MONSTER CABLE Ultra-Low Profile Charger for iPod

[cipher]

Does anyone have this charger/line-out device? I'd like to get it but I want to hear some opinions first.

[mhoutman]

me too plz

[Monk]

I've got it and and am very impressed by the sound quality. Much much better than the FM transmitters out there. If you've got an aux input on your head unit, I recommend it.

I've discovered the following annoyances, but none that would stop me from buying it again if given the choice.

There is noticeable interference from the alternator if the connection isn't properly grounded. You can hear this as a faint whine that changes in pitch with the speed of the engine. It's very quiet, though, and is drowned out by the music.

The connector is larger than the standard Apple cable and may not fit the hole in some silicone cases.

The connector was very tight for the first few days and I had to squeeze the release buttons very hard to get it to disconnect. After a week it had loosened up (or perhaps I learned the exact spot to push) and it now connects and disconnects perfectly.

Turning off the engine/battery does not turn off the iPod, meaning it will continue to run and drain the battery if you leave it in the car and don't manually hit pause (not a big problem as I never leave valuable such as my iPod in the car unattended). I've been told Belkin's similar product does turn the iPod off with the engine, however, it's bigger, white (so it doesn't blend into my dash) and contains its own amp and volume control instead of giving you a pure line-level output. (This is either a good or bad thing depending on your point of view)

The last and most minor annoyance is that the wires come out of the right-hand side of the connector making it awkward to hold and control one handed (assuming you're right handed. Lefties may love this).

[cipher]

Monk,

Thanks for the feedback. I'm really confused as to why Monster decided to have the connector coming out of the right side. It sounds extremely annoying and might be reason enough for me to not buy it.

For your 'mini-to-RCA' connection, did you buy the monster cable ($40) or the radioshack version ($5). I'm wondering if it's worth the extra money to buy the monster version.

Also, which case are you using. I was planning on buying an iSkin evo2 but if the the Monster connector doesn't fit well with that case on I'll have to find another case to use.

Last thing...would you be able to take some pics of the setup in your car. I want to see how bulky/obtrusive the whole thing looks. Thanks, again.

[walkabt]

Just buy a right angle adaptor...Monster's THX 1/8" to RCA is what I use. No issues.

I have the Belkin and the Monster ULPCC, I prefer the ULPCC to the Belkin. Sound is cleaner and it doesn't stand out like the Belkin in my cars darker interiors. I use the Belkin when renting cars on the road now, but use a tape adaptor and plug that into the headset jack.

[bhb399mm]

the only problem i had with the monster unit was the placement of the line out. it makes it very inconvenient for hardwiring - i originally bought it for my jetta install, but sold it on ebay after i decided i didnt want TWO wires running out from the dash. the belkin kit was perfect. one cord. very clean.

[m3latino]

Where can you buy those right angle adapters? Anyone know if this will fit an iskin evo2 ipod?