Mediahound
12-02-2003, 05:10 PM
I just got an Alpine FM Modulator/XM Radio controller unit installed. It's model XMA-T200RF. It was a bit more expensive than a standard FM modulator at $100. + installation but I think it's worth it and it was still cheaper than getting a whole new head unit put in.
It has a wireless remote in addition to a wired controller with display. If you add XM Radio at a later time, it just plugs right in to this and the display would show the XM station and artist/song, etc. I had them hide the wired controller near my center console and attach it with velcro. If I want, I can reach for it and rip it off the velcro for easy access. If I ever add XM Satellite Radio, I will mount the controller in my dash. But since I don't need to see it (because I don't have XM Radio), it can be tucked away.
This is one of the higher quality FM modulators and features a 4 way volume selector (I'm using the highest setting). You can also change the radio frequency very easily from the wired panel.
It sounds worlds better than the iTrip and there is never any static. I'm fairly picky about audio quality and am quite happy with this solution. Of course, the ideal solution would be to get a new high end head unit that has AUX inputs, but I did not want to spend the money (the iPod was expensive enough as it is).
If you don't want to spring for a new head unit with an AUX input for your iPod and you are not happy with the iTrip, this may be a good option for you.
It has a wireless remote in addition to a wired controller with display. If you add XM Radio at a later time, it just plugs right in to this and the display would show the XM station and artist/song, etc. I had them hide the wired controller near my center console and attach it with velcro. If I want, I can reach for it and rip it off the velcro for easy access. If I ever add XM Satellite Radio, I will mount the controller in my dash. But since I don't need to see it (because I don't have XM Radio), it can be tucked away.
This is one of the higher quality FM modulators and features a 4 way volume selector (I'm using the highest setting). You can also change the radio frequency very easily from the wired panel.
It sounds worlds better than the iTrip and there is never any static. I'm fairly picky about audio quality and am quite happy with this solution. Of course, the ideal solution would be to get a new high end head unit that has AUX inputs, but I did not want to spend the money (the iPod was expensive enough as it is).
If you don't want to spring for a new head unit with an AUX input for your iPod and you are not happy with the iTrip, this may be a good option for you.