Squeezebox Touch?

[FTGV]

I am seriously considering one of these to pull the hi rez downloads (and CD rips)from my PC so I can play them on my main rig.Since it is about 30ft away from my PC I would prefer to use it wireless instead of stringing a long length of ethernet cable between them.
I assume most users operate it wieless so was wondering if you have experienced any issues with dropouts,interference or reduced sound quality etc?Also has anyone tried or use the USB input to play hi rez files from a thumb drive or USB HD?

[heiney9]

I am seriously considering one of these to pull the hi rez downloads (and CD rips)from my PC so I can play them on my main rig.Since it is about 30ft away from my PC I would prefer to use it wireless instead of stringing a long length of ethernet cable between them.
I assume most users operate it wieless so was wondering if you have experienced any issues with dropouts,interference or reduced sound quality etc?Also has anyone tried or use the USB input to play hi rez files from a thumb drive or USB HD?

None whatsoever to your first question. It has been flawless and I own the SQB - Touch and I previously owned a SQB-II and also own the Squeeze Radio for the bedroom.

I have tried the thumb drive but not got it to work properly. The inter-phase it seems is slow and a little clumsy. To be fair I haven't read the instructions or given it the proper time to learn.

One of the best ever audio additions I have made was the SQB II and the Touch is even cooler.

H9

[FTGV]

None whatsoever to your first question.Thanks thats what I was hoping to hear.Also I don't yet have a wireless router, is there anything special I should be looking for as far as it's capabilities are concerned?


One of the best ever audio additions I have made was the SQB II and the Touch is even cooler.

H9They definitely have the cool factor and convience factor appears to be through the roof.

[Sherardp]

There are a few updates out there for the Touch, make sure you have latest firmware H9. As for OP I have the touch and bought it based on reviews here. I love it and have had zero issues. I use mine indoors and even have it setup with the Ipad and provides music outdoors to my Atrium 65s. Overall very impressed with the unit.

[Ricardo]

My main rig is using the SQB Touch exclusively. 80% Pandora and Internet radio, 20% my library.Have not used a CD player in months. Wireless, no issues, excellent sound. I'm using an external DAC. The SQB Touch analog outs are good, but an external DAC is better IMO.

[thuffman03]

I have the Squeezebox Duet and use it wireless. It is solid. No issues streaming audio from my PC.

[heiney9]

Thanks thats what I was hoping to hear.Also I don't yet have a wireless router, is there anything special I should be looking for as far as it's capabilities are concerned?They definitely have the cool factor and convience factor appears to be through the roof.

Just get the nicest most up-to-date wireless router you can afford, no need to go crazy. They make long range wireless routers now (N band, IIRC) so if they are going to be far away you might consider that.

Once you start using something like this you'll never go back to a conventional cdp as a main source. If you have an iPod Touch the iPeng application runs the SQB Touch; it's awesome!

I also agree with Ricardo, the internal dac's are decent, but not what I consider "audiophile" (better than previous SQB's though) so you may want to consider using an external dac.

H9

[FTGV]

Thanks all for the feedback,I guess I'll proceed with the wireless.To squeeze the most out of it I will be using an external DAC. As others mentioned I strongly suspect it will become my primary source.

[dkg999]

If you have more than one wireless device, get a dual-band wireless router. I have the SQB Touch, Roku box, and a couple of pc's that can hit the wireless all at the same time. I moved up to a dual-band wireless router and it keeps everything humming along.

[Habanero Monk]

Oy Vey!

My head is spinning a little from one thread and then I was pointed to this thread and.... whew! I figure what is being discussed here is close enough to what I am doing.

My setup is simple, maybe a bit meager, but I don't believe permanent (beyond maybe a year or two). It's laptop->headphone out->receiver->monitor 70's.

Talk started about computer to DAC, of which there are many, that DAC's can make a difference then someone tossed in Esoteric Audio > computer+DAC, USB transfer is poor, but I don't think even used I could come up with funds for a cd player like that. But I also don't want to miss anything.

What am I missing? Some here have sworn off cd players. Some swear by them.

Others say the traditional cd mechanism is dated compared to what a computer (or the logitech box) + external DAC.

I guess it's about tradeoffs? not that I want to make any if avoidable. Thx...

[heiney9]

Oy Vey!

