Top 10 Best Bluetooth Headphone Transmitters
Gone are the days when electronics had to be plugged in with a cable to work. Today, it’s all about going wireless. Wireless technology has enabled users to send or stream music, files and videos to other devices – minus the hassle of tangled wires and cables.
FM transmitters were the earliest form of this technology, and they worked by transmitting audio on FM frequencies such as radio. Bluetooth came next, and used radio signals to transfer data over short distances. In modern times, this form of wireless tech is one of the most commonly used, apart from Wifi. New mobile devices such as smartphones, MP3 players and tablets usually have inbuilt Bluetooth capabilities. As these devices are also capable of storing files, they can be turned into audio ‘sources’ as well. This is where the Bluetooth transmitter comes in.
Bluetooth Headphone Transmitters – How they Work
Bluetooth transmitters work by transmitting signals from non-Bluetooth devices, such as TVs, CD players or other audio sources, which will then be received by a Bluetooth enabled device such as a smartphone or wireless headphones. Receivers, on the other hand, are plugged into non-Bluetooth devices and ‘receive’ signals from a Bluetooth-enabled source. For example, users can plug them into an old set of speakers or a pair of headphones, and use them to play music from their smartphones.
Sometimes, a ‘transmitter’ comes bundled together with a receiver, so users will not have to purchase separate pieces. This is very exciting for audio lovers, as there are endless possibilities to stream and play music.
Why You Need them for your Headphones
Better Quality – Compared to FM transmitters, Bluetooth transmitters have a wider frequency response - between 20Hz to 20,000Hz - and offer better audio quality. FM audio tends to be scratchy, and they might also pick up sounds from overlapping frequencies. Bluetooth minimizes this, allowing users to enjoy a smooth and seamless listening experience.
Flexibility – FM transmitters have a small operational range; usually a few yards from their audio source. On the other hand, Bluetooth transmitters have an operational range of about 30ft, so users can enjoy the flexibility of moving around the room without having to deal with cables every time. They are also able to receive and transmit signals through walls.
More Control – While you can use them to play audio files, Bluetooth transmitters are also able to send data. Receiving devices, such as smartphones and MP3 players can be used to control audio content, such as mute, fast-forward, rewind and pause.
Wide Compatibility – Intel reports that over 3bil Bluetooth-enabled devices were shipped worldwide in 2013, and this figure is expected to balloon to 20bil by 2017. It’s not surprising then that Bluetooth transmitters are able to work with almost any modern device, from smartphones to MP3 players and tablets to TV sets. Some models are also able to connect to a few devices simultaneously.
But the beauty of Bluetooth lies in their capability to breathe new life into seemingly ‘old’ technology, transforming speakers and headphones into playback devices and vice versa – without the need for adapters or other docking mechanisms.
Convenience/Ease of Use – Bluetooth transmitters are small and portable, and can be carried around easily. They do not require complex setups and usually have simple output slots, such as a standard 3.5mm jack. For such amazing technology, they are also surprisingly affordable.
Top 10 best Bluetooth transmitters for headphones and headsets - Complete chart
Picture |
Name |
Working Range |
Price |
Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Picture |
Name |
Working Range |
Price |
Rating |
 |
1. TaoTronics TT-BA01 Bluetooth Transmitter | 30 feet | $$ | 4.3 |
 |
2. Miccus Mini-jack TX Bluetooth Transmitter | 25 feet | $$ | 4.3 |
 |
3. Sinvitron® Mini V4.0 A2DP Portable Wireless Stereo Music Transmitter | 30 feet | $$ | 4.3 |
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4. NewRice® Wireless Bluetooth 4.0 Music Transmitter | 30 feet | $$ | 4.1 |
 |
5. Proxelle Strobe Bluetooth Audio Transmitter | 33 feet | $$ | 4.1 |
 |
6. Mpow Streambot Pro Bluetooth Transmitter | 8 feet | $$ | 4.1 |
 |
7. TaoTronics Bluetooth TTBA-06 Transmitter | 30 feet | $$ | 4.1 |
 |
8. MNXO BT01-001 Portable Stereo Audio Wireless Bluetooth Transmitter | 25 feet | $$ | 3.8 |
 |
9. Avantree Priva II Bluetooth Transmitter | 30 feet | $$ | 3.8 |
 |
10. New Eranton® Portable TV Bluetooth 4.0 A2dp Audio Stereo Transmitter | 15 feet | $$ | 3.8 |
1) TaoTronics TT-BA01 Bluetooth Transmitter
One of the best-selling tech items on the market, the TaoTronics TT-BA01U transmitter seems to be the real deal, judging from the thousands of positive reviews from users of the brand. It works by turning regular stereo audio devices into wireless streaming machines.
