I need some help deciding whether to get a HomePod or some other wireless speaker for my situation. I only play my own music (all lossless) through JRiver Media center from a windows HTPC connected to a full range hifi system. Except for the HTPC all my other gear is Apple. I also have no interest in controlling anything through Siri or any other voice assistant.
Now, I want to stream audio to the garage and to a small patio/backyard. I want the highest audio fidelity I can get which includes lossless playback and at least reproducing the upper bass convincingly. Recognizing that I will only control the music selection from an iPhone what would be the best wireless speaker in terms of sound quality and ease of use?
So far I have tried the HomePod mini but returned it because no bass at all. Tried the google Nest Audio and, while it sounded much better, one can only stream via bluetooth to it from the JRiver remote app on an iPhone; that was returned because no lossless playback possible. Next up would be the larger HomePod 2 or perhaps a Sonos or maybe some other Airplay 2 speaker. (Yes, I am willing to pay more). If Sonos, which one is comparable to the HomePod? I have read Sonos sounds great but software/setup/reliability questionable. Seems like the larger HomePod would be easier to use especially since I will not be using voice control or any streaming service.
Appreciate any advice.
Now, I want to stream audio to the garage and to a small patio/backyard. I want the highest audio fidelity I can get which includes lossless playback and at least reproducing the upper bass convincingly. Recognizing that I will only control the music selection from an iPhone what would be the best wireless speaker in terms of sound quality and ease of use?
So far I have tried the HomePod mini but returned it because no bass at all. Tried the google Nest Audio and, while it sounded much better, one can only stream via bluetooth to it from the JRiver remote app on an iPhone; that was returned because no lossless playback possible. Next up would be the larger HomePod 2 or perhaps a Sonos or maybe some other Airplay 2 speaker. (Yes, I am willing to pay more). If Sonos, which one is comparable to the HomePod? I have read Sonos sounds great but software/setup/reliability questionable. Seems like the larger HomePod would be easier to use especially since I will not be using voice control or any streaming service.
Appreciate any advice.