DAB/FM splitter
 

I have looked through the numerous DAB aerial threads but couldn’t find any covering use of a DAB/FM aerial splitter in our cars. I am looking at replacing my Symphony head unit with a Blaupunkt DAB as since having DRLs fitted sod’s law decrees that they interfere with the main station I listen to LBC 97.3 on FM.

Has anyone used a passive splitter on a tourer and if so what were the results like ? They seem a neater solution that the film type and I don’t want to go down the path of drilling a hole.

Has anyone has any experience of the single DIN Blaupunkt Valencia 200BT ? that’s the one I’m looking at as I like the simple OEM appearance of it.

Many Thanks John

:confused:
Really? DRLs are just LEDs. Aren't they driven by a DC supply? If so, that shouldn't interfere with radio reception.

What form does the interference take John?

Simon

Hi Simon, a loud buzzing that makes the station unlistenable, switch on the headlights which turns off the DRLs and the buzzing goes, same as listening to the radio on stage one of the ignition before the DRLs are powered up. It’s odd as it’s only that station and didn’t have the problem before the DRLs were fitted. LEDs can cause strange interference, on my pushbikes I have got wireless trip computers and when I used a hi-power LED headlight if it was mounted near to the computer it would interrupt the wireless signal !

Thanks for that John. Are the DRLs wired directly to the car's loom or is there some sort of "driver" involved? If the latter it might be that it, or the wiring to the LEDs, needs screening.

Of course the simplest solution is to dispense with the DRLs. Changing the radio receiver and aerial system is a lot of work for what could be considered a fashion accessory. ;)

Also, do you have a guarantee that the Blaupunkt DAB unit won't be similarly affected? :shrug:

Simon

Hi Simon not sure if the LEDs have a driver as I had them installed. I got the DRLs to increase my cars daylight visibility rather than as a styling mod. It’s a good observation re no guarantees on DAB being a solution, but the Blaupunkt unit was also going to provide a Bluetooth phone and music streaming solution as my CD boot changer has failed.

Never had a problem with car visibility before drls became the norm on moderns.
Ditch the drls and if you're concerned about being seen just put your dipped headlights on.:shrug: