Qobuz Connect launched on May 15th at the HIGH END show in Munich – and Audiolab’s 9000N is one of the very first audio streamers to offer this feature.
Long anticipated by fans of the French music streaming service, Qobuz Connect enables users to stream Qobuz files directly to their audio player over their home network, controlled by the Qobuz app on their smart device.
Previously, streaming Qobuz from a smartphone or tablet meant using Bluetooth, AirPlay or Chromecast (which restricts audio quality) or using an audio player’s own app (providing a limited Qobuz user experience).
Operating similarly to Tidal Connect and Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect delivers maximum convenience and quality to Qobuz users. Given the significance of Qobuz to the hi-res audio scene, this is an important facility for high-performance music streamers.
Existing 9000N owners can activate Qobuz Connect now via an OTA (Over-the-Air) update for the streaming module. Simply ensure the ‘Check for Firmware Updates’ feature is turned on in the 9000N’s menu system and start the download and installation process when prompted by the 9000N’s app.
Users should ensure they’re running the latest version of the Qobuz app and Audiolab also recommends updating the 9000N’s core firmware to v1.17, which can be downloaded here.
The 9000N network audio streamer is available for a recommended retail price of £2,499.