iPod Nano 4G Wireless Car Connection: A Buyers Guide

Using your iPod nano 4G in the car needs a small matter of a connection. Most states make it illegal to listen to your favorite iPod using headphones while driving, so there must be another way, the good news is that there are several.

Options for connecting your iPod nano 4G in the Car

Directly connecting your iPod to your car's stereo via the dock connector or headphone jack to an input (thats a hole to the rest of us) in the vehicle's stereo provides the best sound. You can also use a cassette adapter: but the sound is not as good, and cassette's are disappearing fast from new car stereos.

So many people are interested in a FM transmitters: units which turn your iPod nano 4G into a short-range FM radio station: broadcasting to your car's FM radio. The problem though can be that the FM transmitter has to fight to be heard above the noise of the local radio stations. This explains what can be a static-filled experience with FM transmitters in your car.

As in a lot of life you get what you pay for with FM transmitters. FM Transmitters range in price from $20 to around $100. Lets look at what you get for your money.

At the cheaper end of the price spectrum the basic models consist of a flimsy-looking, AAA battery powered box that broadcasts to only a few frequencies. They don't offer any way to charge your iPod nano, so either charge it first or remember to have the separate charger to the cigarette lighter.

Also if you don't have a cradle for your iPod make sure you at least buy a protective case for your iPod nano - to protect its good looks!

A FM transmitter which broadcasters on a wider range of frequencies will give you a better chance of avoiding conflicts with the local radio stations: especially in cities.

Although stereo is best for sound quality a unit which gives you the option of a mono signal may give you the best chance of clear reception.

A transmitter unit which connects to the iPod's better quality dock-connector port should give a better sound quality.

Storing of preset frequencies is a common and can be useful if you know certain stations are too loud in certain areas you drive. This can make for safer channel-surfing if you drive alone.

Ability to use the 12V cigarette lighter for power for both the FM unit and the iPod itself.

Shopping on eBay is easy and safe and can often save you a lot of money. If you click on any of the items featured in this hub you will be taken to eBay, the world's largest online auction house. If the item isn't quite what you want just do a search on eBay there are quite literally thousands of iPod nano accessories to choose from.

You need to be registered to bid or buy an item on eBay: click here to register

Most items on eBay are for auction so you have to wait until the closing time to know whether you have won the auction. A good alternative for cheap items, under $10 or $20 is to use the "buy it now" button which is often present: you buy it right now - no waiting! Choosing a local supplier should see your item arrive by mail in a day or so.