My head is spinning a little from one thread and then I was pointed to this thread and.... whew! I figure what is being discussed here is close enough to what I am doing.

My setup is simple, maybe a bit meager, but I don't believe permanent (beyond maybe a year or two). It's laptop->headphone out->receiver->monitor 70's.

Talk started about computer to DAC, of which there are many, that DAC's can make a difference then someone tossed in Esoteric Audio > computer+DAC, USB transfer is poor, but I don't think even used I could come up with funds for a cd player like that. But I also don't want to miss anything.

What am I missing? Some here have sworn off cd players. Some swear by them.

Others say the traditional cd mechanism is dated compared to what a computer (or the logitech box) + external DAC.

I guess it's about tradeoffs? not that I want to make any if avoidable. Thx...

Not the same as using a wireless music server. Headphone jack to receiver is the worst way to do it. Not trying to be blunt as I understand as you learn and can spend money on this hobby things improve. But the headphone jack in a laptop or any computer is not anywhere close to using a something like a Squeezebox Touch as far as sound quality or control of your music library.

USB transfer *CAN* be poor but it can also be the best. Depends on how it's implemented.

I would choose a traditional cdp everytime over headphone out.

H9

[tonyb]

What your missing is that it's a matter of preference. While debatable and subjective on what gives good sound quality, a cdp or a computer, one is more convenient for some. Computers take more to get good SQ out of them, not that it can't be done. If your just downloading MP3's and running through a 200 buck receiver, your pretty limited on the SQ your going to hear.

[Habanero Monk]

From this thread and the other, ya I agree that would be my next move. It is all budget and then budget begets analysis paralysis. What am I getting for each dollar that I am putting out.

I can't go down one path to find out I have to do a 180. That is what has me twirled with the whole computational based audio be it a computer or a squeeze box if there is a hard ceiling that I can only get above by getting a really expensive cd player. Then I lose the ability to have all my music at a few button presses.

But for now I can say I am enjoying coming home, kicking on some Rush YYZ, or PF, or Zep, or ... and enjoy it.

[heiney9]

From this thread and the other, ya I agree that would be my next move. It is all budget and then budget begets analysis paralysis. What am I getting for each dollar that I am putting out.

I can't go down one path to find out I have to do a 180. That is what has me twirled with the whole computational based audio be it a computer or a squeeze box if there is a hard ceiling that I can only get above by getting a really expensive cd player. Then I lose the ability to have all my music at a few button presses.

But for now I can say I am enjoying coming home, kicking on some Rush YYZ, or PF, or Zep, or ... and enjoy it.

I hear ya!!!!! Just do your research and save the money and whne you feel confident then pull the trigger. It's not a race and yes there is a lot of info to cover. None of us learned it over night.

H9

[FTGV]

From this thread and the other, ya I agree that would be my next move. It is all budget and then budget begets analysis paralysis. What am I getting for each dollar that I am putting out.

I can't go down one path to find out I have to do a 180. That is what has me twirled with the whole computational based audio be it a computer or a squeeze box if there is a hard ceiling that I can only get above by getting a really expensive cd player. Then I lose the ability to have all my music at a few button presses.

But for now I can say I am enjoying coming home, kicking on some Rush YYZ, or PF, or Zep, or ... and enjoy it.If the budget is tight you might look at this capable little USB DAC.It uses the prefered Asynchronous method of transfering data.http://www.musicdirect.com/product/87045

[mdaudioguy]

Once you start using something like this you'll never go back to a conventional cdp as a main source. If you have an iPod Touch the iPeng application runs the SQB Touch; it's awesome!

iPeng is great, and so is Squeeze Commander for Android phones. I've used them both. Love my Squeezeboxes!

