I guess it may be a different story in a big city where the station towers are very close and signals are very strong. I am in VT and have tried the iTrip on strong competing stations purposfully and the iTrip takes over nicely when within 5 feet of the receiver. On a weaker station, I have successfully transmitted to the receiver from the floor below in my Condo. I suspect that my neighbors could pick up my iPod if they knew where to tune. Don't blame the iTrip for being a bad device. Just realize it is not right for everyone.