Forum Discussion

colonelcorto's avatar
colonelcorto
Explorer
May 13, 2017

Best way to enjoy my digital hoard of audio books

My wife and I are both teachers and will be traveling all summer. I have a substantial hoard of audio books that I would like to enjoy while driving this summer. I am seeking advice as to he best way my to enjoy them. Back when I drove semi truck I would just load them on my phone and either use headphones or the auxiallry jack on the radio. My RV'S radio is non-functional and I am not entirely sure of the legality of driving around with headphones in my ears all summer. My collection is stored on a raspberry pi (micro computer using Linux) and I have the ability to stream to nearly any smart device. I'm looking for the best balance of functionality, legality, and cost. Thanks!

I do have a surround sound system I could patch into but I doubt the rest of he family would like to listen to my audio books, I would like to keep that freed up.
Class A
  • coolmom42's avatar
    coolmom42
    Explorer II
    May 14, 2017
    toedtoes wrote:
    Here is a rundown of laws regarding headsets/earphones by state

    I would simply replace the non-working radio with a new one that includes an auxiliary input, USB port, etc. Then you can just hook up your pi and start listening. Keep the speakers for that radio to the cab area and you won't bother everyone in the back. You can get a new radio for $100 or less installed.


    This is a simple solution.

    You could also put the audiobooks on a bluetooth enabled device and stream to a small Bluetooth speaker. Lots of those around.
  • GTN_and_Catz's avatar
    GTN_and_Catz
    Explorer
    May 14, 2017
    My 2 cents is just update the radio. I was amazed what $45 would buy you. Among other things, we also listen to audio books when driving and the Kenwood I put in plays just about any format you want to throw at it on CD. Audiobooks to MP3's. It also has bluetooth so that makes it simple to play whatever's on your phone(s). Aux input on the front and a USB port if you dump your music or audio off to a flash drive.

    Of course, every installation is different, but mine was fairly simple and I ordered an installation kit along with it. Main thing it had were adapters in case your wiring deosn't match up.
  • ncrowley's avatar
    ncrowley
    Explorer II
    May 14, 2017
    I agree with the recommendation to update your radio. I use the aux port and put the books on my iPod and connect the iPod to the aux port. We listen to lots of books while driving.
  • toedtoes's avatar
    toedtoes
    Explorer III
    May 14, 2017
    Here is a rundown of laws regarding headsets/earphones by state

    I would simply replace the non-working radio with a new one that includes an auxiliary input, USB port, etc. Then you can just hook up your pi and start listening. Keep the speakers for that radio to the cab area and you won't bother everyone in the back. You can get a new radio for $100 or less installed.
  • ricklord2001's avatar
    ricklord2001
    Explorer
    May 14, 2017
    I used a Bluetooth speaker in a 2005 rv I had worked fine but it was a pusher so all the engine noise was in the rear. Not real sure about a front engine with all the engine noise right there.
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    May 13, 2017
    Time to update your RV radio? How about a Bluetooth speaker?

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