XM radio w/ 545s do I need a head unit or just an amp?

[Spottailkid]

To add XM radio can I just get an amp and let the Garmin 545s be the head unit?

[monomoy74]

Glad you asked this question, I was wondering the same thing over the weekend. It looks like some things contradict themselves too. Some literature says that the GXM31 doesn't get audio, others say that it does. Also, I'm not sure how or where the lineout from the 545 to the amp would be.

[bluewaterpirate]

The GXM31 feeds audio via two rca jacks that come as part of the pig tail cable that connects the GXM31 antenna to the 545 then to your radio. I've never tried connection thru an amp only a radio.



XM music functionalities ..... video

http://albums.phanfare.com/4892322/2...ageID=31019499

[monomoy74]

Interesting, it appears that the 545 operates as the XM tuner. This must mean that you can use any head unit that you like, even a boombox with RCA inputs? In other words, the head unit doesn't have to be "XM Ready" or whatever?

[The Business]

I was told that you get a hiss when you try and use the GXM31 for XM radio. Whether that's true or not, I can't tell you from experience. I went with a sirius unit to my clarion.

[brigbooth]

I have a 5212 with XM weather / audio, it plugs into the input of a stereo. Works great.

[bluewaterpirate]

Don't where you heard about the hiss but it's wrong. Got one on my boat and installed 14 to date. The audio quality is terrific whether you choose to go straight thru your radio or use an amp.

[ono loco]

I have a 545s and run straight to amp - works great. i also added an inline level control (volume) and mounted on the console for conveinence.

[JoeR2]

will similar setups work for the 540S as well?

[Spottailkid]

ono, why did you need level control? Doesnt 545s have volume?

[Spottailkid]

t

[Nickys Toy]

Do you guys that have the 545 like it and are the pre-loaded Bluecharts nicely detailed? I just bought one and it hasn't arrived yet, just curious.