Bluetooth transmitter for TV (headphones). What is it, how does it work and how to choose?

Companies that produce televisions, as always, trail at the very end of trends and lag behind them by 2-3 years. Bluetooth headphones began to appear quite a long time ago, and now there are not many TVs that can easily connect to them without an additional module.

At the same time, the Bluetooth module itself is small in size and is not expensive. What was the difficulty in putting it into the TV during assembly? This question can be endlessly asked to companies that produce TVs.

TVs with Smart TV, and not only with it, can be divided into two types:

1. With a Bluetooth adapter - these are newer models purchased 1-2 years ago.
2. Without Bluetooth adapter - older screens.

What to do if the TV is old, and there is a small child at home or your wife is sleeping, and you want to watch a football match, series or movie. Our article will enlighten you about the Bluetooth adapter for your home TV. I will tell you how the connection occurs, I will tell you how to choose the right receiver/transmitter, and also how to connect it correctly.

What’s most interesting is that this module is suitable for almost all TVs, even the most ancient ones without Smart firmware. Whether you have Sony, Samsung, Philips, LG of antediluvian times, you will still be able to connect headphones of any brand to it.

HELP! If you have any difficulties, problems during the process, or you don’t know which transmitter to choose for you, then write your questions in the comments. And I will be happy to help you.

What is a Bluetooth adapter?

This is a device that receives a signal through a wired connection and sends it wirelessly, that is, via Bluetooth. The gadget can be equipped with various inputs and outputs. For example, many models have headphone jacks or AUX inputs that can be connected to other devices. Such options not only transfer music from a smartphone to headphones, but also connect them, for example, to a car radio or any speakers that do not support wireless pairing technology.

What is aptX Bluetooth?

To understand what aptX HD is, you first need to remember the “classic” aptX. It is an audio encoding algorithm created in the 80s and widely used by film producers and radio stations. Today, aptX is closely related to Bluetooth, which is found on many computers, smartphones, AV receivers and other consumer electronic devices.

The main advantage of aptX is its ability to transmit a full-bandwidth music signal in near-CD quality (16 bit/44.1 kHz). This is "close" quality, not true CD quality, as aptX uses compression to reduce latency due to encoding and transmission. Classic aptX uses 4:1 compression and the data transfer rate is 352 kbps.

Which manufacturers to choose

Bluetooth adapters are inexpensive. Therefore, when choosing a gadget, the following factors are taken into account:

• the device the adapter will work with;
• Bluetooth version supported (V 5.0 stable);
• Bluetooth class (the first means that the adapter will provide a range of up to 100 m in open areas).

When choosing a headphone adapter, it is important which codecs it supports. For audiophiles, aptX HD is a suitable codec for high-quality audio, and for gamers and movie lovers, aptX Low Latency audio codec provides minimal latency between audio and video.

However, even after choosing a Bluetooth adapter with the best features, you should pay attention to the manufacturer. Some Chinese companies operating on the “night flight” principle may produce a Bluetooth adapter with functions that do not correspond to those specified in the accompanying documentation, and sometimes with a defect.

The highest quality and reliable Bluetooth adapters are produced: TP-LINK, Baseus, ASUS, Buro, Xiaomi and others.

Do not rush. Read reviews. Explore the features. I also advise not to buy the cheapest adapters. They are not only of poor quality, but also outdated. Yes, they can be much cheaper. But maybe you'll just throw it away or go to the store.

How to choose a Bluetooth transmitter?

First of all, you must understand why you need it and how you will use it. For example, if you choose a Bluetooth transmitter for your TV (to connect headphones), then you need to find out what connection options are possible specifically on your TV. This is the main thing.

What to look for when choosing:

1. To connection interfaces. In most cases, a transmitter with the ability to connect via a regular 3.5 mm Jack or RCA (tulip) is sufficient. The cables are just different. And when ordering, you usually have the opportunity to choose a specific cable, or order both cables. More expensive models are also equipped with optical audio input/output. And if your TV has an optical audio output (Digital Audio Out), then I would advise buying a model that supports this interface. Here is an example of a cheap model that supports only 3.5 mm Jack and RCA (an RCA cable was not included, but it could be selected when ordering):

   
   And the expensive model also has support for an optical audio cable. Well, accordingly, all cables are included.

