What is an FM transmitter?
An FM transmitter is a device for transmitting an audio signal to a car's speaker system. It decodes the incoming stream (for example, in mp3 format) and converts it into a radio wave that can be picked up by the radio. You could say that you get a small personal radio station to play the tracks you want to listen to.
It works like this: an external medium is connected to the transmitter, and the device itself is connected to the on-board power supply of the machine. After this, the same broadcast frequency is set on the transmitter and the radio tape recorder - and you can listen to any music recorded on an external media on the radio tape recorder, and adjust the playback parameters using the transmitter.
What is the advantage of FM transmitters over players?
The main advantage of transmitters is that they are cheaper than players. If you got a car with an old radio, you will either have to be satisfied with the music that is recorded on CDs and the radio, or buy additional equipment. This is where the choice arises: take a new player or a transmitter that expands the capabilities of the radio.
The transmitter will cost much less than a high-quality player, and after purchasing it you will have all the same capabilities and choose the music yourself. Of course, transmitters also have disadvantages. The main one is that the sound quality in budget models may not be very good. In large cities, it is difficult to find a completely clear channel that does not have radio noise; in addition, the signal can sometimes disappear while moving, especially when the car is in the lowlands. But these shortcomings are not so critical, especially if you choose a high-quality model in which they are minimized.
What is an FM transmitter and how does it work?
An FM transmitter is a compact electronic device that in most cases is powered from a car's cigarette lighter. Essentially, it is a digital audio player that:
- plays sound files from USB flash cards, SD or microSD;
- transmits the played sound via radio waves to other devices.
The operating principle of the device is as follows:
- the transmitter opens the audio file;
- sound is transmitted via radio;
- it is received by the car radio using the built-in radio, and then played on the speakers of the car's audio system.
Thus, using the device, you can listen to music recorded on a flash card even from a radio that does not have USB, SD or microSD connectors. After all, for this it is enough that the autoplayer has a built-in receiver.
FM transmitter allows you to listen via FM radio to files stored on a memory card
The main disadvantage of the device is the possible occurrence of interference during music playback. This is because sound is transmitted using radio waves rather than wires. However, interference appears extremely rarely, because the gadget connected to the cigarette lighter is very close to the car radio antenna, so the radio signal travels a minimal path to it.
Today there are a huge number of models of FM transmitters in a wide range of price categories. Some of them are very simple devices that do not even have a monochrome screen - only 3-4 buttons are used for control. Others are full media players with a color LCD display.
What parameters to pay attention to when choosing
When choosing a device, you need to focus on a number of the most important parameters. This is the type of playback, connection and power features of the device, as well as what additional functions it can please the owner.
Playback type
- Bluetooth – when using this data transfer method, a wired connection is not required. Often in this way the transmitter device is connected to a phone or laptop, after which music is played from them. You can also organize a speakerphone using a device with a Bluetooth module.
- Flash – budget transmitters may not have Bluetooth, in which case a direct connection of a flash drive with audio files is required.
Supply voltage
As a rule, transmitters require a voltage of 12 V to operate. This allows them to be connected to a car's cigarette lighter. They can often operate at 24 V.
Connection features
The cigarette lighter may have its own characteristics depending on the car model. This primarily applies to cars equipped with old radios, because they themselves are already quite many years old. Therefore, it is worth checking in advance whether the transmitter is compatible with the cigarette lighter connector.
If everything is in order with this, you will need to adjust the frequency. Many transmitters have an auto-tune button. But it is not always enough: the fact is that many frequencies are already occupied by radio stations or are partially interrupted by them, which is why the music transmitted by the transmitter does not sound ideal. To avoid this, you need to select a completely free frequency. And while in rural areas this is usually not difficult to do, in a big city there may not be so many of them. Therefore, the frequency range is another significant parameter of the transmitter.
Additional functions
It may also be useful to have additional functions, such as the ability to transmit a signal from the phone to the radio for a hands-free conversation, or use the transmitter to charge other devices - after all, there are often not enough connectors in the car. And it will be more convenient to control the device if you have a remote control.
