XM/Sirius merger?

[waltermitty]

The best, and worst part of this is everyone will get stern and OnA. It might get to be alot of back and forth, maybe more then old days

If they are on the same team and all the $$$$ is going to the same place, I'm sure the company wouldn't mind a "radio war"....

I dunno how well Howie would like this or how well he would go with the bit... He can be a dick at times....

But if all the $$$ is going to the same place, the "radio war" is, defacto, a bit... (In the same vein of a 'radio war' between OnA and RnF right now) No matter what anyone will say, it is fake. OnA will do ok because Howie won't wanna play along.....

[cougarjake13]

the only channels i like on sirius is a few metal stations like octane

otherwise i'd rather have just the xm channels i have now

[EliSnow]

damn strait!

Why? What did he do?

http://z.about.com/d/countrymusic/1/0/n/O/G/georgestrait_ijcn.jpg

[ChimneyFish]

Being that the only time I listen to anything besides 202, is when I turn to sports talk during football season, I should be able to get one hell of a deal, right????:tongue:

Anybody know if the NFL channels on Sirus have any off season programming????

[Soupy_Dreck]

i would prefer that the merger not go through because i don't want one cent of my subs to go stern's $100mil/year contract. however, it is now up to the DoJ and FCC to decide whether they can merge.

by the way, did anyone think that the shareholders would reject this deal?

[Dougie Brootal]

Why? What did he do?

http://z.about.com/d/countrymusic/1/0/n/O/G/georgestrait_ijcn.jpg

what didnt he do?




what didnt he do?

[Fezticle98]

Constituents' E-Mail on XM Deal Not Well Received

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/11/21/AR2007112102149.html

[ChimneyFish]

"I have a high degree of confidence in this," Wharton said. "They [the e-mailers] had to physically type in their name and address. It was a fairly rigorous process."


Simply hilarious.



And I love how stupid our government agencies can be....


A large number of those e-mails were produced through interest group Web sites, a standard lobbying practice. Lawmakers are so frustrated with the volume of missives thrown off by those sites that many are placing obstacles in the way of e-mails not written personally by constituents. Barriers include requiring e-mailers to fill out a special form on lawmakers' Web sites and to complete a simple math problem to get their e-mails through.



Why hasn't this been done from the start????

[Reephdweller]

The merger is a good thing.

But I'm not so sure a lot of the XM music stations will stick around. Having both services and seeing how close attention Sirius puts to their music channels I have a feeling where XM and Sirius music channels overlap in theme like classic rock for example that the XM channels will go away. I love a lot of the XM music channels, but channels like Classic Rewind, and Alt Nation are damn good on Sirius.

[sailor]

The merger is a good thing.

But I'm not so sure a lot of the XM music stations will stick around. Having both services and seeing how close attention Sirius puts to their music channels I have a feeling where XM and Sirius music channels overlap in theme like classic rock for example that the XM channels will go away. I love a lot of the XM music channels, but channels like Classic Rewind, and Alt Nation are damn good on Sirius.

if they overlap, does it really matter which one stays or goes?

[ChimneyFish]

if they overlap, does it really matter which one stays or goes?

I don't listen to a whole lot of music channels, but from what I've heard of the Sirius channels, there won't be a real big difference.





It's going to be interesting ot see if they keep the DJs or not.

[MobCounty]

oh man, this is gonna be the rumor mill of the century. As long as RnF are on, I am on.

-mc

[Nothing Sound]

long as O&A and R&F dont get the boot. i could care less.

It's couldn't care less, couldn't.

If you could care less it means that you somewhat care.
Why do some people have such a problem with this?

[sailor]

It's couldn't care less, couldn't.

If you could care less it means that you somewhat care.
Why do some people have such a problem with this?

i don't know, why do you?

[Nothing Sound]

It's couldn't care less, couldn't.

If you could care less it means that you somewhat care.
Why do some people have such a problem with this?

i don't know, why do you?

I don't.
I'm not the one using it incorrectly.

Pay attention.

[Grendel_Kahn]

I've never been too good at the stock market thing, but could someone take the time to explain to me how when XM is trading @ $13.30 and SIRIUS is $3.29 and has about 1 million less subscribers, how this is considered SIRIUS [I]buying[I] XM?


http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/071212/xm_sirius_antitrust.html?.v=2

[torker]

Ron & Fez Boo-Yas.

[Doctor Z]

I guess now would be a good time to buy Sirius stock.

[HBox]

There's a lot more Sirius stock on the market than XM stock, enough that the total value of all Sirius stock is worth more than all of the XM stock.

[fezident]

There's a lot more Sirius stock on the market than XM stock, enough that the total value of all Sirius stock is worth more than all of the XM stock.

Nice!
Asked and answered.


Fuckin' A.

[Fez4PrezN2008]

There's a lot more Sirius stock on the market than XM stock, enough that the total value of all Sirius stock is worth more than all of the XM stock.
not big difference though, XMSR has a market cap of $4.2B and SIRI has a market cap of $4.8B, its more a merger of equals. Both have horrible income statements and balance sheets.

[Fallon]

There's a lot more Sirius stock on the market than XM stock, enough that the total value of all Sirius stock is worth more than all of the XM stock.

Say stock a few more times.

:bye:

[HBox]

Say stock a few more times.

:bye:

Stock you, you stocking stocking stuffer.

[ZigZagBigBag]

buy buy buy!...then sell sell sell!

[Fallon]

<object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F8IokpDRzcI&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F8IokpDRzcI&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object>

[drjoek]

lesson 1
buy low
Sell high

[Reephdweller]

<object height="355" width="425">

<embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F8IokpDRzcI&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" height="355" width="425"></object>


That is great! :lol:

[ryno1974]

Anyone know what is going on with the merger? I cant wait to get Maxim radio, not to mention CFL coverage this summer.

How fucking long can a marger take? i work for a company that bought out ad merged with its biggest competior (a combined 25,000 employees) to become the largest food manufacturer in Canada, and it took under 6 months to complete.

What is holding this thing up? Is it going to happen?

[Snoogans]

Anyone know what is going on with the merger?

How fucking long can a marger take?

What is holding this thing up? Is it going to happen?

well its complicated. DEI has to pay off everyone at Ginn, it was a long battle. After awhile they got through it and got it done and found a home for Mark Martin

[nevnut]

well its complicated. DEI has to pay off everyone at Ginn, it was a long battle. After awhile they got through it and got it done and found a home for Mark Martin

:lol::lol::lol:

[DonInNC]

Yeah, I don't know what's taking so long. It needs to be this year though, the current administration seems to be more merger friendly than past administrations. Democrat appointed SEC and FCC heads would more likely oppose the merger in my opinion.

[Rockvillejoe]

Anyone know what is going on with the merger? I cant wait to get Maxim radio, not to mention CFL coverage this summer.

How fucking long can a marger take? i work for a company that bought out ad merged with its biggest competior (a combined 25,000 employees) to become the largest food manufacturer in Canada, and it took under 6 months to complete.

What is holding this thing up? Is it going to happen?

last friday, i was cancelling howard stern and sirius radio. the sirius customer service person said that the 2 would merge and be one "next month". she then offered 3 months free to stay and wait it out. so, march 1 according to sirius.

[boobieman]

Hello,
Just saw this headline from DSL reports.

http://www.dslreports.com/shownews/XM-Sirius-Merger-Extended-92289

He is another link. How to submit your comments to the FCC

http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/ecfs/

I am against the merger. I think Mel Karmize will commercialize the shit out of satellite. And I think AFRO will be screwed with Howard up MEL's ass or is it the other way around.

Just giving some updated info.

SEE YAYAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

[furie]

God i hope this merger goes through. i now have both service and would like to see them joined.

[DolaMight]

Yeah, I don't know what's taking so long. It needs to be this year though, the current administration seems to be more merger friendly than past administrations. Democrat appointed SEC and FCC heads would more likely oppose the merger in my opinion.

My theory is that congress and the FCC don't want to reject the merger because their rationale would contradict similar past merger approvals. They don't want to approve the merger because the commercial radio lobby is too influential or too powerful.

They know that the companies are struggling to stay afloat and the stockholders have set deadlines on when to withdraw their merger proposal. Time is on NAB's side.

Congress will continue to stall until XM or Sirius will fold and it's assets will be absorbed by the remaining satcaster, Clearchannel, or Newsco.

[MadMatt]

last friday, i was cancelling howard stern and sirius radio. the sirius customer service person said that the 2 would merge and be one "next month". she then offered 3 months free to stay and wait it out. so, march 1 according to sirius.

That may be the truth, but it also may be a sales trick to keep you as a subscriber. When I wanted to drop my digital cable the cable company dropped the price to the lowest available for the span of a year just to keep me as a subscriber.

If Sirius starts loosing subscribers now, that might not bode well for the merger. Better to "buy you off" for a few months and keep you on their subscriber roles than have you drop your sub.

I'm not saying that the merger is definitely floundering or that it's "for sure," just that keeping you as a customer is in their best interest overall.

[JimBeam]

I haven't been following the whole financial aspect of the possible XM/Sirius merger but I was under the impression that XM was the absorbing company because it was better.

That doesn't seem to be the case base on this blurb on AOL News :

XM Satellite Radio will disappear either in a merger with Sirius, where the acquiring company will use its brand for both services or because without a merger, XM may not make it. The company has over $1.2 billion in long-term debt. The XM brand could begin to disappear a few months after the potential marriage is complete.

[Johnny4]

I haven't been following the whole financial aspect of the possible XM/Sirius merger but I was under the impression that XM was the absorbing company because it was better.

