Belkin TuneBase

(The following applies to both the standard TuneBase and the TuneBase FM; see our full review — linked below — for more information.)

Belkin’s TuneBase models are currently among our favorite accessories for plugging an iPod mini into your car. Their all-in-one designs reduce clutter while placing the iPod mini in a more usable position, and using the included audio-output jack with a car stereo’s auxiliary-in jack or cassette deck (via a cassette adapter) will give you good sound quality, as well. Unfortunately, using the TuneBase FM’s built-in transmitter can be frustrating in urban areas where it has to compete with heavy FM traffic, but that’s been our experience with all iPod mini-compatible transmitters. If you’ve got an iPod mini that you’ve been jonesing to listen to in the car, Belkin’s TuneBase models are a great option.–Dan Frakes