Click to view our Accessibility Statement or contact us with accessibility-related questions
Showing 1 of 17 conversations about:
RayF
22278
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
Evshrug
4167
Keyboard Club Member
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
RayF*Raises Hand* Nerd here!
If you can copy files onto a MicroSD card (same as floppy disks), connect two lego bricks, and type a WiFi password, then you already have all the knowledge you need to set up a Pi DAC. I also didn’t want to start a new hobby just to get an old piece of gear working again... but it was as easy as my friend assured me. That said, it obviously wasn’t my first idea for you...
The airport express worked (well) over WiFi, and had a built-in DAC (a bit more expensive than the $25 cheapo DACs suggested earlier). Maybe a Chomecast would give similar functionality? EDIT: Yeah, the Chromecast is EXACTLY what you’re looking for, $35: https://store.google.com/us/product/chromecast_audio?hl=en-US
ELAC speakers. Easy. Check the reviews :D
If you can copy files onto a MicroSD card (same as floppy disks), connect two lego bricks, and type a WiFi password, then you already have all the knowledge you need to set up a Pi DAC. I also didn’t want to start a new hobby just to get an old piece of gear working again... but it was as easy as my friend assured me. That said, it obviously wasn’t my first idea for you...
The airport express worked (well) over WiFi, and had a built-in DAC (a bit more expensive than the $25 cheapo DACs suggested earlier). Maybe a Chomecast would give similar functionality? EDIT: Yeah, the Chromecast is EXACTLY what you’re looking for, $35: https://store.google.com/us/product/chromecast_audio?hl=en-US
ELAC speakers. Easy. Check the reviews :D
RayF
22278
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
EvshrugYou make it sound easy--maybe it is! And truthfully, I would enjoy messing with it.
Here's a question you'd know the answer to (being an ex-genius)--I have a perfectly good AirPort Extreme sitting in a box doing nothing, and I have good WIFI in the house. Can that APE find a role in this odyssey? Seem's it's little brother did at one time...what say you, O-wise One?
PS: thanks--will read up on the ELACs ;- )
Here's a question you'd know the answer to (being an ex-genius)--I have a perfectly good AirPort Extreme sitting in a box doing nothing, and I have good WIFI in the house. Can that APE find a role in this odyssey? Seem's it's little brother did at one time...what say you, O-wise One?
PS: thanks--will read up on the ELACs ;- )
mindhead1
599
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
Evshrug+1 for the Chromecast Audio. It's easy, affordable, and sounds great.
phosfiend
873
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
RayFAnother +1 for chromecast audio - I’ve used it to build a poor mans sonos at home - its the right balance of easy to use & flexible enough
Evshrug
4167
Keyboard Club Member
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
RayFWell, you can configure it as a repeater to expand your WiFi range. I believe you can also hook up a portable Hard drive to the USB and stuff it full of media that can be played on any computer in the house.
I also had one with the AC WiFi standard, so I have it in my office, hardwired with Ethernet to my custom built PC (didn’t buy an internal WiFi card) and my first gen PlayStation 4 (which had the older, slower wireless N WiFi), which provides a stable, fast connection.
there’s a nice iOS app from Apple that makes it easy to configure an Airport, even without a degree in computer networking 😅 (My degree was in Graphic Design, but I’m years rusty)
I also had one with the AC WiFi standard, so I have it in my office, hardwired with Ethernet to my custom built PC (didn’t buy an internal WiFi card) and my first gen PlayStation 4 (which had the older, slower wireless N WiFi), which provides a stable, fast connection.
there’s a nice iOS app from Apple that makes it easy to configure an Airport, even without a degree in computer networking 😅 (My degree was in Graphic Design, but I’m years rusty)
mindhead1
599
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
RayFI use Plex to serve music (FLAC) from my computer to my Chromecast Audio devices connected to my DACs and Amps.
Plex is a free, lightweight server software that I have also used stream movies and music from a NAS around my house via WiFi.
The Plex -> Chromecast Audio chain is easy and reliable. It allows you to spend more time listening to music and less time configuring gear.
Plex is a free, lightweight server software that I have also used stream movies and music from a NAS around my house via WiFi.
The Plex -> Chromecast Audio chain is easy and reliable. It allows you to spend more time listening to music and less time configuring gear.
Fluffy.Benis
72
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
Evshrug-1 to chromecast audio depending on your setup. It's reliable and works great, but if you've got apple stuff in the loop you may have trouble. From my iPhone, I can't play from the regular music app, but spzotify works fine. maybe you'll only cast from your computer (easy if you use chrome on there) but watch out for difficulties between the Apple and google ecosystems.
just my 2 cents.
