Digital radio is coming to a car near you, whether you like it or not - the analogue switch off will leave around 28 million vehicles without any reception. But rather than buying an expensive new head unit, there is another option.
Connects2 has just revealed its new AutoDAB interface, a black box that turns your existing system into a digital receiver. The device is compatible with 95 per cent of vehicles currently on Europe's roads and offers access to hundreds of new stations - which can then be saved as favourite presets as before.
A straight forward installation process means there is no need for specialist fitting, and the device can be connected behind the exiting head unit within 30 minutes. Plug and play, the only evidence of AutoDAB is a small aerial attached to the top left of the windscreen.
And for those that have steering wheel mounted controls, users can continue to operate their audio system using these buttons. There's also a voice prompt menu for hands-free use and the existing head unit can display the full station name and radio text.
The system costs £187.00, includes everything needed for a full installation and is available direct from
www.autodab.com.
Graeme Lambert - 26 Mar 2012