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iPod Nano 4G Wireless Car Connection: A Buyers Guide
Your 4G iPod Nano and the Vehicle
Using your iPod nano 4G in the car needs a small matter of a connection. Most states make it illegal to listen to your favorite iPod using headphones while driving, so there must be another way, the good news is that there are several.
Options for connecting your iPod nano 4G in the Car
Directly connecting your iPod to your car's stereo via the dock connector or headphone jack to an input (thats a hole to the rest of us) in the vehicle's stereo provides the best sound. You can also use a cassette adapter: but the sound is not as good, and cassette's are disappearing fast from new car stereos.
So many people are interested in a FM transmitters: units which turn your iPod nano 4G into a short-range FM radio station: broadcasting to your car's FM radio. The problem though can be that the FM transmitter has to fight to be heard above the noise of the local radio stations. This explains what can be a static-filled experience with FM transmitters in your car.
As in a lot of life you get what you pay for with FM transmitters. FM Transmitters range in price from $20 to around $100. Lets look at what you get for your money.
Key Features of FM Transmitter for your iPod nano 4G
At the cheaper end of the price spectrum the basic models consist of a flimsy-looking, AAA battery powered box that broadcasts to only a few frequencies. They don't offer any way to charge your iPod nano, so either charge it first or remember to have the separate charger to the cigarette lighter.
Also if you don't have a cradle for your iPod make sure you at least buy a protective case for your iPod nano - to protect its good looks!
A FM transmitter which broadcasters on a wider range of frequencies will give you a better chance of avoiding conflicts with the local radio stations: especially in cities.
Although stereo is best for sound quality a unit which gives you the option of a mono signal may give you the best chance of clear reception.
A transmitter unit which connects to the iPod's better quality dock-connector port should give a better sound quality.
Storing of preset frequencies is a common and can be useful if you know certain stations are too loud in certain areas you drive. This can make for safer channel-surfing if you drive alone.
Ability to use the 12V cigarette lighter for power for both the FM unit and the iPod itself.
How to Shop on eBay
Shopping on eBay is easy and safe and can often save you a lot of money. If you click on any of the items featured in this hub you will be taken to eBay, the world's largest online auction house. If the item isn't quite what you want just do a search on eBay there are quite literally thousands of iPod nano accessories to choose from.
You need to be registered to bid or buy an item on eBay: click here to register
Most items on eBay are for auction so you have to wait until the closing time to know whether you have won the auction. A good alternative for cheap items, under $10 or $20 is to use the "buy it now" button which is often present: you buy it right now - no waiting! Choosing a local supplier should see your item arrive by mail in a day or so.
This is another HubMob Hub
iPod nano Reviews
- Macworld | Apple, Mac, iPod and iPhone News, Reviews, Help and Tips
Up to the minute news, reviews, how-to's and expert opinions on mac computers and software, iPhones and iPods. - iPod Nano Review - Gizmodo Australia
Apple's decision to transition from the fat third-generation iPod nano to the new svelte fourth-generation iPod nano - Apple iPod Nano (4th generation) : Reviews - Hardware - Lifestyle - ZDNet Australia
Apple has set the Nano back on track with the thinnest, lightest design yet, and has features that are hard to ignore.