iPhone FM transmitter [Archive]

pairof9s

09-17-2007, 07:55 AM

Are there any FM trasmitters made just for the iPhone that allow you to play your music through your car speakers? Or has anyone tried using the iPod ones with the iPhone? How does it work?

After having no luck w/ 4 other models, I finally found one that works yesterday. It's the DLO TransDock Micro (http://www.dlo.com/Products/Tdmicro_Prod.tpl?command=showpage&cart=11900289111160903). It performs as well as the FM transmitter I had for my iPod. And unlike the Griffin iTrip, it includes a charger to keep the phone fully juiced as you listen to it.

But of course, the big thing is that it does not require the Airplane Mode to be on. It will pop up the warning message (which I wish Apple would provide an override setting for) but you simply select "No" and it works w/out interference. After getting it, I traveled over 180 miles to 3 separate metropolitan areas and not once did I encounter phone feedback as I did quite clearly on the previous models. (see my post on those models (http://www.everythingiphone.com/forum/iphone-accessories/car-speaker-for-iphone-11111.html#post97918))

TomTomTuning

09-17-2007, 08:16 AM

ckphoto

09-20-2007, 07:12 AM

Does anyone know if the DLO TransDock the apple store sells will work. I need something to spend my credit on.

brdmsd

10-01-2007, 02:04 PM

Are there any FM trasmitters made just for the iPhone that allow you to play your music through your car speakers? Or has anyone tried using the iPod ones with the iPhone? How does it work?

The Apple Store,here in Phoenix,Az sold me a Kensington tramsmitter. It
works great. It charges and receives phone calls while playing without any problems. When it first starts up it will tell you it is not compatible, but if you select "no" with airplane mode, it works fine. You used to have to plug it in each time you started your car, but with the recent Iphone software upgrade
you no longer need to do this.

bstokes967

10-02-2007, 10:20 AM

Could you please state which Kennsington model you purchased?

Thanks

jaydoc1

10-02-2007, 05:27 PM

Does anyone know if the DLO TransDock the apple store sells will work. I need something to spend my credit on.

Have this for my iPod but tremendous interference with iPhone.

brdmsd

10-02-2007, 06:59 PM

Could you please state which Kennsington model you purchased?

Thanks

It's a Kensington model 33185 Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger

robby69

10-03-2007, 10:55 AM

It's a Kensington model 33185 Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger

Recommended EQ setting for best sound:
To fix the "broken sound" problem, you must go to your iPod's menu->setting->EQ, select "treble reducer" or "small speaker. And then adjust your car’s audio accordingly.

callatis

10-08-2007, 02:09 AM

After having no luck w/ 4 other models, I finally found one that works yesterday. It's the DLO TransDock Micro (http://www.dlo.com/Products/Tdmicro_Prod.tpl?command=showpage&cart=11900289111160903). It performs as well as the FM transmitter I had for my iPod. And unlike the Griffin iTrip, it includes a charger to keep the phone fully juiced as you listen to it.

But of course, the big thing is that it does not require the Airplane Mode to be on. It will pop up the warning message (which I wish Apple would provide an override setting for) but you simply select "No" and it works w/out interference. After getting it, I traveled over 180 miles to 3 separate metropolitan areas and not once did I encounter phone feedback as I did quite clearly on the previous models. (see my post on those models (http://www.everythingiphone.com/forum/iphone-accessories/car-speaker-for-iphone-11111.html#post97918))

---------------------------------------
I was so happy I saw this post. I went to DLO's web site and I ordered it right away. It took at least 10 days to come, but finally I got the much-desired package. I took it as soon as it arrived and tried it on. At first I thought I'm doing something wrong, but then I realized that it's what it's always going to sound like: with a strong background noise and about 50% of the normal volume of the radio. I hooked up my wife's Nano and the sound started resembling digital quality. I tried the iPhone thru the aux jack of the transmitter, and no difference from when going through the charger input. When I put a podcast on and I'm on a freeway, I can't even understand what they're saying. I tried it in my other car, and in different regions of the Bay Area and it made no difference. While I was trying to give it a chance, you know, "maybe it's me that I'm too picky", my wife rejected it right away - "you can't listen to anything with this", she said, and pulled it out immediately.

