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The wireless concept of the TuneStage is very similar to an FM transmitter, however the wireless technologies utilized are entirely different. The TuneStage uses Bluetooth technology to send a digital signal while an FM transmitter broadcasts over public FM radio waves. As a result, the TuneStage doesn’t have to contend with local radio for open frequencies. Also, due to the fact that Bluetooth transmits a digital signal rather than analog, the TuneStage offers excellent clarity and experiences almost no static. During the couple months that we tested the TuneStage, the audio signal was crystal clear 99% of the time. 
The TuneStage supports Bluetooth version 1.2, which provides sufficient bandwidth for streaming stereo quality music. Bluetooth technology employs a mechanism known as spread-spectrum frequency hopping, which allows it to avoid interference with other wireless devices on the 2.4GHz band.
Sound Quality
The overall sound quality of the TuneStage is extremely good—the best we have seen from a Bluetooth A2DP device. However, Bluetooth A2DP requires the audio to be compressed for bandwidth purposes, and we did notice some very faint distinctions.
We tested the Belkin TuneStage’s sound quality using two methods:
- Bluetooth Transmission
- Hardwired to the Stereo System
To our surprise, there was almost no difference in sound between the two methods. We realize, if you’re a hardcore audiophile, you’ll probably notice the compression right away. However, if you’re a casual music listener like us, then the sound quality of the TuneStage will certainly impress.
Range
Like most Bluetooth devices, the wireless range of the TuneStage is around 30 feet. Belkin actually advertises that the TuneStage achieves a maximum wir
eless range of 33 feet. However, we were able to take the iPod up to 40 feet from the TuneStage Receiver before the signal began to fade. The signal didn’t even breakup when we transmitted through a metal door and from 15 feet away. This is great for use in different rooms.
Battery
The TuneStage Receiver uses AC power, so the Bluetooth transmitter is the only component that requires battery power. There is an upside and a downside to this. On the upside, the transmitter doesn’t require any additional batteries. However, the downside is the fact that it draws its power from your iPod’s battery. As
a result, your iPod battery is drained much more quickly. Although the transmitter does drain the iPod's battery faster than normal, we still got around 11 hours from a 20GB color iPod.
Conclusion
The Belkin TuneStage is a great accessory for home-based iPod listening, especially for those who prefer to utilize their home stereo systems. It also allows you to maintain control using the familiar iPod controls. After using the iPod itself as a wireless remote to control your music, traditional iPod remotes will seem limiting and cumbersome.
With excellent sound quality, wireless audio that almost all listeners will enjoy, easy setup and a good range, the Belkin TuneStage is a product BlueTomorrow.com absolutely recommends to all iPod users.
Pros
- Easy Setup
- Excellent Sound Quality
- Familiar iPod Navigation
- Total Wireless Convenience
- Good Range
Cons
- Drains iPod Battery
- No Mention of Passkey in Manual
Posted September 29, 2006 by BlueTomorrow.com Editorial Staff
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