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- Average user rating: 3.0 stars out of 13 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
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4 out of 4 people found this review helpful
4.0 stars
"a sleek, safe, and good sounding alternative to fumbling with tape deck converters and FM adapters."
Pros: great iPod integration and easy menu navigation, vivid display, and clear sound
Cons: a bit pricey, and no "line-in" option with older factory radios.
Summary: coming from a high-end company like harman/kardon, the drive + play exceeded my expectations. however, despite all of its great qualities (great looks, sound, and ease of use) this product still does not get any love or attention from cnet and the cnet community. i am the first one to review the product and it has been out for many months, and it is never on any CNET lists (ex. best iPod accessories). DRIVE + PLAY WON MANY AWARDS, INCLUDING MACWORLD'S BEST OF SHOW!!!
the display is bright and easy to read in all light conditions (even with polarized sunglasses on, unlike iPod screens). the navigation control knob are easily mastered, as they are nearly identical to the iPod's click wheel. all in all, the whole set up looks very professional, and very cool. while driving, you can easily find songs and navigate through playlists with your iPod safely tucked away in your glovebox or center console. this is a win-win situation as it prevents clutter around the cabin, and scratches on the iPod. additionally, there is virtually no "lag" between the sound and the display.
i can't argue that the price is a little steep. however, when put in perspective the price is more reasonable. i have gone through about 4 tape-deck converters, 1 Griffin iTrip, and 1 Belkin TuneCast II. The tape deck converters all broke or got lost, and the FM transmitters had terrible sound quality!
the drive + play wired FM transmitter offers much improved sound quality than the integrated FM transmitter. so that is the best option if your car radio does not have an aux line-input...but if your car does have an imput, then the direct connection is the way to go.
the drive + play is a very impressive package. with the drive + play your iPod and car stereo can finally come together as one. this level of integration is really unmatched by the other products on the market.
Where to buy
Harman Kardon Drive + Play iPod Control System:
$47.95 - $90.08
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
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$90.08 | Backorder |
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Amazon.com Marketplace
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$47.95 | Yes |
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