|
Log in to post
|
Print Thread |
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 175
Apprentice
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 175 |
I would like to be able to play through my laptop (USB keyboard controlling a midi VST, BiaB or other audio backing, no vocal other than perhaps a welcome between tunes
I want the casual passerby to hear nothing unless they see my sign saying "Tune to Bluetooth XXX to listen." It seems 25-30 foot range is plenty, not AC powered. This way noboy that noes NOT want to hear does not. How do I boost my signal from the laptop and is there a limit to the number of listeners - don't see why there should be, but...)
Anyway, votes for Best Bluetooth Transmitter/Booster?
Thanks
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848 |
Go for the Bluetooth transmitters designed to connect to TV's and have AC adaptor. Some have line of sight range of 300' and about half of that indoors. The transmitters that are designed for cars and plug into the power port for 12v have about a 30' range max. Amazon has one for around $50 Long Range Bluetooth Audio Transmitter
BIAB 2025:RB 2025, Latest builds: Dell Optiplex 7040 Desktop; Windows-10-64 bit, Intel Core i7-6700 3.4GHz CPU and 16 GB Ram Memory.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,642
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,642 |
... and is there a limit to the number of listeners - don't see why there should be, but...) I don't know off-hand if there's a limit in the specification, but certainly many devices will only pair concurrently with a small number ... two or three isn't unusual. OK, concurrently looking at the specs suggests there are unicast and broadcast modes available, so in principle I think you could get a broadcast device and multiple bluetooth devices can then receive the broadcast. The catch is that you probably need a broadcast-capable device to do it. I guess that most Bluetooth audio devices are capable of receiving such a broadcast. Transmit power essentially affects range (distance) only, not the number of listeners. Obstructions will reduce the range, so a dense crowd may have some effect. Some Bluetooth systems can do 100 metres or more and I imagine a broadcast device would likely support that. (Bluetooth Basic Audio Profile: "4.14 Broadcast Audio Streaming", bluetooth.com)
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful.
AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11
BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software.
Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts
.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 175
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 175 |
Thanks, guys. The Broadcast transmitter is the answer, but I need to find one battery-powered, the goal is to set up anywhere, like the middle of Yosemite and still play to a crowd without disturbing the bears...
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,505
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,505 |
I purchased a Bluetooth transmitter but returned it because, while it would pair with a portable speaker as expected, it would not pair with my iPhone. The iPhone expects to be the transmitter of music, not the receiver apparently.
Whatever you purchase, make sure you can receive the signal on the type of devices you wish to have people use.
BIAB 2025 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 7 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Presonus 192 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Slate VSX, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 621
Journeyman
|
|
Journeyman
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 621 |
Bluetooth is not suitable for this. Buggy and high latency.
Byron Dickens BIAB. CbB. Mixbus 32C 8 HP Envy. Intel core i7. 16GB RAM W10. Focusrite Scarlett 18i 20. Various instruments played with varying degrees of proficiency. https://soundcloud.com/athanorsoundlabs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,642
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,642 |
Bluetooth is not suitable for this. Buggy and high latency. The latency shouldn't matter too much for broadcast/streaming. Buggy is potentially a significant issue. Bluetooth is fairly new, alarmingly complex, and evolving all the time. Implementers also don't always do things the way the specifications intended. I'm not convinced that makes it unsuitable for this use. I'm not sure there's an alternative that would be suitable without dedicated gear. Something on WiFi with a App might be more robust.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful.
AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11
BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software.
Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts
.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848 |
This unit connects with 2 BT devices but the connection process will allow up to 100 Bluetooth devices to connect to the transmitter. I noted the unit requires and draws a 700ma load @5v and comes with a mains power supply. A marine deep cycle battery would have enough charge to last for days only pulling a 700ma load. The caveat; Bluetooth specifications state seven is the maximum number of Bluetooth devices that can be connected at once. Avantree Q5049 A battery operated PA - Hisonic HS420
BIAB 2025:RB 2025, Latest builds: Dell Optiplex 7040 Desktop; Windows-10-64 bit, Intel Core i7-6700 3.4GHz CPU and 16 GB Ram Memory.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,642
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,642 |
This unit connects with 2 BT devices but the connection process will allow up to 100 Bluetooth devices to connect to the transmitter. I noted the unit requires and draws a 700ma load @5v and comes with a mains power supply. A marine deep cycle battery would have enough charge to last for days only pulling a 700ma load. The caveat; Bluetooth specifications state seven is the maximum number of Bluetooth devices that can be connected at once. Avantree Q5049 A battery operated PA - Hisonic HS420 This shows very well both the risks and opportunities. The video states explicitly that it is not Bluetooth. It runs on the same 2.4GHz band as Bluetooth ... but so does 2.4G WiFi, ZigBee, DECT, and a number of proprietary protocols. Curiously, the product does not seem to appear on their website. Caveat Emptor.
Jazz relative beginner, starting at a much older age than was helpful.
AVL:MXE Linux; Windows 11
BIAB2026 Audiophile, a bunch of other software.
Kawai MP6, Ui24R, Focusrite Saffire Pro40 and Scarletts
.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 175
Apprentice
|
|
OP
Apprentice
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 175 |
Thanks again, guys. What i wanted was for any passerby (7 at a time would be fine) to be able to pair with the transmitter, have a listen, hopefully put something in the hat, and be on their way. Requiring they have a specific device obviously is a non-starter. I WANT a silent concert except for those who want to hear, so no hassles with noise pollution. And without the audience needing anything more than their phone to access the audio.
Any alternate ideas appreciated...
