a big headache if you keep attempting the transaction with a debit card. For instance, if you are attempting to pay for a $50 item with a debit card and it’s declined, each decline will take away another $50 from your available balance. That means 3 declined transactions at $50 each will make $150 not available to you for several business days. These holds can also result in overdraft fees.

Less online shopping protections - If you use your debit card for an online transaction with a dishonest person or company there is much less recourse you can take to get your money back. Traditional credit cards offer many more protections against fraudulent transactions.

Hopefully we’ve been able to clear up some common questions regarding credit and debit cards. If you have specific questions about a past, potential, or an attempted purchase with TSS-Radio, please contact us at sales@tss-radio.com or call 773.772.4340.

TSS-Radio Free Shipping (any purchase over $70 qualifies for free shipping)

Free shipping ships out from Chicago via UPS Ground. UPS Ground can take anywhere from 1-5 business days depending on where you are located within the United States. Check out the UPS service map below.

We also offer UPS expedited shipping options. We offer Next Business Day Air, 2nd Business Day Air, and 3rd Day Select. UPS does not offer weekend delivery, so please factor in lag time if ordering late in the week.

USPS Postal Priority Mail

Our most common shipping option is USPS Postal Priority Mail. Priority Mail generally takes 2-3 business days, but can often be a few days longer depending on where you are located or during heavy volume times of year. Postal Priority is an affordable, quick option for small items. Postal Priority also ships out Monday-Saturday, so if you are ordering late in the week, it is a quicker option in many cases.

UPS Mail Innovations

UPS Mail Innovations is a hybrid service between UPS and the United States Postal Service. Packages shipped by Mail Innovations leave TSS-Radio via UPS, travel to a nearby location to the destination address, and are transferred to/delivered by the Post Office. Although this option is very inexpensive, it also has the longest wait time. Packages shipped by Mail Innovations generally take 7-10 business days to arrive, but can take up to 2 weeks depending on your location. Mail Innovations is a great, inexpensive option for customers who want to pay the least amount possible for shipping but who are not in a hurry to receive their item.

Canadian Shipping Options

We offer a few different shipping options to our Canadian customers. The quickest option is UPS Worldwide Expedited. Worldwide Expedited packages generally only take about 2-3 business days to arrive. We also offer options from the United States Postal Service. Express Mail International typically takes 3-5 business days where as Priority Mail International can often take 2-3 weeks.

General Shipping Policies

• Most orders placed before 5PM Central Time Monday – Friday will ship out from our Chicago warehouse the same day.
• USPS Priority Mail orders placed after 5PM on Friday will often leave the warehouse Saturday.
• UPS does NOT pick up or deliver on Saturdays/Sundays. If you are ordering late in the week, USPS may be a quicker option
• UPS Next Day Air orders placed on Fridays will arrive the following Monday.
• UPS 2nd Day Air orders placed on Thursdays will also arrive the following Monday.
• UPS 3rd Day Select orders placed on Wednesdays will, again, arrive the following Monday.
• Canadian orders are subject to Canadian import taxes and fees. These are charged upon delivery and are NOT included in the shipping charges you pay to TSS-Radio.com
• TSS-Radio will NOT mark any Canadian package as a gift to avoid tariffs.

If you have questions regarding when your order will ship out, estimated delivery times, special requests, or any other questions please contact us at sales@tss-radio.com or call 773.772.4340.