Is the sound quality of FM-modulated changers as good as changers that connect directly to the in-dash receiver?
An FM changer is static-free, because it’s hard-wired directly to the receiver’s antenna — it will sound as good (or slightly better) than your strongest FM station. And, while it’s true that the frequency response with a direct changer/receiver connection is superior to that of an FM-modulated hook-up, that alone doesn’t tell the whole story. In our own informal, “on the road” listening tests, we’ve often found it difficult to distinguish between FM-modulated CD signals and “pure” CD signals — road noise tends to mask much of the difference in frequency response. Also, the natural signal compression of an FM-modulated changer beefs up the sound of your CDs a bit, and helps to keep musical details audible over the noise in your vehicle’s interior. So the difference is more significant on paper than it is to your ears. Bottom line? These units sound terrific. If you prefer to lease your cars, an FM-modulated CD changer will work with any FM factory receiver. As always, we’ll give you al
