marytara's Full Review: Digital Life Outfitters TransDock micro FM Transmi...
So, I had a horrible experience with the Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter dock. My husband, who had given me the iTrip as a gift decided to give me a different one in hopes that I would have better luck. Since he has been using the DLO Transpod he decided to get me a similar model. The one he selected for me is this DLO Transdock micro FM Transmitter for me to use with my iPod 2nd Gen. Nano 4GB.
What it does...
The DLO Transdock micro enables me to listen to music on my Nano through the FM radio of my Dodge caravan (the mom-mobile). Unlike the iTrip, this is a corded FM Transmitter. So, now I have one more thing plugged into the car lighter socket (I'm so glad I have one of those 1 to 4 type adaptors on it!). Plug it into the car socket and then plug the other end into the Dock of your iPod. I use mine with a Nano, though my husband initially helped me set it up and using his iPod Video. You set the transdock (which has an LCD screen on it) to an unused FM radio station and set your radio to match that station. Turn both your iPod and the radio on and enjoy your favorite music! Other neat features of the DLO Transdock include the fact that its a charger, and that the cable running between the actual transmitter box and your iPod can be removed from the dock and used 'on the fly' since its a USB cable.
What I like...
First and foremost, I like that this works! I really can listen to my iPod music in the car and not listen to static! Its interesting because my iTrip would only work on one very low frequency but my husband was able to help me set up this Transdock on a completely different frequency with no problems. The transdock can hold up to 4 preset stations so I may add a few more on if I run into interference on the one I'm using now which works great for local area driving.
I love that the Transdock is also a charger for my iPod. The iTrip, when it worked, sucked away my charge very quickly. Then, if I wanted to use my Nano when I was out (with earbuds) I couldn't, until I recharged it. The Transdock charges it as it goes so when I unplug its not drained. I can also just plug it in and use it as a car-charger (not listening to music). This eliminates me from carrying a separate car charging apparatus for my iPod. Plus, I couldn't have my Nano charged into both my charger and the iTrip at the same time - because they both require the iPod dock. I'm thrilled that the Transdock charges too.
Audio quality through the Transdock is to me quite similar to listening on the radio. I do notice on some of my music a small buzz in the background when I have it on lower volume settings. I believe this is a reflection of the quality of the specific MP3s that I have and not a reflection on the actual Transdock unit.
The Transdock can be used with any iPod that has a dock connector, which is pretty much all of them except for the 2nd generation shuffle (which I don't have). We can use my Transdock with my Nano or with my husband's iPod Video and not have to change any settings. (His Transpod transmitter requires an adaptor for him to put my Nano in .. another piece that I would lose if I had it).
I'll include that the Transdock supposedly came with a velcro mounting system so that we could mount the Nano onto my dashboard. We must have thrown this away with the packaging inadvertantly. However, I have no desire to stick velcro onto my Nano or in my car, so this becomes a non-issue for me.
My husband pointed out to me how clever and convenient it is that I can unplug the cable from the dock and use it 'on the fly' with my iPod. So, if I want to dock, charge or connect to iTunes when I'm away from home (for example, at a friend's house) I can do it easily and not have to take the cable that I have connected to my home computer with me. If I were to purchase an extra cable like this it would be around $20, but its included with my Transdock - so I don't need to buy an extra.
The Transdock retails for $69.99. My husband purchased it on sale (CompUSA is closing) for significantly less than retail. Still, I feel it is worth every penny and I'm so happy to be able to finally listen to my music in the car.
Broadcasts to any FM frequency in your car while charging your iPod Four assignable Presets let you jump to commonly used frequencies Removable charge...More at Amazon Marketplace
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