You either love them or hate them, or your not too bothered either way
. However there is a myth about iPod fm transmitters that isn't always the case. The reports of poor quality and constant feedback & interference are not always 100% accurate.
If you are comparing them to a fully integrated ipod car system like the Dension gateway 100 CAN then yes FM Transmitters are of a poorer quality and have less features and functionality. However you have to bare in mind the price difference of each product. Your comparing 30-40 with 130-140. or another way of looking at it, a cheaper MP3 player with an iPod. There are obvious differences but this should be expected.
The problem with Transmitters is inherent of all transmitters to a certain extent, this is due to how they actually work. Transmission of radio frequencies beans the signal being broadcast from one device to another. In this case the ipod fm transmitter to the radio. The problem occurs when the frequency bands are close to other stronger signals. When this happens you get a bleed of one into the other, resulting in interference and / or distortion.
Having said this there are a few ways round the problem but it takes a little experimenting. Firstly try using a frequency which is the furthest away from any strong signal in your area. Secondly select a back up station as far away from the first signal band and pre set to the stereo as well. So if you start to receive interference you can quickly change without much inconvenience.
The quality of products you are using is also a factor in the interference problems reported. Generally speaking if you purchase a more recognised product & brand such as the griffin iTrip FM Transmitter you will receive less disturbance than a cheaper Chinese import.
So if you want a simple and cost effective solution to listening to your iPod in your car. An FM transmitter is not as bad as some people make out. Choose wisely and set up & test the frequencies any you shouldn't have many problems with them.