In conclusion, it's the iPhone that just doesn't work properly with this. I don't know how it's worked for you, really. It's a $60 charger, that's all, and it's going back to DLO. :frown:

callatis

10-08-2007, 02:17 AM

---------------------------------------
I was so happy I saw this post. I went to DLO's web site and I ordered it right away. It took at least 10 days to come, but finally I got the much-desired package. I took it as soon as it arrived and tried it on. At first I thought I'm doing something wrong, but then I realized that it's what it's always going to sound like: with a strong background noise and about 50% of the normal volume of the radio. I hooked up my wife's Nano and the sound started resembling digital quality. I tried the iPhone thru the aux jack of the transmitter, and no difference from when going through the charger input. When I put a podcast on and I'm on a freeway, I can't even understand what they're saying. I tried it in my other car, and in different regions of the Bay Area and it made no difference. While I was trying to give it a chance, you know, "maybe it's me that I'm too picky", my wife rejected it right away - "you can't listen to anything with this", she said, and pulled it out immediately.

In conclusion, it's the iPhone that just doesn't work properly with this. I don't know how it's worked for you, really. It's a $60 charger, that's all, and it's going back to DLO. :frown:

Seeing my bad luck with the DLO one, I went to RadioShack and I got a regular transmitter - i.e. one with normal audio 3.5 mm input, that is. I hooked up thru the headset adapter, of course. Sound was much stronger, almost as strong as a normal radio station, but so garbled that you can't tell what they're saying on the podcast even though the volume is so loud that you can hear from two cars away. I'm just about giving up on FM transmitter for my iPhone - I can't believe it, you spend $400 (poor guys that spent $600!) for something that does music, maps, stocks, telephone, PDA, and has a full browser, but you can't stream the darn thing to an FM transmitter - 5 years old technology. It's like having a car that only goes on freeways or something.

adiarora

10-08-2007, 06:47 AM

myblu is having both fm and bluetooth. it works fine with i pods. plz use it and tell...

jaydoc1

10-08-2007, 07:26 AM

I'm not sure there is ever going to be a good solution for this. The problem isn't the transmitters, it's the iPhone. Even my Samsung and Treo will cause feedback through computer speakers and my car stereo occasionally. The iPhone is just more pronounced. In my car with the iPhone in its holster I can pick it up a second before it rings or a text comes through because I can hear it start communicating with the tower on my car speakers before it starts ringing.
I'm afraid only putting it in airplane mode is what is going to make listening to it in a car acceptable.

callatis

10-08-2007, 12:10 PM

It seems I forgot to mention something EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: I'm only talking about my experience with my iPhone IN AIRPLANE MODE. As I mentioned earlier, the sound coming from both the DLO Transdock and the Monster is unusable. When I turn the airplane mode off, the sound doesn't really degrade any more, it's just some additional interferences that happen every once in a while when the phone communicates with the antennas. I know about the interference, but why the iPhone sounds so much worse than the iPod even with these off, beats me. I would be fine with the airplane mode on, at least in my commute car for my ride to work.

Bottom line is: if you care at least a bit about the quality of the music coming out of this setup, both FM transmitters are a toss-off. I'm afraid you'll have to wait for an "iPhone-certified" one - at least that's what I'm going to do.

pairof9s

10-08-2007, 05:04 PM

It seems I forgot to mention something EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: I'm only talking about my experience with my iPhone IN AIRPLANE MODE. ...Bottom line is: if you care at least a bit about the quality of the music coming out of this setup, both FM transmitters are a toss-off. I'm afraid you'll have to wait for an "iPhone-certified" one - at least that's what I'm going to do.

I have never had a problem w/ my iPhone and the DLO TransMicro playing music through my car stereo (3 weeks now). I had all the problems you mentioned w/ the other models I tried (TransDock, Belkin TuneBase, MacAlly FMCup), from interference to poor reception. But none of this exist(ed) when in Airplane Mode. Not sure where your issue is originating but I have yet to see a case of problems w/ Airplane Mode reception.

