Make the most of satellite radio in your vehicle or home with these satellite radio accessories.

Satellite radio is one of the most popular sound system options in new cars and trucks, and a popular after-market upgrade option. It also makes a great add-on to a home stereo system. Who wouldn’t want to have thousands of channels to listen to, commercial-free and with the ability to tune in coast-to-coast? Satellite radio accessories allow you to add the service to your vehicle’s entertainment system or your home stereo, even if it wasn’t a factory option. And if you already have satellite radio, there are also accessories to make the experience even better.

The most popular satellite radio accessories: antenna, vehicle tuner, universal kit

If your vehicle’s entertainment system doesn’t have satellite radio capability, you can remedy that with a vehicle tuner. One form factor is a compact receiver that connects permanently to your existing car stereo. Some tuners can be installed out of sight, others will require the use of a dash or windshield mount. Another option is a portable satellite radio unit that can be moved from place to place, connecting to your car to truck stereo (don’t forget the 12V car power adapter), and then plugging into your home audio system.

There are several accessories you’ll need to optimize this experience. The first is a satellite radio antenna. You’ll need this for your new tuner to receive those satellite radio signals. There are options for home and vehicle use, including versions with an extended cable and magnet mount that makes them easy to install in virtually any vehicle. Also popular (especially with trucks that have large side mirrors) are mirror-mount satellite radio antennas that offer extended range.

A universal kit is the ultimate in satellite radio flexibility. These kits typically include all the accessories you need to move a portable satellite radio receiver from the car to your home, for uninterrupted listening without having to buy multiple tuners. Look for a kit that includes a vehicle mount, power supply, an antenna and a home dock with audio output so the satellite radio can be plugged into your home stereo system or powered speaker. Some will also include a handy remote control.

Replacement or enhancement

Satellite radio accessories are also a great way to replace a faulty component or enhance your existing system. One of the biggest complaints about in-vehicle satellite radio performance is poor reception. A third party replacement antenna makes it easy to boost reception. If your home reception isn’t meeting expectations, upgrade the experience with an amplified satellite radio antenna.

If you already own a portable satellite radio receiver, a universal kit lets you enjoy the service virtually anywhere. You can even find bicycle mounts for satellite radio receivers, marine-friendly antennas (so you can enjoy your favourite channels on the water), and battery-powered portable speaker systems with an integrated satellite receiver dock.