That doesn't seem to be the case base on this blurb on AOL News :
It was only the impression here. The rest of the world read in the release that Sirius' stronger management (Mel) would be in charge. Mel is bankable on Wall St., therefore anything else would be a mistake.

[Zorro]

Read somewhere that the value of XM stock has dropped so much since the merger was announced that the entire deal may have to be negotiated. Anyone know about this?

[Justice4all]

[/URL]Read somewhere that the value of XM stock has dropped so much since the merger was announced that the entire deal may have to be negotiated. Anyone know about this?

Well now it looks like the deal is closer to reality then we thought. The Department of Justice just gave the OK for the XM/Sirius merger. I really hope this does not turn into another inter-company fight that A.F.R.O. wind up on the losing end on like last time. Click for the announcement (http://money.cnn.com/2008/03/24/news/companies/xm_sirius/index.htm?postversion=2008032415)

[Johnny4]

Welcome to the family fellas! I'm very excited to get Ron and Fez again, this time on my Sirius reciever. I know there is fear here, but I think they'll be fine. I think Bubba and Ferrell will be off Howard's station in a year, and you know Tim Sabien is a R and F fan.

[Tenbatsuzen]

Read somewhere that the value of XM stock has dropped so much since the merger was announced that the entire deal may have to be negotiated. Anyone know about this?

Wha? It's been trading around 12-15 for a while.

[MadMatt]

There is a nice little summary of what is going on that was linked in the "Dvice" email I got today (http://dvice.com/archives/2008/03/shift_xm_sirius.php).

There isn't really any new info, but it provides a nice, short summary of what is going on and the basic concerns most people have. Not Earth shattering, but good if you aren't terribly familiar with what is going on and want a quick rundown.

[scottinnj]

There is a nice little summary of what is going on that was linked in the "Dvice" email I got today (http://dvice.com/archives/2008/03/shift_xm_sirius.php).

There isn't really any new info, but it provides a nice, short summary of what is going on and the basic concerns most people have. Not Earth shattering, but good if you aren't terribly familiar with what is going on and want a quick rundown.

It did update me on the potential cost of how high a base sub can become. 16.95, and I'm assuming that is for everything, but how much for additional radios? I have my max of 5 radios.

[watson]

WASHINGTON — The chairman of the Federal Communications Commission is recommending approval of the $5 billion merger between the nation's two satellite radio broadcasters in exchange for concessions that include turning over 24 channels to noncommercial and minority programming, The Associated Press has learned.

That condition — along with others, including a three-year price freeze for consumers — convinced FCC Chairman Kevin Martin on Sunday to recommend approval for Sirius Satellite Radio Inc.'s buyout of rival XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. The deal affects millions of subscribers who pay to hear music, news, sports and talk programming, largely free from advertising, in homes and vehicles.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,367222,00.html

[mendyweiss]

Adelstein: No On Satrad Merger - 7/23 - Breaking. DCRTV hears that FCC Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein has withdrawn his offer of a "yes" vote, with conditions, for the marriage of satradders XM and Sirius and has voted "no." With Commissioner Michael Copps also voting "no," the deal's approval now hinges on Commissioner Deborah Tate's vote. More soon.....

[Heather 8]

XM-Sirius merger gains approval of FCC majority (http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=email_en&refer=home&sid=aB.c5YGeRjnk)

So, that's that?

[Freakshow]

XM-Sirius merger gains approval of FCC majority (http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=email_en&refer=home&sid=aB.c5YGeRjnk)

So, that's that?

I think Sirius buying XM is really going to spoil the merger.

[Zorro]

XM-Sirius merger gains approval of FCC majority (http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=email_en&refer=home&sid=aB.c5YGeRjnk)

So, that's that?

Here's the WSJ Story

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121683130281477651.html

[Freitag]

Adelstein's an idiot. They're already producing radios that can receive both content. He was in the NAB's pocket.

[KnoxHarrington]

It sounds like it'll be going through with far less restrictions than Adelstein wanted too. That's probably better for the combined company.

[MadMatt]

It sounds like it'll be going through with far less restrictions than Adelstein wanted too. That's probably better for the combined company.

Yeah, it sounds like a better deal all around.

Adelstein wanted 25% of the stations to be public service & minority programing; what the hell? Who wants around 75 channels of crap the majority of listeners don't care about?

The FCC and Congress are already making enough demands.

[Dirtybird12]

http://www.fcc.gov/commissioners/tate/dtt-zoom-2008.jpg

Commissioner Tate has been at the forefront to ensure that advances in communications technologies benefit all Americans.

From DCRTV -
A tentative deal has been reached by a majority of commissioners at the Federal Communications Commission to approve the satellite radio merger of NYC's Sirius and DC's XM, a FCC source close to the review said Wednesday. According to the Wall Street Journal, Republican commissioner Deborah Tate is the only FCC member left to vote on the deal and she is expected to do so shortly, two FCC officials close to the negotiations said. She is expected to sign off on the deal in exchange for a consent decree that resolves several enforcement issues involving the satellite radio companies and a combined fine of about $20 million, an FCC source close to the deal said. Tate has also asked for a variety of other minor conditions, an FCC source said.....

[Zorro]

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB121702384095985925.html?mod=djemalertNEWS

NEWS ALERT
from The Wall Street Journal

July 25, 2008

Federal regulators have formally approved the merger of XM Satellite Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio, ending a months-long drama closely watched by Washington and Wall Street.

The FCC voted 3-2 to approve Sirius's buyout of rival XM with the tie-breaking vote coming when the companies agreed to pay $19.7 million to the U.S. Treasury to settle FCC rule violations.

[led37zep]

Can someone else start the "HOLY SHIT, OPIE AND ANTHONY AND RON AND FEZ ARE JOBLESS" Thread now?

[NickyL0885]

This is awesome. I can listen to Howard in the morning an RnF later on. Plus, id get all the sports channel options. woo. I listen online mostly so, i hope my listening doesnt effected. My Sirius car radio needs a new part so i cant use it. but they are making new radios so, might get that one.

[led37zep]

This is awesome. I can listen to Howard in the morning an RnF later on. Plus, id get all the sports channel options. woo. I listen online mostly so, i hope my listening doesnt effected. My Sirius car radio needs a new part so i cant use it. but they are making new radios so, might get that one.

Ready to pay some extra cash for that "Howard" package?

[NickyL0885]

Ready to pay some extra cash for that "Howard" package?

Whos says there will be one? I dont pay extra as it is. I honestly, listen to a handful of stations. So maybe the a la catre option is best.

[suggums]

blind cc blind cc


now what happens?

[ScottFromGA]

same ole story....

radio show comes along, fall in love with it, then something comes along and takes it away.


I remember when I got my XM back in 2002, i thought it would be around forever.....


im all sad now.

[Dirtybird12]

Howards Happy (http://blogs.zdnet.com/BTL/?p=9446)

does this mean the little doggy company just got a little bigger?:clap:

[ibanez23]

My friend recently started listening to OandA and got hooked.He listens on wbcn and I was just telling him yesterday how he needs to get XM.
If you think their funny you got to hear Ron and Fez I would tell him.
But I think I should tell him now to hold off at this point.

[suggums]

nah, tell him to listen. as long as the buddays want to work they will probably be able to, but it could just be a matter of where

[SinA]

I'll pay extra to not hear Howard Stern.

[MadMatt]

I'll pay extra to not hear Howard Stern.

:laugh:

Ditto!

[ImpromptuRob]

:laugh:

Ditto!

meh....

Ron & Fez are obviously the greatest thing ever to happen to talk radio... and to my noon to 3 (9a-12p for me)- but Howard is certainly not unlistenable... I haven't chosen to listen to him for about 8 years, so I'm not sure if he's devolved to total awfulness... but at this point, I'm willing to hear what the guy has to say...

... but if he ever says anything disparaging about my little Fezzy I will personally go to hymie town and bite of that dickshit's adam's apple.

[Dirtybird12]

For Immediate Release - SIRIUS AND XM COMPLETE MERGER... SIRIUS XM Radio Chosen as New Corporate Name...

