Thinking of using your iPod in your car? It would be great to be able to play your music anywhere you go without having to bother with earphones all the time. Besides, it is not safe to drive around with earphones. Did you know you can actually plug your iPod in your car and keep it charged? Okay, this becomes a no-brainer for those who own brand new luxury cars from Nissan, BMW, Volvo, and Mercedes Benz. Ninety percent of cars sold in the United States do have the option for iPod connectivity.

I am not saying that to be able to play your iPod in your car, you have to go out and buy a new car. There are complete integration packages available that can change your dashboard to accommodate the iPod. In fact, major automobile companies are coming up with their own integration systems. For example, Toyota has its glove box iPod adapter, which can even keep your iPod out of sight while playing your favorite tunes.

If you prefer not to buy from your local car company, there are other options available. There are iPod adapters that have an interface and vehicle specific adapters to connect to your radio. These adaptors work like emulators and fool the car stereo into thinking it is a CD changer.

How about if the model of your car is not able to recognize the adapter because it is an older model or a classic car? In this case, you need to buy a new player.

In addition, there are two types of adapters to choose from, the control adapter and the cassette adapter. Having a control adapter lets you enjoy your stereo controls – you have access to your play lists, although some adapters can limit the number of songs you can access to – as long as your iPod is connected to the adapter. The battery charges; and if you will use the stereo controls, you can tuck your iPod into a safe place.

Using a cassette adapter, on the other hand, can compromise sound quality. In addition, it does not recharge the battery of your iPod.

Another way to iPod your car would be to get an FM modulator. This recharges the battery and produces better sound. Unfortunately, you cannot use the stereo controls.
If you are going to install an adapter, I suggest you go to a trained mechanic who can do the job for you; unless, you are familiar with the mechanics of your car and its audio system.