For many of us, the use of an MP3 player (such as an iPod) has become a fundamental aspect of our daily routine. This technological advancement has afforded us the opportunity to enhance our experience with music, as we are able to listen to the artists we prefer without having to settle for the whims of commercial radio. If you drive an older vehicle, however, you likely do not have the necessary components to connect your MP3 player to your car’s stereo system. Rather than install a costly new audio system, there are two relatively inexpensive ways to solve this problem: purchasing an FM transmitter or a car FM modulator.

Conventional wisdom suggests that car FM modulators are the better solution, as it is believed they produce audio quality that is unrivaled by any transmitter. This assumption, that a modulator has a significant advantage in audio quality, is false. A modulator works by converting the audio coming from your MP3 player into an RF signal. A transmitter converts audio to RF signals as well.

Such a common misconception will often lead many to believe that FM modulators are better than transmitters because they cut down on interference. If you’re comparing a modulator to your basic $15 transmitter, the answer is then obvious: a modulator is superior technology. However, a quality FM transmitter (more details to come) will provide the same performance with additional benefits, including:

1. Installing an FM transmitter is hassle-free: Whereas modulators require extensive installation, transmitters are easy to hook-up, without any specific knowledge required. With a transmitter, you can enjoy your MP3 player through your car’s stereo system in seconds.

2. An FM transmitter utilizes the full FM band: This allows you to avoid frequencies that are being utilized by commercial stations. The listener will be able to listen to the music he or she desires by choosing an unused frequency.

3. Variety of use: Unlike FM modulators, which are installed in your vehicle, FM transmitters are portable, and can easily be transferred from car to car. Quality FM transmitters provide you the unique opportunity to use your MP3 player in almost any imaginable location: your car, boat, office, camping trips, etc. The possibilities are virtually endless.

Identifying a quality FM transmitter requires some basic knowledge. A quality FM transmitter will transmit audio to a distance of roughly 150 feet – the full distance allowed under FCC law without obtaining a license. With that amount of transmission power, interference will be effectively eliminated and the audio quality is superb. Quality transmitters also provide multiple ways to power the device (battery, cigarette lighter, USB, and wall adapter), granting you the freedom to use your MP3 device practically anywhere.

Additionally, functions such as volume control, preset frequencies, microphone compatibility, manual on/off switch, and automatic gain control should come standard with any quality FM Transmitter. If you are looking for an alternative to a Car FM Modulator, here is an example of a quality FM Transmitter.

Being able to broadcast your personal music over an FM station, without reducing audio quality, is a fun and empowering ability. Why would you want to limit yourself to only being able to do this in a single vehicle? The fact of the matter is that a car FM modulator can’t compete with the features, functions and portability of a quality FM transmitter.

TAW Global, LLC has been in business for over 7 years now. They are family owned and are headquartered in Portage, MI. TAW is the designer of the Whole House FM Transmitter which is a quality wireless car FM modulator that produces clear, static free, audio for use in your car and other locations.