Car FM transmitter with Bluetooth
Car FM transmitter , offered today by many manufacturers of similar gadgets, is a modulator that differs from conventional models in its impressive functionality. It works with a flash drive from the car's cigarette lighter and has the ability to pair with a mobile phone via a wireless channel.
Using a similar transmitter installed in the car, you can organize speakerphone calls when talking on the phone, which is convenient when driving.
The best FM transmitters for cars with a Bluetooth module
AVS F-901
The device has a slot for an SD card, power from a cigarette lighter socket, and a standard frequency range. Provides high quality sound - you won't notice any drop in sound due to the use of a transmitter. The signal can be transmitted up to a maximum of 10 meters. F-901 is equipped with a built-in display and has a remote control - this makes operating the device comfortable. For its price (from 550 to 700 rubles), the model provides all the required functions at a good level, corresponding to some more expensive ones.
Price: ₽ 542
Neoline Wave FM
This model has a Bluetooth module, a display, and a built-in microphone. Thanks to the latter, it can be used as a headset for a smartphone, freeing up your hands during a trip - the call will be transferred to the radio. Has a slot for a MicroSD card with a capacity of up to 32 gigabytes, and a remote control. The device costs from 1,700 to 2,000 rubles, provides very good quality sound, and the speakerphone can be really loud - unlike many budget models. Easy to set up and connect, compact. Among the disadvantages, interference sometimes occurs in the city, forcing you to look for a new frequency.
Price: ₽ 1,760
The best FM transmitters for cars with a display
4. Kensington Deluxe Liquid FM 33424EU
Allows you to transfer recordings from an iPod to the radio; it has a stylish and laconic design. The name of the song being played and the name of the artist are displayed directly on the screen of the car's stereo system. The device is distinguished by its high sound quality and reliable assembly, so it will last a long time. Its only serious drawback is the price from 2,500 to 3,000 rubles, because for that amount you can buy a new stereo system for your car.
Price: ₽ 2,480
Neoline Bliss FM
If you need an inexpensive transmitter with a full screen, then you should pay attention to this model - it costs about 800-900 rubles and does a good job of transmitting a signal to an audio system. The device is very compact; in addition to standard connectors, it has a 3.5 mm AUX input. Equipped with a convenient remote control. The noise level is low, and overall it does the job well for its price.
Price: ₽ 815
Defender RT-Feet
An inexpensive device costing about 500 rubles is suitable for different types of cars and is famous for its good functionality. It supports memory cards and headphones. The rotating screen allows you to quickly and easily read the necessary information. This compact modulator can be controlled using the remote control or buttons. The transmitter is considered reliable and convenient. Its only drawback is its rustic appearance.
The best budget FM transmitters for cars
Torso FM 2757336
A very simple and inexpensive device (costs about 300-350 rubles) that provides all the necessary functions. There is support for the two most used formats - MP3 and WMA, two USB ports and a slot for microSD - you can record music directly to a memory card and listen from it. Remote control included. In general, it is worth noting that the Torso transmitter combines low price with full functionality.
Price: RUB 319
Neoline Ellipse FM
This transmitter supports only MP3, is equipped with a convenient LCD display, and the settings and the last played song are stored in its memory. It costs a little more than the previous one - about 500 rubles.
It stands out for its interesting design and high-quality assembly for this price segment: no wobbly buttons, the case will not come loose after just a few months of use, as often happens with other transmitters at this price. The device is also characterized by a clear sound, it does not even emit a quiet hiss - and this drawback is also characteristic of many cheap transmitters. There are two disadvantages: the display shows only the track number, but not its name; The remote control only works at a very short distance.
Price: ₽ 461
The best MP3 player with FM modulator
According to many buyers, the best mp3 player with FM transmitter in terms of price and quality ratio is the Rolsen RFA-100.
The average cost of a Rolsen player with a remote control included is 500 rubles. The device features an extravagant design with a button divider in the form of the Honda emblem. The product is built conscientiously and takes care of the user's needs: thanks to the backlight and thoughtful design of the buttons, it is convenient to use in the dark. According to the manufacturer, the player reads flash drives up to 16 GB.
The ergonomic device is equipped with a remote control and is capable of working with catalogs.
