Second receiver or buy a Boom?

[TheoGB]

Hi,

We've just moved to a bigger, two-level flat so it's now time to get a second receiver for my duet (about £100). However, I realised the Boom is only £150 so the question is: is there a good reason to just get another receiver or is getting the boom a better option?

Bear in mind we have two stereos so the speakers aren't an issue. 50% more cash for something that replicates the Duet's functionality? I'm not sure. I AM assuming there'd be no issues with them both hooking into my Squeezebox server, right?

Cheers

[aubuti]

There are no issues with connecting multiple SBs to the server. In fact, SBs like to travel in packs. If you already have an amp/receiver + speakers (or self-amplified speakers) for the 2nd SB Receiver then getting a 2nd SB Receiver is probably the better way to go. That is, unless (a) the second stereo is of lower quality than the Boom's built-in amp and speakers, or (b) you would value the portability of the Boom, say, to take it out on the deck or patio in good weather. So it really depends on how you plan to use it, and how your 2nd stereo compares in sound quality to the Boom.

[TheoGB]

Okay thanks.

Sounds like you can output the sound from the Boom to another stereo so really it's the most versatile option!

[pski]

Okay thanks.

Sounds like you can output the sound from the Boom to another stereo so really it's the most versatile option!

The "line-out" on the boom can be used to feed a regular stereo, headphones, or set to "sub" to limit the internal speakers to a low of 80Hz (I think that's right.)

If you any need for portable music, the boom is a good choice. It has very good sound for it's size. Keep in mind as you look at the pictures it is NOT the size of a boom-box. It is much smaller.

I use mine by itself on road-trips and with a powered subwoofer (Velodyne VA-907) at the house (and dock.)

Until recently, Logitech did not sell the receiver separately for a while but they seem to be in stock now. In the US the boom is twice the price of a receiver, however ($299 vs $150.)

p

[TheoGB]

Oh they're normally double over here too but it's a bit of a bargain right now. If I want it at that price I'll have to go to the store so I'll see how I feel...

Thanks for the help and advice.

[maggior]

Until recently, Logitech did not sell the receiver separately for a while but they seem to be in stock now. In the US the boom is twice the price of a receiver, however ($299 vs $150.)

p

The Boom's list price is $249 now. The price on Amazon has dropped quite often to $199.

[hunta]

Or, a little off-piste but a great lower-cost option:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Squeezebox-2-W...item3a61f8bc50

[aubuti]

Your call on new Receiver with warranty versus 2nd hand SB2 without warranty, but personally I'd go for the SB2. SB2 sound is at least as good as SBR, probably a little better, and setup is much more problem-free.

[eganders]

Have you thought about purchasing a Squeezebox Touch instead of the Receiver or a Boom? It's a better receiver than the Receiver (newer & better electronics), includes a touch sensitive display that can control all of your Squeezebox players, and is specifically designed to be hooked into a stereo system.

On another point, regardless of the player you choose, the remote control of the Duet can control any and all Squeezebox products. In addition, there are applets available for either the iPhone or Android based phones that can also control all your players. Many users like the applets on the phones better than the Duet's remote control. Lots of options.

[Soulkeeper]

Sounds like you can output the sound from the Boom to another stereo so really it's the most versatile option!

Yes it is, but the output of the Duet/SB2/SB3/Touch are of higher quality. So, as other comments have touched upon, whether this is a good idea or not, depends on the sound quality of the stereo you plan to hook it up to.

But the Boom still sounds okay, either on its own or connected to a stereo, and it will give you better portability.