Combined Company Has Over 18.5 Million Subscribers, Annualized Second Quarter Revenue Exceeding $2.4 Billion... Company to Offer Consumers Best of Both Services, While Maximizing Significant Efficiencies ... SIRIUS XM Reiterates Financial Guidance; Expects 2009 Synergies of $400 million and 2009 Adjusted EBITDA of over $300 Million... NEW YORK, NY – July 29, 2008 –SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ: SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio today announced that they have completed their merger, resulting in the nation’s premier radio company. The new company plans to change its corporate name to Sirius XM Radio Inc. The combined company’s stock will continue to be traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “SIRI”. SIRIUS XM Radio begins day one with over 18.5 million subscribers, making it the second-largest radio company, based upon revenue, in the country; and, based upon subscribers, the second largest subscription media business in the U.S. With under 10% penetration of the home and car market, the opportunity for continued growth is significant. “I am delighted to announce the completion of this exciting merger between SIRIUS and XM,” said Mel Karmazin, CEO of SIRIUS XM Radio. “We have worked diligently to close this transaction and we look forward to integrating our best-in-class management teams and operations so we can begin delivering on our promise of more choices and lower prices for subscribers.” “Every one of our constituencies is a winner. Combined, SIRIUS XM Radio will deliver superior value to our shareholders. By offering more compelling packages and the best content in audio entertainment, we are well positioned for increased subscriber growth. Our laser focus on subscribers will continue and listeners can be assured that there will be no disruption in service. We also believe that the completion of the merger will eliminate any confusion that has been lingering in the marketplace,” added Karmazin. XM shareholders will receive 4.6 shares of SIRIUS common stock for each share of XM. Competitive New Options for Consumers... SIRIUS XM Radio broadcasts more than 300 channels of programming, including exclusive radio offerings from Howard Stern, Oprah, Opie & Anthony and Martha Stewart, among others. SIRIUS XM Radio will offer these expanded options to consumers through arrangements with the world’s leading automakers and its relationships with nationwide retailers. As a result of the merger, SIRIUS XM Radio will also be able to offer consumers new packages in audio entertainment, including the first-ever a la carte programming option in subscription media. In addition to two a la carte options, the new packages will include: “Best of Both,” giving subscribers the option to access certain programming from the other network; discounted Family Friendly packages; and tailored packages including “Mostly Music” and “News, Talk and Sports.” The first of the new packages will be available in the early Fall. “One of the most exciting benefits of this transaction is the ability to offer subscribers the option of expanding their subscriptions to include the Best of Both services. Given the respective popularity of exclusive programming on both SIRIUS and XM, we expect many subscribers will upgrade their current subscription,” said Karmazin. “The upside potential for both consumers and shareholders is huge. Consumers have the ease of adding premier programming without purchasing a new device. For shareholders, this kind of organic growth is a key part of the company’s future and the success we expect to see,” said Karmazin. As promised when the merger was first announced, existing radios will continue to work and every subscriber has the option of maintaining their current service package. Benefits for Shareholders Begin Immediately, Integration Already Under Way... SIRIUS XM Radio expects to begin realizing the synergies expected from this transaction immediately. “In addition to realizing significant potential revenue growth, the management team will move quickly to capitalize on the synergies that many analysts have predicted for this combination. We expect to begin achieving those synergies without sacrificing any of the world-class programming and marketing we are known for,” said Karmazin. The company today also reiterated guidance for the combined SIRIUS XM Radio. Based upon a preliminary analysis, the combined company expects to realize total synergies, net of the costs to achieve such synergies, of approximately $400 million in 2009; to post adjusted EBITDA exceeding $300 million in 2009; and to achieve positive free cash flow, before satellite capital expenditures, for the full year 2009. The company also expects that both synergies and adjusted EBITDA will continue growing beyond 2009. “We have all the tools necessary to begin executing as a combined company with high aspirations for subscriber growth and greater financial performance in part from the significant synergies that we begin realizing literally today – on Day One. We are moving quickly to integrate the operations,” said Karmazin. The corporate headquarters will be located in New York, NY and XM Satellite Radio, the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, will remain headquartered in Washington, DC. Effective after the close of the market yesterday, trading in XMSR common stock on the Nasdaq Global Select Market ceased. About SIRIUS XM Radio... SIRIUS XM Radio is America’s satellite radio company delivering the “The Best Radio on Radio” to more than 18 million subscribers, including 100% commercial free music, and premier sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather. SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive content relationships with an array of personalities and artists, including Howard Stern, Oprah, Martha Stewart, Jimmy Buffett, Elvis, Jamie Foxx, Barbara Walters, Frank Sinatra, Opie & Anthony, The Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tom Petty, and Bob Edwards. SIRIUS XM Radio is the leader in sports programming as the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, Major League Baseball, NASCAR, NHL, and PGA, and broadcasts major college sports. SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive arrangements with every major automaker. SIRIUS XM Radio products are available at shop.sirius.com and shop.xmradio.com, and at retail locations nationwide, including Best Buy, Circuit City, RadioShack, Target, Sam's Club, and Wal-Mart. SIRIUS XM Radio also offers SIRIUS Backseat TV, the first ever live in-vehicle rear seat entertainment featuring Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network; XM NavTraffic service for GPS navigation systems delivers real-time traffic information, including accidents and road construction, for more than 80 North American markets.

[Freakshow]

Uh oh, Sirius is listed first. That's concrete proof they are going to drop all the XM shows!!!!!!!!! Start smashing those radios!!!!!! The sky is falling !!!!!!!!!

[Drunky McBetidont]

opie and anthony get mentioned a lot. no mention of ron and fez :(

[RAAMONE]

so from what i was told O&A are pretty much guaranteed to stay...since they basically make about 8 percent of what howard makes. it would be really dumb to turn away that huge fanbase from the company when they can keep paying them that little amount

O&A have just been basically saying that they have no idea whats gonna happen because thats just what they do

as for R&F it kinda sucks because they have a big fanbase but nothing like O&A or howard so it is kinda up in the air with them...i hope they do the right thing

[Tall_James]

For Immediate Release - SIRIUS AND XM COMPLETE MERGER... SIRIUS XM Radio Chosen as New Corporate Name...

Combined Company Has Over 18.5 Million Subscribers, Annualized Second Quarter Revenue Exceeding $2.4 Billion... Company to Offer Consumers Best of Both Services, While Maximizing Significant Efficiencies ... SIRIUS XM Reiterates Financial Guidance; Expects 2009 Synergies of $400 million and 2009 Adjusted EBITDA of over $300 Million... NEW YORK, NY – July 29, 2008 –SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ: SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio today announced that they have completed their merger, resulting in the nation’s premier radio company. The new company plans to change its corporate name to Sirius XM Radio Inc. The combined company’s stock will continue to be traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “SIRI”. SIRIUS XM Radio begins day one with over 18.5 million subscribers, making it the second-largest radio company, based upon revenue, in the country; and, based upon subscribers, the second largest subscription media business in the U.S. With under 10% penetration of the home and car market, the opportunity for continued growth is significant. “I am delighted to announce the completion of this exciting merger between SIRIUS and XM,” said Mel Karmazin, CEO of SIRIUS XM Radio. “We have worked diligently to close this transaction and we look forward to integrating our best-in-class management teams and operations so we can begin delivering on our promise of more choices and lower prices for subscribers.” “Every one of our constituencies is a winner. Combined, SIRIUS XM Radio will deliver superior value to our shareholders. By offering more compelling packages and the best content in audio entertainment, we are well positioned for increased subscriber growth. Our laser focus on subscribers will continue and listeners can be assured that there will be no disruption in service. We also believe that the completion of the merger will eliminate any confusion that has been lingering in the marketplace,” added Karmazin. XM shareholders will receive 4.6 shares of SIRIUS common stock for each share of XM. Competitive New Options for Consumers... SIRIUS XM Radio broadcasts more than 300 channels of programming, including exclusive radio offerings from Howard Stern, Oprah, Opie & Anthony and Martha Stewart, among others. SIRIUS XM Radio will offer these expanded options to consumers through arrangements with the world’s leading automakers and its relationships with nationwide retailers. As a result of the merger, SIRIUS XM Radio will also be able to offer consumers new packages in audio entertainment, including the first-ever a la carte programming option in subscription media. In addition to two a la carte options, the new packages will include: “Best of Both,” giving subscribers the option to access certain programming from the other network; discounted Family Friendly packages; and tailored packages including “Mostly Music” and “News, Talk and Sports.” The first of the new packages will be available in the early Fall. “One of the most exciting benefits of this transaction is the ability to offer subscribers the option of expanding their subscriptions to include the Best of Both services. Given the respective popularity of exclusive programming on both SIRIUS and XM, we expect many subscribers will upgrade their current subscription,” said Karmazin. “The upside potential for both consumers and shareholders is huge. Consumers have the ease of adding premier programming without purchasing a new device. For shareholders, this kind of organic growth is a key part of the company’s future and the success we expect to see,” said Karmazin. As promised when the merger was first announced, existing radios will continue to work and every subscriber has the option of maintaining their current service package. Benefits for Shareholders Begin Immediately, Integration Already Under Way... SIRIUS XM Radio expects to begin realizing the synergies expected from this transaction immediately. “In addition to realizing significant potential revenue growth, the management team will move quickly to capitalize on the synergies that many analysts have predicted for this combination. We expect to begin achieving those synergies without sacrificing any of the world-class programming and marketing we are known for,” said Karmazin. The company today also reiterated guidance for the combined SIRIUS XM Radio. Based upon a preliminary analysis, the combined company expects to realize total synergies, net of the costs to achieve such synergies, of approximately $400 million in 2009; to post adjusted EBITDA exceeding $300 million in 2009; and to achieve positive free cash flow, before satellite capital expenditures, for the full year 2009. The company also expects that both synergies and adjusted EBITDA will continue growing beyond 2009. “We have all the tools necessary to begin executing as a combined company with high aspirations for subscriber growth and greater financial performance in part from the significant synergies that we begin realizing literally today – on Day One. We are moving quickly to integrate the operations,” said Karmazin. The corporate headquarters will be located in New York, NY and XM Satellite Radio, the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, will remain headquartered in Washington, DC. Effective after the close of the market yesterday, trading in XMSR common stock on the Nasdaq Global Select Market ceased. About SIRIUS XM Radio... SIRIUS XM Radio is America’s satellite radio company delivering the “The Best Radio on Radio” to more than 18 million subscribers, including 100% commercial free music, and premier sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather. SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive content relationships with an array of personalities and artists, including Howard Stern, Oprah, Martha Stewart, Jimmy Buffett, Elvis, Jamie Foxx, Barbara Walters, Frank Sinatra, Opie & Anthony, The Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tom Petty, and Bob Edwards. SIRIUS XM Radio is the leader in sports programming as the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, Major League Baseball, NASCAR, NHL, and PGA, and broadcasts major college sports. SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive arrangements with every major automaker. SIRIUS XM Radio products are available at shop.sirius.com and shop.xmradio.com, and at retail locations nationwide, including Best Buy, Circuit City, RadioShack, Target, Sam's Club, and Wal-Mart. SIRIUS XM Radio also offers SIRIUS Backseat TV, the first ever live in-vehicle rear seat entertainment featuring Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network; XM NavTraffic service for GPS navigation systems delivers real-time traffic information, including accidents and road construction, for more than 80 North American markets.

