Hands-free devices help the driver to simultaneously talk on the phone and drive with maximum attention. Thanks to them, you don’t have to be distracted by searching for buttons to answer a call or dial a call. In most cases, the gadget is a small remote control mounted on the steering wheel. The equipment is synchronized with a mobile phone using a wireless connection. This solution will be especially useful for taxi drivers, freight forwarders and simply those who like to talk on the phone while traveling by car.
Speakerphone in a car
Design and principle of operation of public address systems for cars
The operating principle of any hands-free mechanism is simple: the gadget is synchronized with a mobile phone using the Bluetooth protocol. After a call is received on a mobile phone, the signal is duplicated to the loudspeaker system, and the driver has the right to answer or reject the incoming call. For this purpose, the corresponding buttons are located on the body of the device.
The sound quality when using such devices remains high - conversations with the interlocutor are clear and loud. The microphone has a built-in noise absorption and echo suppression system. It is also possible to listen to any audio files through the device.
Modern cars, as a rule, are already equipped with a multimedia system with a talk-while-driving function. This makes it much easier to drive during a call. To work, you need a mobile phone that can communicate with the radio.
Popular options for communication
In total, there are 4 devices that can be hands-free during a telephone conversation:
- Smartphone with speakerphone. This is a simple and affordable option, used by people who spend no more than 2-4 hours a day driving. The principle of operation is simple: all a person needs to do is click on the appropriate button that appears after accepting the call. But this option has two disadvantages. The first is that you still need to use your hands, and if the phone is in your pocket, then the driver’s attention will smoothly leave the road and be transferred to the interior of the car. The second disadvantage is that the battery will be actively discharged during phone calls.
- Headset. This device can be either standard headphones with a microphone or special models that are designed for this. The advantage of this option is that the device connects to the phone via Bluetooth or wire. To accept a call, just press a button and the conversation will begin immediately. In addition, this is a popular option among taxi drivers because no one will hear their telephone conversation.
- Special microphones. This option connects to the radio via Bluetooth, so it is important that the multimedia device has the appropriate module, as well as a connector for connecting an external microphone. This is a convenient solution for those who constantly travel alone, so they can hear the interlocutor more clearly and answer him in a familiar timbre without raising their voice.
- Speakerphones. This device is a compact module that is no larger than a smartphone. A big plus is the presence of built-in Bluetooth, which makes it accessible to any motorist. The speakerphone is fixed on the windshield or on the dashboard, depending on the driver's preference. There are two types of models on the market: removable or plug-in.
If a person often travels by car, then it is better to buy the latter option, since speakerphones have more extensive functionality. In addition, most models are equipped with special buttons that are fixed on the steering wheel, which will make it easier to receive calls and adjust the volume.
Advantages and disadvantages
Each mechanism has its pros and cons. Unfortunately, there are no perfect public address systems.
The advantages include the main fact - free hands and the highest possible concentration during movement. It is also worth noting the versatility of the systems: they can be installed in absolutely any car. With the help of such a gadget, you can not only talk on the phone safely, but also play any audio files, and the volume is enough for comfortable listening to music. A Bluetooth headset will ensure complete privacy of your conversations.
The installation has significantly fewer disadvantages. Users often complain about the quality of calls. This is due to the fact that budget systems are rarely equipped with a good microphone; they mostly have cheap sensors that are unable to receive voices at a decent level. Often the ergonomics of the device leaves much to be desired.
Voice Types
It is worth noting that many modern cars come from the factory with built-in public address systems, which are controlled using buttons either on the steering wheel or on the center console.
But if the car is not equipped with such functionality, you can do it yourself.
There are several different ways to install this type of electronic assistance in the interior of your car, using both professional and auxiliary devices. How to make a speakerphone in a car yourself and without much effort? Motorists will find this information in this material.
Types of public address systems
The most common option is to turn on speakerphone on your phone. All modern mobile phones have this function; unfortunately, the device is inconvenient to use, since one of the hands is occupied. If you move the phone away from your face, the sound quality will suffer. Also, do not forget that the mobile phone will quickly discharge. If you spend a long time behind the wheel, then this option is not for you.
Standard wireless smartphone headset
One of the most popular methods of communication in a car. It’s just not recommended to use them, because a driver wearing headphones partially or completely loses contact with the outside world, and their reaction and concentration are dulled. Talking on the phone using a smartphone headset can cause an emergency on the road.
