In our last post, we discussed using Spotify with Bluetooth-connected speakers. We initially focused on the content and the issues with the provider and the software environment. Today, I’d like to discuss the problems associated with wireless systems.
Spotify is an online service, meaning that normal operation requires a functioning internet connection, which must span several stages of the transmission path. First, the music data must be processed by the provider and fed into the network. Then, it is transmitted to the end user. Third, a wireless connection is established from the cell tower to the user’s device. Finally, the stream is processed in the user’s application and played back either through the headphone jack or via a wireless interface to headphones or speakers, usually in Bluetooth format. The process itself occurs as a continuous data stream over a certain period (data may be buffered here).
Problems along this connection path can disrupt the transmission, potentially leading to playback failures – an experience no DJ wants to have during a live performance.
Problems occasionally arise with the provider’s server or the user’s software. Error messages like ‘Spotify cannot play this at the moment’ are frustrating and can have a variety of causes. Network problems can occur with the internet provider or, occasionally, with the radio link to the nearest cell tower when using a mobile connection. Especially in larger rooms, when many devices are sending data packets to the nearest cell tower, interference can occur. Using Wi-Fi is also possible, but often unavailable at gigs; if it exists, it should be sufficiently stable.
These problems can be avoided by downloading music files locally within the application. However, this solution is limited to the original Spotify application; it is not possible with any direct connection to professional DJ software.
Conclusion: Operating an online DJ set, where perfect and uninterrupted music playback is essential, is an unacceptable risk in a professional setting.
Every DJ knows the hassles of our business, especially when there’s no permanently installed sound system at the venue. Lugging and setting up speakers, setting up the mixing console, powering up the system, wiring the speakers, checking all the cabling for safety, and finally adjusting the sound quality and volume level. The speaker wiring is a particular source of frustration, as the cables have to be carefully laid and transported (several 30-meter cables and shorter ones for subwoofers and connecting components are heavy and often fill an entire transport case).
In the digital age, the industry promises us wireless formats. We’re particularly accustomed to Bluetooth for speakers and headphones. For several years now, active speakers with Bluetooth have also been available, which can also be used for sound reinforcement at smaller events. I’m not talking about small speakers designed for a small living room, but rather active speakers in the 12-16 inch range, which are quite sufficient in terms of volume.
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology that was developed in the 1990s [1]. It transmits data in the 2.4 GHz range and typically allows a range of about 10 meters (the most modern versions are said to reach up to 40 meters). This would initially make its use at a smaller event no problem. However, the fact that music is first compressed with a codec for transmission is a drawback, resulting in a reduction in quality and a significant signal delay (latency) of 100-350 ms. This complicates the use of multiple speakers. Furthermore, interference in the 2.4 GHz band can occur due to mobile phones or Wi-Fi..
DJ setup experts [2] therefore believe that the use of Bluetooth speakers in professional applications is a ‘no-go’ and that Bluetooth is not recommended even for headphones at the mixing console.
I admit that in the realm of tango DJing for smaller events, the problems aren’t as significant, since we usually don’t mix but play the music linearly with a pause between tracks. Nevertheless, the problems become evident as soon as multiple speakers are used (e.g., four speakers for the dance floor, monitor speakers for the DJ, and one or two subwoofers).
So, more cable laying (greetings to Laocoön…).
literature
1 https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bluetooth
2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1oVB_mdbCyw&t=15s