Simple audio over power lines?

November 24, 2006 10:46 PM

Audio over power lines? Homeplug?

I have an audio receiver in one room of my apartment, hooked up to two speakers. I have two more speakers that I'd like to put in another room. I can run speaker wire, but I can't think of a way to do it without it being unsightly. I don't own the place, so I can't make any major modifications (cutting into the walls, etc.).

I know similar questions have been asked, but none were quite like this, and the HomePlug thing seems more popular recently. Has anyone used a HomePlug product in a situation like mine? I don't care about ethernet, USB, multiple channels, or any of that crap. I just want the same sound to be produced in two rooms, and I want it to sound good. :) I'd also consider wireless products, but I'm afraid their sound quality will suck pretty bad.

Ruling out a couple things:
1. I already have a nice receiver, so I'm not interested in replacing it (although I understand the remote room will need its own amplifier).
2. I already own the four speakers I want to use, and I don't want to replace them.

Thoughts, experiences? Thanks!

posted by knave to technology (4 comments total)

If you are willing to accept another amplifier, it might as well be a receiver. If you are going to have another receiver, just get a simple FM transmitters (random google link), they are often sold for use with iPods, as well as in kit form as electronics projects.
posted by Chuckles at 11:22 PM on November 24, 2006

IMO, those things sound terrible.
posted by knave at 11:36 PM on November 24, 2006

Anything but wires will sound noticably worse if you notice those things.
posted by StickyCarpet at 12:06 AM on November 25, 2006

Follow up: I took a chance and bought the Radio Shack "Accurian" brand HomePlug transmitter and receiver/amplifier. They are clearing them out, so the price was ridiculously cheap, so anyone finding this thread in the future... sorry but I don't know where you'll find one.

Anyway, the results are impressive! I knew these things used a digital signal so the quality should be tolerable, but these are really good. I can't tell the difference between the wired speakers in my office and the "wireless" ones in my living room.

The only limitation is the transmitter and receiver need to be on the same circuit in your house or apartment, which in my case wasn't a problem. I'm happy I tried it, and definitely plan to stick with it.
posted by knave at 10:15 PM on November 30, 2006