A guide to wireless music streaming
AirPlay vs. Bluetooth vs. WiFi: What’s the difference?
Gone are the days of tangled wires and clunky stereo systems. Today, a world of immersive audio awaits, accessible with a simple tap on your smartphone or tablet. But navigating the options – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay – can feel like deciphering a foreign language. We created this guide to unveil the intricacies of each technology.
WiFi: Uncompromised Fidelity
Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) connects devices to the internet without the use of cables. It boasts exceptional bandwidth, capable of transmitting vast libraries of lossless audio at high speeds. This makes it ideal for listeners who demand uncompromised fidelity. Envision a symphony orchestra performing in your living room, every nuance and instrument reproduced with pristine clarity.
Here's the caveat: establishing a robust Wi-Fi network necessitates a high-performance router, and signal strength can fluctuate depending on your environment. Nonetheless, when functioning optimally, Wi-Fi delivers an unparalleled sonic experience.
Bluetooth: Your Companion on the Move
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology used to connect devices for exchanging data or audio. It excels at establishing quick and convenient wireless connections between two devices, making it ideal for short-range audio streaming. Pairing your high-fidelity headphones with your smartphone for a personalized listening experience during your commute is effortless.
Bluetooth prioritizes ease of use, but it comes with limitations. The technology typically transmits compressed audio, which might not satisfy the most discerning ears. Consider Bluetooth a delectable amuse-bouche – convenient and satisfying, but not a full-course audiophile feast.
Airplay: Integrate with the Apple Ecosystem
AirPlay is Apple's wireless system for streaming music, videos, and photos to compatible speakers and TVs. It allows for the effortless wireless streaming of music, videos, and photos from any Apple device to compatible speakers or televisions. And the pièce de resistance; AirPlay maintains the integrity of the audio signal, ensuring pristine sound quality.
However, there's an air of exclusivity – to use the feature, you'll need an Apple device and AirPlay-enabled speakers. While AirPlay boasts seamless integration and exceptional audio quality, it caters to a specific audience.
Find the best fit
Airplay, Bluetooth, or WiFi? The answer hinges on the nuances of your listening experience.
For the Audio Aficionado at Home
If you demand unwavering fidelity throughout your residence, Wi-Fi is your undisputed champion. Just ensure your sonic sanctuary boasts a robust Wi-Fi infrastructure for optimal performance.
Hi-res audio enthusiasts will enjoy the Beosound Balance, one of our most powerful WiFi speakers yet.
For the On-the-Go Traveler
Bluetooth is your ideal companion if you crave convenient, high-quality audio on the go. Whether traversing the globe or conquering your daily commute, Bluetooth's portability and ease of use make it an indispensable travel companion.
The Beosound Explore is a rugged outdoor Bluetooth speaker, a sleek combination of power and portability.
For the Apple Devotee
If you're firmly entrenched within the Apple ecosystem and prioritize seamless integration, AirPlay provides a truly luxurious audio experience.
Bang & Olufsen speakers appear in the AirPlay device selector within most apps and in control centers on devices with the latest iOS. All of our products support the latest version of Airplay, but to find out if a specific product is compatible with the older versions, each product page covers this in the Connectivity section of the Tech Specs section.
Curate your audio setup
The perfect wireless connection for music streaming is a symphony of factors, tailored to your unique listening habits and preferences. Experiment with each option to discover the one that best harmonizes with your taste for convenience, sound quality, and compatibility. The ideal choice is the one that allows you to lose yourself completely in the music.
Beyond the basics
Latency
If you experience audio lag or stuttering during streaming, a weak Wi-Fi signal could be the culprit. Bluetooth generally boasts lower latency, making it ideal for real-time applications and streaming.
Multi-Room Setup
Do you desire a synchronized soundscape throughout your entire residence? Wi-Fi and AirPlay excel in connecting multiple speakers, while Bluetooth excels within a single room.
Battery
Bluetooth connections can drain your device's battery life more rapidly. Wi-Fi and AirPlay typically rely on the speaker's power source, eliminating this concern.
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