How to add wireless streaming to your hi-fi
With today’s vast improvements in music streaming services, you no longer need CDS or records to experience great audio. Nor do you need to replace your existing hi-fi to access the vast music libraries and wireless convenience offered by the likes of Spotify, Tidal and Qobuz.
If you have Wi-fi at home and your existing amplifier has an unused stereo analogue input – or 3.5mm headphone jack – the simplest solution is to buy a 3.5mm jack to stereo RCA cable, then plug your smartphone directly into your amp. If you’re using a modern iphone without a headphone socket you’ll need an alternative cable, but once connected you’ll be able to play from your digital library or your chosen streaming service through your existing system. You are stuck with a cable though.
A Bluetooth receiver is an affordable Wi-fifree upgrade, bringing wireless streaming from your phone or tablet – but convenience doesn’t guarantee the best audio quality. A cheap device such as the Anker Soundsync (£24.99, uk.anker.com) gets the job done, but with a noticeable bump in audio quality. The ifi Zen Air Blue (£129, ifi-audio.com) combines a quality DAC (Digital Audio Converter) and an ability to stream better-quality Bluetooth
By streaming over Wi-fi rather than Bluetooth, you can reach CD quality
formats including AAC, aptx HD and Sony’s superb-quality LDAC codec.
For best quality wireless streaming, it’s best to invest in a Wi-fi streamer. Plugged into your existing amplifier or surround-sound system, they allow you to play music files from a host of sources including Apple’s Airplay, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Bluetooth, plus find music stored on a network (NAS) drive and play from thousands of internet stations. By streaming over Wi-fi rather than Bluetooth, you can play higher resolution file types and get close to, if not exceed, the quality of your CD collection. CD quality remains superb at 16-bit/44.1khz, but look for 24-bit/96khz or even 32-bit/192khz for more detail. Control generally comes via smartphone app, and most good wireless streamers also let you play content from alternative music platforms.
Wi-fi music streamers available range from around £190 for the Amazon Echo Link to £16,500 for the sensational Naim ND 555 music streamer. Most leading hi-fi brands offer at least one streaming option today, often designed to slip straight in a rack alongside your existing components, but for modern versatility both the Sonos Port (£399, sonos.com) and Bluesound Node (£549, Bluesound.com) are outstanding.