   
   The transmitter itself has an optical input and output: SPDIF IN TX and SPDIF OUT RX. And on the case there is an SPDIF/AUX switch. Which needs to be set to a certain mode, depending on what cable you use to connect to the sound output source, or to the device to which the sound will be output.

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   If you take a device with three cables (Optical + RCA + 3.5 mm), then you can definitely choose the right interface to connect to your TV or other device.

2. Don't buy the cheapest devices. I was personally convinced of this. My transmitter (which is cheap, $3) is terrible at outputting audio to headphones. There is noise and crackling noise during playback. I tried changing the power adapter - it didn't help. While in the opposite direction, it outputs sound from the phone to the speakers without interference. The headphones have been tested on different devices, the problem is not with them. Perhaps I just got a bad one. Also, in cheap models there may be a strong delay in sound transmission (due to the cheap Bluetooth module). And the sound will lag far behind the image on the TV. The cost of these devices greatly affects the quality of the sound and the quality of the device itself as a whole.
3. If you need to connect more than one pair of headphones to your TV via a transmitter at the same time, be sure to find out before purchasing whether the model you choose offers this option. In my case, only one headphones can be connected to a simple and cheap transmitter. For an expensive model - two pairs of headphones at the same time. I checked it works. I connected headphones and a speaker at the same time. But the connection process is very complicated. Especially when the instructions are in English and you are too lazy to translate it.
4. As for the Bluetooth version, take devices with the latest version. I have both with Bluetooth 5.0. On the headphones, if I'm not mistaken, Bluetooth 4.1. Everything is working. They are compatible with each other.
5. There are Bluetooth transmitters with NFC. I don't have one, so I can't check. But in theory, NFC support is needed to make it easier to connect headphones, speakers, phones and other devices, which, of course, also have NFC support. Since the process of connecting headphones and similar devices to the transmitter is still an exercise, the presence of NFC is an excellent solution.
6. I've seen transmitters with external antennas. Their characteristics state that the indoor range increases to approximately 30 meters. In normal range, the range is 10 meters. I didn’t have to work with such models, but if you have a large house or apartment, or some special tasks, then this option may be suitable for you. In normal cases, I don’t see the point in overpaying.
7. Built-in battery. To be honest, I don’t quite understand why it is needed. For my transmitter, the manufacturer stipulates battery life for 24 hours. But why? It's probably easier to connect power than to think about charging another device. Although, perhaps in some situations the ability to work autonomously may be useful.

Carefully study the technical specifications. It always states what comes with the device, what cables are available, what connection options are available, how many devices can be connected via Bluetooth at the same time, etc. Read the reviews.

Bluetooth adapter

This is a small module that receives and sends a signal using Bluetooth wireless technology. The device has inputs and outputs for connecting to various devices. Gadgets transmit sound from a smartphone to headphones, speakers, and car radios that do not support wireless communication.

Classification

Bluetooth adapters are classified according to several criteria:

• operating range;
• connection method;
• use of standards, protocols;
• operational characteristics.

Selecting a Bluetooth adapter

When purchasing, you need to know the following characteristics:

• codecs supported by the device are responsible for the degree of compression of files during transmission;
• connection sockets;
• Bluetooth protocol versions - the newer the version, the better, more stable the signal and range. If the Bluetooth versions are different, the signal will be transmitted by the older version;
• charging capability and power sources - expensive devices usually have a built-in battery and operate autonomously.

What is aptX HD?

Now let's move directly to aptX HD. It's essentially aptX, redesigned and improved to deliver higher quality music.

Its development was stimulated by the growing popularity of Hi-Res audio; it supports formats up to 24 bit/48 kHz, the compression ratio remains the same (4:1), and the data transfer rate has increased to 576 kbps.

How the sound quality will be comparable to transmitting a Hi-Res signal via cable remains to be seen; however, Qualcomm proudly waves the "better than CD" flag.

Main characteristics

Choosing a Bluetooth adapter is quite easy once you know what options to look for.

