I just had XM sat radio installed in my 04 430. (the small unit that clips onto your vent). I had it installed at Best Buy- they wired it through the radio. The installer told me he could not install an FM Modulator. I didn't really understand his explanation, something in regards to no place to either plug it in or something about the antenna. I have owned a 04 GS430 and an 05 ES330 - had modulators installed in those , by the same guy with no problems. Is he missing something or am I stuck with just ok reception??

 

I'm confused as to why you would want an FM modulator (which I assume re-broadcasts the XM output on an FM station that you then tune in with the radio) v. having the unit directly wired into your head unit (aside from the higher cost of wiring it in). Also, which radio do you have, base or Mark Levinson w/nav?

 

I have the mL with nav. it was a cost factor, but I think I made a mistake. Having said that I need to know if a modulator can be put in or do I need to start over or live with it?

 

I am also confused. How do you listen to XM now? Do you tune the FM radio to a certain channel or do you push the SAT button?

 

yes you find an FM frequency that is not being used and tune it in. Problem is without the modulator at times you get static. Taking the car back in tomorrow to see what they can do. may just have them take it out, pay the extra and get her hooked up through the nav.

 

OK so I think our terminology was confusing. The modulator is the part that makes the XM broadcast on an FM frequency. I think you are looking for one that goes in line from the FM antenna like this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16882586085
Your Best Buy store must have the type where the XM head broadcasts FM at very low power. So low that it is easily overcome by nearby FM broadcasts. The power on these units was recently lowered even more because neighboring cars were getting interference from these things.
If you are wanting the best digital audio that XM is capable of delivering your best bet is to buy a unit that wires directly into the ML radio thru the SAT button. Check this post for one of the units that will work: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...-05-ls430.html
There are others like this: http://www.vaistech.com/dev/sl2xD2.php that will let you use the ML presets and display right on your screen.
This has the tuner as part of the complete kit: http://www.vaistech.com/dev/sl2xD2-tkit.php

 

thanks- that's what I was looking for. Found a place that installs the soundlinq