OBTW...the charger feature went out on my DLO TransMicro this weekend. Just when you think you've got one problem solved, here comes another. Back to Best Buy!!!!

ckphoto

10-08-2007, 05:55 PM

jaydoc1

10-08-2007, 07:04 PM

Well the point is sort of to be able to use this with the airplane mode off. That way I can still actually get phonecalls while listening. My DLO Transdock works great with the airplane mode on, but then of course I can't receive phonecalls. Again I'm not sure a transmitter can be developed that shields the iPhone signal enough to prevent the communication noise coming through the car speakers.

buttsecks

10-09-2007, 01:49 PM

my sister has the DLO fm transmitter that the OP posted. she uses it with her ipod and her iphone no problem. i have used it myself on many occasions. she drives me to my school sometimes (about an hour drive) down the jersey turnpike and i have my iphone hooked up and playing music the whole time with no problem. i have no complaints with this device and my sister has no problem with it either. just my expierence with it.

jaydoc1

10-09-2007, 05:12 PM

I have never had a problem w/ my iPhone and the DLO TransMicro playing music through my car stereo (3 weeks now). I had all the problems you mentioned w/ the other models I tried (TransDock, Belkin TuneBase, MacAlly FMCup), from interference to poor reception. But none of this exist(ed) when in Airplane Mode. Not sure where your issue is originating but I have yet to see a case of problems w/ Airplane Mode reception.

OBTW...the charger feature went out on my DLO TransMicro this weekend. Just when you think you've got one problem solved, here comes another. Back to Best Buy!!!!

Just realized I was mistaking you for another poster and that you ARE having good luck with the TransMicro still with the phone on. Gonna order one right away!

callatis

10-10-2007, 07:38 PM

Could any of the pleased DLO TransDock Micro owners be a bit more specific with "it works" - I'm trying to identify if there is a problem with my iPhone, I'm just too picky etc.

So what I'm trying to find out is if you get any background noise (especially if it's more when compared to an iPod or standard MP3 player through the AUX input), and if the volume is comparable with a regular radio station's. Again, mine is about 50-70% as loud, and there's about 20% background noise (these are estimates, of course).

Threeblade

10-11-2007, 11:07 AM

In my truck I used the Dlo transdock micro. I found it to have a lot of static when I used the fm transmitter to stereo. Here is how I am useing it now.

Alpine deck .....ai-net rca cable..... dlo aux out.

There is a aux in and out on the bottom of the dlo so I just bypass the fm transmitter part.

still had to much noise from the cig lighter power. I thought it needs better noise filter on its power supply.

So I unplugged the dlo and it still lets sound through but no charging. Witch works for me.

now I watch movies at lunch and all the sound comes through my stereo aux in with no static at all.

I would of just used the ai-net ipod controller but It did not have the ability to switch from albums to the movies part of the Iphone.

SoleAddict23

10-12-2007, 01:52 AM

is it safe to use the griffen iTrip on my iPhone?

serialliar

10-13-2007, 01:15 PM

I got the Kennsington in today from the Apple store because multiple people said they had good luck with it. I drove 40 miles to work through North West Jersey and got mild interference (low static noise) twice that lasted about 10 seconds max. I am at this point very happy with the unit and if anything changes I will be sure to post. FYI I did not use airplane mode

I also have the Kensington Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger and it did not appear to charge my iphone at ALL, I had it plugged in for 40mins and the battery symbol was still red! I did not put it in airplane mode, what am i doing wrong?!?!

ckphoto

10-13-2007, 04:50 PM

I also have the Kensington Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger and it did not appear to charge my iphone at ALL, I had it plugged in for 40mins and the battery symbol was still red! I did not put it in airplane mode, what am i doing wrong?!?!

Mine is definitely getting a charge I have been using it everyday since I got it and have not plugged it in anywhere except in the car and have almost a full charge now. When you plug your phone in hit NO to airplane mode then put the phone to sleep by pushing the top button then wake it up and see if it shows the normal charging screen. If it does not then you are not getting a charge and I don't know the answer except maybe your adapter is no good and I would try an exchange. And to anyone looking I am a full week now with about 1 1/2 of day in the car playing music and I am very happy I rarely get any static and if I do it is low and short lived.

jsh

10-14-2007, 06:01 AM

hawkmankt

10-15-2007, 03:26 AM

it works pretty good. Of course it works better (sans interference) with the iPhone in Airplane mode, but it will work in regular mode too if you can deal with the annoying loud interference blast every few minutes.

This adapter is only about $40 @ Target (and many other places) and the audio is pretty kick butt through it.

So far, I've been completely unable to find anything iPhone compatible. Way to go Apple. I love the iPhone, but it might have made sense to wait just a tad until someone had developed some accessories (speakers, docks, FM transmitters) that will work with the device in normal mode.