Speakerphones
Broadly directed devices that were originally intended for negotiations at conferences. Soon they migrated to the auto industry. They are a gadget with built-in speakers and a microphone, which are housed in a medium-sized plastic case. Connect to a 12 volt network - into the car's cigarette lighter. Communication with a mobile device is carried out using an AUX cable or via the Bluetooth protocol. The system is controlled via a remote control; it can often be seen attached to the steering wheel or air deflectors.
Standard speakerphone with a clip for attaching to the visor
Bluetooth (Bluetooth) headset
Hands free is a wireless earphone that is inserted into the driver’s ear. The body of the device has a call answer button, as well as a speaker and microphone. The main advantage is conversation confidentiality and high sound quality. The connection between the gadget and the mobile phone is via the Bluetooth protocol.
Standard bluetooth headset - wireless earphone
Manufacturers
There are quite a few manufacturers of hands-free kits for cars, but some are the most famous, producing the most convenient and popular devices:
- Jabra is a Danish company that produces many compact models.
- Parrot is a French company known for its tablets and smartphones, as well as quadcopters. The devices of this brand are very functional and convenient.
- Nokia - this well-known manufacturer of reliable mobile phones enjoys well-deserved respect and popularity.
Parrot hands-free kit
All manufacturers offer a very large range of devices that can be mounted on a dashboard, on a visor, or on the steering wheel. Their cost is comparable to the cost of inexpensive smartphones.
What else to look for when choosing
Choosing a speakerphone is a rather complicated process: the market offers a huge selection. In order to enjoy conversations, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:
- Noise reduction level. To prevent your interlocutor from being distracted by the sound of the engine, wheels and wind, choose a device with a high level of noise suppression;
- Synchronization. Give preference to devices that transfer data from the phone book to the built-in memory. This will allow you to quickly navigate your contacts list using the speakerphone;
- Screen. Gadgets with a display are much more convenient to use; they allow you to see all the necessary information about who called, the duration of the call, and will also tell you about missed calls;
- Remote Control. It can be placed in any convenient place, which will add comfort while driving;
- Automatic connection. This function will allow you to spend less time connecting your smartphone to the device;
- Availability of slots for memory cards. A useful addition for those who use the speakerphone as a music player.
In general, pay attention to the performance characteristics and workmanship of the product. You should not waste money on devices of the lowest category. They are unable to produce high-quality sound, much less record it.
The easiest way
You can provide hands-free communication in the car by connecting your mobile phone to the car radio with an additional microphone installed, or you need to purchase a device specially designed for this. You can buy this device at an audio equipment store. It is a small signal receiver that works directly in conjunction with a phone via a Bluetooth connection. How to talk in a car via speakerphone this way? You just need to configure the receiver, which can be done within a few minutes.
Rating of the TOP 7 best public address systems for cars
When choosing, you should not pay attention to the cost: in this case, more expensive does not mean better. To make the right choice, it is recommended to refer to reviews, technical specifications, and also analyze performance characteristics.
Below is the TOP 7 best hands-free devices for a car:
Parrot MINIKIT+
A medium-sized, very neat and stylish headset that will fit perfectly into the interior of any car. The design of the device is strict: there are no unnecessary elements, there are rubberized inserts on the body and response buttons, which adds convenience to use. On the front there are buttons for accepting and rejecting calls; between them there is a joystick with volume control. The illumination of the controls is ideal - it does not distract from the road, but everything is clearly visible. It is also worth noting the voice command system, which greatly simplifies the use of the device. There is synchronization of the address book, as well as connection with two smartphones. The quality of calls is excellent, the product is definitely recommended for purchase.
