Does anybody know if the dealer install kit for the satellite radio is available for the '04's yet? Has anyone seen the installation? Where do they put the satellite antenna? Are there any wires showing from the satellite antenna? Is is only Sirius satellite that is available or is XM available too?

I don't think the kit is available yet. It is Sirius only.

I hope there will be some sort of anouncement when it is available.

kit "should" be around by february. work with the new e, s and sl's or so i am told. retail looks to be around 800.00 and will be totally integrated into your factory head unit.

That's what it seem like to me. There's already a button on the head unit marked "SAT". I hope they don't have to tear up half the interior to do the install. Do you think this is the type of job the dealer's svc department would do, or would they sub it out to a local car audio shop with more audio/interior experience?

They'll do it themselves. They won't pass up the opprotunity to overcharge you on the labor. They will have more experience installing a Mercedes specific satellite reciever and connection it to your COMAND than any shop will.