When Hi-Fi Components Want to Enjoy Music Streaming Too

Over the years, I’ve often received questions from readers and friends about how to enjoy music streaming on their traditional hi-fi systems. That’s likely because I’ve touched on the topic multiple times in my writing.

People have asked about both hardware and software solutions, but the most frequent question is this simple yet complicated one:
"What’s the best way to stream music?"

Why is that hard to answer? Because the word “best” can mean different things to different people. Are we talking best in terms of sound quality? Value for money? Or perhaps the easiest way without spending much at all? The variables are endless.

Recently, another friend asked the same question. He already owns a solid hi-fi setup, but it’s from an earlier era—before streaming or network integration became standard. After hearing about all the possibilities with music streaming these days, he wanted to know how to bring that experience to his existing gear.

So, I figured this would be a good opportunity to share all the answers and options I’ve collected—useful not only for him but for many others who might be in the same boat.

1. Using a Smartphone or Tablet

This is probably the easiest solution for most people familiar with smart devices. Both smartphones and tablets can stream music via apps like Spotify, Apple Music, or TIDAL—either through native apps or third-party options.

For casual listening, you might just use headphones or built-in speakers. But if you already have a quality hi-fi system, whether it's a full component setup or a modern active speaker, connecting your phone or tablet to your sound system can be a great upgrade.

There are 2–3 main methods of connection:

• Bluetooth (simple and wireless)
• Analog cable (using a 3.5mm to RCA adapter)
• External DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) for those who feel the audio output from a phone/tablet isn’t quite up to par

A mobile DAC can significantly enhance sound quality and is widely used by audiophiles.

2. Using a Computer

Modern computers can also stream music via apps or web browsers. If you’re comfortable with computers, this is a straightforward solution.

However, for those not used to working with computers regularly, it may feel a bit too technical or fussy.

Also, built-in computer soundcards are usually just “okay.” If you want better sound quality, a USB DAC is highly recommended—just like with smartphones.

3. Use a Streaming-Ready Adapter

This is a solution I often recommend, especially for those who want a simple and effective way to stream music without learning new tech.

For example, if you're a senior user or someone who doesn’t want to deal with computers or apps, but you want to listen to old Thai songs on Spotify or just create background music while reading—this might be perfect.

One of my favorite devices is the
Bose SoundTouch Wireless Link Adapter.

I’ve used this compact gadget for several months and find it incredibly convenient and user-friendly—plus the sound is quite good.

It connects easily to any hi-fi setup. Just connect the output from the adapter to your amp’s line-in (RCA or 3.5mm), and you’re good to go. The adapter comes with all necessary cables and supports both connection types.

If your existing gear includes a better DAC than the one inside the adapter, you can also connect via optical output to your receiver or amplifier for improved digital sound quality.

Once connected, even an old-school vintage amplifier can be transformed into a modern music-streaming system.
It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, internet radio, and multi-room streaming if you own other Bose SoundTouch devices.

This adapter gives your legacy hi-fi gear a major upgrade—as if it’s been rejuvenated by 30 years. Even high-end Bluetooth receivers alone can cost thousands of baht, but this does so much more.

The price? Just 6,900 baht. In terms of functionality and performance, I find it extremely good value.

There may be similar products on the market, but I haven’t found anything quite as complete as this at the same price point—especially with Bose’s SoundTouch platform, which is normally only available on more expensive full-system products.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have a small active speaker or a multi-million-baht hi-fi system, as long as your gear has an analog or digital input, you can easily enjoy music streaming—and you don’t need to break the bank to do it.

Start small, experiment, and upgrade later if you find yourself falling in love with the convenience and variety that streaming brings.

If you’re curious, the Bose SoundTouch Wireless Link Adapter is a great place to start. You might just be surprised how easily your "old-school" gear can be brought into the streaming age.