Lightweight and versatile, it can be plugged into a wide range of devices such as TVs, desktop PCs, CD-players and MP3 players, regardless of brand or type. Once connected through a 3.5mm audio-out jack, the transmitter will send signals to Bluetooth audio systems such as headphones or speakers. The high quality stereo sound is a definite step up from scratchy FM transmitters.
With an operational range of 30ft, users can pair their headphones with a TV set and watch it from a comfortable distance. It’s also useful when you need some privacy, as you can transmit the audio to your headphones without disturbing others who are sleeping or working. The strong wireless connection is able to penetrate walls, so you’ll still be able to enjoy music even from the next room. The signals do not interfere with existing Wifi connections.
The transmitter will ‘remember’ devices, so users need only pair them once. Subsequently, it will auto-detect these devices each time you turn on Bluetooth.
Small and portable at just 0.5 ounces, it can last up to seven hours without charging. Even while charging with the included USB cable, users can still plug them in to the TV or PC, and use them as normal.
The user-friendly design features LED lights which indicate when the device is on, as well as a power on and off button. Our only complaint is that there is a slight lag between the source and the receiver, but this is barely audible and can be solved by turning down the volume on the TV to avoid the ‘echo’ effect.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of TaoTronics TT-BA01 Bluetooth Transmitter>>
2) Miccus Mini-jack TX Bluetooth Transmitter
‘Mini’ rightly describes the Miccus Mini-jack TX. This transmitter is tiny and measures less than 2 inches on each side. It works as advertised, allowing users to pair non-Bluetooth devices such as CD and MP3 players to stereo headsets and headphones. It can even be plugged into motorcycles and car stereos, as long as there is an outlet for the 3.5mm headphone jack. Pairing is easy, with no need for passwords, codes or any system setups. Users simply press and hold a button for eight seconds, and the device will automatically search for compatible devices. For wireless connection, the sound quality is good, with a full bass response and even stereo spread.
Weighing just 2.7 ounces, the Miccus is convenient to bring around on roadtrips or while travelling: just take care not to lose it due to its small size. Its ergonomic design features a 90 degree swivelling jack which is convenient for hard-to-reach connections, and lies flush when not in use for easy storage. It offers up to seven hours of playback, thanks to internal Lithium-Ion batteries. Users can also charge them into an electrical source via a USB cable. Do note that the transmitter turns off when you charge it, so you’ll have to turn them on again to use as normal while charging.
The Miccus does have some downsides. For one, it only supports one-on-one pairing, which means it can only stream to one device at a time. Although the transmitter claims to have an operational range of 30ft, connectivity seems to be affected after 20-25ft.
It also suffers from considerable lag. Sound appears delayed, especially when paired with TV, but for playing music or podcasts, this transmitter does the job just fine.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of Miccus Mini-jack TX Bluetooth Transmitter>>
3) Sinvitron® Mini V4.0 A2DP Portable Wireless Stereo Music Transmitter
Designed with audio performance in mind, the Sinvitron Mini allows users to enjoy stereo soundtracks with high fidelity, reproducing sound on your headphones that is as accurate as possible to its original source.
