I was wanting to know if you guys have an opinion on these two types of sony marine remotes. I am redoing my dash panel and the final thing I need to install in my new dash is a marine remote. If anyone has either of these remotes or one of a different brand that they do or don't like let me know. Their are not too many out their to choose from. I think at one time I read some bad things about the oval shaped Sony remote, but can't seem to remember what was actually said about it.

Second, I was wanting to know if any of you have XM stereos on your boats?? If so, what kind do you have and do you like it? Do you have to get the marine XM antenna (which is quite large) or can you use the very small auto type XM antennas??

I have found I like the looks of the Sirus Milennia XM system that boaterworld offers because the remote LCD panel is all white and very simple looking.

Let me know your opinions.

Thanks, Spencer

stay away from the sony round digital remote-I had lots of problem keeping it water proof-the oval shape works ok no problem with moisture- clarion makes a good remote- I have XM -great for boats (no skipping)You will need a marine antenna the one we use is made by antenna specialists www.sdarsantennas.com. There will alot more options after the CES show in vegas with satellite radio (XM and Sirius)

XM in the boat is great. I am using a small Terk antenna (car) under my helm. XM signal shoots through FG no problem.

Do not buy the Sony remote. It can NOT withstand water. (even says so in manual)
Get the remote on the left. Works great!

I have Sony radio that is XM ready and just had to add the satellight box. That way every command (incl XM) can be done through remote control.

I have two of the round Sony remotes in my boat, one mounted on the dash and one mounted on the transom. I have only had them since June of this year, but so far have not had any issues with them.

here's another antenna link.

http://boatantenna.com/index.html

Thanks for the replys guys, but after reading BILLR response, it sounds like you do not have to use the marine antenna to receive XM stations, you can use the auto type antenna in the helm?? That is great if true, I really did not want to mount that massive white rod on my Excalibur!!!

I have the Round sony remote, Had it for 2 years mounted on my dash, no problems. But then again I keep the dash pretty dry. I like it because I think it looks better and also it tells me what radio station or disc in the changer I am on. Plus at night it lights up very nice.

I installed the access tech remote on the left this past summer. No problems at all with it, but I never really got it completely wet. I've seen them installed on a few boats at boat shows and I know Black Thunder uses them. I found it cheap at www.saltyswarehouse.com. I also got 6.5" kicker speakers from them and they rock.