FM Car Modulator Alternatives

| Tuesday, June 7, 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.

FM car modulators also have the disadvantage of being permanently installed into your vehicle. This means that if you are unhappy with the product or if it breaks, then you'll have to go through the hassle of uninstalling the modulator. A modulator may also not be the ideal choice if you are leasing a vehicle or plan to sell an older vehicle. So if you're looking for an alternative to an FM car modulator, it is important to know what your options are.

So let's take a look at the other options you have.

Your cheapest option is probably a cassette adapter. The adapter looks like your average cassette with a wire that connects to your MP3 player. You then simply insert the cassette end into your tape deck. The problem with these is that they are often very cheaply made and provide low quality sound. They may work fairly well for a month or so, but they will wear down very quickly. It's also very possible that the car you're currently driving doesn't have a tape deck, in which case the cassette adapter is not even an option.

The only other option than is an FM transmitter, which can be purchased for as little as $15 dollars at any retailer. Unfortunately, these cheap FM transmitters provide poor audio quality and pick up strong interference from outside sources.

It's important to note that there are high quality transmitters that vastly outperform most generic transmitters. High quality transmitters produce a very strong signal that will effectively cut out most, if not all, interference. The audio quality of a quality transmitter will be as good, if not better, than an FM car modulator.

An FM transmitter will also provide a consumer with the following benefits:

1. Essentially no installation or setup.

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

3. The ability to broadcast on any public FM radio band.

4. Stereo and mono settings, preset frequencies that allow you to easily switch between favorites, microphone compatibility, volume and mute control, manual on/off switch and automatic gain control.

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

6. Ability to transmit audio approximately 150 feet (near the maximum allowed by the FCC) - allowing for excellent sounding audio and essentially no interference.

When you factor in all of these advantages, an FM Car Modulator just can't compete with an FM transmitter. High quality FM transmitters will enable the user to control their music in a number of situations, without sacrificing their audio quality. In addition, because these devices are portable and so versatile, they provide the user with unlimited options. As a result, a high quality FM transmitter will provide a user with the most bang for their buck, making it an invaluable commodity as use increases.




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