The transmitter uses Bluetooth 4.0 technology. Aside from being low-energy, it is also compatible with older versions of Bluetooth. Meanwhile, each transmitter comes with an A2DP or ‘Advanced Audio Distribution Profile’ – which allows the device to wirelessly transmit high quality stereo sound from an A2DP source, such as a computer or CD player, to an A2DP receiver, such as Bluetooth –enabled speakers.
It works with any non-Bluetooth device such as TVs, CD players or even Kindles, regardless of type and brand. It can also be used as a Bluetooth car kit to connect to a vehicle’s stereo system. The transmitter uses a standard 3.5mm audio jack.
One great feature of the Sinvitron is that it can pair up with two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, so users can listen to audio with two headsets at the same time. Separate speakers, however, are not recommended, as there might be some latency issues.
At just 0.8 ounces, the transmitter is super lightweight and the small design makes it easy to carry around and fit into awkward corners. The transmitter has a built-in battery with a decent battery life of five hours, and we like that it fully recharges within a short amount of time (about 1.5 hours).
The range is pretty limited at less than 30ft, but the distance is adequate for single-room use. The pairing mechanism takes some getting used to, but once you’ve figured it out, it works like a charm. To use, turn on the device by holding the switch on button, then tap it once for the transmitter to scan devices. Once the LED light turns blue, it indicates that it has successfully connected. The process usually takes less than 20 seconds.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of Sinvitron® Mini V4.0 A2DP Portable Wireless Stereo Music Transmitter>>
4) NewRice® Wireless Bluetooth 4.0 Music Transmitter
Another item on this list that uses the latest Bluetooth 4.0 technology, the NewRice transmitter is able to pair with devices that run on older versions of Bluetooth. Once plugged in with a standard 3.5mm audio jack, it works with all types of non-Bluetooth devices such as TVs, PCs and MP3 players. Expect to hear high performance and good stereo sound quality on your headphones, thanks to its A2DP system. It works particularly well when transmitting low frequency audio, so the sounds are crisp and clear on your headphones or speakers.
As with other Bluetooth transmitters, this has a range of around 30ft, and has quite a stable connection even through walls. Avoid electronic home appliances such as microwaves, as they will interfere with the signal. Design wise, the NewRice sports a slightly different look from regular transmitters, which are usually square or rectangular in shape. Instead, it has a flat disc shape that measures less than 45mm at its widest, making it both portable and easy to store. It is also very lightweight at 0.3ounces and can easily fit into your pocket or a side pouch.
The battery lasts up to five hours, but for longer use, it can be plugged into a charger and then used as normal. Like the Sinvitron, the NewRice is able to pair with two devices simultaneously. A helpful LED indicator will light up when the devices have been paired successfully.
Some users have reported latency problems, but others have claimed that this is not a problem with the transmitter, but the headphones. Users with A2DP headphones reported less lag. In any case, it might not be perfect for use with TV due to syncing problems, but is perfectly fine for audio-only use.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of NewRice® Wireless Bluetooth 4.0 Music Transmitter>>
5) Proxelle Strobe Bluetooth Audio Transmitter
‘Great little device’ sums up what most reviewers think of the Proxelle Bluetooth Audio Transmitter. While most transmitters come in dull, utilitarian shades of black and grey, the Proxelle offers a flash of style with two color options – Blue and Strobe-Black. Small, lightweight and durable, the item is perfect to bring along on your travels. Plug it into a laptop to enjoy music on your headphones while on an airplane, or while waiting at the departure lounge.
Looks aside, the transmitter delivers as promised, allowing users to transmit audio from non-Bluetooth sources such as TVs, e-Readers or laptops through a standard 3.5mm AUX port. Using the latest Bluetooth 4.0 technology, it then transmits the signals to Bluetooth-enabled audio systems such as headsets and speakers. The stereo sound quality is decent, with minimal static or interference. Another great thing about the Proxelle is that it pairs with not one, but two devices simultaneously.
Lag is a problem for many transmitters. Not so with the Proxelle. Featuring AptX Low Latency support, with under 50milliseconds of latency, users can expect a seamless audio experience that is in sync with the source. There are no apparent delays between a video and the audio, so the transmitter is great to use with TV and other video-streaming applications.
