Product Description
Griffin Technology iTrip mini FM Transmitter for iPod mini -Amazon.com Review
The iPod mini has helped revolutionize the way people store and listen to music, but it's not particularly car-friendly. Unless your car stereo includes a cassette deck (increasingly rare) or an auxiliary input (more common among newer stereos) combined with the appropriate adapter, you simply haven't had the means to play your extensive iPod library through your car's speakers. Several companies, however, have sought to fill this void by releasing a product called an FM transmitter, which broadcasts iPod tunes via the FM airwaves. Griffin Technology is among the category leaders with its iTrip mini, a discreet little device that fits unobtrusively on top of the iPod mini. The iTrip mini isn't confined to car stereos--it plays on almost any FM radio--but because most home stereos and boomboxes have auxiliary inputs, it's most popular as a car accessory.
Design and Setup
The iPod mini is loaded with impressive features, but it's also an Apple product, which means that looks matter. A lot. And Griffin clearly recognizes this, because the iTrip mini is sleek and complementary. It's built to fit into the iPod mini's headphone and remote ports, from where its all-white body looks like an extension of the mini itself. Plus, the device measures less than an inch tall and exactly as wide as the mini, so it takes up almost no extra space--an important feature to people who value the mini's portability. The iTrip mini also works when plugged into full-sized iPods with dock connectors, but it doesn't fit as well shape-wise. Owners of full-sized iPods can buy alternate iTrips designed with their players in mind, including iTrips for 1G and 2G FireWire iPods, 3G and 4G iPods with dock connectors, and special-edition black iPods.
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Features and Performance
The iTrip mini performs best when tuned to an FM frequency that plays nothing but static, with no audible words or music. Finding a good frequency is fairly easy, but it requires your full attention, so it's best to do so while parked. We tested the iTrip mini on three separate frequencies in a midsize market with varying success. The sound was generally good in two of the frequencies, less so in the third. This remained true whether the device sat next to the radio, in the backseat, or under a stack of newspapers. While driving through bad FM reception areas, the iTrip mini received a bit of static, but it usually passed in a couple of seconds.
The iTrip mini is designed more for convenience than elite audio performance, so listeners shouldn't expect CD-quality sound. When tuned to a clear frequency, it's about on par with the average FM station. If the volume is turned high, users might notice a slight hiss through the speakers, but engine hum and road noise will generally cover that up. However, listeners who value top-quality sound--especially people with expensive speaker systems that pick up every minor flaw--may instead want to add an auxiliary input to their car stereos to get the most from their iPod minis.
The main drawbacks to the iTrip mini are fairly minor, but will bother some users. First, the iTrip Stations playlist is stored as part of your overall music library, meaning the individual audio files can emerge during shuffle play--and the sound isn't pleasant. Listeners can remedy this by creating a new playlist with their entire music libraries minus the iTrip Stations files. Second, the iTrip mini draws its power from the iPod mini battery. This is actually both a plus and a minus, as it means you don't need to keep buying new AAA batteries every week, but you also won't receive as much power from each iPod charge. If this bothers you, consider purchasing an auto charger, which powers your iPod mini through the cigarette lighter adapter while you drive. Third, the iTrip mini isn't great for long road trips through crowded regions, because the available FM frequencies may change every 40 or so miles (or less), making it necessary to frequently retune the iTrip mini. On the flip side, it's great for long drives through the country.
Ultimately, the iTrip mini is a good value. The convenience will please iPod fans that have been clamoring for a way to play their music in the car. Audiophiles may want to look elsewhere, but most other listeners should be satisfied. --Rivers Janssen
Pros
Cons
What's in the Box
iTrip mini FM transmitter, installation CD-ROM, user's manual.
