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You are here: MacNN Forums > Hardware - Troubleshooting and Discussion > Consumer Hardware & Components > Recommendations for networked receiver/amplifier?

Recommendations for networked receiver/amplifier?
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Stuncle Eve
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Dec 22, 2015, 11:47 PM
 
We're finally upgrading our decades-old home audio set-up, and need some 21st century advice, specifically for a new receiver/amp. We need to be able to access via wifi two different Mac laptops, plus connect a CD player, DVD player, TV & turntable. Also needs to support A/B speaker channels.

We currently just use the TV's built-in speakers, which are okay, but wouldn't mind something with a little more fidelity & bottom end.

Any info greatly appreciated!

Thanks.
     
Mike Wuerthele
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Dec 23, 2015, 09:59 AM
 
Well, the problem is two-fold, really.

1) Wireless connectivity
2) Audio connections

My first instinct is to get an Airport Express station, and use that in proximity to the receiver for a network connection and/or an audio out to just about any receiver you want. I'm sure that there are one-box solutions, though.
     
msuper69
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Dec 26, 2015, 03:44 AM
 
I really like Sony's Receivers.
Lots of features, Bluetooth, WiFi, 4K, lots of inputs.
Sounds great even to these old ears.

Amazon.com: Sony STR-DN850 7.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver (Built-in Wi-fi & Bluetooth): Electronics
     
Stuncle Eve  (op)
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Dec 27, 2015, 11:46 AM
 
Thanks for the suggestions - time to dig deeper into the options (and my pockets).
     
subego
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Dec 29, 2015, 04:53 AM
 
Another vote for Airport Express. I've got several acting as my multi-room audio distribution.
     
subego
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Dec 29, 2015, 05:22 PM
 
Do you plan on having surround sound? A plain stereo (two channel) receiver is going to get you major bang for the buck.

In the "best value" category I'd go Yamaha. I've guided more than one friend in that direction.

If you want fancier looking, I suggest Harmon Kardon.
     
Stuncle Eve  (op)
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Jan 2, 2016, 12:51 PM
 
No, no surround sound - trying to keep things simple and somewhat on budget. Do you use an iPhone to access & control your Airport Express setup?
     
subego
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Jan 4, 2016, 10:51 AM
 
Yup! Apple makes an app called "Remote", which lets you take control of any instance of iTunes running on your network, and lets you route it to any Airport Express(es) on your network.

It's poorly rated in the App Store, but I don't really have complaints. It could be better, but does what I need it to do.
     
abbaZaba
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Jan 4, 2016, 11:56 AM
 
I've done systems with multiple AirPlay destinations- AirPort expresses are nice for this and if no surround sound is needed and you have an iTunes library already on the network, it's a no-brainer. The only thing somewhat tough to swallow is the $100 price tag on Airport Expresses.

If your speakers have optical inputs, you could spring for the cheaper $70 Apple TV
     
   
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