Has your band ever been learning a cover song and you get the dreaded "iPhone held to a microphone" to hear the original? Not only does the music sound like it's coming from an old AM radio but you will find your bass player asking for frequent replays to try and find the low end that is no where to be found. So how can you fix this in an easy and cost effective way? How about using the convenience of Bluetooth with your audio system! What you need is a Bluetooth receiver which can receive your audio and then be connected to your system! The Esinkin Bluetooth receiver is inexpensive and works as good as more expensive options from Logitech and others. It can connect to your mixing console with the supplied 1/8" Stereo to Dual RCA cable ,if your console supports this, or via a Dual RCA to Dual 1/4" adapter cable (linked below)
Bluetooth has limited range so you may need to connect your Bluetooth receiver on stage or closer to your group if you aren't within 30 feet of the receiver. This is an additional step but adds reliability and more connection options on stage. An inexpensive way to provide this connection on stage is the Whirlwind podDI direct box. It is an inexpensive option and adds the ability to connect any other 1/8" or RCA stereo source on stage by providing a balanced XLR output. The on-box volume knobs allow you to lower the volume for "pop"-less cable changes on stage.
In summary to play your devices audio through your sound system via Bluetooth you will need a Bluetooth receiver, maybe a cable and a direct box that totals around $110. If your mixing console has RCA inputs and is within 30' you may only need the Bluetooth receiver to wirelessly listen to your music during band practice without it sounding like it is coming from a tin can. Compare this to some more all-in-one solutions such as the Radial BT - Bluetooth Direct box and you can see our solution above will save you money and provide more connection/control options on stage. In addition we've found the BT-Pro's range to be very poor primarily due to the receiver being encased in steel.
Please do not misunderstand our stance on Bluetooth use in a pro audio environment. We are not recommending Bluetooth as a reliable form of audio transmission for performance. The short range nature and congestion of Bluetooth limits its reliability in an event setting. In it's current state of development, Bluetooth will never be less expensive, more reliable or better quality than a simple cable connection BUT it is very convenient in non critical applications. With a push of a button you can connect with your smart phone and have the ability to play your song, YouTube audio or Sound Effects into your sound system while not being tethered to a cable.
MAVM has used Bluetooth receivers in rehearsal environments for over 4 years and we couldn't see working without it. The singers/musicians enjoy being able to hear direct audio that is inevitably on someones personal electronic device and we no longer need someone to be available just to start, stop, and guess where to go in a song's timeline. It's 2017 and you shouldn't have to hold a mic to your phone to run a successful practice and this is an affordable way to work smarter! If you wish to purchase any of these items please support us by purchasing through the links above.
God Bless and may your day sound great!
