Roberta Aguirre
If you're looking to replace your Apple Airport Express, there are several options available depending on your needs. You could opt for a refurbished or used Express to match your current network setup. Alternatively, you can explore alternatives such as a HomePod, wireless extender, mesh system, Bluetooth adapter, or Chromecast Audio. For a seamless transition, some suggest sticking with Apple's ecosystem and using an Apple TV with an HDMI Audio Extractor. If you're open to trying new brands, the Amazon Eero Pro 6 is highly recommended for its ease of use, simplicity, reliability, and good customer service. Other options include the Netgear Orbi, Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien, and Linksys Tri-band Mesh system. Each option has its pros and cons, so be sure to research which one best suits your specific requirements.
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What You'll Learn
A HomePod, wireless extender, mesh system, Bluetooth adapter, or Chromecast Audio
Apple has discontinued its Airport Express product, so you will not be able to purchase a new one. However, there are several alternative products that can be used as a replacement.
HomePod
The HomePod is a smart speaker developed by Apple that can be used as a replacement for the Airport Express. It offers high-quality audio and integrates with Apple's ecosystem of products and services.
Wireless Extender
A wireless extender, also known as a range extender or repeater, can be used to increase the coverage of your Wi-Fi network. It connects to your existing router and boosts the signal, allowing you to extend the network to areas with weak or no signal.
Mesh System
A mesh system, such as the TP-Link Deco or Eero Pro, consists of multiple access points that work together to provide seamless and reliable Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. Mesh systems are known for their ease of use, performance, and ability to handle multiple devices.
Bluetooth Adapter
A Bluetooth adapter is a small device that can be used to add Bluetooth capability to a computer or audio device. It allows wireless streaming of audio from a smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Chromecast Audio
Chromecast Audio is a streaming device that plugs into your speaker's audio input and allows you to wirelessly stream audio from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. It supports a wide range of music streaming services, including Tidal, and offers an easy way to cast music from your device.
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A pfsense or opnsense box with an old PC and a multi-port ethernet card
If you're looking to replace your Apple Airport Express, one option is to build your own router using a pfSense or OPNsense box. This can be done using an old PC and a multi-port ethernet card.
PfSense and OPNsense are mature, full-featured operating systems with a wealth of documentation available online. They offer regular updates, which can be important for firmware and security, and provide advanced features, the ability to have more devices attached, and potentially faster speeds. Both operating systems are free to use, although pfSense offers a paid Plus package with additional features.
OPNsense has a better user interface and seems to implement new features faster than pfSense. pfSense, however, has a larger community and more documentation available online. Both operating systems work well with OpenVPN, although some configuration tweaks may be required for full gigabit routing.
Building your own router with pfSense or OPNsense can be a great way to learn more about networking while keeping your home network secure. However, it's worth noting that these options don't support 802.11ac and have sub-optimal 802.11n support.
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A Netgear Orbi, Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien, or Eero Pro mesh system
Apple has discontinued its Airport Express routers, and users are now looking for alternatives. A mesh system is a good replacement for the Airport Express, and there are several options available in the market.
The Netgear Orbi, Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien, and Eero Pro mesh systems are all viable alternatives to the Airport Express. These systems are easy to set up and maintain, and can be expanded by adding additional mesh nodes as needed.
The Ubiquiti AmpliFi Alien is a top-tier Wi-Fi 6 mesh system with excellent range and solid speeds. Users have reported getting a signal from 100ft outside their apartment and speeds ranging from 250-600mbps. The AmpliFi Alien is made by Ubiquiti, a company founded by an ex-Apple employee, and is known for its quality hardware and user experience. However, Ubiquiti's customer support is not on par with Apple's, and they have a reputation for occasionally releasing buggy software.
The Netgear Orbi is another popular mesh system that delivers excellent coverage and reliable signals. It is faster with Wi-Fi 5 and legacy clients compared to the AmpliFi Alien. The Orbi is a good option for those who want simple network customisation and a brand name they can trust. However, some users have reported issues with firmware updates causing their devices to "brick".
