FM Transmitters

An FM transmitter can be an effective way to take phone calls and stream music using any portable audio device, such as your smartphone. An FM transmitter works by sending the audio signal from a smartphone to a standard FM radio station, which then gets picked up by a radio that’s set to the same station and is within a 100- to 300-foot range.

If you’re using it at home, an FM transmitter can be connected with an auxiliary cable or you can use a Bluetooth FM transmitter, which is often used to send music or a podcast to another room from a stationary source like a computer or television. A Bluetooth FM transmitter can also be used to do things like broadcast sound from a television, sing karaoke and integrate music into a holiday light show. Some FM transmitters are designed to allow you to play music from a microSD card, USB flash card, and have the option of charging your phone or other devices.

When considering the best FM transmitter for you, having Bluetooth capabilities can be very beneficial as it allows you to do things like make phone calls from a cell phone and stream music in a safe, hands-free manner.

When you’re using a Bluetooth transmitter for cars, you can expect the audio to be on par with your typical FM station. If you’re using your phone, for convenience and to be safe, you may also want to have a cell phone mount. Additionally, if the FM transmitter you choose doesn’t have an option for charging your phone, getting a car charger can help you can avoid running out of juice while you’re driving.

A Bluetooth FM transmitter for cars is often referred to as an FM modulator. Originally, an FM modulator was hard-wired directly into your car stereo, rather than broadcasting over an FM station. The introduction of a wireless FM modulator pretty much erased that distinction. Another option to add Bluetooth capability to your car is a hands-free car kit. There’s a range of models, including plugging an adaptor into your cassette player using a separate clip-on speaker and more.