Just my thoughts. I still love you guys though.:tounge:

Mike12000

10-22-2007, 11:26 AM

callatis

10-22-2007, 09:06 PM

After having no luck w/ 4 other models, I finally found one that works yesterday. It's the DLO TransDock Micro (http://www.dlo.com/Products/Tdmicro_Prod.tpl?command=showpage&cart=11900289111160903). It performs as well as the FM transmitter I had for my iPod. And unlike the Griffin iTrip, it includes a charger to keep the phone fully juiced as you listen to it.

But of course, the big thing is that it does not require the Airplane Mode to be on. It will pop up the warning message (which I wish Apple would provide an override setting for) but you simply select "No" and it works w/out interference. After getting it, I traveled over 180 miles to 3 separate metropolitan areas and not once did I encounter phone feedback as I did quite clearly on the previous models. (see my post on those models (http://www.everythingiphone.com/forum/iphone-accessories/car-speaker-for-iphone-11111.html#post97918))

As you can see from my other posts, I ordered the one you recommend here from dlo.com and I didn't have quite the best experience. Given that, I had to return it; while reading the slip they gave me as a "receipt" to get the return address, I couldn't help but notice: it said everythingiphone.com on it. So it only seems to me natural to find a recommendation for a DLO product on everythingiphone.com.

Another complaint about dlo.com (hopefully it won't get blocked): there's no information about the return policy, you have to call them. The lady I talked to was, even then, a little unsure about the deadline.

Last, but not least: after returning the FM transmitters listed below, I found one that gives you almost flawless quality: the Monster iCarPlay that is special for iPod (not the generic, 3.5mm one), and has three buttons for storing three stations that you can freely choose by navigating with the same three buttons. I couldn't find it on the monster site, and no, I don't work for Monster. That was actually by far the most expensive one - $100 + tax in Best Buy.

Another tip: lower your car's antenna when using the iPhone+FM transmitter - it will "muffle down" a little the other stations, and consequently their interference. I live and work around San Jose, so it's a metropolitan area - it's quite hard to find unused frequencies.

dawsonglitter

10-22-2007, 11:21 PM

Mine is definitely getting a charge I have been using it everyday since I got it and have not plugged it in anywhere except in the car and have almost a full charge now. When you plug your phone in hit NO to airplane mode then put the phone to sleep by pushing the top button then wake it up and see if it shows the normal charging screen. If it does not then you are not getting a charge and I don't know the answer except maybe your adapter is no good and I would try an exchange. And to anyone looking I am a full week now with about 1 1/2 of day in the car playing music and I am very happy I rarely get any static and if I do it is low and short lived.

I am glad that it works for some. I picked up a Kensington model at the Apple Store with a built in charger/fm transfmitter. It did not have the 3.5 jack, but just the inline transmitter/charger that plugged into the bottom of my phone and the other end to the cigarette lighter. Needless to say, my Iphone froze, then about 10 seconds later it rebooted and I watched as the battery drained dooowwwwnnnn...to nothing. Then it had absolutely no power at all, so I couldn't turn it on. I took back to the Apple store with the FM Transmitter, got a new phone and money back for the Kensington...which was btw, recommended by the Apple employee!! Go figure, maybe bad luck..either way, I'm waiting for an Apple approved FM Transmitter....right now I'm using the old cassette tape method...sounds great but for the humming of the cassette! Remember 8 tracks tapes!! no complaints..Iphone rocks

Mike12000

10-23-2007, 02:37 AM

I am glad that it works for some. I picked up a Kensington model at the Apple Store with a built in charger/fm transfmitter. It did not have the 3.5 jack, but just the inline transmitter/charger that plugged into the bottom of my phone and the other end to the cigarette lighter. Needless to say, my Iphone froze, then about 10 seconds later it rebooted and I watched as the battery drained dooowwwwnnnn...to nothing. Then it had absolutely no power at all, so I couldn't turn it on. I took back to the Apple store with the FM Transmitter, got a new phone and money back for the Kensington...which was btw, recommended by the Apple employee!! Go figure, maybe bad luck..either way, I'm waiting for an Apple approved FM Transmitter....right now I'm using the old cassette tape method...sounds great but for the humming of the cassette! Remember 8 tracks tapes!! no complaints..Iphone rocks

Please explain...how are you exactly are you using a cassette tape hookup. Are you plugging it into the headset jack???

Mike12000

10-25-2007, 02:19 AM

is it safe to use the griffen iTrip on my iPhone?

