2023 HomePod Coming Soon to Apple's Refurbished Store for $249

[ignatius345]

Even the $250 price is way too high. For a lot less, you can get a nice pair of bookshelf speakers and an amp with bluetooth. That setup will be a major step up in sound quality and connectivity from homepod.

You're saying Bluetooth is better quality than AirPlay? Interesting take. Have you discovered some new form of Bluetooth that carries a lossless signal? Huge news if true!

Also, what pair of "nice" bookshelf speakers and what amp can you get for $250 total?

 

[AppleDumplings]

Define surround sound please, since Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos for music and video is supported.

Surround sound in the sense of having more than just two HomePods being connected. Perhaps two more behind me or to the sides creating an even more immersive experience.

 

[DevNull0]

You're saying Bluetooth is better quality than AirPlay? Interesting take. Have you discovered some new form of Bluetooth that carries a lossless signal? Huge news if true!

Also, what pair of "nice" bookshelf speakers and what amp can you get for $250 total?

To be fair, my main listening setup in my home theatre is significantly more expensive speakers and a high-end receiver. I use it with AirPlay but sometimes my phone connects with Bluetooth. AirPlay is significantly better there.

My computer speakers are a pair of bookshelves with a $100 bluetooth amp. The difference between AirPlay and Bluetooth isn't really noticeable on gear of that quality (and I also compare it with a wired connection and don't hear a difference). It's not comparable to my main setup (and at 10% the price and space, something would be seriously wrong if it was comparable), but it's also leagues beyond HomePod.

As for the exact setup, I'm reluctant to recommend specifics because then people criticize taste and get into brand competitions. But the Klipsh R41 speakers and a Fosi amp are comfortably below $250 US and far better than HomePod. There's dozens of speakers in the price range and several amps which are all well-reviewed.

 

[minimac]

Costco has these discounted to $249 new until 6/2.