Has anyone else used a tape adapter to play their iPod (or other) through their stereo? The sound quality isn't the greatest, but I'm buying time before I can get a CD Changer.

However, it only works part of the time. That is, everytime I put the tape in, iPod playing, it swaps from side 1 to side 2 a couple of times and then kicks the tape out. I can only get it to work sometimes.

Anyone else experiencing the same issue? Any remedies for this one?

Here's a pictur eof what I'm tlaking about:

 

I've used them with mixed results, depending on the tape deck's condition. Spitting the adapter out is a common problem. In my oldcar I ended up getting frustrated and just went with a Scosche FM transmitter. Folks on line had rated the Scosche as having a stronger transmitter than others they had used and worked better in frequency-crowded urban areas.

However...you can get a new head unit with an iPod adapter for $129 these days. At that point, it's hardly worth messing around, even for a short period of time before an upgrade to a really nice unit.

Dave

 

By a FM modulator. Works 100% better IMHO.

 

I have an iTrip that plugs into my iPod but it doesn't work for damn. The tape adapter was $5, so I figured why not. It was supposed to be a quick fix until I figured out what I wanted to do.

Also, I have a 3rd gen ipod and have to use the headphone jack for sound. It was really limiting as far as options go.

I'd rather not get a new headunit because by the tim eyou add in the cable, the box to make the steering wheel work, and all the other misc. parts, you end up spending more than you did in the first place. Plus, I like the sock look.

Thanks for the replies.

 

If you are set on the tape adapter, get a head cleaning kit. You will need to use it at least once a month. I finally went to an FM modulator as well. Much better. Itrip sucks...not strong at all. I actually just got a modulator that plugs into the lighter, has a plug for and ipod (headphone jack) and a usb slot for a thumb drive and plays MP3's from the thumb drive. I use my thumb drive, and we plug in the iPhone when we are taking trips. Works great.

 

I was using a belkin tape adapter I got at Target and it did the same thing until i moved the wire so it came out the other side (on the back of the tape) and then put the tape in the other way. I only used it twice though because the sound was so tiney. It sucks no one makes a good adaptor for our Discos... I just don't want to give up the CD changer and I'm with you on the stock look.

 

I'll try swapping the cable over. I think it's because the tape deck has an auto reverse.

You're right, it does have a tinny sound. I had to turn the treble down to -4.

 

All you need to do is make sure that the tape deck is playing the correct side of the adaptor. Because I am **** retentive I always put my tapes in with side "A" up.
Put in a tape side "A" up and have it start playing, then eject the tape and stick in your adaptor and the deck will still be playing side "A". Your adaptor only works one way. If after you stick in the adaptor and it still doesnt work then push the direction button on the deck to make it play the other side.
I had the exact same adaptor that came with my Discman that I used in my Freightliner with a Pioneer deck. It worked great for 8 yrs. I used velcro to stick the cd player to the dash and a Y adaptor at the cig lighter so I could charge my phone and power the cd player.
And make sure that you "back up" your cd's to carry in your car so that when they get sratched or stolen you are not out anything.
And it cracks me up that you guys thing a i-pod sounds good. You know what a MP3 player does to music dont you?

 

Plays it?

Now, to dig up a tape...