Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for iPods Review

I have been using my iTrip with my 15 GB (3rd generation) iPod for about two years now. If you want an FM transmitter for your iPod that does not have any moving parts (like wires) then get this. I have to admit that there are downsides to this as well. It all boils down to the sound quality. So let me get right to the point.

DESIGN, CONTROLS, & INSTALLATION

First of all the color is white, the same color as your iPod; you do not have to worry about how it will look with your cool new hi-tech MP3 player (your iPod). The exterior shape is unique because I have never seen any other FM transmitter look like it. There is a dent in the back to provide better grip when plugging it in or pulling it out; you can use the rubber grips on the sides also.

Note: One thing to keep in mind is to be careful with the iTrip when it is not plugged into your iPod. It does tend to put a lot of force on the connector that sticks out. As a result, it may break loose or just get loose and the quality may reduce significantly. I can say this from experience as I had to replace my unit.

There are no external controls on the iTrip so to set or switch stations you will have to use your iPod. This is where the included CD comes in handy; just insert the CD, install the files, and follow the instructions to update your iPod, and you are done.

WHAT IS IT & HOW TO USE IT

The Griffin iTrip is an FM transmitter for your Apple iPod. In simple terms, it will allow you to listen to the music on your iPod through your radio without having to use any headsets or cables. This is very good but the sound quality is reduced to be the same as the sound you get from any other radio station. In other words, it will not be of CD-quality even though the actual music on the iPod might be.

To take full advantage of the iTrip you will definitely need an iPod because it does not work with any other media player. This is another side effect if you want to think of it that way.

To install and use this unit you will first need to install the iTunes software (comes with your iPod on a CD) and use the CD provided with this iTrip and install the stations to your computer. You will then have to transfer the radio stations that are not being used in your area to your iPod just like any other music file. Then plug the iTrip to your iPod and find the station in the playlist section of your iPod menus. Once you find the station you are looking for just play it for about three (3) seconds and pause it. You will then notice the LED light on the iTrip blink a couple of times (this means it is switching stations). Now turn on your radio and switch to the same station. Now play any other song from your iPod and you should be able to hear it through the radio.

Note: Do not turn the volume on your iPod higher than seventy percent (70%) because your music will then sound distorted. But if you keep it at or below seventy you should be able to hear your music without any problems. Just use the volume control on your radio to adjust the volume to your needs.

The iTrip does not require additional batteries like other FM transmitters that I have tried previously. It only uses a little bit of power from your iPod’s. I suggest using a car charger if you use this in your car.

EXPERIENCE

I have used my iPod and my iTrip for about two years now and I have had no problems with it. I have had to replace the iTrip once because I was careless when it was unplugged and the connector came loose. I use my iPod every day in my car and in school. In the car, I use it with my iTrip and it works without any problems. I just plug the iTrip into my iPod and plug in the charger to charge it while I play it.

I only had to set the station once and never again. I chose to use 87.9 FM stations because it is one of the vacant ones in my area. The vacant station gives you better quality; if you choose a station that is already in use, your iTrip signal will be too weak to override it.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Are you planning to get an iPod or did you just get one or have you have been using it for a while now? Do you use your iPod on-the-go or do you just want to go wireless? I would suggest trying out this iTrip because it will improve relationships with your iPod. Get rid of your older obsolete FM transmitters that just clutter up your space and get the iTrip to make your trip better. All you have to do is set it up and forget about it.

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