Griffin iTrip Pocket FM Transmitter for iPod nano 2G

The industrial design of the iTrip Pocket is almost as impressive as the iPod Nano itself--which is one of the main reasons I selected it to begin with. It connects snugly to the USB connector on the base of the Nano, and its controls are very intuitive. It even briefly displays its FM station setting whenever you change its station, and upon power-up.

I recommend care when disconnecting it from the Nano. Since the connector is not centered, there is a tendency for the iTrip to pivot at an angle as it is being removed. If it is not disconnected in a straight line, I suspect that the lifetime of both connectors (iTrip, as well as the Nano mate) will be greatly reduced.

The sound quality of the iTrip is, at best, decent FM quality--which is what should be expected from an FM transmitter. The FCC limits the amount of broadcast power of these types of devices so that they do not interfere with radio broadcasts. This means that the FM power of all these...Read more

I bought this with pretty low expectations. When I received the product and immediately tried it out in my Ford Focus hatchback (stock sound blaster radio) I was pleasantly surprised. I read the reviews thoroughly before buying, and only a few provided really useful info, so here are some things you should know.

First off, as mentioned in many reviews, this transmitter does not give you CD-quality sound. The quality is pretty good--for what you pay for it. Since you must turn your radio to above normal volume levels to use this product, there is noticeable hiss in the background during silent spots of songs but is not really noticeable with music playing. I found that even though the sound quality is decent, you must change the EQ setting in the iPod to either treble booster or loudness (that is what I prefer, anyways) since there is a lack of treble through the device. I also had to change the bass settings on my Focus' radio, however, when I tried it with my Sony radio...Read more

For those unfamiliar with the iTrip concept, this is basically a miniature FM transmitter which enables you to broadcast music from your iPod to the radio in your home or car, controlling the output using the normal controls on the iPod. I previously owned a Griffin iTrip for my iPod Mini and had no hestitation in purchasing this product from the same company for my iPod Nano 2nd generation. It's an excellent complement to the iPod.

Set-up for this iTrip is easier than ever. First, select a blank FM frequency on your radio. Then plug the tiny iTrip into the dock connector on the iPod. A frequency appears on the screen, and can then be scrolled up or down. You can also save three pre-set frequencies. The iTrip draws its power requirement - which is said to be 'minimal' - from the iPod. On this version, you cannot plug the iPod into the charger whilst using the iTrip, but this is a very minor disadvantage. An advantage compared to earlier versions is that you do not have to...Read more