Its not very often that I get excited about an accessory for a Head-Unit but just yesterday I found a small black box next to the messy pile of paper I call a desk, this little black box had Digital Designs’ New DD logo on it which straight away grabbed my attention. At this moment my curiosity had taken over so I had to find out what this little unit was, to my surprise it was a Bluetooth Audio Receiver!
The Digital Designs DD-S-LINK is a very cool little unit and it made perfect sense to why Digital Designs would add a Bluetooth Audio Receiver to their product line. Not everyone can afford to buy the Top-Of-The-Line Bluetooth capable Head-Unit, in some cases people have a favourite Head-Unit that has treated them well and can’t bring themselves to replace it with a newer Head-Unit.
The Digital Designs DD-S-LINK allows any Head-Unit with a AUX-IN to be Bluetooth capable! What is even better is if your Head-Unit has a USB you can use that to power or charge the DD-S-LINK and if your Head-Unit doesn’t have a USB you can use the DD-U-CHARGE USB Car Charger!
This unit offers a simple solution to those wanting to integrate your mobile device, or portable Mp3 player to an existing audio system without costly equipment upgrades. In addition If you already own a set of Digital Designs DD-PM-151’s the DD- S-LINK is fully compatible, and will also work with the newer model which will be available soon. With the DD-S-LINK any Bluetooth enabled device can stream music to a non Bluetooth piece of equipment in your home, or car audio system.
The DD-S-LINK also features a built in microphone allowing it to double as a hands free unit.The built in rechargeable battery gives you the freedom to use the DD-S-LINK when a power source for charging isn’t available. The DD-S-LINK comes packaged with a 3.5mm audio cable, and a 3.5mm to RCA adapter making it a plug and play solution for most applications.
Technical Specs: – Complies with Bluetooth 2.0 – Supports A2DP V1.2 – Bluetooth Range up to 30ft – Standard 3.5mm Low Level Analog Audio Output – Standard USB to Mini-USB Power Connector – Embedded 250mA Rechargeable Battery – Powered by 5V DC – Dimensions 58*30*13mm **
Overall I think this is a very cool accessory that could come in handy for a lot of people, I found it streamed music beautifully and there seemed to be no lose of signal. I tried it on several Head-Units in our sound boards and had the same results every time and found to be very easy to use, so if you have a Head-Unit with only AUX and you would like to have the capability to stream music this is the unit for you!
Ok, I want to end this one a little different and ask… What is your opinion on these type of accessories and can you think of any other uses for them?
**Updated info from Digital Designs