Ideally, it should be possible for a source device to transmit audio files to a loudspeaker quickly, easily, and without draining the battery on your smart phone. Bluetooth is just such a method and it has the added benefit of working independently of a Wi-Fi network: No Internet connection is required for two devices to communicate with each other via Bluetooth as long as these devices are within close proximity of up to about 10 meters. Within this range, it’s possible to transmit music tracks, pictures, and documents from any two Bluetooth-enabled devices, including just about every smart phone made today.
Transmitted via Bluetooth sound?
In the last few few years, Bluetooth has been the most popular way of streaming music. Bluetooth offers easy connection between the receiver (headphones) and the sender (handset), as well as maintaining a stable sound with 10m distance. This connection type is even more vital now that a lot of devices are developed without a port for headphones. You could think that’s all when it comes to Bluetooth, but there’s more.
Bluetooth and audio quality
Music lovers have long avoided Bluetooth, and even today some are still sceptical about the sound quality of the wireless standard. The reason for this is the limited bandwidth that Bluetooth provides for audio streams. If it is not large enough, music files have to be compressed – and audio information is lost in the process.
The A2DP Bluetooth audio profile also compresses already compressed audio files such as MP3. In practice, this can mean that treble and bass are cut off. And this is exactly where Bluetooth aptX can help.
What Bluetooth aptX improves
Bluetooth aptX uses a more efficient method to compress audio data. The available bandwidth is therefore better utilized. For codec nerds: The method used is called Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation (ADPCM). Incidentally, aptX has nothing to do with the bandwidth of Bluetooth. The bandwidth has increased continuously over time independently of this. Therefore, there is no longer any reason even for demanding listeners to avoid Bluetooth.
The prerequisite for aptX streams is that both the playback device and the transmitter support Bluetooth aptX. You can recognize this function by the aptX lettering on the device. Codec supports compression and transmission of popular audio formats such as MP3 and the high-resolution FLAC format. The familiar procedure from initial pairing and the actual establishment of the Bluetooth connection remains the same.
With the Teufel BT Link Bluetooth Adapter you can update your older devices with aptX. You can easily connective the adapter via phone connector.
aptX, aptX HD and more
Qualcomm, the chip manufacturer, currently owns the aptX codec and sells licenses for four different aptX codecs. In addition to the standard aptX codec, there is also aptX HD, which allows you to create Bluetooth streams with the sound quality of high-definition audio files.
aptX, aptX HD and more
Qualcomm, the chip manufacturer, currently owns the aptX codec and sells licenses for four different aptX codecs. In addition to the standard aptX codec, there is also aptX HD, which allows you to create Bluetooth streams with the sound quality of high-definition audio files.
These Teufel products already use the aptX Codec
| Versions | Sampling rate and resolution | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| aptX | 48 kHz / 16 Bit | achieve near CD-like quality |
| aptX HD | 48 kHz / 24 Bit | hardly distinguishable from high-resolution data files |
| aptX Low Latency | not available | suitable for interactive applications such as gaming thanks to low latency |
| aptX Adaptive | not available | Depending on the application, alignment to audio quality or low latency time |
Specifications according to aptX company Qualcomm’s specifications.
With the Rockster Cross, aptX gives you the best sound on the go.
▶ ROCKSTER CROSS: On the Road with HiFi sound – the ROCKSTER CROSS is a robust, easy to transport and at the same time powerful Bluetooth speaker. The cabinet not only contains a stereo system, but also a massive sub. With a battery life of up to 16 hours, the CROSS is also a real endurance wonder.
▶ TEUFEL AIRY: Only the best for your ears – these Bluetooth on ear headphones combine comfort, sound quality and style. Inside, a high-end driver with neodymium magnet for dynamic and differentiated sound is built in. The temples and padding are made of high-quality materials. And because you don’t like it so much, we’ve increased the maximum battery life to 30 hours.
Look at Teufel Bluetooth speakers in comparison!
The most important things about Bluetooth aptX
- Bluetooth aptX allows sound quality at CD level through an improved compression process.
- Both receiver and playback devices must be aptX compatible.
- aptX is owned by Qualcomm, a chip manufacturer.
- In addition to the basic codec there are aptX HD as well as aptX Low Latency and aptX Adaptive.
