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Apple TV Set Up

I would appreciate some advice on my digital streaming issues. 

My system consist of Vandersteen Treo CT, Mimas with DAC, and the older AppleTV Streamer (model A1469). The AppleTV is connected via Ethernet cables. I digitally stream with Tidal from a MacBook Pro via Wifi. The download/upload speed  for my MacBook is about 230/11 Mbps.

The AppleTV has the latest software update. 

Question 1
Every-time I wish to play, I open my MacBookPro, open the "System Preferences", then "Sound", then choose "Apple TV".
Is there a shorter path or can I set up my MacBook differently?

Question 2
My MacBook sometimes looses connection (AppleTV gets disconnected). I then have to manually connect "AppleTV" again. Why does this happen?

thank you all in advance!
kunasan1
tvad
11,620 posts
 
If your MacBook is losing connection to your wifi, then it’s a wifi problem that needs to be addressed. Perhaps a good mesh wifi router system. Hardwiring is best, but you state you don’t want extra wires. 

I think the Bluesound is a good suggestion, and worth a try, especially if you can hardwire it like the AppleTV.

mahler123
3,421 posts
 
I agree with everyone who says the ATV shouldn’t be in the chain at all, but if you wish to keep it there, try downloading the “Home” Apple App and see if that allows you to designate the ATV without having to change it with each usage 
vinylshadow
514 posts
 
Do you have an HDMI connection available to connect a Google Chromecast?


https://www.theverge.com/2021/2/18/22287905/apple-tv-app-now-available-chromecast-google-tv
towertone's avatar
towertone
82 posts
 
First, why stream Tidal from your laptop? They have an app for your Apple (but now I see that it's an older model so maybe not). 

So, OK second instead of changing your laptop audio out use Airplay for the output choice in Tidal prefs and your Apple should show up.

Now third, if you have an iPhone, iPad, iPod, iPatch, whatever, after starting the music playing, leave you MacBook closer to the router and use your iOS device to control playback. 

...and crap I can't try this out now because for the first time in 6 years I don't have Tidal (dropped it last month). 

Here's another thought. If this is your only way to play Tidal, drop it and use the Apple Music service, easier to use, control and cheaper. No matter how you use the Apple it's output is 16/44 or 16/48, so no MQA or any other Hi-res and Apple now plays (almost) as high quality as Tidal (at least up to 16/44) 

HOWEVER if you switch to Bluesound Node (I have a nice pair of Nads so....ok, that sounds like I'm bragging but Nad uses the same software) stick with Tidal for the higher quality sound (if you can tell the difference...and can stand Tidal's library preferences which I finally got sick of). 

Good luck!!


tvad
11,620 posts
 
There are quite a few Bluesound Node 2i listed on various sites. A newly listed Node 2i on USAudioMart today. Not sure why so many are for sale, but trying one seems worth investigating. It would likely be an upgrade from the AppleTV in your system...particularly considering your use of Tidal.

Moving up in price:
Cambridge Audio CXN V2 - $1099
Innuos Zen Mini - $1399
Bricasti M5 - $2400

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