Griffin TuneFlex AUX Mount and Charger with SmartClick Remote for iPod and iPhone (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)My Griffin TuneFlex AUX with SmartClick replaces a Kensington Liquid AUX Deluxe unit, which my wife accidentally broke while driving my car. I think this sort of accident is much less likely with the Griffin.
The big disadvantage of the Kensington (and the cause of its ultimate demise) were the adjustable arms that clamped on the iPod/iPhone; while it allowed adapting to any model, the clamp and release mechanism were "temperamental". The ratchet mechanism was hard to adjust "just right", and if too tight would rattle loudly as the car moved. It needed to be re-adjusted frequently, as it worked loose gradually. The Griffin in contrast comes with a whole array of plastic "heads" designed to perfectly fit and support various models with no slack or vibration. The heads are unlabeled; you just need to try your iPod or iPhone in each one that vaguely looks like it might fit until you get the right one. If you switch often between various models you'd want to carry the appropriate adapters, and need to switch them out... and the next new model probably won't be covered. (Luckily, I rarely use anything but my iPhone 3G in the car, and it turns out that my daughter's 3rd gen iPod nano can fit the iPhone sleeve. This may however be an issue if, for example, I upgrade to a "next gen iPhone" when such a thing is released, but we'll have to wait and see.)
Like the Kensington, the Griffin has a wireless remote that can velcro onto the steering wheel. I thought this was silly on the Kensington, but found that it quickly became a necessity. The convenience of being able to play, pause, and skip tracks without moving my eyes or taking a hand off the wheel is great. The reliability of the Kensington remote was "inconsistent", however. The Griffin seems to work consistently, but has a very "firm" touch and doesn't always respond when buttons are pressed casually. I do like the button to manually activate the backlight, when it's gone out. The Griffin remote is detachable from a magnetic base, which I find pointless: I see no need to remove it, and several times it's been knocked off accidentally and I need to search for it on the floor.
The flexible neck is stiff and stable, but reasonably easily adjustable; it's longer than the Kensington's neck, and that makes the iPhone more visible and accessible. The AUX cable has jacks on both ends so it can be replaced (unlike the Kensington's). It's much longer than the Kensington's, which might be an advantage or disadvantage depending on your car. (Way more cord than I really need.)
Some glitch in the Kensington occasionally caused my iPhone 3G to complain that the charger wasn't compatible. It still played through the AUX, and charged, but the remote was apparently disabled. Sometimes removing and re-inserting would resolve the problem, and sometimes it wouldn't. I haven't (at least yet) seen that issue with the Griffin, which is a "plus".
Advantages: long stiff neck, easy to adjust; custom fit "heads" for iPod/iPhone models; wireless remote
Disadvantages: custom fit "heads" may mean carrying more than one, and might be a problem for new models down the road; heads aren't labeled so it can be tedious to find the right one; remote is too easily detachable

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TuneFlex AUX is the perfect in-car solution, with a flexible steel stem for your iPod and a steering-wheel-mounted remote control. Position the mount on the steering wheel near your fingers for convenient control that never makes you take your eyes off the road. The remote is held on the mount magnetically, and can be removed for handheld use by anyone in the car. TuneFlex plugs securely into the auto accessory port or cigarette lighter to charge and power your iPod or iPhone. The lighted ring at the base of TuneFlex¿s stem shows charging status at a glance. An included 1/8¿(3.5mm) stereo mini cable connects TuneFlex to AUX-input-equipped stereos for clean, interference-free sound. The package includes a set of snap-on adapters to ensure a secure mount for full-size iPod and iPod nano models. Included cable strap prevents tangles.

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Kensington LiquidAUX Deluxe Auxiliary Car Kit with Remote for iPod; iPhone 1G, 3G Review

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(More customer reviews)I really wanted to like this product. I actually bought both the LiquidAUX kit and the Deluxe kit. One to use in my car and one on my motorcycle with my iPhone.
I think they worked once or twice with some adjustments. I know people don't like one star reviews and usually mark them as 'not helpful'. Often times they are right because people rate them with one star because the weren't shipped fast enough or some complaint not related to the product. Or they got the one unit that happened to be DOA.
Not the case here. Here's the problems:
When the iPhone firmware was updated recently, it caused problems with the remote operating and the message that the product was not iPhone compatible. Okay, I checked the manufacturer's website and found their workaround. The message did indeed go away, but the remotes still didn't work.
I decided to try my iPod to see if the problem could be caused by the iPhone, but the remotes didn't work with it either. Called Kensington tech support and they told me (in IndiaEnglish) to try replacing the batteries in remote. This after providing them with the serial number (written in illegible microscopic print inside the remote).
To their credit, they told me they would send me two new remotes (or complete units. I really don't understand IndiaEnglish very well). I should have them in 10 to 12 business days. I didn't have to return the old ones, just trash them. This makes me think they probably have had a lot of problems with these products.
My next gripes have to do with the different models:
The standard LiquidAUX kit:
They must be poorly assembled since the first time I used it it would cut out intermittently. If I just touched the wires going into the power plug they would crackle and pop and had to be delicately positioned to work. The extension cable (which you need unless your cigarette lighter is right next to your mini plug socket) has the same problem, but not as bad.
The Deluxe LiquidAUX kit:
This unit relies on a tight fit in your lighter socket, or you won't be able to keep the thing upright. The clamps holding your phone are not very sturdy and difficult to unlatch to get your iPxxxx out. After a short time most of the physical connections loosen up and you need to prop the business end of the adapter against something to keep it from falling.
I bought both units in Lightning Deals so the price wasn't as bad as it could be. But I'd rather pay more and have something that actually works properly. If I was within the 30 day window, I would have returned them buth.
I am not happy with this purchase.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Kensington LiquidAUX Deluxe Auxiliary Car Kit with Remote for iPod; iPhone 1G, 3G