Parrot MINIKIT+ headset
Specifications:
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 2.0 EDR |
| Display | absent |
| Talk time | 12 h |
| Standby time | 360 h |
| Profile support | Headset, A2DP, Object Push, Phone Book Access |
| Repeat last number | There is |
| Automatic pairing | There is |
| Digital noise and echo reduction | There is |
| Mounting options | on the visor |
| Dimensions of the main unit (WxHxD) | 110x60x29 mm |
| Main unit weight | 83 g |
| Max. number of paired phones | 10 |
| Additional Information | Multipoint (works with two phones simultaneously). Text-to-Spech - pronounces contact names with full support for the Russian language, internal memory for 20,000 contacts (2000 for one phone), flat-panel speaker with NXT technology. Vibration sensor to automatically turn on the device. Ringtones to determine which of the two phones received a call |
| Range | 10 m |
| Speakerphone power supply | built-in battery |
| Mute the microphone | There is |
| USB-host | There is |
| Built-in speech recognition system | There is |
Mobidick Supertooth Light
Good budget speakerphone. There are two buttons on the front side, and a retractable microphone on the end, which is also responsible for turning on the device. The device is secured using a plastic clip that is attached to the back. Users note excellent sound quality and a capacious battery, which lasts for 3 weeks with moderate use. This gadget is the best choice for a small budget: it can be purchased for less than 1,500 rubles.
Mobidick Supertooth Light Speakerphone
Specifications:
| Type | speakerphone |
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 1.2 |
| Display | absent |
| Talk time | 15 h |
| Standby time | 800 h |
| Profile support | Headset |
| Digital noise and echo reduction | There is |
| Mounting options | on the visor |
| Dimensions of the main unit (WxHxD) | 122x60x18 mm |
| Main unit weight | 115 g |
| Additional Information | retractable microphone |
| Range | 10 m |
| Speakerphone power supply | built-in battery |
Jabra Freeway
A chic public address system for a car. The device is attached to the driver's visor using 4 claws. 3 loud speakers are built into the mid-size case - the sound quality will not leave anyone indifferent. On the front side there are volume buttons and call answer keys. Noise reduction system with 2 microphones. There is a voice control function; incoming calls are also duplicated by the electronic assistant in Russian. It is possible to connect 2 phones simultaneously. Charging is implemented via a microUSB cable. It is also worth noting the ability to listen to music files. The connection with the phone occurs via the Bluetooth protocol.
Jabra Freeway handsfree
Specifications:
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 3.0 |
| Display | absent |
| Talk time | 14 h |
| Standby time | 960 h |
| Profile support | Headset, A2DP, AVRCP, Phone Book Access |
| Automatic pairing | There is |
| Mounting options | on the visor |
| Dimensions of the main unit (WxHxD) | 99x120x19 mm |
| Main unit weight | 115 g |
| Max. number of paired phones | 8 |
| Additional Information | simultaneous connection with two devices |
| Range | 10 m |
| Speakerphone power supply | built-in battery |
| Mute the microphone | There is |
| Status indicator | There is |
Jabra Drive
Another device from a well-known manufacturer. The simplest device of this brand: on the front there are call control keys, an LED indicator and the main speaker. The power button, as well as the microphone, are located on the end. The device is secured with a plastic clip. Performance characteristics are excellent: noise reduction works great, audibility is excellent. Overall, an excellent budget solution, characterized by simplicity and low price.
Jabra Drive speakerphone
Specifications:
| Type | speakerphone |
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth |
| Display | absent |
| Talk time | 20 h |
| Standby time | 720 h |
| Profile support | Headset |
| Repeat last number | There is |
| Automatic pairing | There is |
| Digital noise and echo reduction | There is |
| Mounting options | on the visor |
| Dimensions of the main unit (WxHxD) | 56x124x24 mm |
| Main unit weight | 100 g |
| Max. number of paired phones | 8 |
| Additional Information | allows you to support two connections with two devices |
| Range | 10 m |
| Speakerphone power supply | built-in battery |
| Mute the microphone | There is |
| USB-host | There is |
NRG BTS-60
The simplest device costs 600 rubles. Installation is easy: just insert the gadget into the cigarette lighter and connect your mobile phone to it. Sound performance is below average, noise cancellation is poor, and the speaker isn't loud enough. There is only one plus - low price. If you rarely use a speakerphone, this option is for you. Control is carried out using buttons located on the body of the device; it is possible to play songs from a flash card.
Speakerphone NRG BTS-60
Specifications:
| Type | speakerphone |
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 1.2 |
| Display | absent |
| Profile support | Hands Free |
| Automatic pairing | There is |
| Dimensions of the main unit (WxHxD) | 55x155x32 mm |
| Main unit weight | 67 g |
| Max. number of paired phones | 8 |
| Speakerphone power supply | cigarette lighter |
Parrot CK3100 LCD
Expensive Hands-free kit. It is recommended to entrust its installation to professional auto electricians. Connects to the car's standard audio system. Copes perfectly with all functions of the public address system. Equipped with a sensitive microphone, the smartphone is easily connected via Bluetooth. The device control panel has two call answer keys, an LCD monitor and a volume control. There is a possibility of voice control. Synchronization of the phone book and its storage have been established, the software is updated monthly. When a call comes in, the sound of the audio system is muted, and thanks to the speech recognition function, operating the device is very simple.
