In addition to the all-new Echo Plus and Echo Dot for 2018, Amazon has begun to offer ways to improve Alexa’s sound-quality and connectivity choices. The easiest option for deeper bass extension is to add a wireless subwoofer called Echo Sub for $130. Then there are options to integrate Alexa’s voice features into any existing stereo system or loudspeaker. Echo Input is a nifty $35 adapter that makes any powered speaker Alexa-enabled, whether it’s wired or wireless. Budget-minded audiophiles will appreciate both preamp (Echo Link) and integrated amp (Echo Link Amp) components that allow Alexa to work with existing passive speakers or higher-end power amplifiers.
Echo Input is a disc-shaped device that adds Alexa into existing speakers. Echo Input connects to a speaker via 3.5mm audio cable or Bluetooth, and features a four-microphone array so you can talk to Alexa from across the room. It’s like an Echo Dot, but without the built-in speaker so all audio is played through the connected speaker rather than through Echo Input itself. At just 12.5mm tall, Echo Input blends easily into every room and makes it possible to create new or existing multi-room music groups throughout a home. Echo Input will be available in black and white.
Echo Sub is the first wireless Echo subwoofer for those who want to pump up the bass when listening to music on their existing or new Echo devices. Echo Sub is compatible with Echo devices to create a 1.1 or 2.1 pairing for stereo sound. Plus, with the equalizer feature you can adjust the bass, mid-range, and treble of the pairing simply by using your voice. Just say, “Alexa, turn up the bass.”
Echo Link and Echo Link Amp are for music lovers who want to use Alexa to stream music to their existing audio equipment. Have old speakers or amplifiers, no problem. Now they too can work with Alexa, and bring digital music streaming into old stereo systems.
Echo Link is an audio component that connects to your high-fidelity stereo system to stream music services. Echo Link includes analog, optical, coax, headphone 3.5mm, and subwoofer line-outs; and analog, optical, and coax line-ins. It has a volume knob for granular control, an Ethernet port for reliable connectivity, and support for multi-room music through Alexa.
Echo Link Amp is Echo Link with a built-in 60W, 2-channel amplifier. Additionally it has left-right speaker binding post outputs to support wiring directly to passive and non-powered speakers.
Both Echo Link and Echo Link Amp can be controlled through the Alexa app or another Echo device in your home. Simply say, “Alexa, turn up the music in the living room,” to listen to tunes through your existing stereo system.
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