I bought one today, plugged it in and it worked for about five seconds and then more or less "fried" my phone. I don't want to go into the sordid details with what my phone is doing because it makes me sick. But it looks like I'll be sending my phone off to Apple for an out of warranty repair.

You have been warned!! Ugh.....

gomab2k4

10-29-2007, 12:32 AM

I bought a DLO TransDock micro this weekend at Best Buy. Even after following the instructions for the i-Phone on DLO's Support web pages, all I could get was dead air on my car stereo with music playing through the i-Phone's external speaker. In my wife's Honda Accord I couldn't plug it far enough into the power supply to even get power (probably because of the flip door covering the power supply). In any event, I didn't want to force it.

So, I will sadly be returning this in the next couple days and waiting for something more reliable to be developed. :(

I am in the same boat as you. I bought the DLO this weekend, and all I am getting is dead air. However, it works great with my daughter's ipod nano. Now, I did notice that some of the packages were blue, while others were black. I asked the people at Best Buy which was the newer DLOs, and they said the black...which is the one I brought. I wonder if the older ones work...

ckphoto

10-29-2007, 01:00 PM

The Kingston from the Apple store is still working great for me charges my phone plays my tunes and I can still make calls....

Flyingstar

10-29-2007, 06:41 PM

The Kingston from the Apple store is still working great for me charges my phone plays my tunes and I can still make calls....

When you make/receive calls does the audio come thru the cars speakers?

ckphoto

10-30-2007, 08:56 AM

When you make/receive calls does the audio come thru the cars speakers?

No but it rings through the speakers when I get a call which is odd that the ringer comes through but not the call

johnbinsc

10-31-2007, 12:52 PM

I also have the kensington 33185 and it works just fine with my iphone without putting it in airplane mode, music is clear and it charges the iphone. FWIW I live is a fairly rural area with plenty of open spectrum on the FM band.

I haven't received many calls while using it yet, so I can't comment on the usability for phone calls while still plugged in to the fm transmitter.

I do get the annoying message about incompatibility every time I plug it in.

kuhne

11-02-2007, 03:24 AM

Hey guys, I own the iTrip (the little small one that doesn't use a battery, instead it uses the ipod's battery to work)

I have an iphone, unlocked/jailbreaked/activated bla bla, with 1.1.1 and when I put on the i trip adapter it just tells me that it isn't designed for the iphone and that i should turn on airplane mode to avoid interference. When I do that, the transmiter works like a charm with my iphone.

Do you guys know if by using this device im puting my phone in any kind of danger? apart from the obvious setback that is less battery life while using the itrip, other than that, do you think there may be a problem using it? I don't see why there should be as using the phone in airplane mode is basicaly an ipodtouch...

any ideas?

up10ad

11-02-2007, 09:14 AM

is it safe to use the griffen iTrip on my iPhone?
Others have said differently but it works great on both mine and my wife's phone. For more details, see my post here (http://www.everythingiphone.com/forum/iphone-accessories/griffin-itrip-and-griffin-powerjolt-work-just-fine-5655.html#post135129)

johnny_junkmail

11-20-2007, 09:21 PM

has anyone tried these?

http://www.hdaccessory.com/servlet/Categories?category=iPhone%20Accessories:FM%20Tran smitters

i'm considering grabbing the $30 black one w/o the remote...i'm just praying is doesn't fry my iPhone. claims to work with iPhone though

flavius

12-09-2007, 07:30 PM

How did it go?

naren0410

12-12-2007, 03:11 AM

Can post website link of kensington 33185 ?

I also have the kensington 33185 and it works just fine with my iphone without putting it in airplane mode, music is clear and it charges the iphone. FWIW I live is a fairly rural area with plenty of open spectrum on the FM band.

I haven't received many calls while using it yet, so I can't comment on the usability for phone calls while still plugged in to the fm transmitter.

I do get the annoying message about incompatibility every time I plug it in.

Angel916

12-27-2007, 03:57 PM

You got further with it than I did...I followed the directions exactly and when I attempted to play the iPhone it only played through it's own speakers and recognized the DLO as a charge and nothing else, so like you, mine was returned as well!

