Best bluetooth speaker for Mack

By themusicman08, 10 May, 2018

Forum
Apple Hardware and Compatible Accessories

This has me stumped. I have a Bose Bluetooth Sound link color series 2 speaker and I am in a bit of a spot. I am looking for a very good Bluetooth speaker that will allow me to turn up the volume and feel bass in it as well. I have a Jabra Solemate speaker that does well but, it seems small for sound. I would be using this on my Mack computer with Vlc, or the Vox media player. I'm sure this is going to come at a high price no doubt. Whenever I turn up Vlc's volume, the Bose Speaker distorts the sound and it cuts out a lot of the time. I don't think Bose is going to update the firmware that supports these speakers. Jabra updates the firmware when it's necessary. Some good recommendations would greatly be appreciated.

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By Unregistered User (not verified) on Thursday, June 14, 2018 - 17:10

This is a fun question because I have an alternative rig which may be unique. Firstly, my choice of everyday speakers is a not-so-high-end studio monitor system by Roland now discontinued. It is called CM-220, a 2.1 200 watt system with a 10’ sub-woofer [100 watts] and two satellites [50 watts per satellite]. This sucka will break some windows for sure, but I never played it half as loud as is capable. Inputs include two coaxial, two balanced XLR, three unbalanced RCA, and 1 3.5mm TRS. I wish it had optical but such as life. This is not a wireless system whatsoever.

I use a highly recommended software package called Airfoil. This enables me to stream from a specific programme [e.g. VLC, Safari Technology Preview, et cetera] to any device via bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The most advantageous aspect about this is VoiceOver or any other audio is output to Mac's built-in speakers. The companion Satellite app for iOS enabled me to stream to iPhone. However, the iPhone had to be tethered to Roland CM-220 via a cable, which meant I could not use iPhone. This was a sho' nuff drag, so I purchased a Bose SoundTouch Wireless Link Adapter and my entire listening experience became much more convenient. I use a Mogami cable [do your homework folks] to attach SoundTouch Wireless Link Adapter to the monitors, and configured Airfoil to stream to that. I had to configure new device with its companion app, but after that hassle everything is okay. I have no need for the Satellite app, and I can use iPhone because it is no longer a component in the chain. The major disadvantage is the Bose device supports strictly SPC encoding which means no matter the source audio, it will be decoded and re-encoded to SPC before received by the monitors. Most will not notice but I do. This bluetooth receiver is the best on the market to my knowledge.

The CM-220 is not easy to find new, but if you can find it like new I highly suggest you acquire one. You will also want the ST-CMS1 adjustable stands [do not quote me on that model number] for the satellites to position them optimally. They can be found more easily. You truly cannot go wrong with this specific rig if you manage to assemble it exactly, or preferably with higher end studio monitors. Be sure to use cables by either Mogami or Jumpers.

By Holger Fiallo on Thursday, June 14, 2018 - 17:10

The best is Creative Sound Blaster Roar 2 Portable NFC Bluetooth Speaker with aptX/AAC (Black) You can recharge your iPhone and is very powerful. Amazon at this time have it for $90 which normaly is $120

By Unregistered User (not verified) on Thursday, June 14, 2018 - 17:10

Best is subjective, and in no manner am I suggesting or stating my response above is the best. I guarantee CM-220 has better sound quality and more low end frequency response than any Sound Blaster ever could. I had a Sound Blaster wired set at least six years ago, and never liked how the frequencies were tuned. It sounded horrible to me.

I did not talk about the controls on CM-220. There is no graphic or parametric equaliser onboard thus I balance the spectrum using Airfoil. Roland also made a lesser powerful model called CM-110 which is 100 watts. If you can find one new or like new, it should be less expensive, and possibly be sufficient for what you want. The total wattage and smaller size of subwoofer are the only noticeable differences; the chain will remain the same as are the stands.

By david s on Thursday, June 14, 2018 - 17:10

Hello,

Since you’re using a Mac, have you considered the Home Pod? You can use Air Play instead of BT. The small size with loud and clear sound is hard to beat. I’m sure the Roland speakers mentioned above sounds great, but they sound like they will take up some space and proper placement is required for good sound. The HP on the other hand, tests the acoustics of the room when you move it around so it will always sound good. With Air Play 2 coming out, you will be able to use 2 HP in stereo mode.

You might want to purchase from a retailer that will allow you to return it if it does not work out.

HTH and good luck.