Quote:
Originally Posted by ranchlandsselling
Looking to stream audio and maybe video throughout the house.
I've got two TV's in the basement both with a WD Live and I think those are fine as is.
Looking to have some sort of audio device upstairs (kitchen, living room, family room). Don't want to spend too much money.
Some thoughts were
Cheap/small TV set and plug in a chromecast, can stream anything from computer or tablet (can you actually stream video from a hard drive on chromecast or does it need to be streamed via chrome browser?). Downsides of this are a TV in kitchen or living room and TV quality sound. Upside is having a TV in a location I don't use often but option is there.
Bluetooth audio device, I think this would eliminate the need for a chromecast plugged in, and can just stream audio via bluetooth from a tablet and usually has a docking station or input. Upside is much better audio than a cheap TV, downside is no video if ever wanted. Some of these seem expensive, the not so expensive ones are pretty ugly.
Other options?
What have you guys done around the house to stream audio? I was thinking online radio services like songza etc.
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Sonos is the way to go but it ain't cheap and it could start a snowball effect.
- It is dead simple to setup
- Your computer, phone, and tablet can control the music in each different zone. Great user interface and constantly being improved.
- unlocks a plethora of music options like Google Play, Sirius, iTunes, Deezer, Songza, even regular old radio stations like The Fan 960 via TuneIn Radio. They add new services all the time.
- setup different zones playing the same or different music
- well made products and great tech support
I have a Sonos Connect, the hub for delivering music throughout my house, connected to two powered speakers in my den.
I have a Sonos Play:5 in the kitchen...fills the kitchen and living room with great sound...talks to the Connect in the Den to be part of the Sonos system. Eventually I would like to put in ceiling speakers and drive them with the Sonos Connect Amp and add the Sonos wireless sub.
I have a Sonos: Play:1 in the master bathroom...talks to the SOnos Connect in the den. Compact little speaker and sounds great....super protable...but so is the Play:3 and Play:5.
I plan to add another Sonos Connect to my main home theater system...I use a media streamer right now but it is a PITA. Also plan to add a Connect Amp to drive outside speakers.
They also have a soundbar that can sit under your tv...drive your TV sound or play music from the Sonos.
Expensive but it all works seamlessly and without issues. I recommend going to Futureshop or Bestbuy and pickup a Sonos Bridge and a Play:1...or just a Sonos Connect if you have powered speakers...or a Sonos Connect Amp if you want to play through non powered speakers. Try it out for 29 days...