The best way to listen to your iPad through your car speakers is through a car radio that supports the iPad's 30-pin connector or a radio with an auxiliary input. But for those who don't have a direct way to hook up your iPad to your car stereo, there is still an easy way to listen to your iPad in the car through a device called an FM transmitter.
FM transmitters are a great solution for those living in rural areas where there isn't much competition, and even in larger metropolitan areas, FM transmitters can be a good way to listen to your iPad in the car.
Here are some of the best FM transmitters for the iPad:
Griffin iTrip with SmartScan
The Griffin FM transmitters are among the best and most highly rated transmitters. Known for quality products, the sound produced is exceptional considering the limitations of FM transmitters. The SmartScan feature will help you pick out a little-used frequency to use.
Monster Cable iCarPlay
Monster Cable's FM transmitters are relative newcomers, but they offer a nice quality alternative to brands like Griffin and Belkin. The Monster Cable iCarPlay is a petite FM transmitter with the ability to store up to three different presets of the best local frequencies. This is great for those who find their commute puts them in areas where they must change from one frequency to another to get the best sound.
iSimple IS713 FM/RDS Transmitter With Remote
The iSimple IS713 is an FM/RDS transmitter, which means it will not only broadcast songs to your FM radio, but on supports FM radios, it will also show the artist and song names. That's something you usually only see if you hook up the iPad directly. The iSimple also includes a remote controller that you can mount on your steering wheel to make it easier to control.
Satechi Wireless FM Transmitter
If you are working on a budget, the Satechi Wireless FM Transmitter is a great alternative to some of the more popular brand names. It may not offer options like the ability to charge while playing, but if you are simply looking to get your music to your car stereo, Satechi's transmitter is a good choice.Coby CA-745 Wireless FM Transmitter
One of the cheapest FM transmitters on the market, don't let the price fool you. The Coby FM Transmitter is a quality product that can easily fill that need to listen to your iPad in the car. Like the Satechi, the Coby transmitter doesn't come with all the features of other brand name FM transmitters, but it is a very solid product. The tilting display will help those who have hard-to-reach lighter jacks in their car.Kensington LiquidFM
If you are looking for a premium FM transmitter, Kensington sells the LiquidFM. It's packed with features like ClearFM for superior sound, but for the same price, you could purchase a new car radio with an auxiliary input or that directly supports the iPhone and iPad. This leaves the LiquidFM as an option for those who's car needs an expensive specialized kit to install a custom radio.