[FTGV]

I picked up Linksys wireless router, it's up and running so now I just need to find the best deal on the Touch.There only appears to be two online retailers in Canada both selling for nearly MSRP:frown: I also have most of the key parts in my parts bins needed to build a nice outboard regulated 12VDC supply since I understand the stock PS leaves alot to be desired.

iPeng is great...That looks like the cats ass as far as controlling it.I'm going to try and work out a deal with my daughter for her 8g iTouch after she moves to the 32g version.:smile:

[heiney9]

I picked up Linksys wireless router, it's up and running so now I just need to find the best deal on the Touch.There only appears to be two online retailers in Canada both selling for nearly MSRP:frown: I also have most of the key parts in my parts bins needed to build a nice outboard regulated 12VDC supply since I understand the stock PS leaves alot to be desired.
That looks like the cats ass as far as controlling it.I'm going to try and work out a deal with my daughter for her 8g iTouch after she moves to the 32g version.:smile:

It's hard to find them discounted. I fell into mine with a special 30% off coupon that was only active for a mere hour. Yes, I would build the PS it makes a difference. At first I was very skeptical since I was using the digital out, but to my ears the difference with an external linear PS was not subtle.

iPeng is the bomb especially if the SQB Touch sits across the room, you can't see the art work or song titles so well.

Good luck, there is a guy on Audiogon who sells new units for $260 but no experience with that seller.

H9

[FTGV]

It's hard to find them discounted.Yeah I understand that demand is keeping the price up.

Good luck, there is a guy on Audiogon who sells new units for $260 but no experience with that seller.Thanks I'll take a gander over there.

[jonicont]

Got mine hooked up. So convenient. What would be the optimal output level--50%, 75%, 100?

[Ricardo]

100% and use your preamp as volume control.

[TG Meat]

I use the iPeng to control my SQB Touch, but it seems to kill the iphone's battery. Is this common, if so any way to keep the iphone from getting drained?

[jonicont]

Thaks Ricardo

[Ricardo]

I use iPeng from my iPod Touch. I have not noticed any impact on battery consumption (by default the ipod's battery does not last more than 4-5 hours when in constant use, period).

I keep it plugged overnight and it works for me. It rarely runs out of batteries, but I'm not "touching" it constantly.

[Glowrdr]

Got mine hooked up. So convenient. What would be the optimal output level--50%, 75%, 100?

In the SB server, you can actually disable the remote volume. I keep mine on, so that I can turn it down if needed without going to the radio, but yeah - generally you just leave it at 100%

[heiney9]

In the SB server, you can actually disable the remote volume. I keep mine on, so that I can turn it down if needed without going to the radio, but yeah - generally you just leave it at 100%

The Touch doesn't have that feature anymore (like the SQB Classic, 2 and 3). But I have read that at 100% volume it effectively takes the vol control out of the circuit.

H9

[gdpeck]

I use the iPeng to control my SQB Touch, but it seems to kill the iphone's battery. Is this common, if so any way to keep the iphone from getting drained?


Take a look at two iPeng settings. "Prevent Sleep Mode" and "Preserve Connection". I believe these are designed to give you quicker access to your library, but at the cost of battery life. I disabled both on my iPod Touch, and it did seem to help with battery life.

[PrazVT]

What gdpeck said - preserving the connection is what drains the battery. I ended up keeping a iphone dock on the end table next to my couch whenever I'm using my SB Touch, so when I'm listening to music the phone doesn't get drained.

[PrazVT]

Hey Heiney - so the welbourne labs PSU is worth it right? That's up next on my list (after I send my tax check this week lol).

[heiney9]

Hey Heiney - so the welbourne labs PSU is worth it right? That's up next on my list (after I send my tax check this week lol).

Yes, absolutely! There may be other alternatives out there now, not sure. Welbourne has lackluster customer service communication and it takes longer than I think it should to get the unit. To be fair, I believe they are build to order so the process is slow. Don't expect "Amazon or Newegg" type communication and shipping :tongue:

However, the product is excellent and it's plug-n-play. I do recommend them 100% but just caution about slow service and communication.

H9

[heiney9]

Our local Polkie Audio group all have the Touch w/Welboure Labs supply and I think we are all very happy.

dkg999, Ricardo, Blakeh, ScompRacer, myself. ScompRacer built the kit option himself.

H9

[PrazVT]

Awesome - will prob order it in the next few days. Will report back :)

[jonicont]

This looks real nice. Gonna get me one too

[FTGV]

The Touch doesn't have that feature anymore (like the SQB Classic, 2 and 3). But I have read that at 100% volume it effectively takes the vol control out of the circuit.

H9

Is the volume control still functional when using the digital out?If so thats certainly not desirable as it would mean it's done in the digital domain, which = throwing away data.

[Ricardo]

Yes, volume control in the Touch governs digital and analog outs.

[newrival]

Thanks thats what I was hoping to hear.Also I don't yet have a wireless router, is there anything special I should be looking for as far as it's capabilities are concerned?

