A speaker with good off axis response will probably fill a room better than a speaker that beams.

Yes, you can use AirPlay 1 to stream Apple Music to your PiCorePlayer. To do this, follow these general steps:

Setup PiCorePlayer: Install and set up PiCorePlayer on your PecanPi streamer-DAC. Ensure it is connected to your network.

Enable AirPlay: In the PiCorePlayer web interface, navigate to the “Main Page” and find the option to enable AirPlay. This typically involves selecting “Squeezelite Settings” and choosing AirPlay as the output.

Connect from Apple Music: On your Apple device (iPhone, iPad, etc.), open Apple Music and play a song. You should see an AirPlay icon (a triangle with concentric circles) that allows you to select your PiCorePlayer as the playback device.

Regarding sound quality, AirPlay 1 supports CD-quality audio, which is 16-bit/44.1kHz. This should provide good sound quality, especially if your main concern is CD-quality audio.

As for your choice between Apple Music and Qobuz, it depends on your preferences. Qobuz is known for its emphasis on high-resolution audio, providing lossless streaming at various resolutions. If you prioritize audio quality and are open to exploring a broader range of high-resolution content, Qobuz might be worth considering. However, it’s essential to check the availability of your preferred music on both platforms and consider any other features that matter to you.

For dedicated audio playback, consider the following Blu-ray players known for their audio quality:

1. Cambridge Audio CXUHD: Though it’s primarily a 4K UHD player, it also excels in audio playback, supporting various formats. It has excellent DAC capabilities and analog audio output.

2. OPPO UDP-203/205: While these models are discontinued, they are highly regarded for audio quality. If you can find a used one in good condition, it could be an excellent choice.

3. Pioneer UDP-LX500: This player is designed with audiophiles in mind, providing high-quality audio output. It supports CDs, music DVDs, and Blu-rays without 4K capabilities.

4. Marantz UD7007: Marantz is known for its audio-focused products. The UD7007 is a universal player that supports various disc formats and offers good audio performance.

Ensure that the player you choose has the necessary outputs for connecting to your stereo receiver via standard RCA connectors. Additionally, read reviews and specifications to confirm compatibility with the specific audio formats you plan to use.

Certainly! Ear training is a great way to enhance your appreciation for audio quality. Here are some tips for beginners:

1. Listen Actively: Pay close attention to the details in the music. Focus on different instruments, subtle nuances, and the overall soundstage.

2. Compare Different Tracks: Listen to a variety of genres and recording qualities. Compare the sound of different tracks to develop a sense of what you like and what to listen for in terms of audio quality.

3. Use High-Quality Sources: Invest in high-quality audio sources. Streaming services like Tidal or lossless audio files can provide a better listening experience than lower-quality sources.

4. Experiment with Equipment: If possible, try different headphones or speakers. Each has its own sound signature, and experimenting will help you understand your preferences.

5. Learn Basic Audio Terms: Familiarize yourself with terms like bass, treble, midrange, and soundstage. Knowing these terms will help you communicate and understand different aspects of audio quality.

6. Take Breaks: Listening fatigue is real. Take breaks during your sessions to keep your ears fresh and sensitive to nuances.

7. Training Apps and Websites: There are apps and websites designed for ear training, helping you recognize different frequencies, tones, and audio characteristics.

8. Blind Listening Tests: Challenge yourself with blind listening tests. This can help you identify specific aspects of sound without being influenced by brand names or biases.

9. Join Audiophile Communities: Engage with audiophile communities online or locally. Discussions and shared experiences can provide valuable insights and recommendations.

Remember, developing your ear takes time, so be patient and enjoy the process. Happy listening!

Continuous use, especially at higher volumes or for extended periods, can contribute to the wear and tear of active speakers. The lifespan of active speakers depends on factors like build quality, usage patterns, and how well they are ventilated to dissipate heat. While using speakers for music and white noise isn’t inherently problematic, it’s essential to be mindful of potential overheating.

To maximize the lifespan:

1. Monitor Heat: Ensure proper ventilation and avoid placing them in enclosed spaces that could lead to overheating.
2. Volume Levels: Avoid consistently playing at maximum volume, as this can strain the speaker components.
3. Quality of Speakers: Higher-quality speakers tend to have better durability.

Even with these considerations, it’s challenging to predict an exact lifespan, but proper care can help extend it. If you notice any decline in audio quality or performance, it might be a sign that the speakers need attention or replacement.

If you already have a Fire Stick for streaming services, you may not necessarily need built-in streaming capabilities on your TV receiver. You can save money by focusing on the core features you require in a receiver, such as audio quality, HDMI ports, and compatibility with your home theater setup. Avoid paying for additional features that duplicate what your Fire Stick already provides unless there’s a specific need or convenience you desire.

The decision to toe in speakers isn’t necessarily dependent on their size. While toeing in speakers can benefit stereo imaging and soundstage, it’s more about optimizing the listening experience based on your room and preferences. Experiment with toe-in angles, regardless of the speaker size, to find the position that sounds best to you in your specific setup.

In a living room I think it depends on the off axis frequency response of your speakers and your personal preference.

I honestly have never heard of a weedy sounding speaker and I really don’t care for an explanation.

Yeah too weedy for sure.