The operational range of 33ft allows users more flexibility, as they can move away from their desk or watch TV from a comfortable distance. LED indicators light up when charging and pairing.
The battery can last up to five or six hours, and only needs to be recharged for two hours. It seems we can’t find fault with this transmitter, aside from a minor flaw. Audio tends to become distorted when the source volume is set to high. To avoid this, keep the volume to 50% and below.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of Proxelle Strobe Bluetooth Audio Transmitter>>
6) Mpow Streambot Pro Bluetooth Transmitter
The MPow Streambot Pro Bluetooth headphone transmitters is a handy one to have around the household - or just about anywhere, in general. Employing A2DP technology, it is able to stream with minimal loss of transmission and quality, so users can hear stereo sound with crystal clear clarity.
Although it comes with a slightly older version of Bluetooth, the 3.0, it should still work well with old and new devices. Plug the transmitter in using a standard 3.5mm audio jack to any non-Bluetooth device, such as TVs, desktop PCs, old laptops or iPods, and watch them transform into wireless streaming machines.
Measuring less than 52mm at its widest, its compact design is small, easy to carry around and plug into small corners. It is also lightweight at just 2.1 ounces.
The MPow has a decent range of about 30ft measured in a straight line, as things like machines and objects might interfere with the signal. The in-built battery lasts between seven to eight hours, and only needs to be charged for two hours to get a full battery. The transmitter also supports using while charging, so users can plug them into their non-Bluetooth devices and stream as normal, even while it is
Pairing is easy and takes less than 20 seconds. A soft LED indicator light lets you know when the item is on or off. However, the transmitter can only pair with one device at a time. Users should take note that before using it for the first time, the transmitter needs to be charged to full.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of Mpow Streambot Pro Bluetooth Transmitter>>
7) TaoTronics Bluetooth TTBA-06 Transmitter
An ‘upgraded’ version of the older TTBA-01, the TaoTronics TTBA-06 Bluetooth transmitter has most of the features of its bestselling predecessor.The main difference is that the 06 uses a more recent version of Bluetooth, the 4.0, compared to the 01’s Bluetooth 2.1. This means that the TTBA-06 is able to transmit and stream audio in high, CD-like quality. The 06 also has better speed and a less noticeable lag.
Sporting a neat, black design with the brand’s logo embossed on one front, the transmitter is made from plastic material that is durable and sturdy. Small and compact, it is easy to plug into tight corners and is convenient to carry around, as it is about the size of a matchstick box.
As usual, users plug the transmitter in with a 3.5mm audio jack or USB Audio output into output devices such as TVs, PCs and Kindle Fire. The transmitter then sends smooth and clear audio to paired Bluetooth stereos, headsets, headphones and speakers. If you’re looking to watch some late night TV without bothering the spouse from sleeping, then the transmitter helps by allowing more privacy, especially when connected to a pair of Bluetooth headphones. It has a range of up to 30ft.
One great feature of the TTBA-06 is its long lasting battery, which can last up to 10 hours without charging. To get a full charge, only an hour is needed. Even in charging mode, the transmitter can still perform its transmitting duties – so you have a device that never runs out of juice. Three small LED lights act as indicators to inform users when it is turned on, charging or in pairing mode.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of TaoTronics Bluetooth TTBA-06 Transmitter>>
8) MNXO BT01-001 Portable Stereo Audio Wireless Bluetooth Transmitter
The MNXO’s box-like shape resembles a mini VCR, with four round openings on one side.
These are meant for the standard 3.5mm audio ports, which will connect the transmitter to non-Bluetooth devices such as TVs,PCs, MP3s and CDplayers – transforming them into wireless streaming machines.
The transmitter sends signals to paired Bluetooth devices such as headphones and headsets, so users will be able to enjoy smooth and seamless audio. It works with any type or brand.
The unit is small and should fit into tight corners, such as when plugged behind your TV set. Since they are lightweight at just 2.1ounces, there is no worry of the transmitter ‘dragging’ the connecting cable down and damaging the port.