Hey - they mentioned Ron and Fez!

[mikeyboy]

so from what i was told O&A are pretty much guaranteed to stay...since they basically make about 8 percent of what howard makes. it would be really dumb to turn away that huge fanbase from the company when they can keep paying them that little amount

O&A have just been basically saying that they have no idea whats gonna happen because thats just what they do

as for R&F it kinda sucks because they have a big fanbase but nothing like O&A or howard so it is kinda up in the air with them...i hope they do the right thing

sources?

[RAAMONE]

sources?

my brother works there down in D.C...he called me yesterday to tell me his job is safe and i asked him what the O&A situation was...he said they are almost definatly staying and they are just doing the on air stuff to mess with people

hasnt really heard anything about R&F

[OGC]

For Immediate Release - SIRIUS AND XM COMPLETE MERGER... SIRIUS XM Radio Chosen as New Corporate Name...

Combined Company Has Over 18.5 Million Subscribers, Annualized Second Quarter Revenue Exceeding $2.4 Billion... Company to Offer Consumers Best of Both Services, While Maximizing Significant Efficiencies ... SIRIUS XM Reiterates Financial Guidance; Expects 2009 Synergies of $400 million and 2009 Adjusted EBITDA of over $300 Million... NEW YORK, NY – July 29, 2008 –SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ: SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio today announced that they have completed their merger, resulting in the nation’s premier radio company. The new company plans to change its corporate name to Sirius XM Radio Inc. The combined company’s stock will continue to be traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “SIRI”. SIRIUS XM Radio begins day one with over 18.5 million subscribers, making it the second-largest radio company, based upon revenue, in the country; and, based upon subscribers, the second largest subscription media business in the U.S. With under 10% penetration of the home and car market, the opportunity for continued growth is significant. “I am delighted to announce the completion of this exciting merger between SIRIUS and XM,” said Mel Karmazin, CEO of SIRIUS XM Radio. “We have worked diligently to close this transaction and we look forward to integrating our best-in-class management teams and operations so we can begin delivering on our promise of more choices and lower prices for subscribers.” “Every one of our constituencies is a winner. Combined, SIRIUS XM Radio will deliver superior value to our shareholders. By offering more compelling packages and the best content in audio entertainment, we are well positioned for increased subscriber growth. Our laser focus on subscribers will continue and listeners can be assured that there will be no disruption in service. We also believe that the completion of the merger will eliminate any confusion that has been lingering in the marketplace,” added Karmazin. XM shareholders will receive 4.6 shares of SIRIUS common stock for each share of XM. Competitive New Options for Consumers... SIRIUS XM Radio broadcasts more than 300 channels of programming, including exclusive radio offerings from Howard Stern, Oprah, Opie & Anthony and Martha Stewart, among others. SIRIUS XM Radio will offer these expanded options to consumers through arrangements with the world’s leading automakers and its relationships with nationwide retailers. As a result of the merger, SIRIUS XM Radio will also be able to offer consumers new packages in audio entertainment, including the first-ever a la carte programming option in subscription media. In addition to two a la carte options, the new packages will include: “Best of Both,” giving subscribers the option to access certain programming from the other network; discounted Family Friendly packages; and tailored packages including “Mostly Music” and “News, Talk and Sports.” The first of the new packages will be available in the early Fall. “One of the most exciting benefits of this transaction is the ability to offer subscribers the option of expanding their subscriptions to include the Best of Both services. Given the respective popularity of exclusive programming on both SIRIUS and XM, we expect many subscribers will upgrade their current subscription,” said Karmazin. “The upside potential for both consumers and shareholders is huge. Consumers have the ease of adding premier programming without purchasing a new device. For shareholders, this kind of organic growth is a key part of the company’s future and the success we expect to see,” said Karmazin. As promised when the merger was first announced, existing radios will continue to work and every subscriber has the option of maintaining their current service package. Benefits for Shareholders Begin Immediately, Integration Already Under Way... SIRIUS XM Radio expects to begin realizing the synergies expected from this transaction immediately. “In addition to realizing significant potential revenue growth, the management team will move quickly to capitalize on the synergies that many analysts have predicted for this combination. We expect to begin achieving those synergies without sacrificing any of the world-class programming and marketing we are known for,” said Karmazin. The company today also reiterated guidance for the combined SIRIUS XM Radio. Based upon a preliminary analysis, the combined company expects to realize total synergies, net of the costs to achieve such synergies, of approximately $400 million in 2009; to post adjusted EBITDA exceeding $300 million in 2009; and to achieve positive free cash flow, before satellite capital expenditures, for the full year 2009. The company also expects that both synergies and adjusted EBITDA will continue growing beyond 2009. “We have all the tools necessary to begin executing as a combined company with high aspirations for subscriber growth and greater financial performance in part from the significant synergies that we begin realizing literally today – on Day One. We are moving quickly to integrate the operations,” said Karmazin. The corporate headquarters will be located in New York, NY and XM Satellite Radio, the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, will remain headquartered in Washington, DC. Effective after the close of the market yesterday, trading in XMSR common stock on the Nasdaq Global Select Market ceased. About SIRIUS XM Radio... SIRIUS XM Radio is America’s satellite radio company delivering the “The Best Radio on Radio” to more than 18 million subscribers, including 100% commercial free music, and premier sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather. SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive content relationships with an array of personalities and artists, including Howard Stern, Oprah, Martha Stewart, Jimmy Buffett, Elvis, Jamie Foxx, Barbara Walters, Frank Sinatra, Opie & Anthony, The Grateful Dead, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Tom Petty, and Bob Edwards. SIRIUS XM Radio is the leader in sports programming as the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, Major League Baseball, NASCAR, NHL, and PGA, and broadcasts major college sports. SIRIUS XM Radio has exclusive arrangements with every major automaker. SIRIUS XM Radio products are available at shop.sirius.com and shop.xmradio.com, and at retail locations nationwide, including Best Buy, Circuit City, RadioShack, Target, Sam's Club, and Wal-Mart. SIRIUS XM Radio also offers SIRIUS Backseat TV, the first ever live in-vehicle rear seat entertainment featuring Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network; XM NavTraffic service for GPS navigation systems delivers real-time traffic information, including accidents and road construction, for more than 80 North American markets.

Hey - they mentioned Ron and Fez!

Did I miss something ?"

I see no mention of Ron and Fez. Not that I am surprised or concerned.

[Zorro]

Did I miss something ?"

I see no mention of Ron and Fez. Not that I am surprised or concerned.

The joke...

[OGC]

The joke...

DOH ! I get it now. Har Har Har :thumbup:

[Heather 8]

Hey - they mentioned Ron and Fez!

I'd feel better if it said "and the rest."

[mikeyboy]

I'd feel better if it said "and the rest."

Ron & Fez: the Professor and Mary Ann of the XM/Sirius merger.

[Freitag]

so from what i was told O&A are pretty much guaranteed to stay...since they basically make about 8 percent of what howard makes. it would be really dumb to turn away that huge fanbase from the company when they can keep paying them that little amount

O&A have just been basically saying that they have no idea whats gonna happen because thats just what they do

as for R&F it kinda sucks because they have a big fanbase but nothing like O&A or howard so it is kinda up in the air with them...i hope they do the right thing

Your post makes no sense.

Follow this logic: if R&F have half the fanbase of O&A, and make half the money of O&A, wouldn't it make business sense to keep them as well?

[Freitag]

Ron & Fez: the Professor and Mary Ann of the XM/Sirius merger.

So the debate becomes Ginger or Fez?

[mikeyboy]

Your post makes no sense.

Follow this logic: if R&F have half the fanbase of O&A, and make half the money of O&A, wouldn't it make business sense to keep them as well?

But you're just assuming numbers.

[RAAMONE]

Your post makes no sense.

Follow this logic: if R&F have half the fanbase of O&A, and make half the money of O&A, wouldn't it make business sense to keep them as well?

if thats true then yes...i said that having no idea what R&F make...i meant if they made close to what O&A made...but if they do make alot less then you are correct

[mikeyboy]

So the debate becomes Ginger or Fez?

Decisions, decisions...

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f170/chongolio/myspace/tina_louise.jpghttp://www.ronfez.net/gallery//watermark.php?file=3222&size=1

[OGC]

I would think that with the new a-la-carte programming, it should become obvious fairly quickly how many subscribers care about each channel.

It should be simple math for Sirius XM to figure out if a channel is worth producing.

[Freitag]

But you're just assuming numbers.

It was just a theory. Again, I have no idea what R&F make nor the size of their fanbase, but I would I think saying that R&F only have half of O&A's fanbase is conservative. There's a TON of crossover fans, and there are fans who just R&F fans and not O&A fans. And I have no idea how much money they make.

[Recyclerz]

Follow this logic: if R&F have half the fanbase of O&A, and make half the money of O&A, wouldn't it make business sense to keep them as well?

Your logic is OK but your premises are flawed, or at least incomplete. The economics of mergers are usually 2+2 should now equal 3, at least from a cost perspective. I have no idea what Mel's vision for this new company is, although I'm willing to bet it includes a lot more commercials. His track record at Infinity, however, seems to suggest that he courted and developed superstars (Imus, Howard, O&A until the trouble, etc.) and filled in the rest of the stations with low cost filler. Given that the new Company is more reliant on subscriber cash, for now at least, I think it is unlikely that they'll want to piss off any significant group of current listeners so making noise on behalf of R&F right now seems like the way to go.

[Freakshow]

I always thought the dropping of O&A would be purely a spite thing by Howard and 'his' guy Mel. I never for a second thought it was something based on any economic or business principles.

[Freitag]

Your logic is OK but your premises are flawed, or at least incomplete. The economics of mergers are usually 2+2 should now equal 3, at least from a cost perspective. I have no idea what Mel's vision for this new company is, although I'm willing to bet it includes a lot more commercials. His track record at Infinity, however, seems to suggest that he courted and developed superstars (Imus, Howard, O&A until the trouble, etc.) and filled in the rest of the stations with low cost filler. Given that the new Company is more reliant on subscriber cash, for now at least, I think it is unlikely that they'll want to piss off any significant group of current listeners so making noise on behalf of R&F right now seems like the way to go.

You don't think what Mel did for R&F when they were at CBS wasn't "part of the plan"? Everyone else from WNEW got fired except for them, and they stayed on in DC and continued to develop.

I think you're only going by what you heard in NYC. Don and Mike wasn't "low cost filler".

I think Mel is aware that Ron and Fez have a rabid, loyal fanbase.

Think of it this way: What if there was one channel that had Howard in the morning, Bubba middays, O&A afternoons, Ron and Fez evenings, and Ferrall late at night?

That is called pure win.

[Dirtybird12]

I always thought the dropping of O&A would be purely a spite thing by Howard and 'his' guy Mel. I never for a second thought it was something based on any economic or business principles.

opie and anthony have been dropped by a bunch of free fm stations since replacing david lee roth... was that because of spite ? or was it based on economic or business principles?

most recent-
Nationally syndicated morning show Opie and Anthony was pulled from KHYT FM 107.5's lineup last week. The Citadel-owned station was among the first to give the show a shot on terrestrial radio again after the duo signed with XM Satellite Radio, but the Tucson market never warmed to the product.
As a result, Opie and Anthony was pulled from its traditional morning-show time slot and aired live from 3 to 6 a.m. on 107.5, making it likely the most expensive program in the history of Tucson's pre-morning drive. The fate of the show was long clear, and once the contract expired, the rest was a formality.

[mendyweiss]

You don't think what Mel did for R&F when they were at CBS wasn't "part of the plan"? Everyone else from WNEW got fired except for them, and they stayed on in DC and continued to develop.

I think you're only going by what you heard in NYC. Don and Mike wasn't "low cost filler".

I think Mel is aware that Ron and Fez have a rabid, loyal fanbase.

Think of it this way: What if there was one channel that had Howard in the morning, Bubba middays, O&A afternoons, Ron and Fez evenings, and Ferrall late at night?

That is called pure win.

Mendy Likes !!:thumbup:

[Marc with a c]

Think of it this way: What if there was one channel that had Howard in the morning, Bubba middays, O&A afternoons, Ron and Fez evenings, and Ferrall late at night?

i would love that, all i want is to get ron and fez back on nights, but with o&a doing mornings on fm this might be tough to swing.

[SPeeDy_Freak]

I would think that with the NAB battle over FCC approval and Mel's previous comments about sharing content with terrestrial radio... O&A would stay if they were exclusive to satellite.

Since they are up for renewal with XM and I am not sure what the CBS deal length is, if they are locked into CBS they might be bought out of CBS to stay or be dropped from XM.

I kind of agree that sharing content between satellite and terrestrial has always been a mistake. E-Lo proclaimed it as a great promotional tool for XM but there has been no proof that being on CBS has helped with their listenership. In fact I would think that it would detract from it (why pay for something when you can get it for free?).

[Freakshow]

opie and anthony have been dropped by a bunch of free fm stations since replacing david lee roth... was that because of spite ? or was it based on economic or business principles?

most recent-
Nationally syndicated morning show Opie and Anthony was pulled from KHYT FM 107.5's lineup last week. The Citadel-owned station was among the first to give the show a shot on terrestrial radio again after the duo signed with XM Satellite Radio, but the Tucson market never warmed to the product.
As a result, Opie and Anthony was pulled from its traditional morning-show time slot and aired live from 3 to 6 a.m. on 107.5, making it likely the most expensive program in the history of Tucson's pre-morning drive. The fate of the show was long clear, and once the contract expired, the rest was a formality.

I was talking purely on the satellite level. Since they're not on DC anymore, and were never on in Baltimore at all, I forget they are on normal radio...

[ScottFromGA]

Sirius XM Radio.


sounds like a fucking pile of shit.

[Drunky McBetidont]

I would think that with the NAB battle over FCC approval and Mel's previous comments about sharing content with terrestrial radio... O&A would stay if they were exclusive to satellite.

Since they are up for renewal with XM and I am not sure what the CBS deal length is, if they are locked into CBS they might be bought out of CBS to stay or be dropped from XM.

I kind of agree that sharing content between satellite and terrestrial has always been a mistake. E-Lo proclaimed it as a great promotional tool for XM but there has been no proof that being on CBS has helped with their listenership. In fact I would think that it would detract from it (why pay for something when you can get it for free?).

everyone keeps saying that mel doesn't like sharing with terrestrial but bubba the love sponge is on in tampa and jacksonville 6-10 am and in january opening in more markets.

[Zorro]

There's a post on the NYRMB that Mel Karmazin will be on O&A tomorrow. Anyone hear this or is it just speculation?

[mikeyboy]

There's a post on the NYRMB that Mel Karmazin will be on O&A tomorrow. Anyone hear this or is it just speculation?

It's on fmqb.com (http://www.fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=813837) as well.

It looks like Mel Karmazin will be making rounds tomorrow on some of the Sirius XM Radio talk shows. Expect him to show up on Howard Stern's show as his first stop. Afterwards, fans of Opie & Anthony will be glad to know that the combined satcaster CEO will be appearing on their program during the 9am hour. With the duo's contract in limbo and approaching its renewal date, O&A fans should finally get the answers they have been looking for ever since the merger was announced.

[HBox]

Douche chill radio tomorrow.

[Drunky McBetidont]

Douche chill radio tomorrow.

set the inno to record. this will be interesting.

[docgoblin]

opie and anthony have been dropped by a bunch of free fm stations since replacing david lee roth... was that because of spite ? or was it based on economic or business principles?

most recent-
Nationally syndicated morning show Opie and Anthony was pulled from KHYT FM 107.5's lineup last week. The Citadel-owned station was among the first to give the show a shot on terrestrial radio again after the duo signed with XM Satellite Radio, but the Tucson market never warmed to the product.
As a result, Opie and Anthony was pulled from its traditional morning-show time slot and aired live from 3 to 6 a.m. on 107.5, making it likely the most expensive program in the history of Tucson's pre-morning drive. The fate of the show was long clear, and once the contract expired, the rest was a formality.

Terrestrial radio is a disaster right now. The only shows and stations holding their own are Top 40 music, Ethnic, sports, news and political talk. Citadel is in very serious financial trouble. They are trying to slot O&A into only the perfect ad-dollar markets for them at this point. They may end up in just 5 or 6 major markets while all the others become some kind of computerized muzak programming with a live traffic and weather person during drive time. The morning shows like O&A, Stern and Imus may be a dinosaur in the next few years. These guys need to hang on to this satellite gig. Remember that Ron and Fez had a fantastic book the last period on Free FM right before they were axed.

[midwestjeff]

I hope Mel gets a call from Steve from Yellowstone.

[Drunky McBetidont]

I hope Mel gets a call from Steve from Yellowstone.

an appearance by fucktwat the clown ftw :innocent:

[docgoblin]

Douche chill radio tomorrow.

How about they handle this call as professionally as possible, then get a contract, then go back to doing their thing... AND THEY'LL STILL HAVE A JOB!!! (and possibly Ron & Fez as well). If O&A want to destroy their career they can treat Mel like an asshole. Let's see how far that gets them with 62 days to go. Don't forget, Ant has a very expensive estate, and a very high class girlfriend, on the line. Jimmy would be very hurt by losing this gig as well.

[HBox]

How about they handle this call as professionally as possible, then get a contract, then go back to doing their thing... AND THEY'LL STILL HAVE A JOB!!! (and possibly Ron & Fez as well). If O&A want to destroy their career they can treat Mel like an asshole. Let's see how far that gets them with 62 days to go. Don't forget, Ant has a very expensive estate, and a very high class girlfriend, on the line. Jimmy would be very hurt by losing this gig as well.

I don't know which way this is going to go, but I was thinking that they are going to kiss Mel's ass and that's going to be douche chilly by itself.

Whatever happens they are going to have a huge hurdle to jump, and that is Mel's unwillingness to share shows with terrestrial. That, more than any personal animosity, will be the problem.

[Drunky McBetidont]

I don't know which way this is going to go, but I was thinking that they are going to kiss Mel's ass and that's going to be douche chilly by itself.

Whatever happens they are going to have a huge hurdle to jump, and that is Mel's unwillingness to share shows with terrestrial. That, more than any personal animosity, will be the problem.

everyone keeps saying that mel doesn't like sharing with terrestrial but bubba the love sponge is on in tampa and jacksonville 6-10 am and in january opening in more markets.

nothing?

[Tenbatsuzen]

I don't know which way this is going to go, but I was thinking that they are going to kiss Mel's ass and that's going to be douche chilly by itself.

Whatever happens they are going to have a huge hurdle to jump, and that is Mel's unwillingness to share shows with terrestrial. That, more than any personal animosity, will be the problem.

nothing?

