Chromecast Audio: A Must Have Wireless Music Streaming Device | OhGizmo!
By Natalie on 11/18/15 • Leave a comment!
The Google Chromecast is an audio-focused device that plugs into your speakers and streams music via Wi-Fi. If you have an interest in streaming wireless audio on your smart phone, tablet, or to any of the speakers at home, and are on a tight budget, seriously consider purchasing the Chromecast audio device.
This cute little device looks like a cross between a microscopic vinyl record and a lens cap. One side of the device has a smooth surface and the other has molded grooves. The device has a micro USB port (for power) and the 3.5 mm input jack enables it to connect to virtually any audio system. The Google Chromecast supports both optical and RCA inputs as well. Google thoughtfully included a five inch auxiliary cord and power adapter in the box with the Chromecast.
Google has listed several apps that are compatible with the Chromecast Audio device, including NPR One, Google Play Music, Pandora and Spotify. Google is in the process of adding more apps, such as Apple Music, Amazon Prime Music and iTunes, which are currently not supported. Google promises to add a multi-room playback option to the device in the future, which will allow multiple speakers to play the same audio track at the same time..
When it comes to analog output performance, the Chromecast Audio features are excellent. The Chromecast Audio has digital audio output rate of 24-bit / 96 kHz. The Chromecast audio device comes equipped with 802.11 ac Wi-Fi and the capability to support both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands. However, the audio and video syncing abilities of this device are a little slow, with a noticeable delay between the audio coming out of the speakers and images on the screen.
The setup process for the Chromecast Audio is remarkably simple. The user will power up the device and connect it to a speaker. Using the Chromecast app or an IT support feature, the user will then enter the Wi-Fi credentials, name the device and tap the Cast icon. The Chromecast Audio device will then be ready for full usage. There is no instruction book included, but one really isn’t necessary. From plugging in main power to installing the app and connecting a subwoofer, the entire process should take less than 15 minutes.
The Chromecast Audio is a great wireless audio device priced at $35 which offers great-sounding audio.