The Best Bluetooth Receivers
These days, Bluetooth is everywhere and we wouldn't have it any other way. This super convenient technology keeps us wirelessly connected to music, phone calls, and a slew of smart devices. But not all sound systems are equipped with Bluetooth, which is when we turn to our trusty Bluetooth receivers to get the job done. Some are better than others, so we decided to roam the market for the best options.
What to Look For
In our search, we focused on three main questions: Does it establish a reliable, high-quality connection? Is it easy to set up and connect to? Is the price fair? Our favorite option was the B06 Plus from 1Mii, which can be set up in just seconds to connect your smartphone to your stereo system. With the B06 Plus, you can enjoy your favorite albums in no time. Another worthy contender for the top spot is the Esinkin receiver, which earns major points for its audio quality. There are a couple of other excellent options out there, so read on for more of our in-depth reviews to find the perfect pick for you.
1Mii B06 Plus Bluetooth Receiver
Audio upgrade
If your speakers are over a decade old, chances are they’re less than user-friendly when interacting with the wireless world. However, large analog towers with robust drivers are hard to give up in the name of technological advancement. Thankfully with 1Mii’s B06 receiver, you’ll never have to. Available with RCA and auxiliary cord outputs, this versatile device produces beats across multiple speaker formats. Plus, 1Mii’s 3D mode adds extra depth to tracks that would otherwise lose fidelity during the conversion process. Overall, the B06 works across great distances without having to pair before every session.
Pros:
- We love how you can pair this option with Alexa. That way, you can integrate the virtual assistant with your stereo system.
- The sound quality is top-notch, so you can really hear the dynamics of your music, even when using a streaming app.
- The RCA audio output is essential for those with older stereo systems.
Cons:
- This unit is powered by a wall plug, so you won’t be able to use it in the car.
Esinkin Wireless Audio Receiver
Heavenly high-fidelity
Crystal clear audio is achievable with all sorts of hardware thanks to Esinkin’s wireless receiver. With quick syncing and impressive range, this device will revolutionize your listening habits. While we appreciate the incredibly minimal construction, the lack of a power button means Esinkin always searches for your device if the Bluetooth setting is enabled. With that said, we can’t really complain about signal strength as a result. Connectivity aside, Esinkin boasts acoustics that rival conventional wired receivers in clarity, fullness, and balance.
Pros:
- Though it may be hard to tell from the pictures, it’s really small and compact in person. It fits in the palm of the hand, so it looks great on minimalist stereo setups.
- The 35-foot range means you can wander around the house without losing the connection.
Cons:
- The Bluetooth 4.0 protocol is prone to interference when there are electronics in between the receiver and the connected device, so you have to place it out in the open.
Comsoon J22 Bluetooth Receiver
High quality, low price
Whether you’re monitoring the twists and turns of traffic or enjoying a podcast at home, you won’t have to splurge for quality service with the Comsoon J22 receiver. To start, Comsoon takes battery life seriously, touting a device that operates for a staggering sixteen hours on a full charge. In addition, the Bluetooth 5.0 protocol ensures a quick and stable connection, while the built-in microphone enables seamless navigation and communication. Best of all, Comsoon acts as a filter for your phone calls.
Pros:
- The J22’s noise-reduction tech is noticeably effective during phone calls since echoes and static are virtually eliminated.
- Unlike most Bluetooth receivers, this one lets you connect two devices simultaneously, so you and your friends can share songs and music without having to swap phones.
- Considering the price, this option is a steal of a deal.
Cons:
- It won’t automatically turn off if your device is idle but still within range. So, you have to remember to turn it off to save battery power.
Anker A3352 Soundsync Receiver
Anker’s Soundsync is a treasure for large sound systems with little room for conventional receivers. While you may have some trouble with older setups because of its aux-only design, the installation and pairing process is virtually automatic. The entire unit is less than the size of a credit card and boasts a sleek, minimalist design. Aside from the auxiliary port, the Soundsync features volume controls, a USB port, and a power button. All other functions reside on your phone. Just plug in the device, turn on your sound system, and enjoy phenomenal audio quality for hours on end.
Pros:
- Anker is well-renowned for high quality, and this entry to their line upholds that reputation. It feels really sturdy in the hand and has a durable shell.
- We’re impressed by the quality of the sound and the long-lasting battery life, which can run for 12 hours before needing a charge.
Cons:
- When charging via the USB, it may make a slight humming sound when no music is being played.
1Mii B03 Bluetooth Transmitter Receiver
The centerpiece of signal transfer
Whether you’re giving analog sound equipment newfound freedom or pairing it with modern technology, the B03 Bluetooth splitter will direct signals in any direction you choose. Unlike traditional adapters, this remarkable device can simultaneously transmit and receive signals from multiple sources. The B03 can interface with old-school monitors and pump audio to headphones or independent speaker systems, so it’s ideal in spaces with mismatched brands and generations of tech. If there’s nothing to watch on TV, simply switch over to your smart device and start pumping tunes into your audio equipment without skipping a beat.
Pros:
- If you’re looking to consolidate an entertainment center, this is the perfect option. The TX mode lets you not only connect two devices simultaneously but you can also independently control their volume levels.
- It has Bluetooth 5.0, so it pairs really quickly, even with new devices.
- The range is extraordinary. Without obstacles, it can reach 230 feet, and it even works through thin walls.
Cons:
- It’s a bit pricey but well worth it for the versatility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a Bluetooth receiver and a transmitter?
While the products may look similar, Bluetooth transmitters and receivers are separate devices that serve opposite purposes. Receivers, in short, enable devices with incompatible technology to accept Bluetooth signals. Commonly found on older vehicles or home stereo systems, these devices interface using auxiliary or USB ports and play audio streaming from smartphones or computers. Transmitters are used to bypass a device’s built-in equipment and relay audio to Bluetooth-enabled devices. For reference, these adapters would allow a traditional television to transmit sound to a speaker or headset.
What’s the difference between Bluetooth and WiFi?
WiFi and Bluetooth are both wireless networks that transfer data, although their methods vary greatly. Often found in audio equipment, Bluetooth is a low-power radio frequency used for receiving and transmitting data over short distances. WiFi, on the other hand, is the wireless messaging service of your router. This radio wave can transfer data more quickly over multiple devices and from greater distances than Bluetooth. Both systems were developed near the turn of the millennium, but it wasn’t until the last decade that they became the predominant networks for modern data exchange.
How will I know that I need a Bluetooth receiver for my speaker?
It’s pretty easy to check if your sound system has Bluetooth accessibility. Cars usually feature a Bluetooth logo near the dashboard or aux port if it has accessibility. In speakers, it should be the same. If worse comes to worst, you can check out the sound system online to see if it has Bluetooth accessibility. If not, then you know you’ll need to buy a receiver.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.