Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter and Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod
by Griffin Technology
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Category: Network Media Player
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: Griffin TechnologyBrand: Griffin Technology
Edition: Electronics
Audio: English (Original Language)
Format: CD-ROM
Release Date: 2005-11-04
Platform: Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition, Windows XP Professional
Model: 4030-ROAD
Color: White
Publisher: Griffin Technology
Studio: Griffin Technology
Music Label: Griffin Technology
Product features:
- Compatibility: iPod nano (1G only), iPod mini, iPod 3G, iPod 4G with click wheel, iPod color, iPod video
- Convenient one-piece transmitter and charger module uses any frequency from 87.7 to 107.9 MHz
- Backlit screen shows which frequency RoadTrip is currently broadcasting
- Transmitter can be removed and used with a Mac or PC computer
- Plugs into any auto power outlet or lighter adapter
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter and Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod
Customer Review: My complete review
Summary: 3 Stars
First, and foremost, we are talking about FM transmitters. Therefore, nothing will sound like CD sound or direct cable connections when it comes to music quality. You will lose some highs, and you will lose some lows, and you will have nowhere near great quality. That being said, sometimes there are no alternatives, and some transmitters can get the job done. In addition, I have owned and tested all of the following transmitters, to which I will review for you now to save you the time and money. A note: I have 2 vehicles, a SUV and a Saturn.
First up: Belkin Tunebase
I bought this after my Roadtrip base was stolen with my iPod, and I thought I would try an alternative. I liked the flexible connector in my SUV to allow reaching of all controls. However, it was disastrous in my Saturn, only preferring 1 position - lying down. It is a pain to control the iPod when driving in either vehicle, as the flexible arm gave too much in order to advance unwanted songs or control the iPod in general. Although a wider range of highs and lows was evident, the strength of output of this device is way too low; easily outcompted by either of the following transmitters. In the SUV, it is very good at broadcasting and being received by the radio. However, in the Saturn, it was an absolute disaster. I am transmitting on a completely free channel, and in my Saturn I got feedback from the background radio hiss! I even had the hiss increase in tune with the windshield wipers! How awful. This is not a bad transmitter in a larger vehicle, like my SUV, but in a small vehicle, you don't want to risk it. Finally, you can't disconnect the transmitter like the Griffin items. So, it's use in your car, or don't use at all. Although you rarely need to use it outside of your car, the other two below are the same price or cheaper, so you're already paying for it. Avoid this item.
Next - Griffin Roadtrip
Although this comes with an extension, the fixed location of the holder interferes with many of the car controls, even with the extension. However, the transmission is much better and can even be picked up in nearby cars at clear enough reception. I again had trouble making turns in the Saturn, as the roadtrip does slip around; but not nearly as bad as the Belkin. The transmission is good, but not great; as you do need to find a completely clean frequency in order to get a good reception. Finally, controlling the iPod is easy, as the adapter is a sturdy adapter and holds the iPod quite well. It got the job done in both cars, but didn't exactly knock my socks off.
Finally - Griffin iTrip
The best of the bunch. I doubt the transmission is greater than the griffin Roadtrip; based on the fact it runs off of the iPod, but it doesn't matter. You can move your iPod into position to be right under your antenna and get fantastic reception. In addition, because it doesn't need to be connected to the lighter, there is no interferce with the controls of the car and the iPod is easy to control. Finally, purchase this with the Powerjolt and you've spent the same as either of the above and can charge your iPod at the same time; except with a cable to keep the iPod clear of auto controls. I was expecting very little from this tiny device, but I am quite pleased. The only drawback is that, since there is no holder, there really is no secure place to put your iPod; as it will slide all over the dash. Putting it near the controls of the car (like in the center compartment area) obviously takes away its advantage over the Roadtrip. However, some velcro backing to it or sticky tape should afix it to the dash temporarily and you can remove it when you leave the car. But then you have tape on the back of your iPod....so..... Well, it still is the best choice, as the transmission is clearest because you can get it close to your antenna; and it is the only transmitter that worked well in my Saturn. In the SUV, all worked well.
More Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter and Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod reviews:
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Description of Griffin Technology 4030-ROAD RoadTrip FM Transmitter and Auto Charger and Cradle for iPod
RoadTrip Charcoal / FM Transmitter & Charger for iPod & iPod mini The RoadTrip is a great FM transmitter and car charger for the iPod in the car but what makes RoadTrip truly unique is its removable transmitter module that can also broadcast music from a Mac or PC.Digital Cameras & Photo Categories
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