FM transmitter AKAI FMT-C57BT Bluetooth — in-car FM adapter with Bluetooth connectivity

The AKAI FMT-C57BT Bluetooth in-car FM transmitter provides a way to stream audio and make hands-free calls using your vehicle’s FM radio. As an FM adapter, it connects to a smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled device and broadcasts audio to an unused FM frequency on the car stereo. The compact unit is intended for vehicles that lack built-in Bluetooth audio support and aims to offer a simple plug-and-play solution for music playback and voice calls while driving.

Advantages

The AKAI FMT-C57BT offers wireless Bluetooth audio streaming to an FM radio without the need for additional cabling or stereo replacement. It enables hands-free calls through the car audio system, reducing the need to handle a phone while driving. Setup is straightforward: pair a Bluetooth device and tune the car radio to the transmitter’s chosen frequency. The small form factor helps keep the dashboard area uncluttered and makes the transmitter easy to store when not in use.

Suitable for (tasks / use cases)

• Streaming music from a smartphone to a car stereo that has no Bluetooth.
• Making and receiving hands-free phone calls through the vehicle’s speakers.
• Temporary or rental vehicles where permanent audio upgrades are not desirable.

When it may not be suitable

The FM transmitter relies on finding a clear FM frequency; in areas with dense radio traffic or strong local stations it may be difficult to obtain interference-free playback. Audio quality is limited by FM broadcast characteristics and may be lower than direct Bluetooth audio or auxiliary input connections. Vehicles with built-in Bluetooth or modern infotainment systems that support wireless or wired streaming will typically provide better integration and sound quality.

Key specifications

• Connectivity: Bluetooth wireless audio streaming to FM radio.
• Primary function: FM transmission of smartphone audio and call audio to car stereo.
• Power and mounting: Compact plug-in design suitable for vehicle use.
• Controls: Basic pairing and frequency selection for simple operation.

How to use

Pair a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone with the AKAI FMT-C57BT according to the device’s pairing procedure. On the car radio, scan or manually select an FM frequency that is free or has minimal interference, then set the transmitter to the same frequency. Play audio or answer calls from the paired smartphone; sound is transmitted over the car’s FM radio. Adjust phone volume and radio tuning to balance audio level and reduce noise. When finished, unpair or power off the transmitter as needed.

What to consider before purchase

• Check whether your vehicle already has built-in Bluetooth or an auxiliary input for potentially better audio options.
• Consider local FM band congestion—areas with many stations may cause interference.
• Verify physical fit and placement in your vehicle to ensure the transmitter can be comfortably accessed and does not obstruct controls.

Usage recommendations

For best results, select an empty FM frequency and set the transmitter and car radio to that precise frequency. Keep firmware or device settings up to date on your smartphone and use moderate radio volume to avoid distortion. If reception is poor, try repositioning the transmitter or the vehicle to reduce interference.