The difference is, Bubba works two independent shows, like R&F did back with Free-FM. O&A's show is simulcast, not exclusive, to XM.

[Tenbatsuzen]

Mel needs an instant replay in his office for the call.

Or Mel pulls off the tan, leather skin from his face to reveal... E LO!

IT WAS ME, AUSTIN! IT WAS ME ALL ALONG!

[STC-Dub]

The over under on the odds that Mel Karmazin makes an appearance on Ron and Fez what, 1%?

[DolaMight]

I hope Mel gets a call from Steve from Yellowstone.

I think you meant Sam from Yellowstone. The famous o&a caller.

[DolaMight]

The over under on the odds that Mel Karmazin makes an appearance on Ron and Fez what, 1%?

He doesn't need to. R&F are the safest property in satrad. If mel heard just 2 minutes of the radio gold ron has spit out in the last 2 weeks... He'll be re-wondering why howard makes the paper he does.

[Dirtybird12]

"we have not made any decisions on content but i'd say if you are a sirius subscriber and you would like to hear MLB..spend some money and buy an XM unit -This wouldn't have happened without Howard Sterns success."



Other blubs -
for the next 10 - 12 years there will still be 2 distinct services.
There will be a NEW receiver that will come out to get both services. ( like AM/FM )
Howard Stern on XM radio - new ad campaign.
Cousin Brucie will have larger platform.








Big Daddy Mel - on Stern this morning

[KingGeno]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/5912842.html


Investors give new Sirius-XM combo rude greeting
Associated Press
July 29, 2008, 5:08PM

As the purchase of XM Satellite Radio by larger rival Sirius Satellite Radio closed today, questions remained over whether the combined company can handle its $3.4 billion in debt — including $1.1 billion due next year.

Also murky was how quickly the two companies can mesh their technologies without angering consumers.

Most radios that play programming from Sirius and the former XM Satellite Radio Holdings are sold for cars, in before- or aftermarket installations, and automakers are notoriously slow to integrate new audio technology.

The nation's only two satellite radio companies have combined to become Sirius XM Radio, based in New York, and trades under the ticker symbol SIRI, which used to belong to Sirius. Mel Karmazin, the chief executive of Sirius, will take the same position at the new company.

Investors sold off Sirius shares today at their lowest price in nearly five years.

"The new company is going to face a lot of hurdles, both operating as well as financing," said Tuna Amobi, a Standard & Poor's analyst in New York.

He was disappointed by Sirius' accumulation of 280,000 net new subscribers for the second quarter, not as robust a figure as he had hoped for. Amobi is also concerned about higher interest payments.

Sirius' $1.3 billion of debt hasn't changed, but XM has taken on more debt and replaced some existing debt with other borrowing that carries much higher interest rates. XM has $2.1 billion in total debt, up from $1.7 billion at the end of March, according to company filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Analysts had been counting on savings from the combination to offset higher debt costs, especially since neither company has ever made an operating profit.

While Sirius expects to save $400 million and post adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of more than $300 million next year, its comments about free cash flow troubled analysts.

Sirius expects to post positive free cash flow in 2009 but only after excluding satellite capital expenses. That implies its free cash flow will be negative if satellite expenses are included, said Shilpa Parandekar, senior bond analyst at Moody's Investors Service in New York.

She also noted that about $1.1 billion of debt is due in May 2009. Both companies' credit ratings are under view for a possible downgrade.

"We felt the momentum was downward," Parandekar said.

As they waited one and a half years for regulatory approval, the companies also have remained silent on many of the details of how they would combine their programming.

One known consumer benefit is the new ability to pay for only the channels one chooses, known as a la carte programming.

That service will require new or modified radios, and executives promised to sell such radios available at retail within three months. But most new satellite radio customers don't buy their radios at retail because they come pre-installed in automobiles.

The companies haven't offered a timeline for automakers to install radios that allow a la carte programming, said Bob Williams of the Consumers Union, which opposed the merger.

"The (satellite radio) industry has a history of promising things and then letting it go by the wayside," Williams said.

Nathaniel Brown, a spokesman for XM, declined to comment on programming. But the company has said several new options, including a "best of both" service for $17 a month — compared to the current price for one of the services at $13 a month — will be available to customers with older radios.

Sirius and XM have refused to say which programming that service will include.

For instance, there is no guarantee that Howard Stern will be available to XM customers or that Sirius customers will see Major League Baseball games.

Combining all sports programming onto one network could prove difficult. For example, XM provides NHL coverage and Sirius coverage of the NBA. Because those seasons overlap and so many games are played every night, it may prove difficult to find bandwidth to broadcast every game.

Also, while it may seem obvious that the new company would include popular programming like Stern's show or Major League Baseball in its "Best of" package, XM and Sirius never disclosed whether the contract with Stern, for example, would require higher payouts if more people can hear him.

So the new company's costs could rise if it makes its top-tier talent accessible on both services.

Williams said such unanswered questions ought to compel the FCC to regulate the companies closely as it moves forward.

"It really calls for the FCC to not just sit on the sidelines," he said. "We don't have much reason to think they actually will get involved, but they really need to be on the case."

[DolaMight]

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/5912842.html

Plus their target date for completely merging the 2 services is 2018-20 because of the interoperability of the technology. It will continue to be 2 separate services for many years.

I never heard that before the merger... 10-12 years? I'd be a nervous investor if I suddenly heard that.

[RogerPodacter]

i just fired off an email to mel karmazin's email saying that ron and fez is the exclusive reason why i subscribe to XM radio and to please keep them and the entire channel 202 lineup as it is. for what its worth, i feel i've voiced my opinion.

if ron and fez were gone from satellite radio i might not be able to continue in life!!

[hedges]

Plus their target date for completely merging the 2 services is 2018-20 because of the interoperability of the technology. It will continue to be 2 separate services for many years.

I never heard that before the merger... 10-12 years? I'd be a nervous investor if I suddenly heard that.
10-12 years? I'm getting very anxious over this merger business all of a sudden. That will get here before we know it.:wacko:

[Midkiff]

i just fired off an email to mel karmazin's email saying that ron and fez is the exclusive reason why i subscribe to XM radio and to please keep them and the entire channel 202 lineup as it is. for what its worth, i feel i've voiced my opinion.

if ron and fez were gone from satellite radio i might not be able to continue in life!!

What's his email address?

[boobieman]

What I got from the Mel interview;
O&A might be off FM radio at the end of their contact with FM. No biggy to me, but some area's I work at I can not get a XM signal, which will sort of sucks.

Change the channel line up and remove the replays. Mel asked what is on the channel and after being told R & F, O& A, Mel said that is not enough for a full channel. Which sort of sucks because I like the advantage of the replays.

Change the line up schedule. Move O & A to afternoons and might move Ron & Fez to after , like the WNEW days...which will really suck. I like R & F in the afternoons, I can listen to the full show with no problems. I don't think they will have Shit head Howie on and O & A at the same time..their 2 biggest shows going head to head...I doubt it. I can't listen to Howie and the morning are when I really need O & A, makes my work day go quicker.

Either way it might just suck..Mel will commercialize satellite radio and fuck up 202. I hated this idea of the merger and now it came and I think it is going to suck.

Besides 202, hope they don't fuck with channel 48 and the other rock channels.

Just have to wait and see.

SEEYEAYAYAYAYA

[ChrisTheCop]

This may be due to the after effects of binge drinking,
but I listened to the replay of the Karmazin interview on O and A this morning,
and I thought it went pretty well.

I'm not the biggest Opie fan here, but I gotta say, the fact that he repeatedly told Mel
how good Ron and Fez are, earned him alot of respect in my book.

On the flip side though, Opie also belittled another worker (non talent, I assume) asking about (at an earlier group meeting) how the merge will affect his health insurance. Just cause it doesnt affect you Opie, doesnt mean it's not a valid question to ask.

But again... He won me back by using the time given to him to promote his own show,
he repeatedly praised Ron and Fez. To hear Mel say the words "Ron and Fez" while talking about the future, just brightened my day.

[ibanez23]

i just fired off an email to mel karmazin's email saying that ron and fez is the exclusive reason why i subscribe to XM radio and to please keep them and the entire channel 202 lineup as it is. for what its worth, i feel i've voiced my opinion.

if ron and fez were gone from satellite radio i might not be able to continue in life!!
Thats the only thing we can do.Email Mel and try to keep ron and fez on his radar.He did say he doesnt know much about them,but has heard positive things.
I'm sure there will be a research team delagated to finding out about which personalities are bringing in subs.
Thats why I think Mikeyboy could have done a great service to Ron and Fez by having a sight to show how many people love the show.
I'm just an optimist thinking one person could make a difference.

[hedges]

What's his email address?
I want to know...or is this an improper forum for making his e-mail address public.

[BinaryBimbo]

This may be due to the after effects of binge drinking,
but I listened to the replay of the Karmazin interview on O and A this morning,
and I thought it went pretty well.

I'm not the biggest Opie fan here, but I gotta say, the fact that he repeatedly told Mel
how good Ron and Fez are, earned him alot of respect in my book.

On the flip side though, Opie also belittled another worker (non talent, I assume) asking about (at an earlier group meeting) how the merge will affect his health insurance. Just cause it doesnt affect you Opie, doesnt mean it's not a valid question to ask.

But again... He won me back by using the time given to him to promote his own show,
he repeatedly praised Ron and Fez. To hear Mel say the words "Ron and Fez" while talking about the future, just brightened my day.


While the interview was on I thought Opie was too bold maybe; but I was sure enjoying the show none the less. Now that it has all sunk in, and hearing Opie say how he offered to come back after the speech he had to make, I have to say Mel doesn't scare me today as much as he did last week.

