Quick Take: The Apple iPod is capable of a lot of functions, but it still lacks an FM radio, which makes for a significant ding on its report card. Luckily, there are now several add-ons that bring an FM tuner to the world's most popular MP3 player. One of those is Griffin's iFM, which has been updated for iPods with the newer-style dock connector. (The smart-jack version is also available.) The design of the in-line remote/radio is very similar, with a sexy new paint job in glossy black.
The FM tuner gets decent reception but is far from flawless. Walking around CNET offices and the surrounding streets, we were interrupted with jarring static almost every 10 seconds, even with popular Bay Area radio stations. The radio features six customizable preset stations and three different tuning bands, each with their own set of presets: United States, European, and Japanese. This will come in handy for frequent travelers who want to save their favorite overseas frequencies. Of course, the play-through remote works well--it even allows you to turn your iPod's preset equalizer on and off. The back of the iFM also has a clip with adjustable tension should you want to clip it to your shirt or bag. One drawback to the device is that it lacks an audio recorder, a bonus on the previous version that made it one of our favorites. Although the radio and remote both work well, we were disappointed that Griffin decided to omit this handy feature.
The FM tuner gets decent reception but is far from flawless. Walking around CNET offices and the surrounding streets, we were interrupted with jarring static almost every 10 seconds, even with popular Bay Area radio stations. The radio features six customizable preset stations and three different tuning bands, each with their own set of presets: United States, European, and Japanese. This will come in handy for frequent travelers who want to save their favorite overseas frequencies. Of course, the play-through remote works well--it even allows you to turn your iPod's preset equalizer on and off. The back of the iFM also has a clip with adjustable tension should you want to clip it to your shirt or bag. One drawback to the device is that it lacks an audio recorder, a bonus on the previous version that made it one of our favorites. Although the radio and remote both work well, we were disappointed that Griffin decided to omit this handy feature.
