Alpine eX-10 FM transmitter - tested

FM transmitters are normally the easiest way to listen to digital music in a car, yet all too often you have to control them from the MP3 player and there is no dedicated screen. With the new eX-10 from Alpine, though, you get a display and a remote.

The 2.2-inch screen isn’t the biggest, but it’s bright and has sharp graphics. We like the fact it can show album artwork, while the adjustable mount means setting the device at the correct angle couldn’t be easier.

Sound quality was good, and there were no signs of interference. Control via the remote is comprehensive, and a great addition to the package.

You can make hands-free phone calls if you connect to an external microphone. This gave acceptable sound, but it tended to echo. In addition, the calls don’t play through the stereo like some rival products, while the volume levels were too low and we couldn’t download the phonebook from one mobile.

Also counting against this gadget are the trailing wires, although these could be tidied up and routed effectively with the clips supplied. But if you can ignore these gripes, the Alpine is a strong choice.