Belkin announces new FM transmitters for the iPod

Yesterday, Belkin released information about its new FM transmitters for the iPod and iPod Nano to "select media outlets." The accessories won't be available until January 2006, but they could prove to be the next-best way for new iPod owners to listen to their tunes in the car or at home, since they are said to offer "enhanced sound quality" over previous FM transmitters. The new products include the TuneFM (for iPod and iPod Nano; $49.99 each) and the TuneBase FM (for iPod and iPod Nano; $79.99 each) and are essentially the same. Both can tune into any frequency, both use the iPod's screen to display the tuning channel, and both offer four programmable presets. However, the TuneBase FM is made specifically for use in the car, with an adjustable steel neck that supports the iPod and connects directly to the cigarette lighter adapter (like the ). The TuneFM can be used anywhere with a radio, though it includes a cord for powering and charging in the car also.