The Eero Pro mesh system is known for its consistent and regular firmware updates, even for its first-generation hardware. It offers both Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 options and is a good choice for those seeking stability and ease of use.
All three mesh systems are solid choices for replacing the Airport Express, each with its own unique features and advantages. Users should consider their specific needs and requirements when making a decision.
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A Dayton Audio WBA31 or Bluesound Node2i
If you're looking to replace your Apple Airport Express, there are several options available to you, including a HomePod, a wireless extender, a mesh system, a Bluetooth adapter, or a Chromecast Audio. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your specific needs.
If you're looking for a product with excellent sound quality, the Bluesound Node 2i wireless streamer is a great option. It's part of Bluesound's multi-room family and offers a rich feature list. While the spec sheet of the Node 2i is similar to its predecessor, Bluesound has made significant improvements to its wireless streamer. The Node 2i features dual-band Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay2, and two-way Bluetooth, allowing you to use wireless headphones via the BluOS 3.0 app. It also includes a faster processor for a seamless user experience and retains its long list of connections, including RCA, coaxial, optical, and subwoofer outputs.
The Node 2i's audio performance has been enhanced due to the optimisation of the layout to accommodate its new chassis and the addition of further isolation between audio and Wi-Fi frequencies. The result is a richer soundstage with more granular detail.
Another option to consider is the Dayton Audio WBA31, which offers a simple and cost-effective solution for wireless audio streaming. It is a wireless audio streaming amplifier that can be used to replace the Airport Express. The WBA31 features a built-in media player, allowing you to play music from a USB drive or stream music from your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. It also has a range of connection options, including RCA and optical inputs, making it a versatile solution for your audio needs.
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A Belkin SoundForm Connect
Apple has discontinued its Airport Express product, so you might be looking for alternatives to replace it. One such alternative is the Belkin SoundForm Connect.
The Belkin SoundForm Connect is an audio adapter that allows you to stream music from your iOS and Mac devices wirelessly to any speaker or receiver with an optical or 3.5mm audio input. It supports AirPlay 2, allowing you to stream music directly from your iPhone or iPad. With the Belkin SoundForm app, you can set up Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and Alexa (where available) on your speakers. The app also allows you to group and ungroup speakers, control volume, and more.
The Belkin SoundForm Connect is a simple plug-and-play device that is easy to set up and use. It has analog out for directly driving an amp/preamp, as well as Coax and Optical digital out, allowing you to use a separate DAC or receiver. If you are an Apple Music user, you can stream HD audio with the device wired into your network (LAN).
Compared to the WiiM Pro, the Belkin SoundForm Connect is cheaper and is ideal if you are using an iPhone or iPad for streaming over AirPlay 2. However, the WiiM Pro offers additional streaming services such as Chromecast Audio, Tidal Connect, and Spotify Connect.
The Belkin SoundForm Connect is a great option if you are looking for a simple and affordable way to stream music from your Apple devices to your speakers. It is easy to set up and use, and its compatibility with AirPlay 2 ensures a seamless streaming experience.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several options to replace the Airport Express, including a HomePod, a wireless extender, a mesh system, a Bluetooth adapter, or a Chromecast Audio device. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages depending on your specific needs.
Some specific product recommendations include the Amazon Eero Pro 6, which offers ease of use, simplicity, reliability, and good customer service. Another option is the Netgear Orbi, which provides faster speeds and seamless node switching compared to Airport Express.
Yes, the B-Fi is a great Airplay streamer that offers stability and fewer startup delays and dropouts. The Dayton Audio WBA31 is a more affordable alternative that supports Tidal streaming.
Apple TV can be considered as a replacement, but it lacks a 3.5mm headset port. You can, however, use an HDMI Audio Extractor to take analogue audio from the HDMI port.
Yes, you can create your own solution using a Raspberry Pi or other Linux computer. This option may be more versatile and cost-effective than some commercial alternatives.