Pairing devices can be a little tricky, as it auto-detects surrounding Bluetooth devices to pair with. Since they have an operational range of about 30ft, they might even pick up a neighbor’s devices, especially if you live in an apartment. However, the transmitter will first try to connect to its most recently connected device, before it searches for new devices. It only pairs to one device at a time.
Performance-wise, the audio quality is good with minimal loss of transmission, making it perfect for watching TV with headphones. It works with an external battery, which supports simultaneous charging while transmitting signals.
There are a few drawbacks to the MNXO, but they are mostly minor. The power on switch is rather small, so users might have to use their fingernails to turn the transmitter on or off. The transmitter is slightly bigger compared to other brands, and connectivity seems to decrease when the battery is low.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of MNXO BT01-001 Portable Stereo Audio Wireless Bluetooth Transmitter>>
9) Avantree Priva II Bluetooth Transmitter
You’re watching your favourite TV show with Bluetooth headphones on, but you can’t seem to enjoy it because the characters’ dialogues and the audio you hear are not in sync. This is a very common problem with transmitters due to latency issues.
With the AvantreePriva II Bluetooth transmitter, users can say goodbye to annoying lag. The transmitter usesatpX low latency technology in order to deliver the best performance and minimize lag, so users hear seamless, uninterrupted audio that matches what is showing on screen.It works particularly well when paired with other Bluetooth receivers that use the same technology, such as Avantree Audition Pro and Plantronics BackBeat Pro.
On devices without Low Latency compatibility, the Priva II boosts audio performance for clear and lag-free audio – making it perfect not just for watching TV and streaming videos, but also for gaming where sound and timing is crucial.
No complicated setup is required, as users simply plug the transmitter into non-Bluetooth devices with a standard 3.5mm audio cable or RCA cable. It works across multiple brands and types, provided the device has an analog audio output.
The Priva II supports dual link, so audio can be streamed to two devices simultaneously. However, due to Bluetooth limitations, dual link does not support the aptX low latency feature and users might experience some lag compared to if the transmitter was only transmitting to one device.
The design is compact and lightweight at 0.8 ounces. It also allows users flexibility to move around up to 32ft. The battery can last up to 6.5 hours on a full charge. Use it as per usual while charging for an endless supply for battery that never runs out.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of Avantree Priva II Bluetooth Transmitter>>
10) New Eranton® Portable TV Bluetooth 4.0 A2dp Audio Stereo Transmitter
The Eranton supports Bluetooth 4.0 technology, making it backward-compatible with most, if not all, older Bluetooth headsets and headphones. Bluetooth 4.0 performs well in terms of sound quality and speed compared to older versions, with minimal static and distortion for a better listening experience.
The transmitter plugs in to TVs, CD players and MP3s through a 3.5mm audio out-jack and sends signals to the ‘receiving’ end. Its compact size is easy to fit into tight spaces and can be attached to the back of a TV or into a tricky corner. While most transmitters have a square or rectangular shape, the Eranton is flat and disc-like, measuring less than 2 inches at its widest.
Good things and experiences are meant to be shared. The Eranton makes it possible to have a friend over and watch your favourite TV shows or listen to music together. Unlike some transmitters that only allow one-on-one pairing, the Eranton can simultaneously pair with two headsets without losing its crystal clear audio quality.
Pairing is easy and requires users to power up by pressing the switch for two seconds. A blue indicator will flash when it starts pairing with the first headset. For those with a second heatset to pair, a short press of the power button is all that’s needed. Subsequent pairings will be synchronized automatically.
The Eranton runs on in-built lithium ion batteries. It has a decent battery life of around five hours, although this is shorter than many other transmitters on this list. If you’re using it at home, this should not be too much of an issue since they can be used while plugged into a charger for constant power. It can still be used outdoors with a powerbank and only needs to be plugged in for 1.5 hours to get a full charge. The device has a wide range and offers users more flexibility to move around, up to 33ft.
