Are FM Car Modulators MY Only Option?

| Monday, June 6, 2011
By James M. Boersma


Many people without auxiliary options in their cars use an FM modulator to play their favorite songs of their MP3 player. They do so because they believe that the FM modulator provides CD quality sound. Unfortunately, for those users that is simply not true. FM modulators actually convert the audio from your MP3 player into RF signals, which are then sent to the car's FM radio. So instead of CD quality sound, one ends up with FM radio quality sound.

In addition, once an FM modulator is installed, it becomes a permanent addition to one's car. For those people who are leasing, renting, or possibly considering selling their car one day this "binding" union may not seem like the best option.

But, are there any other quality alternatives out there?

The quickest and cheapest alternative would be to buy a cassette adapter - assuming your car has a tape deck. It is very simple to use and produces average sound quality. The performance can go south pretty quickly however, as these adapters are generally made pretty cheaply. If you're looking for a cheap fix then these will work fine, but beware that you may find yourself replacing them quite often.

A wireless FM modulator, also known as an FM transmitter, is your next option. Those aren't much better, right? A cheap transmitter will provide low quality audio and only be able to transmit a distance of 5 to 10 feet. They can also experience quite a bit of interference because of the weak signal strength.

So now that you know to avoid the cheap ones, let me explain the advantages of a high quality wireless FM transmitter. A quality transmitter has the transmission quality that will give you exceptional audio quality. You will be able to broadcast over large distances with static and interference free audio. The most important thing that separates a transmitter from a modulator is that a transmitter is a portable device. So unlike a modulator a transmitter can be transported from place to place which allows you to be in control of your music no matter where you are.

A quality FM transmitter will also provide the following additional benefits:

1. Installation and setup is a breeze. No manuals or prior knowledge required.

2. Compatibility (it works with almost any audio source).

3. A quality FM transmitter is not constrained to just a few frequencies to transmit on. Quality units are able to transmit on the entire public FM band.

4. Many different controls and functions, including microphone compatibility, preset frequencies that allow you to easily switch between favorites, volume and mute control, manual on/off switch, automatic gain control, stereo and mono settings.

5. The transmitter is able to be powered in several different ways (e.g., USB, batteries, cigarette lighter and wall adapter)

6. Excellent audio quality with essentially no interference. The transmission power will allow you to broadcast to a distance of about 150 feet (close to the maximum allowed by the FCC).

The portability and versatility of a quality FM transmitter make it a better all around product when compared to an FM Car Modulator. The FM transmitter is extremely easy to use and can be used with virtually any audio source, in virtually any location. Conversely, the FM car modulator is only useful in one location. So if you want the freedom to broadcast your personal music wherever you are, my advice is to go with an FM transmitter.




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