Zune FM Transmitter
DLO Transdock Micro Review

Transdock Micro is a fancy name for the new Zune FM transmitter released by DLO. The device plugs into the cigarette lighter socket in a car and also connects to the Zune with it's included USB cable. The transmitter charges the Zune, but even better than that, it creates a FM radio signal and sends it to the car radio.



The device comes with a detachable USB cable with a Zune connector on one side and a regular USB on the other end.




Between the plug and the transmitter is a fully adjustable joint that allows rotation. This helps orient the DLO LCD screen towards the driver regardless of the type of vehicle used. The back side of the unit has extra input and output audio ports.


The unit has a tight fit on the 12V jack and it will not move or slide around while driving. In this photo the DLO action jacket is shown with it's new brown/green color scheme.



Tuning the frequency is easy. The button on the right will increase the frequency and the button on the left will decrease the frequency. The sound quality is equivalent to a strong signal from a nearby radio station. Some newer cars have a direct line input for mp3 players, otherwise an FM transmitter remains the best option for listening to Zune in the car. DLO has published the following list of benefits and features:

• Broadcasts to any FM frequency in your car while charging your Zune
• Removable charge and sync cable can be used at home or on the road – an added $20 value
• Audio input to transmit the audio of any MP3 player or other audio device like a portable DVD player or PSP gaming system
• Auxiliary output for use with car aux input ports or a cassette adapter
• Allows a user to set up to 4 preset stations
• Easy-access, dash-based tuning buttons on each side of the unit
• Bright, dash-based LCD readout

In conclusion the transdock micro works as well as it looks. Although radio signals loose digital purity, the imperfections are typically overshadowed by road noise anyway. The transmitter is recommended for those who commute to work or school and can benefit from their Zune on the road. The MSRP is $69.99 and the device is currently available. According to recent news DLO was purchased by Phillips. We expect to see more good things coming for the Zune, but it does seem odd to have a sonic toothbrush and Zune transmitter made by the same company. Perhaps a combination toothbrush/Zune dock isn't too much to hope for.

Photo by DLO