anyone know anything about RF modulator?

[Aharami]

so a friend just asked this question:

I'm going to get a CD changer that has the RF modulator so you don't have to run the cable to connect the CD changer to the head unit, and you only have to tune your headunit to a certain FM frequencies to listen to the CD changer. What i'm wondering is the quality of it, will it sound the same or will the quality be disrupted at times like a regular FM radio?

anyone know anything about it?

EDIT: sorry for the empty post b4. pressed enter by mistake

 

[EyeMWing]

Oh. Yes, if there is an obstruction or strong energy field, the signal may be disrupted.

 

[Aharami]

sorry EyeMWing. please look now

 

[Demon-Xanth]

The sound quality isn't bad. But then different people have different definitions of bad. It's MUCH better than tape adapters.

 

[Aharami]

Originally posted by: Demon-Xanth
The sound quality isn't bad. But then different people have different definitions of bad. It's MUCH better than tape adapters.

but is it as good as CD? i think thats what he wants to know

 

[JustinGoodie]

it'll sound ok... although not as good as CD. the sound quality will be about that of a good, strong, local FM radio station...

 

[RU482]

there are some CRAP modulators out there too, so buyer beware

 

[Demon-Xanth]

Modulating it into FM and having the head unit modulated it back from FM will result in some loss. No way to be perfect.

 

[ATLien247]

Why not put the CD changer in a more convenient location?

I've never understood the logic of putting it in the trunk...

 

[cressida]

yuke, principles of communication is probably one of the hardest EE courses

 

[C'DaleRider]

This is from Crutchfield:

Q: Is the sound quality of FM-modulated changers as good as changers that connect directly to the in-dash receiver?

A: An FM changer is static-free, because it's hard-wired directly to the receiver's antenna ? it will sound as good (or slightly better) than your strongest FM station. And, while it's true that the frequency response with a direct changer/receiver connection is superior to that of an FM-modulated hook-up, that alone doesn't tell the whole story.

In our own informal, "on the road" listening tests, we've often found it difficult to distinguish between FM-modulated CD signals and "pure" CD signals ? road noise tends to mask much of the difference in frequency response. Also, the natural signal compression of an FM-modulated changer beefs up the sound of your CDs a bit, and helps to keep musical details audible over the noise in your vehicle's interior. So the difference is more significant on paper than it is to your ears. Bottom line? These units sound terrific.

If you prefer to lease your cars, an FM-modulated CD changer will work with any FM factory receiver. As always, we'll give you all the help you need installing it and throw in an antenna adapter if you require one.

Add-on (FM-style) CD changers require a few extra connections. You will have two 12-volt power wires to hook up, just as you would with an in-dash receiver. One goes to a constant source of power and the other goes to a switched 12-volt source.

You'll also have a black ground wire that will be secured beneath a nearby screw that makes contact with the metal body of the vehicle.

The signal cable runs from the changer to the FM modulator (usually a hideaway unit, though some are built into the changer itself). Another cable will be run from the FM modulator to the antenna input of your in-dash radio. If this leaves a lot of slack in your antenna lead, tie it off so it won't fall down and interfere with your pedals. Then you'll plug your antenna into the FM modulator.

http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/learningcenter/car/S-WTz668qi0Hg/changers_install.html

http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/S-WTz668qi0Hg/learningcenter/car/changers_faq.html

So, I don't think he'll be free of wiring it....in fact, he may have MORE wiring to do than for a chager that interfaces directly with his head unit.

 

[shuan24]

Dont do it. Quality sucks.

 

[Muadib]

Originally posted by: shuan24
Dont do it. Quality sucks.

I had a Sony changer and the quality was good, far better than a tape adapter unit as someone already said. I never had any sort of disruption, even when going through tunnels to NYC.

 

[LordJezo]

Are you talking about an actual modulator or an fm transmitter?

They are two completely different things.

 

[RossGr]

Several years ago I installed a modulator unit in our car. There was no difference in wire runs from the unit in my other car in which the changer talks directly to the head unit. The difference is in the head unit. If you get a head unit/changer set designed to work together you do not need a modulator. If you get a changer and will be listening on a radio or deck not designed for direct operation of a changer you will need the modulator.

I have been very pleased with the sound of the modulator, as the Crutchfield article says, road noise is a leveling factor.