Connector used

To connect standard headphones, it is recommended to purchase devices with a 3.5 mm miniJack connector. If someone mistakenly bought the wrong device, and the store does not want to accept it back, do not despair. This problem is solved using a special adapter. You can buy it at an electronics store or order it from AliExpress, another online store.

Protocol version

As mentioned above, Bluetooth has been around for a long time and has seen some of the biggest improvements in its history. The first of them took place in 2004. This led to version 2.0, which you can still find on the market today. However, we do not recommend purchasing devices with such old software. It’s better to take a closer look at the most popular version on the market – 5.0.

Unlike its predecessors, it has higher throughput, better signal coverage, more stable connections and lower power consumption. Sometimes there are versions 5.1 and 5.2, but such models are more expensive. To connect peripheral devices, the above-mentioned 5.0 is sufficient.

Power class

This is the coverage radius. The higher the level, the larger the area will be covered by the signal. In reality, these figures are much lower, because the signal is influenced by many factors beyond the control of the user. For example, complex room geometry or other signals operating at the same frequency.

• Class 4 – outdated models, connection range no more than 2-5 meters;
• Class 3 provides a stable signal at a distance of 5-10 meters;
• Class 2 with a connection range of 50 meters;
• Class 1 – these include models that allow you to connect at a distance of 100 meters.

Therefore, we recommend purchasing only the most powerful devices. This parameter is rarely indicated in the specifications, but similar information can often be found on the official website of the developers. So if you don't want the sound in your headphones to be interrupted every two seconds when you are in the next room from the signal source, then you will have to dig a little into the characteristics.

Housing and connectors

Adapters are available in various housings. They are usually quite compact. They can be made in the form of a keychain or a flash drive made of plastic or metal. The delivery package may include several cables: for charging and for wired connection. Models in the form of a flash drive usually have a USB plug for recharging.

Nutrition

After connecting the adapter to the device, you need to monitor the charge level. Up to 80% of manufactured models have a miniUSB charging port. The rest support Type C, Micro USB. It is better not to buy the last option, because if the cable breaks, it will be difficult to find a replacement.

It is important to pay attention to the battery capacity as it determines its service life. It is almost impossible to find models that can last around 24 or 48 hours. Currently, adapters are sold that can only work for 4-12 hours. Cheaper models have even shorter battery life.

Profiles

Simply put, it supports various features and technologies. A specific device type is connected using a specific profile. For example, when connecting headphones, a profile called Headset is used. This profile is used to transmit mono audio. To receive a stereo signal, the adapter (as well as the headset) must support the A2DP profile.

There are many such technologies, and there is no point in listing them all. Almost all modern modules support a basic package of profiles, which is sufficient for 99% of devices, but there are some exceptions. Likewise, this information should be explained on the manufacturer's website.

Codecs

Data transmission can be carried out using three main codecs:

• SBC;
• ACC;
• APtX.

The first two imply a high degree of compression of the media file during transmission, which will negatively affect the sound quality. For audio playback, the APtX codec is considered the best.

What is it and what is it for?

So, let's imagine that we have a TV without a Bluetooth transmitter. So just praying while trying to connect your headphones will simply be useless. The TV has various connectors on the back panel. Their location may depend on the TV company, so our task is to find any mention of the word “AUDIO”. Turn your TV around and look at the back panel.

Here I found 4 connectors:

1. Regular 3.5 mm Mini-Jack.
2. Next is a connector for connecting a fiber optic audio cable.
3. And then there is the RCA connection - red (sometimes orange) and white tulip. May also have the letters "L" and "R". Connections for analog signal.

We will most likely only use a mini-Jack or analog input for connection. But now there is another question. If the TV sends an audio signal to these ports, then how can it be transmitted to our Bluetooth headphones? For this task we just need a transmitter or Bluetooth adapter for the TV. It does the following:

1. Receives a signal.
2. Translates it into a format for reading by any Bluetooth receiver.
3. Pairs, in our case with headphones.
4. Sends a signal via radio frequencies.

And that’s all: you can calmly listen to music, watch movies and not disturb your family. In this case, now all we have to do is buy this transmitter and connect it to the TV.

