iPod sound quality Aux input vs FM transmitter
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: 05-03-2006
Posts: 882
From: Newfoundland, Canada
iPod sound quality Aux input vs FM transmitter
I use my ipod though the aux cable connected to the radio. Quite by accident, looking for a useful mount for the HHR, I tested an FM transmitter and I found that with the volume set the same on the radio and iPod, the transmitter was significantly louder than the signal through the Aux input. FYI I have a variety of cable lengths (6 feet, one about 2 feet and one less than one foot) and irresepctive of cable length the volume is much lower than with the FM transmitter.
Have others noticed this? I am curious if this is typical or maybe an issue with my aux input.
Have others noticed this? I am curious if this is typical or maybe an issue with my aux input.
Senior Member
Joined: 10-19-2005
Posts: 20,687
From: Miami
Originally Posted by nfboy
I am curious if this is typical or maybe an issue with my aux input.
Senior Member
Joined: 01-13-2006
Posts: 1,059
From: Tucson, AZ
I have used both and with the FM mod I got a LOT of static in the music. Felt like listening to the radio and NOT a CD. I use a cable to the aux input. Sounds no different to me than putting on a decent set of earphones. I have used the setup like above and have also used the iTrip FM mod. Both suck IMO. Use the cable. Its cheaper than the modulator too!
Senior Member
Joined: 04-19-2006
Posts: 417
From: Gallatin, TN
Yea, the static was a big drag for me as well, But in my work truck, it is
the only option. For the truck I use the DLO FM thingie. I may be able
to find and post pics later. It is a really good device, and actually works
very well. (Except for the static.)
In our HHR, the cable from the Belkin still produces a better signal to the head unit than the headphone jack. It is the same signal you would use for your home stereo system.
As has been said many times before, "To each his own!"
BTW, in my area, the static is pretty bad, as there really are no "FREE or OPEN" FM points anymore. And the radio stations simply override the FM signal from the the FM transmitter.
the only option. For the truck I use the DLO FM thingie. I may be able
to find and post pics later. It is a really good device, and actually works
very well. (Except for the static.)
In our HHR, the cable from the Belkin still produces a better signal to the head unit than the headphone jack. It is the same signal you would use for your home stereo system.
As has been said many times before, "To each his own!"
BTW, in my area, the static is pretty bad, as there really are no "FREE or OPEN" FM points anymore. And the radio stations simply override the FM signal from the the FM transmitter.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: 05-03-2006
Posts: 882
From: Newfoundland, Canada
Now, what are you guys using as a cradle to hold the iPod and where have you placed them on the dash?
Last edited by nfboy; Jan 1, 2007 at 10:33 AM.
Senior Member
Joined: 09-01-2006
Posts: 2,178
From: Aurora, Illinois
Belkin
I have the Belkin 3.5mm cord, which is the same one that is pictured on chevrolet.com...I find that I have to max out the volume on the IPOD, but like 1BadPig I have an issue of finding a frequency in my area that is free of interference, so the FM transmitter is useless to me...
I would like to look into the new 'Personal Audio Link' from GM though, my dad is the parts manager at a GM dealer & supposedly you will be able to control your iPod directly through the radio, even see the names of the songs on the screen and change songs by using the steering wheel controls...sounds SWEET...
I would like to look into the new 'Personal Audio Link' from GM though, my dad is the parts manager at a GM dealer & supposedly you will be able to control your iPod directly through the radio, even see the names of the songs on the screen and change songs by using the steering wheel controls...sounds SWEET...