---------------------------------------
I was so happy I saw this post. I went to DLO's web site and I ordered it right away. It took at least 10 days to come, but finally I got the much-desired package. I took it as soon as it arrived and tried it on. At first I thought I'm doing something wrong, but then I realized that it's what it's always going to sound like: with a strong background noise and about 50% of the normal volume of the radio. I hooked up my wife's Nano and the sound started resembling digital quality. I tried the iPhone thru the aux jack of the transmitter, and no difference from when going through the charger input. When I put a podcast on and I'm on a freeway, I can't even understand what they're saying. I tried it in my other car, and in different regions of the Bay Area and it made no difference. While I was trying to give it a chance, you know, "maybe it's me that I'm too picky", my wife rejected it right away - "you can't listen to anything with this", she said, and pulled it out immediately.

In conclusion, it's the iPhone that just doesn't work properly with this. I don't know how it's worked for you, really. It's a $60 charger, that's all, and it's going back to DLO. :frown:

nbg

12-28-2007, 06:00 AM

I have the DLO Transpodder (own 2 actually) and they work great in my area with ipods. Have a friend that has the belkin and used it with her iphone but quit when the phone became extremely hot. So since I just received an iphone for xmas from hubby, thought I would go to Apple store for a recommendation before trying. The sales rep told me that it is hit and miss with any of the fm transmitters mainly because the GSM network does NOT like the sharing the FM which sets up a conflict. I asked if he thought Apple would come out with something and he said probably not due to the conflict coming from the network not the hardware. So, one salespersons viewpoint. This is one feature that I will sorely miss.

Lord Odin

01-02-2008, 07:23 AM

has anyone tried these?

http://www.hdaccessory.com/servlet/Categories?category=iPhone%20Accessories:FM%20Tran smitters (http://www.hdaccessory.com/servlet/Categories?category=iPhone%20Accessories:FM%20Tran smitters)

i'm considering grabbing the $30 black one w/o the remote...i'm just praying is doesn't fry my iPhone. claims to work with iPhone though
I'm interested in something like this as well. Did you get it and if so, how did it work for you?

tcseacliff

01-05-2008, 09:10 PM

It's a Kensington model 33185 Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger

http://us.kensington.com/html/13876.html i read on some apple form ,this model works. it is $99. kensington told me their customers report it does work, but it is truly not an apple product(meaninf not endorsed) but they e-mailed me amnd told me despite that it does work.

Bngmhse

01-18-2008, 03:37 PM

I’ve noticed a lot of talk about interference while using the FM transmitters.
I have yet to buy a transmitter but am researching several options, a lot of new stuff that’s coming on the market.
I have been using the cassette adapter since I bought the phone from the start. I use the docking base that came with the phone, or any aftermarket dock with an earphone “headset” jack, and just plug it in there. Or, I bought one of the headset adapter plugs for the Iphone and plug it in there.
What I have discovered about the sound is this. I had to re-convert my music to only play at 50%-80% of original volume in my software. It was really distorted through the dock output since it is basically a Line Out Port, (no volume adjust from the Iphone)! I also lowered the bit rate to 128 kbps as not to take up as much room. Then, you need to go into “Settings/ipod/equalizer” and choose the sound you like best along with the settings of your radio!
As for Wifi, or Edge radio interference, be sure to turn off the auto email and browser options. If not, you will get radio noise every time it try’s to check email or try’s to browse. The only time I get interference noise now is right before I get a call!
Good luck, and hope this helps!

ZipZap

01-21-2008, 08:02 AM

The transmitters from HDAccessorty above are available at ebay for a lot less.

Lord Odin

01-21-2008, 08:40 AM

While browsing around, I found this transmitter by Pro Power: http://www.iphonegold.org/iphone-fm-transmitter-article-99.html It looks really similar to the Kensington model but is made for the iPhone. Has anyone tried one of these? I really want to get a transmitter but don't want to waste my time or money on something that doesn't work.

iPaul

01-21-2008, 10:07 AM

Hi, I posted this in a seperate thread a while back but got no replies - here goes again:

I am looking for some advice and a favor, I am looking to buy an in car FM transmitter/charger to use with my iphone. Here's my quandary: I actually have a OEM in-car iphone kit but I want to stream internet radio using the iRadio app. I had experimented with using ORB to stream stations on the go and it worked *until* one of the first updates when Apple included 'enhanced functionality' that has the ipod override any web audio as soon as it connects to the car. THANKS APPLE!!! I do have a AUX-in jack for audio as well, however I'll need to keep the phone charging as it drains quickly with the radio app. SO...before I go buy a seperate charger and aux cable and have all that clutter in my console, I am wondering if the available FM transmitters/chargers that plug into the lighter behave the same, or if they transmit audio no matter where it's coming from in the device?