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 8,848 |
For 5-8 listeners at a time, an inexpensive headphone amp provides a silent concert except for those who want to hear, so no hassles with noise pollution, latency bluetooth or wifi. Behringer's Miniamp is a 4 channel, 8 output device that meets all the criteria listed and retails for $89. Add 8 $4 headphones and alcohol wipes and away you go. Behringer $89 8 output headphone amp
BIAB 2025:RB 2025, Latest builds: Dell Optiplex 7040 Desktop; Windows-10-64 bit, Intel Core i7-6700 3.4GHz CPU and 16 GB Ram Memory.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,505
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 27,505 |
Now that’s thinking outside the box, and inside the can.
BIAB 2025 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 7 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Presonus 192 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Slate VSX, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 10,801
Veteran
|
|
Veteran
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 10,801 |
Sounds too complicated and problematic to me to use BT.
As someone walking down the street, If I have to stop, pull out my phone, go to settings, connect to the BT signal, put in my ear buds.....all just to listen.... I'm probably just going to keep on walking.
Wouldn't it be better to simply use a small speaker setup and let everyone hear the music? You're going to have a higher percentage stop and listen and maybe throw a few dollars in the hat that way. Unless of course, it's illegal to play music on public streets where you are.
Everything I see on a quick search says 7 devices at a time on BT. Good luck and have fun.
Last edited by Guitarhacker; 06/29/22 04:16 AM.
You can find my music at: www.herbhartley.comAdd nothing that adds nothing to the music. You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both. The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 621
Journeyman
|
|
Journeyman
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 621 |
Sounds too complicated and problematic to me to use BT.
As someone walking down the street, If I have to stop, pull out my phone, go to settings, connect to the BT signal, put in my ear buds.....all just to listen.... I'm probably just going to keep on walking.
^^^^^^^^ This.
Byron Dickens BIAB. CbB. Mixbus 32C 8 HP Envy. Intel core i7. 16GB RAM W10. Focusrite Scarlett 18i 20. Various instruments played with varying degrees of proficiency. https://soundcloud.com/athanorsoundlabs
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production
|
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 1,991
Expert
|
|
Expert
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 1,991 |
BT is the wrong protocol for this.
Streaming over WiFi and cellular has been happening for years. Headphone concerts are old news.
BIAB 2025 Audiophile Mac
24Core/60CoreGPU M2 MacStudioUltra/8TB/192GB Sequoia, M1 MBAir, 2012 MBP
Digital Performer11, LogicPro, Finale27/Dorico/Encore/SmartScorePro64/Notion6 /Overture5
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ask sales and support questions about Band-in-a-Box using natural language.
ChatPG's knowledge base includes the full Band-in-a-Box User Manual and sales information from the website.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac® users: Build 904 now available!
If you're already using Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Mac®, make sure to grab the latest update! Build 904 is now available for download and includes the newest additions and enhancements from our team.
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® users: Build 1237 is now available!
Already a Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows user? Stay up to date and download the build 1237 to get all the latest additions and enhancements.
PowerTracks Pro 2026 for Windows is Here!
PowerTracks 2026 is here—bringing powerful new enhancements designed to make your production workflow faster, smoother, and more intuitive than ever.
The enhanced Mixer now shows Track Type and Instrument icons for instant track recognition, while a new grid option simplifies editing views. Non-floating windows adopt a modern title bar style, replacing the legacy blue bar.
The Master Volume is now applied at the end of the audio chain for consistent levels and full-signal master effects.
Tablature now includes a “Save bends when saving XML” option for improved compatibility with PG Music tools. Plus, you can instantly match all track heights with a simple Ctrl-release after resizing, and Add2 chords from MGU/SGU files are now fully supported... and more!
Get started today—first-time packages start at just $49.
Already using PowerTracks Pro Audio? Upgrade for as little as $29 and enjoy the latest improvements!
Order now!
Band-in-a-Box 2026 for Windows Special Offers End Tomorrow (January 15th, 2026) at 11:59 PM PST!
Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PST on Thursday, January 15, 2026!
We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®!
Version 2026 introduces a modernized GUI redesign across the program, with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, and a new Dark Mode option. There’s also a new side toolbar for quicker access to commonly used windows, and the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, making it easier to customize your workspace.
Another exciting new addition is the new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. You can view the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to process an entire track or focus on specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.
There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Windows to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!
Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade during our special, you'll receive a Free Bonus PAK of exciting new add-ons.
If you need any help deciding which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We are here to help!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® Special Offers Extended Until January 15, 2026!
Good news! You still have time to upgrade to the latest version of Band-in-a-Box® for Windows® and save. Our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® special now runs through January 15, 2025!
We've packed Band-in-a-Box® 2026 with major new features, enhancements, and an incredible lineup of new content! The program now sports a sleek, modern GUI redesign across the entire interface, including updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, a new dark mode option, and more. The brand-new side toolbar provides quicker access to key windows, while the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, creating a flexible, clutter-free workspace. We have an amazing new “AI-Notes” feature. This transcribes polyphonic audio into MIDI so you can view it in notation or play it back as MIDI. You can process an entire track (all pitched instruments and drums) or focus on individual parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, XPro Styles PAK 10, Xtra Styles PAK 21, and much more!
There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®.
When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PST on January 15th, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows® today! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all the purchase options available.
Happy New Year!
Thank you for being part of the Band-in-a-Box® community.
Wishing you and yours a very happy 2026—Happy New Year from all of us at PG Music!
Season's Greetings!
Wishing everyone a happy, healthy holiday season—thanks for being part of our community!
The office will be closed for Christmas Day, but we will be back on Boxing Day (Dec 26th) at 6:00am PST.
Team PG
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Forums57
Topics86,048
Posts799,322
Members40,015
| |
Most Online44,367
Mar 4th, 2026
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dansk
Deutsch - Windows
Español
Français - Windows
Italiano - Windows
Nederlands
Polski
Português
Svenskt
русский
Japanese
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Korean