The best receivers with a 3.5 mm minijack connector

Bluetooth devices are designed to work with audio equipment, headphones, so the connection uses TRS type connectors, consisting of a plug and a 3.5 mm jack.

Bluetooth receiver BT08

A compact model that combines several useful functions. The product is characterized by convenience and reliability. Designed to create a complete wireless system that works with Bluetooth.

The range is up to 10 meters, but listening to music from such a distance is almost impossible. The weight of the device is only 24 grams, which has a positive effect on the ease of use. The kit includes a reversible mini-jack, which makes using the adapter simple as you don't have to buy any extra gizmos.

Advantages:

• Appearance;
• Durable housing;
• Convenient control;
• A memory card may be installed.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Bluetooth 5 KN320

The product is distinguished by its ability to operate in two modes: receiver and transmitter. The connection is made through the corresponding connectors, which are labeled. Range – 10 meters.

There is also an LED that informs the user about the current status of the device. For example, when the red color is on, it means that the transmitter mode is on, blue - the receiver mode. Supported standards include A2DP, AVRCP, BT5.0.

Sold at a price: from 490 rubles.

Bluetooth 5 KN320

Advantages:

• Convenient charging;
• Two operating modes;
• Efficiency;
• Durable housing;

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Aoshen BT-3

The portable adapter is designed to quickly transfer music from your phone to headphones or speakers. Buttons on the front panel allow you to answer incoming calls, change songs, change volume settings, or take pictures using your phone. The package includes the device itself, a charging cable and a removable double-sided mini-jack.

Aoshen BT-3

Advantages:

• Good value for money;
• Durability;
• Durable housing;
• Range 10 meters;
• Good sound;
• Convenient controls.

Baseus Bluetooth v5.0

This Bluetooth adapter consists of two components: a 3.5mm jack and a USB. The manufacturer's main emphasis was on the ability to use the device in a car, turning a conventional system into a wireless one. However, this does not prevent you from using it in laptops or computers as well.

The adapter has a microphone, so you can use it for calls even if your headphones don't have their own speaker. Baseus uses rust and corrosion resistant materials and a durable telephone cord that can stretch from 45cm to 1.2m.

Advantages:

• Can be used in the car;
• Reliable case materials;
• Built-in microphone;
• Bluetooth 5.0.

Flaws:

• Does not support aptX.

Baseus Bluetooth v5.0 may not boast high-quality music streaming capabilities, but it perfectly complements your car multimedia system and comes with a built-in microphone. And the twisted cable is reminiscent of the Marshall brand, which only plays in favor of this device.

Reiyin WT-HD06

Reiyin is positioned as the world's first device of its kind to support the aptX HD codec for wireless, lag-free audio quality. It can be used to listen to lossless songs via Bluetooth, watch movies and play games.

The capabilities of the device are expressed in its size. While adapters are usually only a few centimeters long, the WT-HD06 is more like a full-fledged flash drive. Its body has LEDs that illuminate the active codec.

No additional software is required to use the adapter. To connect devices, one physical button on the case is used. Supports connecting multiple devices simultaneously.

Advantages:

• aptX HD support;
• Supports additional headphone control options.

Flaws:

• Average build quality.

WH-HD06 is an audio-only adapter. However, its limited use is justified, firstly, by support for high-quality codecs, and secondly, by gesture response for wireless headphones and microphones with touch control panels.

Ugreen Bluetooth 5.0 aptX LL

All universal adapters connect to the computer via USB. Only some of them may be dedicated solely to audio, but those that connect via the AUX jack are designed for that purpose only. All universal adapters connect to your computer via USB. Only some of them may be dedicated solely to audio, but those that connect through the AUX jack are designed for that purpose only. Ugreen belongs to the second category of devices.

One of the main features of the Ugreen adapter was support for the modern Bluetooth 5.0 standard, making it more stable, covering a larger area and providing minimal latency.

aptX LL is an advanced version of the Qualcomm codec that provides not only high audio quality, but also low latency. This means that headphones or speakers connected in this way are also suitable for gaming and watching movies. However, the adapter is suitable not only for PCs, but also for audio systems in cars. Moreover, you can use it for voice assistants and microphone.

Advantages:

• