Q: What's the difference between XM™ and SIRIUS™?

A: The biggest difference is the programming offered by each service.

XM offers 69 commercial-free music channels, more than 40 channels of news, sports, talk and entertainment, and 21 dedicated channels of instant traffic and weather, all for just $12.95 a month.

SIRIUS offers 69 commercial-free music channels and more than 55 channels of news, sports, entertainment, traffic and weather for only $12.95 a month.

The type of hardware you want to buy also may affect your decision. Refer to the radios to see which satellite radio service can be played through each. Some radios can play either satellite radio service.

Q: What are the advantages of satellite radio over AM/FM radio?

A: Satellite radio reception is digital quality, which means you won't hear static. Unlike AM/FM radio, satellite radio is free from commercials and FCC restrictions—which means you can enjoy a wider selection of programming without censoring or commercial interruptions. With satellite radio, you get a display of channel, artist and song title information, which means you don't have to wait for a DJ to tell you what song you just heard. Also, satellite radio broadcasts are available across the continental U.S.—so you don't have to change your station presets when you drive from one place to another.

Q: How can I listen?

A: In order to listen to satellite radio, you need a satellite radio receiver/tuner, an antenna, and a subscription to a satellite radio service (XM or SIRIUS). Some receivers are dedicated to home or car use, while portable and plug-and-play receivers can be used in your car or at home—all you need is the right home or car kit to change your listening location.

Q: What's the purpose of a docking station?

A: The docking station included in the home and car kits not only functions as a mounting base for your receiver, but also connects the receiver to the antenna and power source. The wires stay connected to the docking station—not the receiver—so switching a plug-and-play or handheld receiver from your home to your car is quick and easy.

Q: Do I need to have an antenna mounted to the outside of my car or home?

A: Yes. Antennas need a direct line of sight to pull in the satellite signals.

Q: Is there a monthly fee?

A: Yes. Just as with cable and satellite TV, there is a monthly fee. XM and Sirius each charge $12.95 per month.

Q: Are there any activation fees?

A: Yes. Each service charges an activation fee when you set up your subscription. For current charges, visit the websites for XM (www.xmradio.com) and Sirius (www.sirius.com).

Q: How do I get billed for my subscription?

A: If you choose a multi-year plan, you pay everything up front. All other plans are billed monthly.

Q: How do I sign up for the service?

A: You have the option of signing up at your local Circuit City, on the XM or Sirius websites, or by calling their toll-free phone numbers, whichever you prefer.

Q: How do I get my new satellite radio system installed?

A: We're glad you asked. We have more than 600 Circuit City stores nationwide with Installation Specialists ready to professionally install your system.