Your main concern from routers is going to be reliability. My Belkin N1 is not very reliable. It's pretty quick with other N devices but It needs to be reset frequently. Perhaps Lazeraeth can chime in here since I think he's an IT guy, but reliability is a big issue for me. Speed was but then I installed a large ethernet hub so I could just hard-wire everything but the laptops and strictly wireless devices.

If you don't plan to upgrade to, and don't currently own any wireless N devices I'd recommend the WRT54GL. It's as reliable as it gets. Rock solid, ultra dependable, but slow for some. And you can flash these routers and install customized firmware, if youre so inclined.

[newrival]

I would choose a traditional cdp everytime over headphone out.

H9

Some headphone jacks (like on my macbook pro, or mac mini) are also optical minijack outputs.

[FTGV]

Thanks for the info.I purchased a Linksys N router a few weeks ago and it seems to work like a charm.The main computer is hard wired but I'm currently running two laptops and iPods wirelessly with no issues so far.I just need to let my bank account recoup from the hit it took from Christmas before ordering the Touch.

[SCompRacer]

Our local Polkie Audio group all have the Touch w/Welboure Labs supply and I think we are all very happy.

Yes, very happy with the Welborne Labs PS! The innards.

http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp260/scompracer/Misc/ps1.jpg

[FTGV]

Yes, very happy with the Welborne Labs PS! The innards.

http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp260/scompracer/Misc/ps1.jpgNice, what value are those filter caps?



Heres the beginings of my homebrew variation on the theme.Not as neat but should be functional.

[heiney9]

Your main concern from routers is going to be reliability. My Belkin N1 is not very reliable. It's pretty quick with other N devices but It needs to be reset frequently. Perhaps Lazeraeth can chime in here since I think he's an IT guy, but reliability is a big issue for me. Speed was but then I installed a large ethernet hub so I could just hard-wire everything but the laptops and strictly wireless devices.

If you don't plan to upgrade to, and don't currently own any wireless N devices I'd recommend the WRT54GL. It's as reliable as it gets. Rock solid, ultra dependable, but slow for some. And you can flash these routers and install customized firmware, if youre so inclined.

I have an inexpensive router and not a single SQB related issue in 3 years. Sure at times I've to reboot my computer or the SQB. Maybe a dozen in 3 years.

[PrazVT]

@FTGV, heiney -

How difficult is it to put the PS together? Is it just screwing stuff together or is it more involved?

Also I noticed that it doesn't come w/ a power cable - so that looks like an added expense. What are you guys using?

[FTGV]

Scomp can clarify but I believe his was a parts kit that required the parts to be installed and soldered.As for the power cord I see an IEC connector for a standard IEC power cord.

[heiney9]

@FTGV, heiney -

How difficult is it to put the PS together? Is it just screwing stuff together or is it more involved?

Also I noticed that it doesn't come w/ a power cable - so that looks like an added expense. What are you guys using?


Scomp can clarify but I believe his was a parts kit that required the parts to be installed and soldered.As for the power cord I see an IEC connector for a standard IEC power cord.

That is correct. All parts need to be soldered and the PCB needs to be mounted in the case.

It comes with the umbilical cord from the power supply to the SQ Touch, but you need to supply the power cable from the wall outlet to the power supply.

H9

[Glowrdr]

OK... I'm completely lost here. What's the deal with the power supplies? Are you guys changing out the supply for the squeezeboxes or something? Am I missing some really cool integral piece of coolness?

Don't leave me in the dark people! Tell me more!

[Glowrdr]

Ok...I searched for it and figured it out. Holy crap! You can seriously buy a replacement PS for ~$250? I guess I can't really talk too much smack about upgrades (I'm big into car stuff, did a ZKW lense upgrade for $1200) - but I guess I'm not educated enough on my audio to warrant such an expense when I could certainly find alternative weaknesses in my system that would surely involve more than the PS on a media player.

[SCompRacer]

The most difficult part of the kit was assembling the small end of the umbilical that plugs into the Touch. Two 18 gauge wires into a small connector.

Fred, cap values are 3300uf. Nice looking, robust PS you have there.

[FTGV]

.., cap values are 3300uf.Thanks Rich all totalled thats more than I've seen in some small amps.I thought my 3x 2200uf was generous.