The Kensington LiquidAUX Deluxe delivers pure sound through your vehicle's stereo system while your iPhone and iPod charges. Simply plug your iPhone or iPod into the car kit using a 3.5-mm audio cable, and then insert the kit into your in-dash auxiliary port. Within seconds, digital-quality sound will be pumping through your car's audio system.


Fingertip Control The steering wheel-mounted remote control is designed to be mounted with the controls on the interior of your steering wheel. The remote conveniently lets you play, pause, and skip music files with just your thumb, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel.

Convenience The dock adjusts to fit the iPhone and most iPod models without removing them from the case, and a smart audio sensor controls the kit's power automatically. Kensington's LiquidAUX Deluxe Auxiliary Car Kit is compatible with the iPhone (1G and 3G); iPod nano (1G, 2G, and 3G); all iPods (1G through 6G); and iPod touch. Note: An auxiliary port in your car is required for the LiquidAUX Deluxe.

Support Backed by Kensington's two-year warranty, the LiquidAUX also comes with free technical support.

Important Note: Sound Effects When using an auxiliary device in the car, you might hear a slight buzzing sound, engine noise, or high-pitched whine. That is because your car model has a grounding issue between the audio system and the power socket, which causes a whining or buzzing sound when you drive. This sound is not caused by your Kensington product; however, Kensington has an easy solution. Simply purchase an automotive ground loop isolator for your car that is compatible with a 3.5-mm jack. This simple tool will enable you to use your music in a safe, hands-free environment.

Kensington can provide you with a ground loop isolator free of charge by calling Kensington's Technical Support team at 1-800-535-4242. Please provide the serial number of your LiquidAUX product when you call Technical Support, and the company will arrange to ship you the ground loop isolator.What's in the Box Kensington LiquidAUX Deluxe Auxiliary Car Kit, remote control, and 4-foot audio extension cable.

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Kensington Wireless Car Cradle with Auxiliary Dock for iPod nano (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I have the newer version Nano and as another reviewer stated, the device is turned around backwards. Therefore you CANNOT and I repeat CANNOT have access to the Nano when it's hooked into your AUX on your car stereo. So hopefully the songs are all in order that you like because you can't switch to the next song unless you disconnect the whole darn thing each time. The device has the Nano hookup on the right hand side, but the hole on the Nano is on the left which is why it has to go backwards...kind of a pain but you get what you pay for I guess

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Enjoy clean sound and an uncluttered dash with the Kensington Auxiliary Dock for iPod nano. Simply slip your iPod nano into the cradle and then plug it into your car's auxiliary port for pure sound with no wires. And the swappable inserts make sure your iPod nano stays securely connected.

This Cradle Really Will Rock The Auxiliary Dock is a perfect solution for enjoying your iPod nano in your vehicle. The device connects directly to your tuner's auxiliary input, so you don't have to worry about a clunky FM transmitter, reception interruptions, or other annoyances that come with more complicated docks.
Look Ma, No Cables Because of the direct plug-in-stereo design, the Auxiliary Dock eliminates cables, keeping your car uncluttered and keeping things simple.
iPod nano-Friendly While your nano is in the Auxiliary Dock, it's situated perfectly for easy viewing. The device also includes inserts for fitting all iPod nano models: 1G, 2G, 3G and 4G. Note: the Auxiliary Dock does not charge your iPod.
Extra-Portable The folding audio jack on the back of the dock makes for easy packing, so your dock is just as portable as your nano.
Two-Year Warranty You'll enjoy extra peace of mind knowing your Auxiliary Dock is backed by the Kensington 2-Year warranty.
What's in the Box Kensington Wireless Car Cradle with Auxiliary Dock for iPod nano (Black), dock inserts, instructions

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Satechi CR -3600 car holder mount for iPhone 4, 3G & 3Gs, BlackBerry Torch, HTC EVO, DROID, Samsung EPIC on Windshield and Dashboard Review