Could any of you that have one of these confirm that by simply trying to play any audio from the web thru the transmitter, such as from seeqpod.com, an online hosted mp3 or thru iradio if you have it installed ?
THANKS IN ADVANCE!

shawkat

02-01-2008, 05:29 PM

I have FM Transmitter iTrip of GRIFFIN and it seems just working well , just when the iphone ask you to go to the Airplane mode select no and listen to your music

iPaul

02-01-2008, 06:16 PM

I have FM Transmitter iTrip of GRIFFIN and it seems just working well , just when the iphone ask you to go to the Airplane mode select no and listen to your music

So does it still work when you play an MP3 directly from the internet?

Mofomaniax

03-24-2008, 12:15 AM

I've used the DLO TransDock FM Transmitter before and it works great! I haven't experienced much or no static at all while driving here in Florida. There's some static within Downtown Orlando or in the Orlando area in general. All in all, it's a great FM Transmitter and I reccommend it. The only downfall is that if you have a case for your iPhone, you would need to take it out to be able to dock it.

minoba82

03-26-2008, 07:14 PM

I used this (http://www.amazon.com/Kensington-33199-Digital-Transmitter-Charger/dp/B000IT600W/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1206572718&sr=8-15) Kensington FM Transmitter. It worked great for the year or so that I used it. Had little to no static. I used it in Atlanta and SC and the sound quality was usually very clear. I've had at least a few friends ask me what brand it was after riding with me and hearing it. Unfortunately it looks like it's been discontinued and it's replacement isn't getting the best reviews. I'm sure you can still find it somewhere online.

cosmo420

03-30-2008, 08:31 AM

the only thing I don't like about these is that I cant go forward to the next song without double clicking my phone and pressing the forward icon while driving a car with a stick.
maybe I am asking too much I guess

styfle

03-31-2008, 11:55 PM

Well after much thought and reading everyone's post I decided to buy the TuneBase FM with ClearScan (http://catalog.belkin.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Product_Id=390447). Its a little expensive but I think worth it. I have been using it all day and it chargers my iphone and plays it clearly over the radio station of my choice (although there is a nifty button that searches for unused stations and only takes about 10 seconds to find one). It even has 2 different signal boosts called PRO and a AUX output if you want to use your tape adapter or any other speakers with the iphone.
It was around $80 at target.
Here's a pic of the box http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee92/styfle123/1207021245.jpg
Hope that helps

jmdharkness

04-02-2008, 11:42 AM

I got the kennsington auto kit today, the sound quality is the best ive had from the different fm transmitters ive tried, but the battery gets really hot, any one else having this issue?

styfle

04-02-2008, 06:45 PM

I got the kennsington auto kit today, the sound quality is the best ive had from the different fm transmitters ive tried, but the battery gets really hot, any one else having this issue?

well i do notice that my phone gets hot whenever its docked anywhere (the stock one for the computer, charging in the wall, or on the transmitter in my car)

it reminds me of my old phone when i was using 3g lol

joeglo

04-17-2008, 07:39 PM

There is a new TuneBase FM coming out some time this month that is compatible with the iPhone!!!!!!

http://www.belkin.com/pressroom/releases/uploads/01_07_08TuneBaseTuneCastiPhone.html

Flyingstar

04-17-2008, 08:53 PM

does not look like it has "phone functions" Bummer!

styfle

04-17-2008, 11:22 PM

i wont be impressed until it sends the convo through the speakers (which i hear is impossible)

tinameh

06-25-2008, 03:28 PM

The Apple Store,here in Phoenix,Az sold me a Kensington tramsmitter. It
works great. It charges and receives phone calls while playing without any problems. When it first starts up it will tell you it is not compatible, but if you select "no" with airplane mode, it works fine. You used to have to plug it in each time you started your car, but with the recent Iphone software upgrade
you no longer need to do this.

Hey, I bought the Kensington 33364 and it does not seem to work with my iPhone. Please could you tell me how to install it?

swampduck

11-11-2008, 06:35 PM

I just purchased this today from Best Buy http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8732794&st=belkin&type=product&id=1201307759251
It works like a charm. A little background...I have a 2005 Nissan Quest with the digital everything, except a way to connect your ipod/satellite...etc. The radio has a bad satellite connection so aftermarket solutions aren't viable for me. I have had a number of different transmitters for both my ipod and now my iphone. NONE of them worked worth a crap...I had given up until I read this thread, and decided to go look for a few of the suggetions given in this thread. I purchased what I thought was the same Belkin product that someone pictured here, but I now know it isn't the same one, but I don't care since this one works flawlessly. I have a delivery business, so I am in my car ALOT.

Quick Review

The first thing you notice is that their is no annoying screen asking if I want to go into airplane mode. The box clearly states it will work with the iphone...so far so good. It has 4 settings, standard, pro1, pro2, and pro spoken.

The first thing I found was the "Clearscan" doesn't work very well. It regularly picked stations that housed known local stations. Oh geez, figures....but wait! I tuned my radio to trusty 107.1 set the transmitter to the same, and the rest as they say, is history.

Standard - Exactly as it says. Works ok, I do get some static more times than not, but when it was clear it was ok. ok sound quality

Pro1 - This is simply a signal boost of some sort, the volume actually goes a little bit higher, and the sound becomes crisper, much better than standard. In between songs and on acoustic songs, there is a noticeable hiss in some areas. The hiss could be annoying enough to some people, but no static or feedback. Need to mention that this setting still transmits in stereo. Nice sound quality

Pro2 - Same as above, but x2, still transmits in stereo. The hiss is only noticeable between songs, and not all the time. Very nice sound quality. I used this for listening to music.

Pro Spoken - This mode according to the instructions is best for podcasts and audiobooks. They are correct. I listened to an audiobook for about an hour and a half, and there was no hiss, no feedback, no static. This is due to the fact this mode transmits in MONO only. More than acceptable for the spoken word.

for $90, this is the best option I have found, and I have looked at alot of options. I spend 3-4 hours a day in my car, and I can once again listen to my ipod/iphone and enjoy it.

ironman

11-19-2008, 11:18 AM

Hello everyone

I today got a new kensington fm transmitter but I am not able to listen to the songs using my iPhone cause I dont know if iam tuning to the right station. I do not see a display for the frequency im tuning at.

Could anyone help me to display the frequency on the iPhone display??????

It's a Kensington model 33185 Digital FM Transmitter/Auto Charger

swampduck

11-19-2008, 12:43 PM

the iphone doesn't have a transmitter. the transmitter you bought should plug into the bottom connector and have a tuner built into it. if you don't have a display on the transmitter, you probably got one that only tunes to 4 stations, and is probably going to be low quality. check out the ones talked about in this thread...read my above post, I still love mine, no issues

DJXP

12-12-2008, 09:42 PM

Flyingstar

12-25-2008, 12:41 PM

I have the Canada Drive Safe Complete, its really good, the clarity of the fM transmitter is clean and the handsfree is great, www.canadadrivesafe.com (http://www.canadadrivesafe.com)

Its the OEM brand, there are cheaper knock offs on eBay but those ones beep every 45 seconds where the Canada Drive Safe version doesnt beep.

M.

Please read my response to this under FM transmiter for 3g iphone. I am sending mine back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!................................................ .................................................. ...

DJXP

12-28-2008, 02:08 PM

Please read my response to this under FM transmiter for 3g iphone. I am sending mine back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!................................................ .................................................. ...

Youre obviously using it wrong. Plain and simple.

Flyingstar

12-28-2008, 02:11 PM

Youre obviously using it wrong. Plain and simple.

OH? and how am I using it "wrong?"

jabisfab

01-09-2009, 10:13 AM

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Belkin-TuneCast-Auto-iPod-iPhone/dp/B001ILDK6G/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1231513955&sr=8-6

spudgun

05-15-2009, 08:13 PM

Hi

I shopped around loads looking for a good all in one solution and if thats what you want you need a Griffin Itip Auto Pilot

http://www.griffintechnology.com/pro...itripautopilot (http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/itripautopilot)

Best place to get one is http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0010X7H4S (http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0010X7H4S) only £34.99

I had a std plug in Itrip on my Nano and this is so much better sounding, charges, has built in Fuse, FF/RW on Charger tip saves touching phone. Best feature is the auto tune to strongest frquancy.Stereo Broadcast and RDS mode to display tracks on compatible RDS Radio (not all car radios display all details. My Astra says just itrip my wifes Picasso scrolls)

All in all must but

Regards SPUDGUN55:laugh2: