XM satellite radio has revolutionized the way we listen to radio. Besides vastly expanded mobility, XM's main benefit is a diverse array of channels that offer commercial-free music and deep programming. Channels are numerous and cover nearly every genre and subgenre of music out there. Here's a look.
Features
XM offers 170 channels altogether. While music is the primary form of programming, XM also offers many talk, comedy, news, sports and entertainment channels.
Significance
Music has been the backbone of XM since it first came to market. The numerous commercial breaks and limited playlists of conventional FM radio were two aspects that XM directly addressed. XM includes 69 channels of commercial-free music. XM's lack of commercial funding results in the $12.95 monthly fee that every subscriber is responsible for. The channels also have much deeper, more diverse playlists so you're unlikely to hear the same songs over and over again.
Types
As significant as the lack of commercial and enhanced playlists is the specificity of channels. FM radio generally offers broad channels such as Rock, R&B and Classical. XM channels go well beyond these general classes and include more specific genres like Acoustic Rock, Punk Rock, Classic R&B, Traditional Classical and New Classical. Additionally, you'll find lesser-known genres with their own channel including Bluegrass, World Music and XM also has channels designated for music from various time periods: the 1940s through the 1990s.
Potential
Beside music XM also offers a wealth of other programming. XM's sport coverage is excellent for listeners who are out-of-market. They broadcast every Major League Baseball and offer extensive coverage of NHL, NFL and NBA games. They also have college football and basketball action from some of the top conferences including the SEC, PAC 10 and Big East. Besides live games, you'll also get sports news, talk and analysis. XM also offers many different channels for news coverage and analysis such as FOX and CNN, entertaining talk shows like Oprah and Friends and comedy including National Lampoon Radio and The Foxxhole.
Effects
As XM and Sirius continue to meld their programming following their merger, expect even more diversity and selection. Currently, XM listeners can tune in to the "Best of Sirius" which includes talk programming like Howard Stern and Martha Stewart, as well as added sports coverage.
Geography
XM uses a chronological number system for its channels beginning with 2 and extending into the 200s. XM channels are grouped together to provide convenience to users. For instance all Rock stations are located in a block between 39 and 59. After Rock is a block of Hip Hop and R&B channels, followed by Jazz and Blues, etc. Use the link below for the full lineup and layout of XM's channels.
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