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(More customer reviews)A few weeks ago I was looking for a mounting solution for my iPhone in my Dodge truck, and was intrigued by the description and reviews I saw of this one. A few days later, it arrived & I began experimenting with different ways to mount it. The more ways I tried, the more I realized how versatile of a mount this is. My mounting location of choice was the overhanging lip of the dashboard, above and to the right of the steering wheel. However, the dash is composed of sort of rippled, patterned plastic, and I seriously doubted that I could get any kind of suction cup mount to work.
Amazingly, the "Smart Pad" that comes with this mount solves this problem perfectly, although it is not very well described in the enclosed instructions. The Smart Pad is simply a tacky, very soft rubber-like disc, which is placed between a non-uniform mounting surface, and the suction cup mount. Somehow, by applying suction against it from the suction cup mount side, the soft surface against the non-uniform mounting surface conforms to that surface and maintains suction against it. Once I figured this out, I successfully managed to mount my iPhone just above and to the right of steering wheel. I set it up so that it was easily visible while driving, got good GPS reception through the windshield, and was easily touched from my right hand, even while holding on to the steering wheel.
But, how well would it hang on to the overhanging lip, and how long would it stay? The true test came right away: a drive from from Arizona to Alaska via the Alaska Highway - four days of normal road vibration, followed by about two days of rough roads with potholes, and frostheaves. The result: it didn't come off even once. I had to worry about mosquitoes, shifting trailer loads, and high gas prices. But never about my iPhone coming loose.
A couple of weeks later, it continues to hang on tightly. No longer do I have to fumble around with my iPhone to change songs, or try to wrestle it out from in between the seats, where it's slid into on a corner.
Overall, a convenient mounting option for the iPhone that is versatile, well-made, and easy to use.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Satechi CR -3600 car holder mount for iPhone 4, 3G & 3Gs, BlackBerry Torch, HTC EVO, DROID, Samsung EPIC on Windshield and Dashboard

Satechi CR -3600 car holder mount for iPhone 4, 3G & 3Gs is the ideal solution for drivers seeking a hands-free solution in their vehicle. The Satechi SCR-31 is always within easy reach, safe and convenient. It features an extra secure mount that has adjustable pivoting action: up and down, left and right. The Satechi SCR-31 Cradle (1) is exclusively designed to fit iPhone 4, 3G & 3Gs, allowing stable and secure mounting and full access to all buttons and functions. Wilth Cradle (2), you can mount iPhones with cases and other mobile phones. It also includes super-strong adhesive pad called Smart Pad for alternative mounting locations. Note: State law prohibits drivers in California and Minnesota from mounting items on car windows that may obstruct the driver's view.

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GSI Super Quality Wireless Hands-Free 5-in-1 Dock-Mount-Charger-FM Transmitter-Car Kit, with Goose-neck Mount + Cradle Rotate Function - for Ipod, IPhone 4/3G/3GS, MP3, MP4, CD, DVD Players - Includes Audio Cable, LCD Display - Cigarette Lighter Plug-In Review

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(More customer reviews)Before I got this because I got the iPhone 4, I had an FM transmitter that had a long cord and a separate window car mount. I had to get this because the old mount wouldn't fit my new iPhone. I like this all in one solution and plus it includes a USB 5V charger so if you're on a trip you could potentially charge, let's say your cellphone or your digital camera.
Some problems I can forsee are that the FM channel switch is on the side of the device. So if you're on the go and the music goes to static or tunes into a different station, there would be no real easy way of changing it on the fly. Though I guess doing that is pretty dangerous while driving anyway.
Also not a problem for me but like one of the other guys said. His cigarette lighter is on the bottom which makes it impractical for him to use this comfortably and it makes it quite dangerous because he would need to look down. My lighter is located near my console so this is perfect for me. So take that into serious consideration.

Click Here to see more reviews about: GSI Super Quality Wireless Hands-Free 5-in-1 Dock-Mount-Charger-FM Transmitter-Car Kit, with Goose-neck Mount + Cradle Rotate Function - for Ipod, IPhone 4/3G/3GS, MP3, MP4, CD, DVD Players - Includes Audio Cable, LCD Display - Cigarette Lighter Plug-In

This newest Item from GSI Features a High Quality, Super-Range 5-in-1 FM Transmitter. It is a Great and Affordable Alternative to other High-Priced Transmitters and guarantees Quality of Sound.

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Click here for more information about GSI Super Quality Wireless Hands-Free 5-in-1 Dock-Mount-Charger-FM Transmitter-Car Kit, with Goose-neck Mount + Cradle Rotate Function - for Ipod, IPhone 4/3G/3GS, MP3, MP4, CD, DVD Players - Includes Audio Cable, LCD Display - Cigarette Lighter Plug-In