I have done some digging and it appears there are some interesting software and internal hardware mods possible.The software mods appear to be mostly for those using a wired connection.The hardware mods would be tempting but doing so would likely void the generous 2yr warranty so the PS upgrade might be as far as I would want to go with it.

[dkg999]

I'd put my money into a PS upgrade and using the digital out into a decent DAC.

[heiney9]

Posted in another thread a scope of the stock PS vs. the Welborne.

http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1459891&postcount=19

H9

[PrazVT]

It comes with the umbilical cord from the power supply to the SQ Touch, but you need to supply the power cable from the wall outlet to the power supply.

I suppose I'd need to spring for a decent power cable too huh? ie. perhaps another shunyata venom 3? Or perhaps something a little less expensive (i see some ~$50 pangea cables on audio advisor ..but no experience w/ them).

[FTGV]

Well I have decide to go in a different direction and simplify things and forgo the SQB.Instead I'm just running a separate coaxial SPDIF cable from my PC to the DAC in my main rig, which requires the length of cable to be 30ft.( Just shy of the 10m allowed for in the SPDIF spec.)The long cable doesn't seem to present any issues sonically and since my DAC's input reciever incorporates a sample rate convertor data is reclocked therefore has high immunity to all things jitter.

Listening to Flac files via J.River Media Center ( in WASAPI mode) sounds outstanding IMO as does Apple lossless via iTunes.Since both players have apps that allow for the use of my iTouch as a remote the SQB becomes unnecessary.The elimination of another digtal interface in the chain and possible operating glitches are pluses also.

[PrazVT]

Good to hear you found a route that works for you :)

[heiney9]

The elimination of another digtal interface in the chain and possible operating glitches are pluses also.

Glad you found something that works for you. I have one digital interface in the chain. A coax from the SQB Touch to the dac, just like if I had a transport. No glitches on this end. Plus the SQB is one program no need to use two programs for music.

But, you probably spent less and are getting similar results. That's all that matters.

Enjoy

H9

[FTGV]

I have one digital interface in the chain. A coax from the SQB Touch to the dac, just like if I had a transport.Brock I'm refering to the SQB's (if used as a transport only) need to recieve the digital data either via ethernet or wirelessly,then it using an SPDIF transmitter IC to send it to the DAC's DIR.
No glitches on this end. Plus the SQB is one program no need to use two programs for music.For the most they seem to work flawlessly but have read some minor software related issues.
As for the duplicate player software I already had iTunes loaded with lossless files for syncing with my iPod.I recently started using the J.River media player(very nice) as it will be my go to for a selected number of my favourites in Flac and my growing number hi rez downloads.

[heiney9]

Fred, I forgot about the ethernet cable. There are lots of ways to enjoy a digital library of music. Glad you found one that works for you. I think you'll find yourself listening to a lot more music than ever before simply because of convenience. I know I do. :smile:

H9

[FTGV]

There are lots of ways to enjoy a digital library of music. Glad you found one that works for you. My recent aquisition of the iTouch and discovering it's ability to control things remotely with it has made it a viable option.My older iPod classic has no such capability.
I think you'll find yourself listening to a lot more music than ever before simply because of convenience. I know I do. :smile:

H9I believe it.I never thought that loading a disc into a tray would one day become as arduous of a task as LP's became with the introduction of CD's.:smile:

[heiney9]

With the remote capabilities of a product like the iTouch it's incredibly convenient. Just recently I was listening to some physical cd's, and while not a huge hardship, I found myself a little annoyed at having to keep swapping discs.

With a digital library you can go from Miles Davis to Buddy Guy to Norah Jones in seconds. :biggrin:

I use the iPod Touch as well, but I just bought a Motorola Droid X cell phone that has a similar app just like iPeng. If it works as well I may get rid of the iPod.

H9

[jonicont]

Yes, absolutely! There may be other alternatives out there now, not sure. Welbourne has lackluster customer service communication and it takes longer than I think it should to get the unit. To be fair, I believe they are build to order so the process is slow. Don't expect "Amazon or Newegg" type communication and shipping :tongue:

However, the product is excellent and it's plug-n-play. I do recommend them 100% but just caution about slow service and communication.

H9

Ordered mine on 2/6--arrived on 3/5. Definitely worth it. Thanks for the advice