Parrot CK3100 LCD Public Address System
Specifications:
| Type | installation kit |
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 1.2 |
| Display | monochrome LCD |
| Digital noise and echo reduction | There is |
| Status indicator | There is |
| Mounting options | to the panel |
| Additional Information | voice menu in Russian |
| Range | 10 m |
| Profile support | Headset, Object Push |
| Built-in speech recognition system | There is |
| Dimensions of the main unit (WxHxD) | 135x58x30 mm |
| Main unit weight | 110 g |
| Max. number of paired phones | 5 |
| Repeat last number | There is |
| Automatic volume adjustment | There is |
| Muting the sound of the radio when calling | There is |
| Connection to standard acoustics | There is |
| Control unit dimensions (WxHxD) | 72x43x15 mm |
| Control unit weight | 74 g |
Parrot MINIKIT Neo 2 HD
Another gadget from the manufacturer Parrot. This is a simple and convenient speakerphone, which is mounted using a bracket on the rearview mirror or sun visor. Charging is realized using the cigarette lighter. The body of the device is made of matte plastic, which is very pleasant to the touch. There are two buttons and a multifunction joystick. The housing is a speaker resonator; there is only one here, but it performs its functions perfectly. The sensitivity of the sound sensor is high, there are no adjustments. Synchronization and software updates occur via Bluetooth.
Speakerphone Parrot MINIKIT Neo 2 HD
Specifications:
| Type | speakerphone |
| Wireless connection | Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Display | absent |
| Talk time | 10 o'clock |
| Standby time | 4320 h |
| Profile support | Hands Free, A2DP, Phone Book Access |
| Repeat last number | There is |
| Automatic pairing | There is |
| Digital noise and echo reduction | There is |
| Mounting options | on the visor |
| Dimensions of the main unit (WxHxD) | 54x95x45 mm |
| Main unit weight | 67 g |
| Max. number of paired phones | 10 |
| Additional Information | micro-USB HD feature is a new standard for telephone quality with clearer and more natural voice sounds. simultaneous work with two connected phones (Multipoint). Text-to-Spec. confidential conversation mode. smartphone application Parrot MINIKIT Neo APP Suite. Compatible with Siri for iPhone. USB/mini-USB cable and cigarette lighter plug 12V/24V. Comes in specific color (no replacement panel) |
| Range | 10 m |
| Speakerphone power supply | built-in battery |
| Status indicator | There is |
| USB-host | There is |
| Built-in speech recognition system | There is |
Jabra Drive speakerphone
This is a popular gadget not only among motorists. This device works as a speakerphone in a car via Bluetooth and has excellent sound characteristics. In appearance, the device is quite large - 104x56x18 mm, it weighs 100 grams.
The design of the gadget is quite attractive and will easily fit into the interior of any car. Its fastening is made in the form of a metal bracket, so it can be easily fixed in the cabin.
Most of the front side of the case is occupied by a conversation speaker, protected by a black mesh. Along the way, the speaker device works as a button to receive and reject calls. Above the speaker button is a receiving microphone, as well as a volume control.
Installation and connection instructions
Installation of most Hands-free systems is not difficult: you just need to attach the speakerphone to the sun visor. Since the devices have built-in batteries, there is no need to pull the wire from the cigarette lighter; you can recharge the device at home or in the car. To synchronize your mobile phone with a gadget, you need to enable Bluetoth on your smartphone and connect to the selected hands-free system (the pairing password is specified in the operating instructions). After that, start using it.
How to connect your phone to a Volkswagen car?
In the car:
- Briefly press the MENU button.
- Press the ENTER button.
- Rotate the MENU/VOL knob until PAIR PHONE is selected, then press the ENTER button.
- The display will show READY TO PAIR (ready for connection), and then the message “PASSCODE=1234” (code = 1234).