Please correct me if I'm wrong
Evshrug
4167
Keyboard Club Member
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
Fluffy.BenisMaybe Google wants you to download a Chromecast Audio specific app, so they can track your audio usage 😆
Fluffy.Benis
72
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
EvshrugNah, it looks like it's more of a Apple not wanting to support the chromecast interface by default. Like I said, Spotify casts excellently.
mindhead1
599
Jul 27, 2018
bookmark_border
Fluffy.BenisYou are correct there maybe some compatibility issues with Apple specific apps (Apple doesn't play well with others). From my experience on iOS, Plex, Google Play Music and Spotify can be used to stream to Chromecast Audio. Amazon Music does not stream to to CCA from iOS but does in Android.
ElectronicVices
2940
Jul 30, 2018
bookmark_border
RayFOn the speaker front I would look at the following in the $1000ish price bracket:
Monitor Audio Revel (concerta) KEF (Q/R/LS) Focal ELAC Emotiva
Speakers are such a personal taste thing that I couldn't say which of those would be the front-runner but I don't think you'd be dissatisfied with any of their offerings in the $1000 range.
Monitor Audio Revel (concerta) KEF (Q/R/LS) Focal ELAC Emotiva
Speakers are such a personal taste thing that I couldn't say which of those would be the front-runner but I don't think you'd be dissatisfied with any of their offerings in the $1000 range.
RayF
22278
Jul 30, 2018
bookmark_border
ElectronicVicesThanks--been reading/watching ELAC reviews and videos today as a mater of fact. Everyone seems to like them, but I'm going to look at all of the brands you mentioned before I make up my mind!
Evshrug
4167
Keyboard Club Member
Jul 31, 2018
bookmark_border
ElectronicVicesFair point, $1000 is a lot to drop and I agree personal taste is certainly a factor. But the ELACs certainly should be on the audition list!
(I have heard them at shows, but in my budget, I’ve really been enjoying the Chane bookshelf speakers I got here on Massdrop years ago!)
(I have heard them at shows, but in my budget, I’ve really been enjoying the Chane bookshelf speakers I got here on Massdrop years ago!)
ElectronicVices
2940
Aug 1, 2018
bookmark_border
EvshrugI've got friends that went with Chane/Arx, they enjoyed the gear but went bookshelves and center. He's now swapped them out for Q series from KEF (towers) and the Chane are pulling duty as surrounds.
Related Posts
ransam
The audio on my pc38x is not working
One day I just plugged in my Pc38x and they stopped working. I tested the mic and it works, I've tried changing the cord multiple times and have adjusted the volume disk, none of this has changed my situation. I've tested the headphones on my PC, switch, and PS5 and the audio doesn't work there either.
Mar 10, 2025
Bels
Hifiman x Dekoni Cobalt or Massdrop x Meze 99 Noir
Im looking to buy a set of closed back headphones under $200. So far the two main contenders are the Cobalt and Noir. Has anyone compared these two? which seems to be better? Both are around the same price. Ive heard the cobalt is lacking in bass, while thats not ideal im not too worried as I dont often listen to bassy music.
Feb 18, 2025
Koalich
Xduoo Poke II repair
Hi friends, I recently had a mishap with my Xduoo Poke II, that is, it fell out of my hands and now it turns on but the command buttons now work sometimes and sometimes not. I have written several times to Xduoo directly because it was with them that I bought this Dac and to find out what I can do about it but after two months I have not received a response. I live in Mexico City but I would like to know if anyone knows of a technical service in the US that could repair my Poke II and know if it would be worth it for me taking into account the cost of repair and the issue of shipping, or if it is better to think about buying a new portable Dac. Thanks and Cheers everybody.
Jan 20, 2025
Frankbarone1
Please suggest headphones for me.
Please someone here help buy a headphone for my use case- listen mostly Indian music ( old and new Bollywood songs ) . play them on my iPhone. So need to be wireless. must be light and comfortable for small ears and 3-4 hours of listening. noise canceling is not important. budget is around $150. i am not audiophile by any means and do not understand much of the jargon. Just want something that sounds good and is comfortable on my ears while I work from home. thank you all.
Jan 3, 2025
Hauntednsk
E-MU Teak Repair - Any Experience?
Hello, I am wondering if anybody has any experience contacting E-MU support, sending them headphones for repair, or getting them back fixed. Can anybody share any experience? I have been emailing them for a while now, but nobody has responded. Thank you.
