How do I buy subscription for Sirius satellite radio?

I am buying my husband a Sirius radio for Christmas and I don't understand how you buy a subscription without having to activate it. Can't you just pay for the subscription and then activate it when you actually get the satellite radio? I don't want to activate the subscription until he is able to hook it up and listen to it? I'm confused, please help.

Yes, you can buy a subscription and activate it later. I have had Sirius for almost 2 years, (received it as a Christmas gift as well) and that is how I did it. And, sorry Duh, but there is no "premium" charge for Howard Stern or any other channels. You're monthly fee covers everything.

You're confused? I'm bamboozled ;<)

Not to be rude, but why are you asking this here? Sirius has a perfectly good website, with perfectly good tech support and sales reps and I'll bet they can even answer this mangled question.

Basically, yes. You can buy the receiver (the radio), then call in on December 24 and activate it. Then he can go straight from the tree to the car or bedroom or wherever and listen to Sirius. But have you considered his preferences? Especially when it comes to sports? And especially since the two could essentially be one by the time Christmas rolls around?

There are big differences in sports packges. Music is pretty much the same. Comedy on XM is far superior. Howard Stern (if he's a fan) is available only on Sirius for the time being (and at a premium) - but that could change pretty quick. Baseball's on one, football on the other.

XM and Sirius are merging. Most of the channels from both will be available at differing package prices. You might consider a card with an enclosed note saying this is good for one subscription and the receiver of his choice (valued at $XXX or less) to either XM or Sirius. Then let him decide which is best for his needs.

Don't mind my grouchiness, I just fed the family a turkey dinner including 4 grandkids. Well, wait, I didn't feed the grandkids along with the turkey... Ah jeez, I think you get the picture.
-a guy named duh

EDIT: My bad on the Howard surcharge. I'm an XM guy and got my facts wrong on that item, thanks for politely setting me straight. I stand by the remainder of my answer.

You have to pay activation free of $15.00 and you will have to pay subscription at 12.95 a month or sign up for a yearly account. You can use gift cards and credit cards for programming.

My husband bought me an XM radio last year and all he did was buy the reciever. When I opened it I immediately called and hooked it up - it took about 5 mins. You can also set it up online, which would be the best option on Christmas Day. Since we have joint accounts it didn't really matter who paid for it. So if you guys have joint accounts let him activate it - you got him the receiver, thats the gift :)

But if this doesn't work for you just call Sirius and see of you can do that. If its like XM you can prepay for up to 3 years if you want.