The ELAC Discovery Connect is a compelling entry into the world of wireless music streaming, offering a blend of high-fidelity audio and convenient connectivity. This in-depth review explores its features, performance, and overall value, answering many frequently asked questions about this popular device.
What is the ELAC Discovery Connect?
The ELAC Discovery Connect is a compact, high-resolution wireless music streamer. It bridges the gap between your digital music library and your existing audio system, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from various sources, including smartphones, computers, and network-attached storage (NAS) devices. Its key selling point is the combination of ease of use and surprisingly high-quality audio reproduction, exceeding what one might expect from such a small device.
How does the ELAC Discovery Connect sound?
The audio quality of the ELAC Discovery Connect is a consistent point of praise among users. It boasts a surprisingly spacious soundstage and a clear, detailed presentation, handling both delicate high frequencies and powerful bass with impressive accuracy. The overall sonic signature is neutral and balanced, allowing the nuances of your music to shine through without any significant coloration. It's important to note that the audio quality will also depend on the quality of your source material and your connected speakers or amplifier.
What streaming services does the ELAC Discovery Connect support?
The ELAC Discovery Connect supports a wide variety of streaming services through its compatibility with commonly used protocols. While it doesn’t have dedicated apps for individual services like some dedicated streamers, its compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, and Spotify Connect ensures broad compatibility with many popular platforms, including Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, and more. This versatility allows users to utilize their preferred music services seamlessly.
Does the ELAC Discovery Connect work with Bluetooth?
While the ELAC Discovery Connect focuses primarily on higher-resolution wireless streaming via AirPlay 2 and Chromecast, it does not include Bluetooth connectivity. This decision is likely driven by the focus on superior audio quality offered by the other protocols. Bluetooth, while convenient, often compromises on audio fidelity compared to AirPlay 2 and Chromecast.
Is the ELAC Discovery Connect easy to set up?
Setting up the ELAC Discovery Connect is generally considered straightforward. The device integrates seamlessly with most home Wi-Fi networks, and its user interface, whether via app control or the physical buttons on the unit itself, is intuitive and easy to navigate. The supplied instructions provide clear guidance throughout the setup process.
What are the physical connections on the ELAC Discovery Connect?
The ELAC Discovery Connect offers a range of connections to integrate seamlessly into various audio setups. You'll typically find:
- Optical Output: For connecting to digital-to-analog converters (DACs) or devices with optical inputs.
- Coaxial Output: An alternative digital output option, offering compatibility with a wider range of devices.
- USB Output: Often used for connecting to a USB DAC for enhanced digital-to-analog conversion capabilities.
How does the ELAC Discovery Connect compare to other wireless music streamers in its price range?
The ELAC Discovery Connect competes favorably with other wireless music streamers in its price bracket. Its strong points include its high-fidelity audio reproduction, versatile streaming capabilities through AirPlay 2 and Chromecast, and user-friendly setup. While some competitors might offer slightly more features (like Bluetooth connectivity or advanced multi-room audio capabilities), the Discovery Connect often excels in overall sound quality and ease of use.
Conclusion: Is the ELAC Discovery Connect worth it?
For audiophiles seeking a high-quality, user-friendly wireless music streamer without breaking the bank, the ELAC Discovery Connect presents a compelling option. Its combination of excellent sound reproduction, convenient connectivity, and straightforward operation makes it a strong contender in its market segment. However, potential buyers should be aware of the absence of Bluetooth connectivity, which might be a deciding factor for some users.
