BluDento BLT vs Audioengine B1 Bluetooth Receiver: A Detailed Comparison
Introduction
In the search for an exceptional Bluetooth receiver that strikes the perfect balance between price and performance, the Audioengine B1 emerges as a standout. Renowned for its superior quality, advanced isolation and versatility, the B1 offers an unparalleled listening experience, overshadowing competitors like the BluDento BLT-2 and BLT-HD.
The Companys
BluDento is a Chinese company that mostly makes Bluetooth receivers. While they offer a limited 12/18 month warranty (their website is unclear) the products must be returned to their warehouse. Reviews state that their orders can take 15 days for delivery.
Audioengine is a veteran owned American company founded in 2005. All Audioengine products are backed by Audioengine’s industry leading 3-year warranty and US based phone support. Audioengine offers fast free shipping and even takes care of any applicable sales tax.
Audio Quality and Features
While the BluDento BLT-HD offers comparable sound, it is not ready to use out of the box, due to its lack of a power adapter that must be provided by the customer. The Audioengine B1’s high-fidelity DAC and advanced microchip isolation offers it an edge, preserving the excellent signal to noise ratio and clarity that Audioengine is known for. The B1's sound quality is noted for its clarity, depth, and dynamic range, making it the preferred choice for audiophiles.
What is a Signal to Noise Ratio and why does it matter?
Signal-to-Noise Ratio, or SNR, is essentially a measure of clarity. It tells us how much clearer the music is compared to any background noise in the system. The higher the SNR, the less interference you'll have from background noises like hums, hisses, or pops. Imagine trying to hear a whisper in a tranquil library versus a bustling café. When it comes to bluetooth receivers, these small details impact how every song is played.
Connectivity and Versatility
The BluDento BLT-2 and BLT-HD are largely the same product, with the main difference being that the HD version supports the aptX HD codec, whereas the BLT-2 only supports aptX bluetooth. The Audioengine B1 shines with its Bluetooth aptX-HD codec support, ensuring high-quality wireless audio streaming. The B1's versatility is further highlighted by its range of connectivity options, catering to all your audio needs.
AptX vs. AptX HD: Understanding the Difference
The distinction between aptX and aptX HD primarily revolves around their approach to compression and sound quality. AptX codec facilitates CD-like quality audio over Bluetooth, compressing the audio in a way that preserves a significant amount of detail while ensuring efficient wireless transmission. On the other hand, aptX HD, an enhanced version of the standard aptX, offers higher fidelity by supporting 24-bit audio over Bluetooth. This results in even less compression, allowing for a "better-than-CD" listening experience by preserving audio quality closer to the original recording. This difference is crucial for audiophiles and those who prioritize the highest possible sound quality in wireless devices.
Conclusion
Choosing the Audioengine B1 Bluetooth Receiver is a testament to valuing exceptional sound quality, robust design, and versatile connectivity. While the BluDento BLT-2 HD is a competent receiver, the B1's premium features and performance make it the superior choice for discerning listeners.