Dec 29, 2024
magica
What lead/cable do i need?
i own a Drop + EPOS PC38X Gaming Headset and i need a new cable that connects the headset to the computer. i dont know what its called and i cant work out what to look for on amazon etc. could someone please help me with this
Dec 21, 2024
Trending Posts in Audiophile
shomiofficial
Women's Dress Suits for Weddings – The Ultimate Guide to Elegance and Sophistication
Weddings are a time for celebration, and while gowns and dresses dominate the scene, women's dress suits for weddings are gaining popularity. Whether you’re the mother of the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest, dress suits offer an elegant and stylish alternative to traditional dresses. Perfect for formal, semi-formal, and casual weddings, dress suits provide a polished, sophisticated, and comfortable look. This guide explores everything you need to know about choosing the best dress suits for weddings, from styles and fabrics to accessorizing and where to buy them. Why Choose a Dress Suit for a Wedding? While dresses are a classic choice, dress suits bring a unique charm to wedding attire. Here’s why they are worth considering: Timeless Elegance – A well-tailored suit exudes confidence and sophistication. Versatility – Dress suits can be re-worn for other formal events, making them a great investment. Comfort & Practicality – Unlike flowing gowns, suits provide more structure and...
Mar 22, 2025
Ringo9th
Tax shipping to Denmark
Hi. Have never Bought from the US. I want hd 58x and 6xx in the same order. How much is the tax?thanks
Mar 17, 2025
ransam
The audio on my pc38x is not working
One day I just plugged in my Pc38x and they stopped working. I tested the mic and it works, I've tried changing the cord multiple times and have adjusted the volume disk, none of this has changed my situation. I've tested the headphones on my PC, switch, and PS5 and the audio doesn't work there either.
Mar 10, 2025
SPPofMN
Meze 99 Noir
Heard a lot about these in the past few years, and they sound as good as they look. Deep bass, crystal clear midrange, and solid treble, overall superior sound. Great for multiple genres, special...
Mar 2, 2025
VNTG-4U
DROP IS BROKEN ON MS EDGE MOBILE (ANDROID)
ISSUE : Support on Edge Browser for Android is 100% BROKEN. IMAGES will _NOT_ Display/render.
Feb 20, 2025
Bels
Hifiman x Dekoni Cobalt or Massdrop x Meze 99 Noir
Im looking to buy a set of closed back headphones under $200. So far the two main contenders are the Cobalt and Noir. Has anyone compared these two? which seems to be better? Both are around the same price. Ive heard the cobalt is lacking in bass, while thats not ideal im not too worried as I dont often listen to bassy music.
Feb 18, 2025
Island-Listener
Bmr 1 V2 Discount
Ive seen folkes saying that they got a discount on the V2 because they bought V1. i am a version 1 buying and would like to know how can I claim that offer if its still available.
Jan 28, 2025
Drop Refurbished
Like-new products you can trustDrop Rewards
Get $5 for every 500 points you earn! Learn more
Drop Keyboard Club
Become a member and expand your keycap collectionFollow Drop
It hadn't actually occurred to me that a straight DAC (no Amp chaser) would be so inexpensive and so butt simple to employ. I have the extra computer and probably the space both would need to occupy.
As for those of you who wanted to make that approach just a tad more complicated (and you know who you are), by adding the raspberry pi and the nifty-sounding HiFiBerry DAC+, you hadn't factored in the learning curve involved--doable, but I'd be a month or two getting up to speed.
I kind of liked the idea of bringing it all Back To The Past, but adding the CD changer and Turntable I once had connected to it--so many years ago. But I'm not willing to make the commitment to Vinyl just yet (never been an early adopter). I did like the idea of rediscovering all the stuff I sold to the used record stores way back then (really miss those damn Monkeys albums...
And then there's the ever-so controversial Bluetooth route. I have to say up front I once had this receiver connected to and AirPort Express, and I fed that from an old MacBook. Can't for the life of me recall weather that was a network connection or Bluetooth connection--but I can say it worked. I wasn't quite as demanding back then, but as some have mentioned, Bluetooth has come a long way. The SMSL AD18 got my attention because I like it, and have been trying to think of an excuse to buy one--but as I understand it, that would be great for powering a set of speakers, but not as in input for my existing amp? Meaning I'd still need to go the dongle route. Those are cheap enough to test and then toss out if I hated it.
@Evshrug all those cool toys (DAPs and the other very neato stuff) were very interesting--stuff for the most part I wasn't aware of. You also explained the whole optical/toslink thing well too. I'd always heard Macs had it, but didn't know where and how to get to it. I suppose buying the right cable would allow me to test it out? And yes, the Mac can be close to my bed (and I could use either a MacBook or and iMac to make that connection).
Appreciate all the links to the cool kit everyone suggested (that cable too @ElectronicVices). Most of it now safely stored away in my Amazon Audio list waiting for me to get weak and lose my discipline.
So, one way or the other, thanks to you all, I'll get the sound from the computer to the amp. Next question: What floor standing speakers (with a $1,000-ish for the pair budget) should I hook to the amp?