Belkin TuneBase FM Transmitter for iPod with Dock Connector (Black)
by Belkin
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List Price: Our Price: $74.49 You Save: $5.50 (7%) Availability: Usually ships in 2-3 business days Buy Used: from $5.99 (click here) Category: Network Media Player See more product details |
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Customers in the UK,
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for British Pounds
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Belkin TuneBase FM Transmitter for iPod with Dock Connector (Black)
Customer Review: Nicely Done; if you have to go FM, this is a good choice.
Summary: 4 Stars
The FM Transmitter solution is definitely inferior to having a direct connection between the iPod and the stereo (even a tape adapter, if your stereo has a cassette player, gives much better sound quality), but if you have to go this way, then the Belkin TuneBase is a good choice.
The best feature on this unit is the flexible neck. This is a very clever idea, and well-executed. It's relatively easy to position the iPod wherever you want it (nice for getting around odd console layouts and inconveniently placed power outlets), and it's very stable once positioned. I also like the way it uses the iPod screen to display the radio frequency and other settings. This is much more convenient (and safer!) than reading a tiny LCD screen.
I do have one complaint, however. It has an annoying habit of starting/resuming playback when I don't really want it to. When I dock my iPod, it starts playing. When I change the transmit frequency, it starts playing. When I change *any* setting, it starts playing when I want it to remain paused. This is annoying, especially when I'm trying to change the frequency while listening to a podcast. I would prefer that the TuneBase just stick to charging the iPod and transmitting and controlling the FM signal, and let me decide when to pause or play.
Still, it's a good product and I'm happy with it (at least, until I can find a way to get direct auxiliary audio input into my stereo).
Customer Review: As good as it gets
Summary: 4 Stars
This is an excellent FM tuner solution. Unlike other FM tuners I have used, the frequencies you can use are not preset and can be reset on the fly. In addition, the Tunebase charges your battery while the iPod is in use.
There are drawbacks to keep in mind: like all FM tuners, you will hear static if you are getting signal interference. This is going to be an issue if you tend to drive in areas with heavy airwaves. This was a problem I had with previous solutions but is less of an issue since the frequencies are not hardcoded into the device and can be reset manually. It can be a little work to find a clean frequency, but that's just the nature of FM tuners.
I had originally considered finding some direct input solution for my iPod but found that it would be impractical for my car as far as the investment of dollars and work went. Seeing as how my car is about three years old, most solutions involve either replacing the stereo or actually going in and messing with the wiring in my car. I got the Tunebase as an interim solution but I am so satisfied with it I think I'm just going to use it for as long as I have this car.
Customer Review: The best one I tried ...
Summary: 4 Stars
After my crappy factory car CD changer broke, I needed an iTrip. I had a road trip ahead and couldn't bear it without music. First, I tried the original iTrip ... terrible. I tried another Belkin model, a cheaper version of the TuneBase much like the little iTrip ... no good again. Totally ticked and dismayed, I splurged on the TuneBase at my local Target. It worked (and works) very well ... well, it actually works. I have had one issue that I will warn you about the TuneBase ... it's an idiosyncracy really.
After using my iPod in the grocery store, I came back out to my car, plugged my iPod into the TuneBase and nothing ... The charger light was on so I knew it was working, but no music from the iPod. Here is what I deduced:
* Your iPod must be totally off ... as if it needs rebooting before going back into the TuneBase. But it works after that.
As I said, as far as other FM transmitters go, this is the most sturdy and sounds the best. And on a 6-hour road trip, I only had to change the station once b/c of slight static cutting in.
Customer Review: This is it!
Summary: 4 Stars
This is solution for your traveling iPod! The unit includes adapters for many different iPod models. It also includes fitting to ensure a snug fit into your 12-volt car power adapter. The fit is tight enough that the plug will not rotate with the weight of the iPod.
Sound quality is great. It holds your iPod quite securely. You can position your player where it is most convenient and visible!
I have two complaints:
1. As high volume, you can hear the electronic whine of the charger. This is unavoidable but less at lower frequencies. It may not be noticeable with some music but I am an audio-book listener so I can hear it.
2. The controls are little limiting and awkward. Adjusting the transmit volume, which you admittedly do only once, is quite awkward requiring you hold the unit, hold two buttons down while pressing a third. However, selecting a different station is very easy and one-handed.
Overall, I am quite please with this and recommend it.
Customer Review: It's ok, if you have realistic expectations
Summary: 4 Stars
I've read that this device works exactly as you would be listening to a radio station. That's right. I would add that when you are passing nearby huge electric cables, a little static can be heard but it is acceptable overall.
The flexibility is also as good as i wouldn't expect from a Belkin device (This is is not what I would call the brand of my dreams). The different adapters are so convenient that one coworker was tempted to try out my base with his nano (Too bad he didn't bring it to office)
I recommend this transmitter strongly...Your Ipod will thank you for finding the perfect match for making your trips as good as you weren't driving (Flying or walking or whatever you could do) but with the advantage that it also charges your Ipod...it's almost perfect!!!
For the next generation of tunebases I would expect improved transmission/reception capabilities plus a more rigid neck.
The memory is also adequate to me...