While it would suck to try to fill the mornings for those of us grown accustomed to this schedule; I still would like to get back to Free FM, or NEW, days format. The best is if they did like the JFK days where Ron & Fez did an hour at noon, and then a full show at night after OnA.

I think evenings is better for the show because more people are relaxing at home, and I just think the callers are sharper at night overall. Maybe the alcohol helps?

I wanted to listen to a Brooklyn podcast tonight; but didn't see them in the file library. So I downloaded a few old Free FM shows, and this one where Ant came in with his old girl is so damn funny. Just think - evenings means Friday Night Drinking shows again!

[BinaryBimbo]

I want to know...or is this an improper forum for making his e-mail address public.

I just sent him one to melkarmizon@sirius.com, and it went out like it found that address.
I'll let you know if I get a return on it; but I bet you they have several boxes set up for him that some drone reads through each morning and makes little check marks on a pad next to show titles, etc.


I asked him about my program that does XM and Sirius too. Just asking him if I can continue to give it out; so maybe he will actually respond.

[OGC]

I just sent him one to melkarmizon@sirius.com, and it went out like it found that address.
I'll let you know if I get a return on it; but I bet you they have several boxes set up for him that some drone reads through each morning and makes little check marks on a pad next to show titles, etc.


I asked him about my program that does XM and Sirius too. Just asking him if I can continue to give it out; so maybe he will actually respond.


I doubt that email will get to him since his name is mel karmazin (http://www.sirius.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Sirius/CachedPage&c=BioAsset&cid=1100707192159)

[IMSlacker]

Change the channel line up and remove the replays. Mel asked what is on the channel and after being told R & F, O& A, Mel said that is not enough for a full channel. Which sort of sucks because I like the advantage of the replays.

When Mel said that O&A and R&F didn't "seem like enough", they were specifically talking about whether 202 would be be offered to to Sirius subscribers in a "best of XM" programing package. I don't think he meant that it was not enough for the channel to continue as it is.

[BinaryBimbo]

I doubt that email will get to him since his name is mel karmazin (http://www.sirius.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Sirius/CachedPage&c=BioAsset&cid=1100707192159)





Thank You

The other one did come back undeliverable. I am trying the correct spelling now; I'll let you guys know if it comes back too.

[BinaryBimbo]

When Mel said that O&A and R&F didn't "seem like enough", they were specifically talking about whether 202 would be be offered to to Sirius subscribers in a "best of XM" programing package. I don't think he meant that it was not enough for the channel to continue as it is.


That's what I didn't like about him. He stated several times how Stern would be a Premium, and available for XMers; but doesn't Sirius 100 just do reruns of Howard all day after his show? Here we got two popular shows, and he doesn't think there is enough for a channel worthy of offering to Sirius customers?

I can't stand that show; so I just don't see it. I told him in my email, (if he ever gets it), that I bought my XM for the country stations and ended up keeping it because of 202, and that I bought my Sirius because of Howard signing and kept it for the Outlaw Country station 63. I think Howard did bring in a bunch of new subs; but I don't think most of them are still there for Howard. Maybe I'm just wrong.

Okay. That one came back too. I also tried mkar@sirius.com to no avail. Maybe I'll try XM email tommorow.

[Sue_Bender]

That's what I didn't like about him. He stated several times how Stern would be a Premium, and available for XMers; but doesn't Sirius 100 just do reruns of Howard all day after his show? Here we got two popular shows, and he doesn't think there is enough for a channel worthy of offering to Sirius customers?

I can't stand that show; so I just don't see it. I told him in my email, (if he ever gets it), that I bought my XM for the country stations and ended up keeping it because of 202, and that I bought my Sirius because of Howard signing and kept it for the Outlaw Country station 63. I think Howard did bring in a bunch of new subs; but I don't think most of them are still there for Howard. Maybe I'm just wrong.

Okay. That one came back too. I also tried mkar@sirius.com to no avail. Maybe I'll try XM email tommorow.


Perhaps I'm outta line, but your helping probably hurts.







Ouch.

[KnoxHarrington]

Big Daddy Mel's on Bob Edwards today. It's on now, and will repeat at 10 if you want to start at the beginning.

[Midkiff]

Big Daddy Mel's on Bob Edwards today. It's on now, and will repeat at 10 if you want to start at the beginning.

Will he tell Bob to keep his dirty vampire hands out of Ron and Fez' food?

[BinaryBimbo]

Perhaps I'm outta line, but your helping probably hurts.







Ouch.

Coming from you I consider that a compliment.

I have yet to read a coherent or funny quote from you.

I've had XM almost since its inception, and Sirius since Howard came on.

I've written two programs for XM and Sirius, and assisted in hardware development for the interfaces.

My letter on interoperability was published by the FCC.

You, on the other hand, have done nothing but Bitch.









Now don't bother me any more - I don't like fat chicks with zits.

[RAAMONE]

Coming from you I consider that a compliment.

I have yet to read a coherent or funny quote from you.

I've had XM almost since its inception, and Sirius since Howard came on.

I've written two programs for XM and Sirius, and assisted in hardware development for the interfaces.

My letter on interoperability was published by the FCC.

You, on the other hand, have done nothing but Bitch.









Now don't bother me any more - I don't like fat chicks with zits.

face

[boobieman]

When Mel said that O&A and R&F didn't "seem like enough", they were specifically talking about whether 202 would be be offered to to Sirius subscribers in a "best of XM" programing package. I don't think he meant that it was not enough for the channel to continue as it is.

I hope that is what he meant, I got a different feeling. Even if O & A and Howie are on different channels, Howie is not going to want O & A going against him. Well Maybe.

Just have to wait and see. I sort of like O& A in the mornings, and I love R & F on at noon. Wish they went on at 11, but I rather them in mid day, I can listen to the full show. If they get moved to old WNEW time, I will not be able to listen..which would really really really SUCK. Would have to tape the show and listen the next day.

Just hope Mel does not totally fuck up XM..besides 202 I do listen to the rock channels and I like them the way they are.

Later

SEEYSYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

[DolaMight]

remember when our biggest concern was getting a Big Ass 203. I'm sending Mel a strongly worded email demanding it.

[Sue_Bender]

Coming from you I consider that a compliment.

I have yet to read a coherent or funny quote from you.

I've had XM almost since its inception, and Sirius since Howard came on.

I've written two programs for XM and Sirius, and assisted in hardware development for the interfaces.

My letter on interoperability was published by the FCC.

You, on the other hand, have done nothing but Bitch.









Now don't bother me any more - I don't like fat chicks with zits.


Aw, snap!


Funny or coherent "quotes"?

That's Ron Bennington's job.




I remark. :bye:

[Keotok]

Coming from you I consider that a compliment.

I have yet to read a coherent or funny quote from you.

I've had XM almost since its inception, and Sirius since Howard came on.

I've written two programs for XM and Sirius, and assisted in hardware development for the interfaces.

My letter on interoperability was published by the FCC.

You, on the other hand, have done nothing but Bitch.









Now don't bother me any more - I don't like fat chicks with zits.


And yet, you can't get an e-mail to go through. Hmmmmmm.



I'm just sayin'.

[djjd]

Coming from you I consider that a compliment.

I have yet to read a coherent or funny quote from you.

I've had XM almost since its inception, and Sirius since Howard came on.

I've written two programs for XM and Sirius, and assisted in hardware development for the interfaces.

My letter on interoperability was published by the FCC.

You, on the other hand, have done nothing but Bitch.









Now don't bother me any more - I don't like fat chicks with zits.

And yet, you can't get an e-mail to go through. Hmmmmmm.



I'm just sayin'.

:lol::lol::lol:

[Phil_Nubbs]

Now don't bother me any more - I don't like fat chicks with zits.


Wow! Don't "bother" you on a message board? I don't like "fat chicks with zits" either, but I'm not sure this is the place for that kind of attitude. Relax.

[Midkiff]

Wow! Don't "bother" you on a message board? I don't like "fat chicks with zits" either, but I'm not sure this is the place for that kind of attitude. Relax.

It's OK, they are both board characters. Probably the same person.

[underdog]

It's OK, they are both board characters. Probably the same person.

Yeah, its just like when "mikeyboy" and "gvac" were arguing.

[SPeeDy_Freak]

everyone keeps saying that mel doesn't like sharing with terrestrial but bubba the love sponge is on in tampa and jacksonville 6-10 am and in january opening in more markets.

They are not syndicated outside of the Tampa area as opposed to being in large markets like NYC, Boston, Detroit, etc. Also the Bubba FM show is exclusive to terrestiral radio and not also listened to on Sirius whereas the O&A FM show is simulcast on XM.... diminishing the XM value. The Bubba show from 3-7 was not effected. They just allowed him to find an additional deal that does not include the Sirius brtoadcast.

[BinaryBimbo]

And yet, you can't get an e-mail to go through. Hmmmmmm.



I'm just sayin'.

I didn't say I was working with the company.

I said I wrote two programs and helped develop hardware to interface to computers for it.

Anyway - I'm not here to get into flame wars, or pissing matches, with people I have never met.

I was simply applying Ronnie B logic when asked what he would do if a 9 year old swung on him.

I pretty much need to get to get in touch with someone over there at the company because I want to add AirTunes to my program, and I want to make sure they won't come after me legally. I sent an email through XM email service this morning, and so I can only hope it makes it to the right person.

I give the program away, and just took down my website when the merger was imminent so as to not provoke a response from them before I can make contact with someone who can review my request.

