Guide to Equipment Options & Setups
WIRELESS: REQUIRES WIFI | |||||
Wired Speakers | Wireless: Bluetooth | WiFi Vendor speakers & amps | Apple AirPlay / AirPlay 2 | Google Chromecast | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pros | Wires are more reliable than wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth). Simple to setup. | Cheap, wireless, portable speaker options. Simple setup from any streaming device | WiFi range and grouping options for speakers on the same wireless network. See tables below for more information with specific manufacturers | Uses WiFi, so can be better than Bluetooth for range. AirPlay 2 uses multiple speakers from iOS (11.4+) or Mac without grouping and hardware setups | $30 and allows streaming to multiple wireless speakers (and speakers with Aux in) from an Android device or Chrome Browser |
Cons | If the wires aren't already in place, running wires (particularly through walls) isn't trivial! | Range limited to Bluetooth equipment specification (30ft for most manufacturers). Most manufacturers limit to one speaker connection; Some (like Bose) allow grouping of multiple speakers using Bluetooth. | WiFi equipment is usually more expensive and takes more setup than Bluetooth. WiFi network reliability and range is required for uninterrupted streaming | Requires streaming from an Apple device which are more expensive than Android or Chromecast options. | Requires Chromecast setup. Doesn't work directly with CloudBox |
WIRELESS: REQUIRES WIFI | ||||
SONOS | Bose SoundTouch | Libratone | Sony | |
---|---|---|---|---|
CloudBox (includes Bluetooth) | OPTIONS
| Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker then relays music to up to any type and number of SoundTouch speakers on the same Wi-Fi network. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to 5 other Libratones (6 total) on the same Wi-Fi network. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to any type and number of Wi-Fi Multi-room capable Sony audio products (speakers, receivers) on the same Wi-Fi network. |
Mobile Android (phone/tablet) | OPTIONS
| Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker then relays music to up to any type and number of SoundTouch speakers on the same Wi-Fi network. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to 5 other Libratones (6 total) on the same Wi-Fi network. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to any type and number of Wi-Fi Multi-room capable Sony audio products (speakers, receivers) on the same Wi-Fi network. |
Mobile iOS (iPhone/iPad) | OPTIONS
| Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker then relays music to up to any type and number of SoundTouch speakers on the same Wi-Fi network. Bose Network Link Adapter can be used to connect multiple Bose SoundTouch speakers and also connect to an existing music system or on hold system, using the Line Out from the Adapter. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to 5 other Libratones (6 total) on the same Wi-Fi network. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to any type and number of Wi-Fi Multi-room capable Sony audio products (speakers, receivers) on the same Wi-Fi network. |
Computer (browser) | OPTIONS
| Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker then relays music to up to any type and number of SoundTouch speakers on the same Wi-Fi network. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to 5 other Libratones (6 total) on the same Wi-Fi network. | Line out (3.5mm Aux) to line in or one speaker, then relays music to up to any type and number of Wi-Fi Multi-room capable Sony audio products (speakers, receivers) on the same Wi-Fi network. |
WIRELESS: REQUIRES WIFI | |||||
SONOS | Bose SoundTouch | Anker | JBL | UE Boom | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
CloudBox (includes Bluetooth) | Bluetooth output. SoundTouch speakers can be grouped together to support multiple speakers playing from one device | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output |
Mobile Android (phone / tablet) | Bluetooth output. SoundTouch speakers can be grouped together to support multiple speakers playing from one device | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output |
Mobile iOS (iPhone / iPad) | Bluetooth output. SoundTouch speakers can be grouped together to support multiple speakers playing from one device | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output |
Computer (browser) | Bluetooth output. SoundTouch speakers can be grouped together to support multiple speakers playing from one device | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output | Bluetooth output |
Do I need any special equipment to use the CloudCover service?
All you need to use the CloudCover service is your computer, speakers and an RCA or auxiliary cable. You can also use your iOS or Android device, such as a phone or tablet, to control your music.
We recommend using our proprietary CloudBox streaming device to fully take advantage of CloudCover. The sleek design of the CloudBox delivers fewer stream interruptions, easy setup and a host of other exciting features.
To see details on all your equipment options, click here.
When I use CloudCover, do I have to worry about song rights, royalties or other licensing issues?
CloudCover pays all royalties and fees for the background music you stream from our service into your business - so you don’t have to worry.
Can I manage multiple locations using CloudCover from a single device or location?
Absolutely! CloudCover offers a full enterprise solution that makes it easy to play and manage music at all your businesses’ locations – whether you have two stores or 2,000.
Click here to learn more about our best-in-breed Enterprise Solutions.
Is there someone I can talk to if I need help or have questions about my service or need technical support?
Yes! We have live support available Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Pacific with limited hours on Saturday. You can reach support by:
Live Chat: Click the green chat button at the bottom right
Phone: (844) 422-6249
Email: support@cloudcovermusic.com
Our helpful team of agents can help provide proper tech support and answers about all aspects of the CloudCover service.
And if you like to read, you may find the answers you seek (plus lots more fascinating information) amongst the collection of articles found in our Help Center.