Arcam rBlink

❱❱ PRICE £133(£160incVAT)

❱❱ OVERALL ✪✪✪✪✪✪

Arcam is a familiar name in the world of hi-fi separates, and its rBlink aims to work wonders with Bluetooth music streaming. Physically, it mimics Arcam’s excellent USB audio device, the rPAC – it’s hewn from the same solid-feeling metal. The only difference is the connectivity on offer. Twin RCA jacks provide a stereo output for connection to a hi-fi; a coaxial digital output hooks up to external DACs or home-cinema amplifiers; and there’s a single Bluetooth antenna. Setup is quick and easy: push the button at the rear, select the rBlink from your device’s Bluetooth menu, and press play. While Bluetooth audio is often scratchy, the rBlink’s aptX support allows it to ferry higher quality audio from compatible devices. Compared to a wired connection from a laptop, we noted barely any perceptible loss of sound quality. It works well, then, but the quality comes at a price. iOS devices will be better served by the cheaper Apple TV or AirPort Express, and for those with basic stereo systems, it won’t be worth the outlay. If you’re after the ultimate in Bluetooth audio quality, however, it may be worth saving for.

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