Satellite Radio?

[rbmartiniv]

Does anybody know about adding satellite radio to the aXxera in-dash radio in the 2016 Thor Challenger?
Thanks

Robert
2016 Thor Challenger 37KT

[Bruce]

You would have to use an external satellite radio and connect it either with Bluetooth or through the AUX input either on the front panel or on the rear of the unit.

Alternatively, you could download the app on your smart phone and listen via Bluetooth.

Post whatever solution you come up with.

Bruce

Originally Posted by rbmartiniv

Does anybody know about adding satellite radio to the aXxera in-dash radio in the 2016 Thor Challenger?
Thanks

Robert
2016 Thor Challenger 37KT

[rbmartiniv]

I already have an XM internet subscription, therefore the simplest way would be to use the phone and Bluetooth. As to cost-effectiveness, it will depend on how much it increases my data usage (and its cost). Another possibility would be to purchase a portable satellite radio and plug it into the AUX input. That would not require using my data plan but would require a subscription.

[aa9zz]

We added the portable and the home speaker unit. With that you can use it in the rig and then put it on the patio and listen to whatever you want while relaxing. We like it for sports coverage as we travel and camp.

[rbmartiniv]

What brand/model is your portable and home speaker unit? I would like to check that out.
Thanks.

[EA37TS]

I also use a portable and have the home kit as well. I have the portable auto mount on the dash and plugged into the aux jack on the Axxerra. I use the home kit with a Bose speaker in my outdoor kitchen when we are at a campground. Next trip out or maybe earlier I might try the home kit in the bedroom and plug it into the Jensen and see if plays through the outside speakers.

My portable is the Sirius Onyx.

[rbmartiniv]

There doesn't seem to be an AUX input on my Axxera AV614BH in my 2016 Challenger.

[EA37TS]

Originally Posted by rbmartiniv

There doesn't seem to be an AUX input on my Axxera AV614BH in my 2016 Challenger.

Robert,

On the front lower left of the radio there should be a small rubber or plastic cover. Pull that rubber cover off and inside you should see an SD Card slot, a USB port and an AV jack.

Here is the link to the Axxerra website to get more info to include software updates and the manual.

AV614BH - DVD Receiver with Built-In Bluetooth & HDMI Input

[rbmartiniv]

Thanks, Dave. Must have overlooked it.

[EA37TS]

Robert,

During my shakedown cruise my radio kept losing power. When I got home I removed the top part of the dash and went in and added some bracing under the radio because the radio was not properly secured and there is a large gap under the radio mount. a 3/4 inch piece of plywood slid under the radio and filled the gap nicely. Took about 30 minutes and also allowed me to tie down some loose wiring while in the area. If interested the top part of the dash (2 humped cover) is held on by I believe 4 Phillips head screws. Easy job to do.

[jrben]

I use a portable (Stratus 7) which I mounted on the dash and plug into the aux port. The portable allows me to move the radio from vehicle to vehicle and use at home as well, with only one subscription. I'll never buy another vehicle with Satellite Radio or factory installed GPS.

[rdm1465]

Using portable also. easily transferred from vehicle to vehicle.

[pstandiford]

Originally Posted by jrben

I use a portable (Stratus 7) which I mounted on the dash and plug into the aux port. The portable allows me to move the radio from vehicle to vehicle and use at home as well, with only one subscription. I'll never buy another vehicle with Satellite Radio or factory installed GPS.

Do you have a problem picking up a signal? We have a class C and I am concerned about the overhang blocking the signal.

[KNMIB]

Originally Posted by jrben

I use a portable (Stratus 7) which I mounted on the dash and plug into the aux port. The portable allows me to move the radio from vehicle to vehicle and use at home as well, with only one subscription. I'll never buy another vehicle with Satellite Radio or factory installed GPS.

Can you explain (Stratus 7). Where you get it and hook up etc.

[jrben]

Originally Posted by KNMIB

Can you explain (Stratus 7). Where you get it and hook up etc.

Stratus 7 is the model of the satellite radio receiver. I got it refurbished from Sirius, with a vehicle install kit, free with a one year subscription. I mounted the radio dock from the vehicle kit on the center section of the dash right over the in-dash radio, and I plug it into the aux port on the in-dash radio. I routed the cable through the dash and brought it out right next to the radio so that it stays plugged into the aux port all the time and the cable is hidden except for the plug. Currently for power I am just plugging it into the 12volt outlet, but eventually when I get around to it I will hard wire it, probably to the same circuit as the in-dash radio.

[rdm1465]

Originally Posted by pstandiford

Do you have a problem picking up a signal? We have a class C and I am concerned about the overhang blocking the signal.

If the overhang does affect the signal, then place your antenna on the leading edge of your dash. There is so much antenna wire you can place it just about anywhere you have a mind to.

[rbmartiniv]

Thanks for the info. I believe it's OK for now but will remember this.

[EA37TS]

FWIW

Here are a couple of pics of my installation. I mounted the radio closer to the passenger side that way the wife can change stations etc while driving. I do however have a remote for the radio which can be used for the same purpose.



Also, looking again, I remember I did the installation when I had the top of the dash removed and I ran the audio cable from the car mount to the audio input on the back of the Axxerra rather than plugging into the audio jack on the front.



As a note, the mount to the left (first pic) is for my Rand McNally GPS.

[rbmartiniv]

Thanks, Dave. I appreciate the help

[aa9zz]

Sorry, I have been on the road.

I got a free XM radio when I bought the attachment attached.

Accessories - Shop - SiriusXM Radio

It works great. I can use the XM tuner with auto base cradle in the Axis and then attach this speaker unit to the tuner and listen while under the awning, on the patio or anywhere else.

I bought an older unit and it was a little cheaper.

I have the XM Onyx EZ, a very inexpensive unit.

If you have any questions send an email and I'll help.

Phil