If a merger between XM and Sirius is approved, listeners will have the option to choose stations from both companies, the firms announced Monday.
In a reply to the Federal Communications Commission, which is considering whether to approve a union of D.C.-based XM and New York-based Sirius, the companies outlined how the pricing structure will work for the combined firm.
One option listeners will have is to choose 50 channels for $6.99 per month, compared with the standard subscription rate of $12.95 per month. Additional channels would cost 25 cents each per month. A similarly structured 100-channel offering will cost $14.99 per month. Customers who wish to use the a la carte option, however, will have to buy new radios.
If consumers want to choose from both XM and Sirius programming, however, a “Best of Both” programmingoption will cost $16.99 per month and will be available through existing equipment.
The D.C.-based National Association of Broadcasters, one of the most vocal opponents of the merger, criticized the need to purchase new radios for the a la carte programming. The group opposes the merger, asserting it will create a monopoly.
“Policy-makers should not be hoodwinked by today’s announcement, since nothing is stopping either XM or Sirius from individually offering consumers a more affordable choice,” NAB said in a statement Monday.