My program works with XM/Sirius/HDRadio tuners, and streams a single socket from the home computer to the office, etc. It is not an online application; so all of the content can be streamed instead of only online stuff. I have discovered how to add AirTunes, (WiFi to Ipod/IPhone), and want to add that for a new version; but I'm not going to do anything more until I have answers about their position on continuing.

I've been a fan of the Ron & Fez Show for a very long time, and even have about 500 full shows dating back to 2001 recorded. I decided to come over here because I was bored where I was hanging, and just want to interact with others of the same interests. I cannot work because of medical reasons; so I have way too much free time to write free programs and provoke fat chicks.

What's your excuse?:smile:

[mikeyboy]

I didn't say I was working with the company.

I said I wrote two programs and helped develop hardware to interface to computers for it.

Anyway - I'm not here to get into flame wars, or pissing matches, with people I have never met.

I was simply applying Ronnie B logic when asked what he would do if a 9 year old swung on him.

I pretty much need to get to get in touch with someone over there at the company because I want to add AirTunes to my program, and I want to make sure they won't come after me legally. I sent an email through XM email service this morning, and so I can only hope it makes it to the right person.

I give the program away, and just took down my website when the merger was imminent so as to not provoke a response from them before I can make contact with someone who can review my request.

My program works with XM/Sirius/HDRadio tuners, and streams a single socket from the home computer to the office, etc. It is not an online application; so all of the content can be streamed instead of only online stuff. I have discovered how to add AirTunes, (WiFi to Ipod/IPhone), and want to add that for a new version; but I'm not going to do anything more until I have answers about their position on continuing.

I've been a fan of the Ron & Fez Show for a very long time, and even have about 500 full shows dating back to 2001 recorded. I decided to come over here because I was bored where I was hanging, and just want to interact with others of the same interests. I cannot work because of medical reasons; so I have way too much free time to write free programs and provoke fat chicks.

What's your excuse?:smile:

If you've got enough time, maybe you can figure out a way that people with Blackberries can listen to XM via their online accounts, because some people would be really happy if that happen :bye:

[epo]

Yeah, its just like when "mikeyboy" and "gvac" were arguing.

Everytime I think my heart is finally healed, somebody brings *him* back up again.

[BinaryBimbo]

If you've got enough time, maybe you can figure out a way that people with Blackberries can listen to XM via their online accounts, because some people would be really happy if that happen :bye:


If Mel gives us the okay to continue I will get it done for you. With DotNet it should be fairly easy to get my code, (C# DotNet 3.5), to work on mobile devices.

[Jubjubs]

If Mel gives us the okay to continue I will get it done for you. With DotNet it should be fairly easy to get my code, (C# DotNet 3.5), to work on mobile devices.


Be sure and let us know when Mel gets back to you. She may be busy trying to get Paul-O out of the bathroom, so be patient.

[watson]

anonymous posters with very important connections to the show and satellite radio in general, gotta love em

[watson]

I didn't say I was working with the company.

I said I wrote two programs and helped develop hardware to interface to computers for it.

Anyway - I'm not here to get into flame wars, or pissing matches, with people I have never met.

I was simply applying Ronnie B logic when asked what he would do if a 9 year old swung on him.

I pretty much need to get to get in touch with someone over there at the company because I want to add AirTunes to my program, and I want to make sure they won't come after me legally. I sent an email through XM email service this morning, and so I can only hope it makes it to the right person.

I give the program away, and just took down my website when the merger was imminent so as to not provoke a response from them before I can make contact with someone who can review my request.

My program works with XM/Sirius/HDRadio tuners, and streams a single socket from the home computer to the office, etc. It is not an online application; so all of the content can be streamed instead of only online stuff. I have discovered how to add AirTunes, (WiFi to Ipod/IPhone), and want to add that for a new version; but I'm not going to do anything more until I have answers about their position on continuing.

I've been a fan of the Ron & Fez Show for a very long time, and even have about 500 full shows dating back to 2001 recorded. I decided to come over here because I was bored where I was hanging, and just want to interact with others of the same interests. I cannot work because of medical reasons; so I have way too much free time to write free programs and provoke fat chicks.

What's your excuse?:smile:
THAT!....

were you the person that developed the phones that caused the problems that lead to perrynoid writing that great jingle that is played when the phones went out?

[AKA]

I just found this blurb from last week on DCRTV and wasn't sure if it was mentioned here or not...

More Sirius XM Suit Shufflings - 8/8 - More suit shufflings at the new Sirius XM: Former XM senior VP of music programming Jon Zellner will retain the same title for Sirius XM. JFK-FM vet Jeremy Coleman is named senior VP of talk and entertainment programming. Steve Cohen is now senior VP of sports programming. And Paul Turcotte is now senior VP of advertising sales.....

Old timers of both WJFK and WNEW remember Jeremy and his appearances on Don & Mike and later on Opie & Anthony, so that might bode well for O&A with the merger, but (!) a possible R&F advantage is that Jeremy Coleman was there when they brought Ron & Fez up from Florida to WNEW and was (from all appearances) a big fan of R&F.

During the early 90s he was savaged by D&M here in DC for years - one of his first real PD moves was in pulling together The Sports Junkies. And on a completely unrelated and personal side note, he never returned my "Reservoir Dogs" bootleg.

[Sue_Bender]

I just found this blurb from last week on DCRTV and wasn't sure if it was mentioned here or not...

More Sirius XM Suit Shufflings - 8/8 - More suit shufflings at the new Sirius XM: Former XM senior VP of music programming Jon Zellner will retain the same title for Sirius XM. JFK-FM vet Jeremy Coleman is named senior VP of talk and entertainment programming. Steve Cohen is now senior VP of sports programming. And Paul Turcotte is now senior VP of advertising sales.....

Old timers of both WJFK and WNEW remember Jeremy and his appearances on Don & Mike and later on Opie & Anthony, so that might bode well for O&A with the merger, but (!) a possible R&F advantage is that Jeremy Coleman was there when they brought Ron & Fez up from Florida to WNEW and was (from all appearances) a big fan of R&F.

During the early 90s he was savaged by D&M here in DC for years - one of his first real PD moves was in pulling together The Sports Junkies. And on a completely unrelated and personal side note, he never returned my "Reservoir Dogs" bootleg.


Thanks for the info...




on your "Reservoir Dogs" bootie. :smile:

[Zorro]

Sirius closed at .25 toady a 20% drop from Wednesday....eeech

[pittphantoms]

There is a lot of speculation that a reverse split will come - but that bankruptcy could be in the very near future.

[keverlast]

Need only one satellite, Xsirius

I had new vehicle w/ sirius, in canada RF is not availble on a sirius channel. RF remains on XM canada. The show is the only reason i keep my subscription, yet theres 9hrs of fuckn of O&A repeats, thats sucks. Plus the Q&A show is crap,

[STC-Dub]

The good news is they only have $1 billion in debt due to be repaid next year: http://http://www.fmqb.com/goout.asp?u=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/08_44/b4106000485006.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index+-+temp_news+%2B+analysis

[SinA]

They're pushing the "best of Sirius" pacakge harder and harder, with ads and now I'm getting emails. I think about it for the NFL coverage, but the season is half over, so I'll probably pass.

[scottinnj]

No more Fred.

No more Ethel.

No more Lucy.


Wassup? And will the "Sirius XMU" channel continue with the "GNU" show?

I'm not liking the changes.

[PapaBear]

No more Fred.

No more Ethel.

No more Lucy.
Turns out, Sirius hired an outside consultant to mastermind the whole thing. His name is Ricky.

[Reephdweller]

Turns out, Sirius hired an outside consultant to mastermind the whole thing. His name is Ricky.




:lol:

[KingKill]

The new Grateful Dead channel is good i am an old Deadhead and it nice to have it to listen to on the road.

I will not pay more for hoiw and the Hole.
If they put some better programming with it I might do it just to burn time
I spend about 6 hours a day in the car.

But NFL nascar and the playboy channel?

WTF is with the playboy channel thats a fucking safety hazzard
you know some cranked up trucker is driving 80 on a highway CB in one hand driving with his knees sqeezing one out.

NFL games are onll on 2 days a week when most people are at home

Blah

[DonInNC]

I welcome the changes. I've rarely listened to XM music channels for the past year or so because they've gotten so stale. The deep playlist, music for music lovers concept doesn't work if the sound quality is shit. With that said, the DJ's talk way too much on the channels I've listened to so far and i'll probably be bored with the new channels in a few months.

[jennysmurf]

I only listen online, and I only listen to Ron and Fez. So, as long as XM continues to bring me the buddays, I'll be happy.

[goreds2]

I am a little disappointed losing AMERICA, LUCY and X COUNTRY but overall I am OK so far with the music channel lineup.

UNDERGROUND GARAGE and RADIO MARGARITAVILLE are great music additions along with the the NFL games on the BEST OF SIRIUS package.

[goreds2]

:sad:

Get your RETRO apparel here.

http://www.myradiostore.com/apparel/apparel-rock/

[The Jays]

I hate everything Sirius. I hate Shade 45, Jam On, E Street Radio, The Dead, Elvis... basically, I hate all channels that are dedicated to one artist (come on, the Jam On channel is basically Phish 24/7)... all of their rock channels were hyped up as being better than XM, and they all suck... I want my Fred, Lucy, and Ethel back... and their Chill station sucks, as does their comedy channels... who needs a Blue Collar Comedy channel? All of the Sirius shit sucks ass, I hate how they think having a celebrity name behind their channels meant they were good, because each celebrity channel sucks ass.

[conman823]

Rest in peace Lucy, I'm going to miss you.....:glurps: