i.Sound FM Transmitter Review

Let me start off by saying I was not paid to write this review. I did however receive a free i.Sound FM Transmitter from one of the companies for which I occasionally do surveys. I have participated in surveys for this company both online and offline for a couple of years, and I receive no monetary compensation. With that being said, I decided I wanted to write a review of the product I just received because I don't want anyone purchasing something that isn't worth it.

I received the iSound Wireless FM Transmitter that is universal for all mp3 players with a standard headphone jack. It also works with Sony PSP as well as any other audio devices such as cd players with a headphone jack. This transmitter doesn't plug into your cigarette lighter jack like most iPod transmitters. Instead it runs off a single AAA battery.



That's a good option for those people who don't have cigarette lighters in their cars. The outlet in my Saturn doesn't work, and my Isuzu Rodeo has no cigarette lighter, so this would be a good option. The packaging states that a battery is included, but there was no battery with my FM Transmitter. Luckily my Sandisk mp3 player also runs off AAA batteries, so I keep a supply of fully charged rechargable AAA batteries on hand. If you do prefer using DC 5V power, there is an input, but the adapter is sold separate.

There are 2 color choices, white or black. The device is very small, and I was able to slip it in my pocket with my mp3 player when I wasn't using it. Using it is very simple. Just plug the provided audio cable into the i.Sound and connect the other end to the headphone port on your mp3 player. Turn on the i.Sound and your radio, then tune your radio to one of the 5 presets on the i.Sound. You can switch between the presets with a simple switch allowing you to choose which channel gives you the most clarity.

I played around with all 5 channels for the best clarity, but honestly this item just wasn't up to my standards when it comes to FM Transmitters. I've used transmitters that produce a lot of static while I've also tested a few that give perfect clarity. This one falls somewhere in the middle. There was static, although I can admit not a whole lot. It mostly depends on where you place the transmitter in your vehicle. It will work up to 30 feet away from your car or home stereo, but I learned putting it directly in front of the stereo or anywhere near the antenna produces a large amount of static. I was able to place the transmitter and mp3 player in the pull out change drawer below my stereo, and it worked pretty well there.

Unfortunately all my testing was done in my driveway, so I'm not sure how it's going to work while driving. Other stereos, radio waves, or transmitters may cause interference when on the highway. Hubby just made a run to the store, so I sent the FM transmitter and my mp3 player with him to give it a test. I'll give you an update on how well it worked with him when he returns.

What's my bottom line with this transmitter? It works pretty well, but for a price of $24.99 I would recommend something else, especially for anyone using the iPod. I've used cheaper FM transmitters that have worked much better. I only recommend this i.Sound FM transmitter to someone who wants to use it with their home stereo or who doesn't have a cigarette lighter adapter in their vehicle.

**UPDATE** Hubby just returned and said he couldn't use the i.Sound at all while driving. When he could get the signal to come in it was very weak, but most of the time he couldn't use the transmitter at all. I would seriously recommend purchasing something else.