6 Methods To Making Speaker Wireless | Convert Wired Surround Speakers to Wireless

Are you looking for a ‘clutter-free’ and ‘cable-free’ way to convert your existing surround sound speakers to wireless speakers? Well, the good thing is that you can actually do this and not just in one way but in multiple possible ways!

There is no need to purchase an entirely new wireless speaker setup as we discuss numerous ways in our post using which you can transform your conventional speakers into the latest wireless ones.

Buying a new wireless system can cost you more as well as may get outdated over a period of time. So, wait no more and read this post to explore the distinct ways of making speaker wireless.

Different Ways to Convert Regular Speakers Wireless

making speaker wireless

Way 1 – Using a Bluetooth Receiver

There are various types of Bluetooth receivers. Most of them come in an affordable price range. Usually, they equip 3.5 mm outputs or RCA and can be connected to the analog input of your speaker. The modern Bluetooth receivers comprise digital outputs and advanced Bluetooth versions – 4.1, 4.2, and 5.0 and support low latency codec.

You can go for generic brands if you want to avail the service within a reliable price range. For hi-tech brands, you need to spend more money but you can expect better and efficient performance.

Way 2 – Wireless Kit (Receiver + Transmitter)

There are wireless kits also available, which are based on the latest wireless technology. On the basis of technology used, these kits can be RF kits or Bluetooth kits.

RF Kits

These kits integrate a receiver and a transmitter and utilize radio frequency to communicate. You may connect the transmitter from your non-Bluetooth device and receiver to the speakers, switch them on, and you are all set to go.

Before purchasing the RF kit, do check the available outputs on the non-Bluetooth audio source and inputs on the speakers. The sockets on the RF kit must match the outputs and inputs on the audio source and speakers.

Bluetooth Kits

It is one of the cheapest options where you need a Bluetooth transmitter and a Bluetooth receiver. For sending audio wirelessly from the TV to speakers, you must consider aptX low latency support. The receiver and transmitter must support this feature. If it does not happen you may experience sound delays.

These kits are simple to install. You must focus on the non-Bluetooth audio source like CD players, TV, etc. and inputs on the speakers and purchase matching receivers and transmitters. The transmitter must be connected to the TV or other non-Bluetooth device. You can turn the transmitter and receiver on and pair them and connect the receiver to the speakers.

Way 3 – Amazon Echo Dot Making Speaker Wireless

The Amazon Echo Dot is the most compact and affordable speaker from the Echo’s series. You just have to install Amazon Alexa app and then easily connect the Echo Dot to your home’s wireless network. This speaker is useful for voice assistance service, streaming music wirelessly, receiving or making calls, online shopping, playing games, and a lot more.

Most importantly, it features 3.5mm output and built-in Bluetooth offering seamless connectivity. The Echo Dot can be connected to big wired speakers through AUX cable. This way, you can redirect sound from this device to your speakers and enjoy listening to music. You can pair it up with your device through Bluetooth or stream it using the phone Wi-Fi.

Way 4 – Google Chromecast

The audio functionality in Chromecast uses only Wi-Fi and it does not support Bluetooth. It offers better audio quality than most Bluetooth devices and renders better data rates and speeds. The connection is viable using a short AUX cable, which can be connected to the speakers.

After connecting the AUX cable, you need to download the Google Home app and establish a connection with your speakers. Once done, you can stream music from the phone, but only if your phone has a Chromecast-enabled app. The app’s first version lets you stream music from the phone’s storage but this option is no more available. Hence, you require an app-enabled with Chromecast.

For streaming music from the internal storage, you must download the media player, which is Chromecast enabled.

Using Chromecast Audio, you can establish a multiple-room speaker setup where numerous wired speakers in distinct rooms can be connected at once. The speakers can be grouped together to avail of a large-scale setup. Everything can be controlled and managed using the Google Home application.

Way 5- Wireless Receiver

Both Amazon Echo Dot and Chromecast Audio are Wi-Fi receivers. However, there are more advanced and high-end receivers also available that allow streaming music at extremely high quality. It is because they incorporate better DACs and have more numbers of outputs and input sources. Such receivers let you connect numerous speakers together and develop a multiple-room system.

You may develop a connection between wired and wireless speakers based on the receiver you select. Some of the top choices for Wi-Fi receivers are ARIES MINI, Bluesound Node 2, SONOS wireless speakers, and others.

For those who wish to stream music as well as watch movies on distinct devices, they require an advanced receiver, which is quite expensive as well. The kind of device you purchase depends on the video or audio source.

If your TV or phone is built-in with Bluetooth connectivity you can simply purchase a Bluetooth receiver with aptX, aptX HD codec, or aptX Low Latency. Such devices are conveniently available online.

Way 6 – Bluetooth Transceiver or Bluetooth Receiver with aptX Functionality

There are transceivers and receivers available with Bluetooth connectivity and aptX support. They are a budgeted choice. The important thing to take into account while buying them is the number of outputs. Based on the inputs on the speaker, you must pick a device or receiver with matching outputs. Hence, if your speakers hold 3.5mm or RCA inputs, you may use a receiver comprising analog outputs. For speakers with digital inputs, you must purchase some receiver with digital outputs.

Such units with analog outputs are less expensive. Some cheap Bluetooth transceivers are priced at $30 – $50. You can also pick receivers or transceivers with digital outputs but they are quite expensive. Ultimately, it depends on the number of inputs on the speaker.

Important Tips to Consider

  • If you have a home theater system and you wish to make the entire setup wireless or the rear speakers wireless, you must purchase one or multiple wireless kits.
  • For those who want to make the passive speakers wireless, they must pick a receiver with a built-in amplifier. You can also purchase a separate amplifier if your receiver does not have one.
  • You can use Bluetooth or Wi-Fi receivers with built-in amplifiers to establish a multi-room speaker system. They are the most expensive but multipurpose devices featuring high-quality amps and DACs. They can also be used as headphone amplifiers.

Wrapping Up

So, you see, there are innumerable ways to making speaker wireless. While some are affordable others can be a costly affair. But it all depends on your personal choice and the level of quality you want. Among all the above-mentioned options, streaming apps and Wi-Fi receivers are the costliest, but at the same time, they are the most reliable and versatile options. 

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I am Steven S. Martin, the person behind HDMITechnologies. Personally, I run my tech hub in Texas and used almost thousands of devices for my hub for the last 15 years. I put all my experiences and knowledge to make your decision better and valuable.

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