What is it?

Auto 14 is a Bluetooth receiver and transmitter adapter, which helps one broadcast audio output from one device to another wirelessly. It can act as an audio receiver for your old car music system. But then, how different is it from any other Bluetooth receiver you may ask? Well, this one can also act as a transmitter. So, it doubles up to connect your old i-pod/music player without Bluetooth to your car's infotainment system that supports Bluetooth.

What's in the box?

The small neatly packed box contains a square-shaped unit in a nice glossy black finish on one side and a matte gun-metal colour on the sides. Apart from a user manual, there's a conventional USB cable as well. Then, there's quite a frivolous looking audio cable due to its slim wire. It would have been better if it was a little thicker for longevity. All other equipment is of good quality and looks reliable too.

How to install?

This is just a plug-and-play device. You can either get it charged at home or use its USB cable to charge it on-the-go. Connecting it is a child's play. Plug in the audio cable into the car's 3.5mm jack input. Switch the device on and make sure it's in the receiving mode (RX). You can pair the unit named Auto14 while searching it on your Bluetooth-enabled device. Put the car's music system mode on Aux and you are ready to play anything on your smartphone/Bluetooth device through the cars' speakers.

Now, you can also use Auto14 to convert your old i-pod/mp3 player into a wireless device. So, if you already have a car with a Bluetooth enabled infotainment system but want to connect this player of yours wirelessly, Auto14's transmitter (TX) mode comes into the picture. Instead of putting the audio cable into the car's 3.5mm jack, put it in the player's audio output. Push the button to TX and switch your device on. Connect Auto14 to your car's infotainment system and voila, you can play any media through Bluetooth.

How does it work?

Auto14 smartly combines the function of a wireless receiver and a transmitter into one. As a result, you can conveniently stream your content on or to non-Bluetooth devices easily. As explained in the installation part, the Transmitting (TX) mode streams audio from your non-Bluetooth devices to your Bluetooth system/speakers/headphones. On the other hand, the Receiving (TR) mode streams audio to your car stereo system. Interestingly, it can double up to connect to your wired speakers, headphones, home theatre system, phone, mp3 player, or any of your favourite media player.

How much does it cost?

It's MRP is Rs 1,999 on the company's official website Portronics.com and other stores. But it's available on Amazon and other online buying platforms for Rs 1,000. Yes, it may look a little expensive, but it kind of justifies it's price tag as it cuts down on your effort, space, and money of buying two separate devices for transmitting and receiving audio. This one does both the jobs effectively by creating a seamless wireless set-up. It also provides good audio connectivity in HD quality with a stable connection. It has a two-hour rapid charging capability, which in turn, provides up to 10 hours of playback time thanks to its 450mAh in-built battery. Furthermore, the use of Bluetooth 4.2 technology helps reduce power consumption and helps in a fast pairing. And while you are on-the-go this eventually means efficient usage with this hands-free kit. Lest we forget, even the convenience of switching operations and audio connection easily with just one switch.

Pros and Cons

Pros

- Can be used as a receiver or transmitter

- Built-in battery

- Usage not limited to the car

- Can be used to connect to anything with Bluetooth/3.5mm jack

Cons

- Glossy black material is a finger-print and dust magnet

- Fragile thin audio cable

- Short audio cable

Specifications

Brand and Manufacturer - Portronics

Model name - AUTO 14

Product Dimensions - 7.1 x 5.1 x 1.4 cm

Item Weight - 50 g

Batteries – In-built 450mAh Lithium Polymer battery

Mounting Hardware - Car Adapter, User Manual, USB cable, Audio Cable

Pictures by Kaustubh Gandhi