About this deal
With most of the products I tested, it took me several minutes to successfully pair with both my phone and my high-fidelity music player. Additionally, some may want a Bluetooth receiver to transfer data and files between two devices easily. I could be bothered with having to plug it in all the time but a great device for those with anuse for it. One of the biggest complaints with Bluetooth car kits is the weak audio signal, requiring you to turn your stereo up. I ask this because there’s a point in time where in-car entertainment was the opposite of a sweet spot when it comes to futureproofing.
output port and paired the device with my iPhone via Bluetooth by pressing the multi-function power button for two seconds. I was looking at this and wondered if I would have to keep pluggging it in and out depending on if I wanted the sound to come from the tv or headphones via the Bluetooth. Ryan Gilmore is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for Parkers, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. So as long as you have an aux it’s a very cost-effective way of bringing Bluetooth streaming into an older car.The Anker SoundSync Drive is a simple, unassuming Bluetooth car kit with exceptional audio performance. Anker says they simplified the controls by designing just three buttons, but they didn't adequately identify the buttons. Instead of finding a DAB radio adapter, why not use your smartphone's capabilities to ensure stream your favourite radio station via an app? Sign up to the Parkers Newsletter to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews, news, and recommendations from the Parkers team. For verdicts, scoops, news and analysis from the team, delivered direct to your inbox, subscribe to the CAR newsletter.
Keep in mind that this is a Bluetooth TRANSMITTER ONLY: You plug it into an Audio Out and connect Bluetooth headphones to it. I played the songs through a car stereo and evaluated the signal clarity by listening for imbalances in the mix, distortions and noise. You can't even compare it to the visor-style kits, because these rely on built-in speakers and aren't capable of filling your car with as much music. If you have a good entertainment and audio system using bookshelf speakers, ceiling speakers or surround sound options, you may still be needing a Bluetooth connection.There's a hundred equivalents from competitors that cost significantly less and usually offer more features such as a newer version of Bluetooth and/or the ability to receive as well as transmit.