Comparison table of the best FM transmitters
| Name | Main characteristics | Price |
| Torso FM 2757336 | There is support for the two most used formats - MP3 and WMA, two USB ports and a slot for microSD - you can record music directly to a memory card and listen from it. | ₽ 319 |
| Neoline Ellipse FM | Supports MP3, is equipped with a convenient LCD display, settings and the last played song are stored in its memory. | ₽ 461 |
| AVS F-901 | The device has a slot for an SD card, power from a cigarette lighter socket, and a standard frequency range. | ₽ 542 |
| Neoline Wave FM | There is a Bluetooth module, a display, a built-in microphone, a slot for a MicroSD card with a capacity of up to 32 gigabytes, and a remote control. | ₽ 1 760 |
| Kensington Deluxe Liquid FM 33424EU | It has a stylish and laconic design, stands out for its high sound quality and reliable assembly, so it will last a long time. | ₽ 2 480 |
| Neoline Bliss FM | The device is compact, in addition to standard connectors, it has a 3.5 mm AUX input. | ₽ 815 |
Top best FM modulators
Our experts have prepared a rating of the best FM modulators of 2016 in several price categories, so now you can choose a quality device according to your budget.
Price barrier up to 1000 rubles
Ritmix FMT-A730
In third place in our rating in this price category is the Ritmix FMT-A730 FM modulator. The cost of this autotransmitter is about 460 rubles, and its main advantage is its intuitive functionality and fairly high-quality sound.
It is very reliable and has a digital display that allows you to easily monitor the process of the main functions of the device. Moreover, the readings on the display are clearly visible at any lighting level.
The transmitter itself is hidden in a dust-proof case, so dirt will not stick to the contacts. As for the controls, the keys are pressed very softly, and they are located quite conveniently. The device has connectors for USB and SD memory cards.
Prix FM VFM-29
The second place was taken by the autotransmitter from the Chinese company Prix FM VFM-29. Like most such devices, we simply connect it to the cigarette lighter and start playing audio tracks from any drive.
An additional advantage is the included remote control. With it, you can not only switch music tracks, but also change the frequency of radio stations.
The disadvantages include the lack of a color display, a small set of functions, and the lack of support for interaction of the car modulator with other media devices.
Mystery MFM-26CU
This modulator for cars takes first place in our rating and has the best quality-price ratio. Its cost is about 700 rubles, and the user will receive a huge number of functions.
For example, the modulator display can be rotated up to 180 degrees to make it easier for the driver to view. In addition, there is an equalizer inside the device that improves the sound of songs and allows you to select one of several preset playback modes.
There is a small amount of memory inside the modulator, which is used to remember the playback of tracks in the exact sequence specified by the driver.
Middle price segment
SEIWA P-128
The SEIWA P-128 modulator takes an honorable third place. Its cost is 1,600 rubles, but the device is really worth the money.
The Japanese company decided to change the concept of a transmitter and added many additional functions to its product. For example, you can connect a smartphone or tablet, laptop or MP3 player and play music directly from these devices. The car transmitter recognizes all audio formats.
Moreover, you can select the frequency of data transmission to the receiver and use it as an additional radio station. The modulator panel has a USB connector, which allows you not only to connect devices for data playback, but also to charge them.
Ritmix FMT-A953
The Ritmix FMT-A953 autotransmitter is rightfully in second place. It costs about 1200 rubles, but for this money you get a modulator with a huge number of functions.
The device automatically scans your removable storage devices, using the remote control you can play them and select the broadcast frequency. You can use any flash drive, smartphone, tablet, or laptop as a data object. During operation, the transmitter passes the music track through an equalizer, thereby making the sound better.
Denpa FBT852
The first place in the ranking of this price category is occupied by the Denpa FBT852 car transmitter. It has the widest possible functionality compared to other models, and its cost is 1,600 rubles.
It supports any flash media; moreover, the transmitter is equipped with a 3.5 mm audio output, through which you can also play songs. A wide signal transmission range is implemented, from 87 to 108 MHz. The device has a color LCD display and a Bluetooth adapter. This means that the Hands Free function has been implemented. You can control this serious device via the remote control or using the keys on the case.
At the moment, this transmitter is considered the best, it has the most complete functionality, additional functions and excellent value for money.
