Finally a FM modulator that works great.

[RS1001]

:laugh2::laugh2::laugh2: iSimple IS77 Fm Modulator

I finally found a device that I connect to the radio antenna and choose a channel and get crystal clear reception. It does this by cutting off the exterior antenna signal and uses the iphone signal instead. I had my reservations on this device but it works great. The sound is amazing and I do NOT loose any signal or get any interference. You can find it at Newegg.com or BestBuy.com

This a fm modulator not a FM transmitter and can be used in any car that a radio adapter doesn't work. such as 2003 trailblazer.

Follow this link to Install instructions PDF- towards the bottem of the page.
http://www.discountcarstereo.com/detail.aspx?ID=1323

[Ramesh]

Do you have some install pics, or pics of the product? This looks like something I've been looking for.

[RS1001]

Just follow the link in the original post. All I did was run the antenna into the modulator and then out to the radio. Then attached the + and - wires to power and ground source. then ran the iPhone connector to my iphone. really easy to do. if you feel uncomfortable installing yourself, Bestbuy will do it for 49.99

[Ramesh]

Just follow the link in the original post. All I did was run the antenna into the modulator and then out to the radio. Then attached the + and - wires to power and ground source. then ran the iPhone connector to my iphone. really easy to do. if you feel uncomfortable installing yourself, Bestbuy will do it for 49.99

I followed the link, but it didn't satisfy me. :) I've installed stereos and amps since I was 16, so I'm pretty comfortable with this stuff.

Thanks for sharing. I'll probably end up with a DICE unit, since it has more features and I have a screen I can take advantage of.

[styfle]

I'm still confused about what this is. Does it just add AUX to your stereo?

[RS1001]

here is the install instructions site. it is not that hard to install.
http://www.peripheralelectronics.com/pdfs/IS77_web.pdf

[JimMayor007]

Installation looks simple

[RS1001]

I followed the link, but it didn't satisfy me. :) I've installed stereos and amps since I was 16, so I'm pretty comfortable with this stuff.

Thanks for sharing. I'll probably end up with a DICE unit, since it has more features and I have a screen I can take advantage of.
I looked at the DICE unit. It seems nice that you get your music selection on your RDS radio BUT the big difference I see with the DICE unit and the Isimple unit is that the iSimple unit has a switch that cuts your exterior antenna reception. you turn the switch on and all the reception from the factory antenna is gone and now the only reception is from the FM modulator tha is connected to your iphone. This is what makes this unit work so well, no static, just clear reception.

[Ramesh]

I looked at the DICE unit. It seems nice that you get your music selection on your RDS radio BUT the big difference I see with the DICE unit and the Isimple unit is that the iSimple unit has a switch that cuts your exterior antenna reception. you turn the switch on and all the reception from the factory antenna is gone and now the only reception is from the FM modulator tha is connected to your iphone. This is what makes this unit work so well, no static, just clear reception.

It's the same thing. It's a direct connection as well, and there's no "switch" to flick. I just switch over to cd changer, and access the menu via my screen or steering wheel.

Cutting off the radio antenna is irrelevant when comparing the two.

[RPMSTL]

RS1001, looking for a favor.

Could you see if someone with a 3GS can successfully connect to the IS77? I talked to their rep and he said they have not tested the new phone. The batteries are different and require slightly different voltage when charging.

I have connnected my S to some other aftermarket ipod charger with no success. The phone appears to be fine at first but then starts beeping loudly signaling an improper connection.

[RS1001]

I tested with a 3GS and it works fine. Both the 3G and the 3GS connect and play and charge without any problems or error messages.

The phones appear to be fine and DOES NOT start beeping loudly signaling an improper connection.

[RPMSTL]

Thanks for the help!

Ordered my IS77 from Newegg- should have it installed this week.

[Europa]

I don't get it. Why would you want to install something that's going to use FM (subpar sound quality)? I mean if you're going to go to the trouble of installing something, why not just install a head unit with a USB input?

[RS1001]

My 2003 Trailblazer is a perfect example. Low mileage truck that is not worth trading in and can not be updated with a add-on. Why should I spend 400+ upgrading to a headunit with all the tricks when i have a Bose system and OnStar already. Yes it is true it has no CD clarity but it is darn good. The FM transmitters have too much static to enjoy the music, but these modulators are a quick inexspensive solution for the same cost of a FM transmitter. I can testify that having mine installed for a week and I have not had any static and the music is really clear. Much better than the radio in my Mercedes. I was also thinking of putting a FM modulator in my boat.

And that is why you want to install something that's going to use FM and not just install a head unit with a USB input?

[Ramesh]

$400 for a headunit? Holy crap, man. That's an expensive headunit. You can get a VERY nice headunit for around $200 that's feature laden. But it's about what you want, and what you want to spend. When I was into installs and custom stereos, I wouldn't blink at $200 for a new headunit... now... not so much.

[ZipZap]

This is not a FM mod/Transmitter

[RS1001]

it is too a FM Modulator

[RPMSTL]

I have been using a wired FM modulator for my Sirius unit for a couple of years - the sound is very decent and never had a static/noise issue.

That is why I am installing another one for the iphone. I too have an older vehicle that I do not want to change the factory 6 disc in-dash unit.

I plan on adding a couple of 'Y' adapters and installing the iphone cable and the 3mm plug for my sirius unit. As long as both are not 'on' at the same time - it should work.

[styfle]

So can someone explain how this is different than an FM transmitter? I'm still completely lost how this is better/different than an FM transmitter or just AUX into a stereo.
Thanks

[RPMSTL]

Aux in would be a great option. This product is for head units or factory radios with no possible other connections. Units without satellite radio connections or separate cd changers have no other options to connect modern devices such as .mp3 players, smart phones, gps, etc.

A FM transmitter simply puts out a signal hopefully stronger than the weakest local radio station. The stronger signal wins the battle and you can hear your device. As you drive around town or the country, the radio stations change and you have to change the frequency you are using.

A FM modular is a wired connection that goes between the antenna and the head unit. Once the frequency is established, that channel gets its feed from the modulator not the antenna. The antenna is cut off from the selected frequency.

With a modulator, you can pick the strongest station (frequency) in town and it will still work the same.

[RPMSTL]

Installed the IS77 today. Works great.

Charges the 3GS just fine as expected. Sounds very nice as well.

I used 2 'Y' adapters and hooked up the ipod cable and the 3mm stereo jack. Works perfect.

I can charge the iphone while listening to an attached Sirius receiver but the volume is reduced since the modulator is 'listening' to both units at the same time.
Once the phone is disconnected or the Sirius unit turned off, the correct sound levels are restored.

It is nice driving around town charging my phone while streaming internet radio and listening thru the factory stereo. I tested Pandora and Slacker and neither one missed a beat on an hour long drive around St. Louis.

[toddyfraz]

Can one of you guys who've successfully installed this, please answer some questions for me? I read the instruction manual for this product, and it appears that you can only install either the 3.5mm or the Ipod cord, not both. I'd prefer to use the 3.5mm input, but would also like the ability for my iphone to charge/play simultaneously. It sounds like a couple of you guys used "Y Adapters" to be able to install both the 3.5 input & the Ipod cord.

1) Can you explain what this is, because there's only 1 set of RCA inputs on the unit, so how do you fit 2 "Y Adapters" to it?
2) Would there be any problems with connecting an iphone to both connections at once?
3) After updating my iphone's firmware to 3.1, I can no longer use a Kensington charger/aux input because it says it's not compatible anymore. Can anyone with a 3G/3Gs, who has updated their firmware, confirm if this product still charges for them?

Thank you very much!