Wireless Wonders
Build your dream system and convenient wireless connectivity with these affordable and easy-to-use accessories
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When putting together a large home audio setup, you’ll quickly find out it’s the little things that matter. A Bluetooth audio receiver may not be the showiest centerpiece of your dream audio soundscape, but it’s vital if you want reliable wireless sound.
Bluetooth audio receivers, once connected to your sound system, receive a signal from your phone, convert it to analog, and send it through to your speakers or device for you to enjoy. Plus, they’re great for making the old new again – dusting off your old turntable and giving it wireless capability. Want to make it easier to control the tunes on your existing speakers and home sound system? Here’s what to know about the best Bluetooth audio receivers.
Bluetooth Audio Receivers Buying Guide
Once you start using Bluetooth, it’s hard to use anything else. The convenience of eliminating wires provides a clean look for your media setup, not to mention has adjustable settings from up to 100 feet away, or anywhere in the world from a phone’s app over WiFi. Some of the higher-end models have a noticeably smoother “edge” to the sound they produce, with a more balanced mix that won’t fatigue your ears after long listens.
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Sound Quality: While Bluetooth’s sound capabilities have come a long way, and improve with each generation, the truth is there there’s a cap to sound quality – about 320kb – and anything over that can’t (yet) be transmitted wirelessly. Most people, with a good set of headphones or speakers, will hardly notice the difference. But if you’re an audiophile that’s paying for premium sound-streaming services like Tidal, don’t be fooled into thinking that a Bluetooth receiver can carry that bitrate.
Ports: Rarely will you find a headphone jack on these – but that’s okay, since most modern headphones have direct Bluetooth capability anyway that can connect right to your audio source. If you do want to have a backup option for wired though, look to the underrated optical cable. Not only are you more likely to find a unit with a jack built-in, but you’ll be getting better data transmission too. You will, however, commonly see RCA and 3.5mm connectors to make things quick and streamlined to hook up.
1. Audioengine B1 Bluetooth Music Receiver
With range capability of 100 feet, Bluetooth 5.0, and 24-bit playback, the B1 makes wireless playback easier. It’s compatible with multiple modern listening formats, like aptX and AAC, and looks great with its aluminum case and gold-plated RCA connectors. You don’t need a special app to use it. It’s an ideal accessory to update old wired systems so you can control your tunes wirelessly.
Buy Audioengine B1 Bluetooth Music Receiver $189.00
2. Bose Bluetooth Audio Adapter
Bose’s Bluetooth receiver is excellent for your home or car, allowing you to stream clearly and effortlessly from your phone, tablet, or laptop. In fact, this can pair with up to eight Bluetooth devices total, with the ability to switch between three at any time. Though it does require power at all times, that doesn’t mean using up an extra outlet, since USB power is an option here too.
Buy Bose Bluetooth Audio Adapter
3. Logitech Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Bluetooth Streaming
Logitech’s affordable receiver can still connect to two devices at once, making it easy to instantly stream from whichever one you want. This has a range of about 50 feet, along with a 3.5mm jack, and is compatible with most common PC speakers. Pairing is also simple – one button, one touch, and you’re done.
Buy Logitech Bluetooth Audio Adapter for…
4. HomeSpot Bluetooth Audio Receiver
Dig up your old music players and take a trip to the past. This also supports a reliable connection via 3.5mm cables to your home stereo, carrying the signal with little to no latency during audio and even video playback. Up to eight devices can be stored in its memory, and can play from as far as 66 feet away.
Buy HomeSpot Bluetooth Audio Receiver $27.99
5. Comsoon Bluetooth 5.0 Receiver
This adapter makes it quick and easy to stream music while you’re on the road. It’s loaded with Bluetooth 5.0 for a reliable connection, and features noise-cancelling technology for knocking out background noise during phone calls. A glowing blue light lets you know it’s on, plus transmission and setup is simple. To use it, just pair it with your favorite device, and you have 16 hours of playtime for your drive ahead.
Buy Comsoon Bluetooth 5.0 Receiver $16.99