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Price
The range of prices in the segment of hands-free devices for cars is large. You can find a device for 600 rubles. or resort to advanced solutions, the cost of which exceeds 10 thousand rubles. You need to start from your needs. If you rarely talk on the phone while driving, a budget model will suffice, but if you like to chat while traveling, then you should pay attention to mid-segment gadgets.
Price table:
| Device | Price, r |
| Jabra Drive | 2600 |
| ACV BT-150 | 1200 |
| Jabra Speak 710MS | 17478 |
| MPOW Streambot Mini AUX CSR 4.0 (MBR1) | 2000 |
| Avantree | 2660 |
| Jabra Speak 410 speakerphone | 6785 |
| Jabra Freeway | 7000 |
| NRG BTS-60 | 500 |
| multipoint 3.1A | 1100 |
| ParkBest BT980 Handsfree | 700 |
| MPOW Streambot 2-In-1 | 2500 |
| Parrot CK-3100 Black Edition | 16400 |
| Mpow Hands-Free | 1900 |
| Parrot CK-3000 Black Edition | 13500 |
| YATOUR Bluetooth module | 2500 |
| ACV BT-151 | 1344 |
| Jabra SPEAK 510+ MS Bluetooth USB Speakerphone | 11100 |
| Mobidick Supertooth Light | 1400 |
If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below the article. We or our visitors will be happy to answer them
Where can I buy
Popular models of gadgets are purchased in digital supermarkets or showrooms that sell equipment for cars. Consultants will give recommendations and advice - what they are, their varieties, which company is better to buy, how to choose, how much it costs.
If there is no decent choice in your place of residence, the best new items can be ordered online on the pages of the popular domestic aggregator Yandex.Market or the Chinese site AliExpress, as well as in the online store of the largest digital marketplaces. There you can study the description in advance, compare characteristics, look at photos and user reviews.
Various hands-free devices for cars in Moscow are offered at prices ranging from almost 300 rubles (LiZi BT-X6) to 44,700 rubles (Jabra Speak 810 MS).
Peculiarities
The Bluetooth adapter for car radio is a compact multifunctional device. Its main advantages include compactness, stable signal, versatility (works with car radios that have an audio output). The sound works without interruptions, the quality of information transmission is high. The objective disadvantages of adapters include the relatively high cost of some models. In addition, the device almost always occupies the audio output connector of the radio. Despite the disadvantages, adapters are modern and very necessary devices for organizing wireless communication in a car.
For example, Bluetooth AUX is considered one of the most stable connections. Essentially, this is an adapter that uses the analog input of the radio and is powered via a USB port. A diagnostic Bluetooth adapter for a car is used for professional purposes to check the operation of the car. This is a kind of scanner that can work on the go and connects to any device that has a USB connector. Diagnostics are carried out using a tablet, smartphone or computer. They work using a combined transmission protocol; the adapters are suitable for almost all domestic and European cars.
Reviews
Judging by the reviews, a Bluetooth adapter for a car is an indispensable gadget for the modern driver. With their help, you can talk on the phone without being distracted from the road. This reduces the likelihood of accidents. The advantages of car adapters include ease of use, low price, error reset in diagnostic models, accuracy, functionality, reading errors and values of various parameters from the engine ECU, absence of wires and drivers, and compactness. Everything works via Bluetooth, does not require settings, beautiful design. Among the disadvantages of some adapter models, including diagnostic ones, are poor build quality, the need to install programs, and difficulty in removing them from the recessed connector.
How to listen to tracks using standard capabilities
So, if your car radio supports playing music via Bluetooth from Android, setting up the connection will not seem difficult to you:
- Turn on Bluetooth on your phone (usually the key is in the curtain or in the corresponding section in the main Settings);
- Find and activate a similar connection in the car radio (if you can’t find the button, refer to the instructions for your device);
- Wait for the gadgets to pair with each other. You can detect the tape recorder through your mobile phone, but it’s better to do the opposite. In this case, the audio system will remember the Bluetooth module of your phone and will connect to it automatically in the future when modes are activated. If the system requires a password upon initial connection, try the standard “111” or “1234”. Also check if the required password appears on the smartphone screen;
- Play the song on your mobile and start listening to it from your car stereo.
You can put your phone in your bag - track control is now available through the radio. And through the car’s audio system, you can receive and transmit calls, as well as play incoming audio messages. Thus, via Bluetooth in the car you can not only listen to music, but also stay connected without being distracted from driving.
