iPod Observer
Review - RoadTrip!+ for iPod w/Dock Connector
by Misha Sakellaropoulo
NewerTechnoloy's RoadTrip!+ takes a unique approach to an FM transmitter, combining both the transmitter and a charger into a single device that plugs into your iPod's dock connector and is powered by your car's 12V accessory jack.
The RoadTrip!+ is by far the easiest FM transmitter we've encountered. Owing to the fact that it only broadcasts at one frequency, all you need to do is it plug it in and tune your radio to 87.9MHz. For anyone seeking the easiest solution for piping tunes into your car's stereo, this is it.
While a single frequency may sound limiting, 87.9MHz unused in all but four small regions of the U.S. If your radio doesn't pick anything of quality up on the frequency, the RoadTrip!+ will work just fine. Other FM transmitters, like Griffin's popular iTrip (iPO review), are unable to even tune into 87.9MHz.
Sound quality from the RoadTrip!+ is excellent among FM transmitters, regardless of whether your car's antenna is in the front or back. It still doesn't compare to a direct input or tape deck adapter, however, although you can use either along with the RoadTrip!+ and still take advantage of charging your iPod on the go.
For $10 more, NewerTechnology recently started offering a portable AC/DC power adapter that lets you plug any device designed for your car's 12V accessory jack into a standard two-prong wall socket. The adapter brings the charging and transmitting capabilities of the RoadTrip!+ into your home, but it still doesn't match the portability of iPod-powered FM transmitters. If this is of no consequence to you, then the RoadTrip!+ is the FM transmitter of choice for your iPod.
NewerTechnology RoadTrip! Plus
Just The Facts
RoadTrip!+ from Newer Technology (MSRP: US$27.95).
Street Price: - From .
Pros: FM transmitter and charger in one, highly effective design
Cons: None significant
Rating: 5.0 out of 5