Balena Sound

Balena Sound

Balena Sound is an open-source software that allows you to turn any old speakers or Hi-Fi into a network-connected wireless streaming device. It works with computers and mobile devices to stream music over WiFi.
Balena Sound image
opensource wireless streaming music audio

Balena Sound: Turn Old Speakers into Wi-Fi Streaming Devices

An open-source software turning old speakers into wireless streaming devices, compatible with computers and mobile devices via WiFi.

What is Balena Sound?

Balena Sound is an open-source software developed by Balena that allows you to convert any old speakers or stereo system into a wireless streaming device. It works by installing the software on a Raspberry Pi or other compatible single-board computer, which you then connect to your existing speakers via the audio output jack.

Once set up, Balena Sound creates its own WiFi network that you can connect your phone, tablet, laptop or other devices to in order to stream audio. It supports various streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, SoundCloud, Podcasts and internet radio stations. There is also support for AirPlay streaming from iOS devices.

Some key features of Balena Sound include:

  • Works with existing speakers - no need to buy new wireless-enabled speakers
  • Streams audio over WiFi from multiple sources
  • Open-source software with active development community
  • Customizable audio settings and equalizer
  • Multi-room audio support to synchronize multiple Balena Sound instances

As an open-source project, Balena Sound is completely free to use. The only hardware required is a compatible SBC like a Raspberry Pi and a decent set of speakers. This makes it an affordable way to make existing audio equipment wireless without spending money on new speakers.

Overall, Balena Sound is ideal for anyone looking to breathe new life into old speakers and get modern wireless streaming capabilities without replacing their existing audio hardware investments.

Balena Sound Features

Features

  1. Turns old speakers/audio equipment into wireless streaming devices
  2. Works with computers and mobile devices over WiFi
  3. Supports audio formats like MP3, AAC, FLAC, WAV
  4. Open-source software
  5. Web-based UI for setup and management
  6. Multi-room audio streaming
  7. Compatible with Raspberry Pi and other SBCs

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Revives old/unused speakers

Wireless streaming capability

Free and open source

Easy setup

Web UI for management

Multi-room audio support

Cons

Requires compatible hardware like Raspberry Pi

Setup can be tricky for non-technical users

Limited to audio streaming only

No native mobile apps

Dependency on Balena Cloud


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