Airport Express And Airplay 2: A Perfect Match?

Apple's AirPort Express base station can be used as an AirPlay receiver, allowing users to stream music wirelessly to connected speakers or audio systems. While Apple has discontinued its AirPort line, a firmware update (version 7.8) released in 2018 added AirPlay 2 support specifically for the 2012 AirPort Express (2nd generation) model. This update enables multi-room audio playback and improves performance with lower latency. It is worth noting that only the 2012 AirPort Express model is compatible with AirPlay 2, and earlier models are unlikely to support this feature.

AirPlay 2 on Airport Express: compatibility with other devices

AirPlay 2 is compatible with the second-generation AirPort Express (2012 model), which features an AUX port for wireless music streaming to a connected speaker. To use AirPlay 2, you must update the AirPort Express to the latest firmware version (7.8).

AirPlay 2 allows you to stream music from iOS devices to multiple AirPlay 2 speakers, including HomePod, Apple TV-connected speakers, Sonos, and other AirPlay 2 targets.

However, it is important to note that AirPlay 2 requires different hardware than the original AirPlay, and Apple has not released any new AirPort Express models with updated hardware since 2012. As a result, only the second-generation AirPort Express is compatible with AirPlay 2.

Additionally, while AirPlay 2 is compatible with AirPort Express, it is recommended to use the AirPort Express solely as an adapter to add AirPlay 2 functionality to your speaker system. The AirPort Express uses older 802.11n Wi-Fi technology, while most newer devices and networks support the faster 802.11ac standard. Therefore, it is suggested to utilise a separate, more modern Wi-Fi router for your network and disable the Wi-Fi capabilities of the AirPort Express to avoid potential performance issues.

AirPlay 2: improved performance and reduced latency

AirPlay 2 offers significantly improved performance and lower latency compared to its predecessor. The firmware update 7.8 for the 2012 AirPort Express 2nd-gen model adds AirPlay 2 support, addressing the buffering issues that plagued the classic AirPlay.

With AirPlay 2, users can seamlessly stream content from their iOS devices to multiple AirPlay 2-enabled speakers, such as HomePod, Apple TV-connected speakers, Sonos, and other compatible devices. The update also allows users to play music in specific rooms using Siri and the Home app, enhancing the overall audio experience.

The AirPlay 2 update is a welcome addition to the AirPort Express, which has a built-in AUX port for wireless music streaming to connected speakers. This update not only improves performance but also expands the capabilities of the AirPort Express, making it an even more versatile device for whole-home audio solutions.

It's worth noting that only the AirPort Express 2nd-gen model from 2012 and 2013 supports AirPlay 2. The original and first-generation models are not capable of supporting this feature. However, for those who have invested in the second-generation model, the addition of AirPlay 2 is a significant enhancement, providing a more stable and responsive streaming experience.

AirPort Express: firmware update and Home app support

Apple's AirPort Express received a firmware update in 2018, adding support for AirPlay 2 and Apple's Home app. This update was released for the 2012 2nd-gen model, which is no longer sold by Apple. However, you can still find refurbished models or purchase them second-hand.

To update your AirPort Express, you will need to use the AirPort Utility app, which is available for iOS, macOS, and Windows. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Ensure that your AirPort Express and your Mac or iOS device are connected to the internet.
• If your AirPort Express is performing a Time Machine backup or sharing a hard drive on your network, make sure none of your devices are currently using that drive.
• Restart your AirPort Express. You can do this by opening the AirPort Utility app, selecting your AirPort Express, and then restarting it from there.
• On a Mac, choose "Base Station > Restart" from the menu bar. On an iPhone or iPad, tap the base station in AirPort Utility, then tap "Edit > Advanced > Restart Base Station."
• If you cannot restart using AirPort Utility, simply unplug the base station for a few seconds and then plug it back in.
• After restarting, select your AirPort Express in the AirPort Utility app to view its details.
• On a Mac, click the "Update" button if it appears in the details pop-up window. On an iPhone or iPad, tap "Version," and then tap "Download and Install."
• Your AirPort Express will automatically restart after the update is installed.

It is important to keep your firmware up to date to ensure the best performance, security, and functionality. With AirPlay 2 support, you can stream music from your iOS device to multiple AirPlay 2 speakers, including HomePod, Apple TV-connected speakers, Sonos, and other AirPlay 2 targets. Additionally, with the Home app, you can assign your AirPort Express to a specific room and play music in that room using Siri.

AirPlay 2: streaming music from iOS to speakers

AirPlay 2 is a fantastic way to stream music from your iOS device to speakers. It is Apple's local streaming protocol, allowing you to send music to one or more speakers in your home, and control them from an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

To use AirPlay 2, make sure your iPhone or iPad and your AirPlay-enabled device are on the same Wi-Fi network. Then, play music on your iPhone or iPad, open the Control Center, and tap the AirPlay icon in the top-right corner. From there, you can select the speakers you want to stream your music to.

AirPlay 2 offers several benefits over the original AirPlay. It provides improved performance with lower latency and multi-room playback. With AirPlay 2, you can stream music to multiple speakers simultaneously, creating a multi-room audio experience. Additionally, AirPlay 2 supports high-resolution audio of up to 24-bit/48 kHz on devices like the HomePod and HomePod Mini.

If you have an older AirPort Express, you may be able to update the firmware to add AirPlay 2 support. Specifically, the AirPort Express 2nd Gen (2013) model A1392 can be updated to support AirPlay 2. This allows you to connect your iOS device to traditional stereo systems or speakers with AUX ports.

There are also several third-party speakers that support AirPlay 2, such as the Sonos range, Naim Mu-so Qb 2nd Generation, and KEF LSX II LT. These speakers offer a variety of features, including spatial audio, multi-room capabilities, and integration with voice assistants like Siri and Alexa.

So, whether you're using an older AirPort Express or a modern third-party speaker, AirPlay 2 is a great way to stream music from your iOS device and enjoy it throughout your home.

AirPlay 2: compatibility with original AirPort Express

AirPlay 2 is compatible with the original AirPort Express, but only with the second-generation model (2012/2013). This was made possible by Firmware Update 7.8, which was released in 2018.

The original AirPort Express was Apple's first device to offer Wi-Fi audio streaming back in 2004, when the technology was known as AirTunes. The second-generation AirPort Express can be used to turn any set of speakers or even a stereo receiver into an AirPlay 2 target.

With AirPlay 2, you can AirPlay from iOS to multiple AirPlay 2 speakers, including HomePod, Apple TV-connected speakers, Sonos, and other AirPlay 2 targets. AirPlay 2 provides improved performance with lower latency and multi-room playback.

It is worth noting that Apple is no longer selling the AirPort Express, but you may still be able to find refurbished or used models.

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