Wireless multi-room audio has been making its way around the planet for the last few years. This word means exactly what you would expect it to mean – the ability to broadcast different songs at different volume levels in several rooms at the same time. It has made it possible to do away with the complicated old format of multi-zone, which meant hundreds of expensive wires, new renovations that were needed to put the speakers in all the right rooms.
The seemingly common phrase “multroom” disguises a far from simple topic. Many audiophiles have broken spears in arguments whether it is necessary and whether it is as convenient as it is described. There are not only several brands offering a variety of solutions, but also many platforms that will leave behind a variety of different experiences and are compatible with different music services.
We will try to explain what lies beneath the new concept of “multi-room” and why it is so easy to install. Also, we will try to look at the main players in this market to make it easier for you to choose the right system for you.
What is a multi-room system?
Multiroom is the ability to listen to music in several rooms at once. The acoustics in which it is used are extremely easy to set up and install. Depending on your mood and desire, you can play one song in different rooms or different songs in different rooms at the same time.
Multiroom audio systems are usually wireless and are controlled by mobile apps. Therefore, all you need to worry about are sockets near the speakers (and some speakers don’t even need them) and a smartphone with the software loaded on it. Other than that, there are no special requirements – you can place the speakers in any room of the house. The apps that control the systems are extremely simple and easy to use – even a child can understand them!
The music played through a multiroom audio system can be taken from your personal music collection on your smartphone, from streaming services such as Spotify, from a network drive on your computer, a CD or a vinyl player – everything is possible with the right setup and the right system.
What is the difference between multiroom technologies?
Different brands use different technologies, and these technologies not only determine how different multiroom platforms work, but also dictate which speakers and systems work together and which do not.
Some manufacturers use standard platforms like Spotify Connect or Google Cast, while most other companies, like Denon and Yamaha, have their own technologies that work using Wi-Fi. This means that if you started building a system with a Denon receiver and speakers, you’ll need to continue to expand with Denon speakers, as your current system won’t be compatible with Yamaha, for example.
Using universal multi-room technology can be justified in terms of economy and the ability to build a system from different brands of equipment. But if it is necessary to achieve sound quality, get the greatest flexibility of control and access to the maximum possibilities, then of course it is best to choose specialized technologies of one brand.
There are several standard technologies: the most common are the previously mentioned Spotify Connect and Google Cast, as well as sometimes there are devices with support for Qualcomm AllPlay and Bluetooth Caskeid.
A fair number of wireless speakers support Google Cast and Spotify Connect, allowing you to stream music from your smartphone or tablet directly to the speaker. So sometimes it’s easy enough to place speakers with these multi-room technologies around the house and you’ll have your own streaming network. Of course, the sound in it will be limited by the format and quality of the files that are played on the smartphone, which is often the usual mp3.