Customer Reviews:
Poor Sound Quality.......2007-10-04
geat while it worked.......2007-09-27
Works with no problem........2007-08-03
It was nice while it lasted.......2007-07-06
Great Product!.......2007-03-12
Average customer rating:
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Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for iPod mini
Manufacturer: Gefen Inc. ProductGroup: CE Similar Items:
Product Features:
ASIN: B0009JR1I6 ![]() |
Product Description
If you have an iPod mini you need an iTrip mini. The iTrip mini FM transmitter lets you play your iPod minis music wirelessly through any FM radio in your car, on the road, even at home through your stereo. The iTrip mini was designed exclusively for the iPod mini. Its form factor matches perfectly all the curves and lines of the iPod mini. It sounds even sweeter. iTrip mini gives you the best possible performance because you can choose any empty station from 87.7 to 107.9. Best of all you choose and change your iTrip mini stations directly from the iPod mini itself. The iTrip mini does NOT need batteries. It receives a tiny amount of power directly from the iPod mini saving you from wasting hundreds of batteries a year. Thats good news for the planet and even better news for your wallet. The iTrip mini can even be used while charging your iPod mini in your car or while docked. iTrip mini doesnt have a power switch - it doesn't need one. Just plug it in and go. It shuts off automatically after 60 seconds of silence just like the iPod mini. You see, we designed the iTrip mini to be the ultimate iPod mini accessory because it lets you share the music and share the fun. Forget the headphones. Get an iTrip mini and go wireless! (Not compatible with 5G Video Ipod)Customer Reviews:
Cool idea...but I won't waste my money on another one.......2007-05-23
The iTrip Fm transmiter - of any kind, is a good item to buy.......2007-01-04
Really nice little gadget.......2006-11-21
Average customer rating: |
Griffin White iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for Apple iPod MP3 Player with Dock Connector 3Gen , 4Gen , 5Gen, Video, Photo, U2 Special Edition, Mini, Nano 1Gen and 2Gen
Manufacturer: Griffin Technology ProductGroup: CE Product Features:
ASIN: B000VBNXEI ![]() |
Product Description
General Features: - White design; - FM transmitter for iPod with dock connector; - Backlit LCD screen; - Built-in antenna; - Power requirement: iPod connection; - Selectable LX or DX modes of broadcasting; - High stability crystal oscillator, phase-lock loop control; - Unit Dimensions: 1.43 x 2.45 x 0.9-inches (H x W x D); - Weight: 0.6 oz.; - Regulatory Approvals: FCC. -- Specifications: - Modulation: FM stereo; - Frequencies: 88.1 - 107.9 MHz; - Frequency Response: 50 Hz - 15 KHz; - Operating Range: 10 - 30 ft. -- Compatible Apple iPod MP3 Player Models: 1. iPod photo 2. iPod U2 Special Edition 3. iPod 3G / 3rd Generation 4. iPod 4G / 4th Generation 5. iPod 5G / 5th Generation 6. iPod mini 7. iPod nano 1 + 2 Generation. -- Package Includes: - Griffin White iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for iPod. * Packaging notes: bulk part only. Package includes FM transmitter only.
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Griffin Technology iTrip Mini FM Transmitter for iPod Mini
Manufacturer: Griffin Technology ProductGroup: CE Similar Items: ASIN: B000CSAOMY ![]() |
Product Description
The iTrip mini FM transmitter lets you play your iPod mini s music wirelessly through any FM radio -- in your car, on the road, even at home through your stereo. Its form factor matches perfectly all the curves and lines of the iPod mini You can choose any empty station from 87.7 to 107.9. Best of all you choose and change your iTrip mini stations directly from the iPod mini itself The iTrip mini does NOT need batteries, it receives a tiny amount of power directly from the iPod mini -- saving you from wasting hundreds of batteries a year The iTrip mini can even be used while charging your iPod mini in your car or while docked If you add our PowerPod iPod auto charger you can listen to your iPod mini while road tripping all the way across America ANTENNA - Built-inMODULATION - FM Stereo FREQUENCY - 87.7 ~ 107.9 MHzSTEREO SEPARATION- greater than 45 dBSIGNAL DISTORTION- less than .5% FREQ.RESPONSE- 50 Hz to 15 kHzRANGE - 10~30 feet, depending on the quality of the FM radio receiver (limited by FCC regulations) POWER- None (it's powered by the iPod)
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Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for 1st Gen Apple iPod Nano MP3 Player
Manufacturer: Osprey-Talon ProductGroup: CE Product Features:
ASIN: B000UVRITK ![]() |
Product Description
General Features: Black design; For use with 1st generation iPod Nanos; Play iPod music through FM radio; Powered by iPod (no batteries required); Uses any FM frequency; Allows charging while in use SmartSense volume control; Built-in USB Mini-B port; Unit Dimensions: 3.91 x 1.57 x 0.55-inches (H x W x D) Regulatory Approvals: FCC , CE Specifications: Built-in antenna; FM stereo modulation; 88.1 - 107.9 MHz frequencies; 50 Hz to 15 kHz frequency response; 10 - 30-foot operating range; Oscillator: High stability crystal, phase-lock loop control. Controls: 3-way touch navigation; Status light; Dock connector; 3.5 mm headphone jack/adapter; USB Min-B port. Product Requirements: - Apple iPod Nano 1st generation. Package Includes: Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter for iPod Nano (1st Generation) * Packaging notes: Item is bulk packaged
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Griffin iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for Apple iPod with Dock Connector - 3Gen , 4Gen , 5Gen, Video, Photo, U2 Special Edition, Mini, Nano 1Gen and 2Gen
Manufacturer: Griffin Technology ProductGroup: CE Product Features:
ASIN: B000UV5CFC ![]() |
Product Description
General Features: Black design; FM transmitter for iPod with dock connector; Backlit LCD screen; Built-in antenna; Power requirement: iPod connection; Selectable LX or DX modes of broadcasting; High stability crystal oscillator, phase-lock loop control; Unit Dimensions: 1.43 x 2.45 x 0.9-inches (H x W x D); Weight: 0.6 oz.; Regulatory Approvals: FCC (FCC ID # : PAV4026); Part Number: 9781-TRP30BK. Specifications: Modulation: FM stereo Frequencies: 88.1 - 107.9 MHz Frequency Response: 50 Hz - 15 KHz Operating Range: 10 - 30 ft. Compatible Apple iPod MP3 Player Models: 1. iPod photo 2. iPod U2 Special Edition 3. iPod 3G / 3rd Generation 4. iPod 4G / 4th Generation 5. iPod 5G / 5th Generation 6. iPod mini 7. iPod nano 1 + 2 Generation Package Includes: Griffin 9781-TRP30BK iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for iPod * Packaging notes: bulk part only Package includes FM transmitter only.
