iPhone, MacBook Air, Remote and AirPlay

[jackfish]

I am now using my new iPhone to control my iTunes library on the MacBook Air and can't wait to get an AirPlay speaker system for the bedroom. A very easy to use and elegant solution. Thank You Apple!

My main system uses the MacBook Air as a music server. Previously, to control iTunes I had to get up out of my listening position to manipulate the MacBook Air. Now, I don't have to get up, as I control iTunes from my iPhone.

If I were to create new music systems (receiver, speakers, etc.) in other rooms I would opt for the AirPort Express. However, my place is small, I don't spend much time in the other rooms, and the music would most likely be for background. Hence, I'm looking for a relatively inexpensive AirPlay compatible speaker system like the Phillips AD7000W-37 Fidelio SoundAvia. I would be able to select on the iPhone the remote devices to play to from my iTunes library on the MacBook Air.

The new Mac OS, Mountain Lion 10.8, appears to work well with Tim Burson's BitPerfect also.

[GreenKiwi]

You can also just get an apple tv or airport express and speakers, at least I'd get one of those solutions before dropping anything more that $100 on a solution.

I love AirPlay

Haven't tried bit perfect with 10.8, it works with AirPlay now?

[jackfish]

An AirPort Express or Apple TV are $100 and only have digital output. Hence, besides speakers wouldn't one need a DAC/amp to complete a remote system? The AirPlay speakers are a complete package that will accept music streaming from my MacBook Air. Its not like I'm creating an audiophile system in the remote location, I just want to play my music there and have it sound better than a clock radio.

[Porscheguy]

Here's what I'm doing:


www.sonos.com

[GreenKiwi]

Well, the airport express has analog and digital out. But yeah, if you're under $100, then the airplay speakers are simpler and cheaper.

But in the over $100, I'm guessing that there are some reasonable powered speakers that could be combined with the AirportExpress.

[jackfish]

Ah, I see the 1/8" jack carries analog and optical. What active speakers for $100 would you choose?

[jackfish]

Aug 1, 2012 11:13:00 GMT -5 Porscheguy said:

Here's what I'm doing:
www.sonos.com

Ouch! $600 for stereo Play 3?

[GreenKiwi]

I don't have lots of experience in that range, I have some M-Audio monitors that I like, but they are old and if I were getting new ones, I'd get the Audioengine A2s.

I might be tempted by this, as it has popped up a few times.
news.cnet.com/8301-13645_3-57439115-47/build-your-own-desktop-stereo-for-under-$70/

[jackfish]

Well, I already have a pair of Infinity SM-65s and an Accurian amp laying around. I might just get the AirPort Express and take advantage of this old junk I have.

[GreenKiwi]

That's what I've been doing at work... just popped it with an old amp and speakers and use the volume control on the AE and love it. Particularly with 10.8 and AirPlay for Spotify etc. Anyone in the office can play music whenever they'd like.