Average customer rating: |
Griffin iTrip LCD Display FM Transmitter for Apple iPod MP3 Players with Dock Connector 3Gen / 4Gen / 5Gen Video , Photo , U2 Special Edition , Mini , Nano (1Gen and 2Gen)
Manufacturer: Osprey-Talon ProductGroup: CE Product Features:
ASIN: B000Z6XP56 ![]() |
Product Description
This Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter features a large and easy to read backlit LCD screen that makes setting its digital tuner easy and intuitive. A convenient switch on the side of the iTrip makes it a breeze to select a broadcast frequency and its compact, self-contained design makes controlling iTrip a snap - perfect for use in autos! With selectable LX or DX modes of broadcasting, the iTrip allow you to adjust for the absolute best possible audio under real-world conditions. Even in large cities with lots of radio stations crowding the dial, iTrip's DX Mode delivers a background noise level below that of a cassette tape adapter, allowing the music to punch through cleanly! Compatible Apple iPod MP3 Player Models: 1. iPod photo 2. iPod U2 Special Edition 3. iPod 3G / 3rd Generation 4. iPod 4G / 4th Generation 5. iPod 5G / 5th Generation 6. iPod mini 7. iPod nano 1 + 2 Generation Griffin 9781-TRP30BK iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for iPod
Average customer rating: |
Griffin iTrip LCD Display FM Transmitter for Apple iPod MP3 Players with Dock Connector 3Gen / 4Gen / 5Gen Video , Photo , U2 Special Edition , Mini , Nano (1Gen and 2Gen)
Manufacturer: Osprey-Talon ProductGroup: CE Product Features:
ASIN: B000Z6XP6U ![]() |
Product Description
This Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter features a large and easy to read backlit LCD screen that makes setting its digital tuner easy and intuitive. A convenient switch on the side of the iTrip makes it a breeze to select a broadcast frequency and its compact, self-contained design makes controlling iTrip a snap - perfect for use in autos! With selectable LX or DX modes of broadcasting, the iTrip allow you to adjust for the absolute best possible audio under real-world conditions. Even in large cities with lots of radio stations crowding the dial, iTrip's DX Mode delivers a background noise level below that of a cassette tape adapter, allowing the music to punch through cleanly! Compatible Apple iPod MP3 Player Models: 1. iPod photo 2. iPod U2 Special Edition 3. iPod 3G / 3rd Generation 4. iPod 4G / 4th Generation 5. iPod 5G / 5th Generation 6. iPod mini 7. iPod nano 1 + 2 Generation Griffin 9781-TRP30BK iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for iPodCustomer Reviews:
Oooh white noise.......2007-08-06
Average customer rating: |
Griffin iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for Apple iPod MP3 Players with Dock Connector 3Gen / 4Gen / 5Gen Video , Photo , U2 Special Edition , Mini , Nano (1Gen / 2Gen)
Manufacturer: Osprey-Talon ProductGroup: CE Product Features:
ASIN: B000Z6ZUAE ![]() |
Product Description
This Griffin iTrip FM Transmitter features a large and easy to read backlit LCD screen that makes setting its digital tuner easy and intuitive. A convenient switch on the side of the iTrip makes it a breeze to select a broadcast frequency and its compact, self-contained design makes controlling iTrip a snap - perfect for use in autos! With selectable LX or DX modes of broadcasting, the iTrip allow you to adjust for the absolute best possible audio under real-world conditions. Even in large cities with lots of radio stations crowding the dial, iTrip's DX Mode delivers a background noise level below that of a cassette tape adapter, allowing the music to punch through cleanly! Compatible Apple iPod MP3 Player Models: 1. iPod photo 2. iPod U2 Special Edition 3. iPod 3G / 3rd Generation 4. iPod 4G / 4th Generation 5. iPod 5G / 5th Generation 6. iPod mini 7. iPod nano 1 + 2 Generation Griffin 9781-TRP30BK iTrip LCD FM Transmitter for iPodCheap Consumer Electronics: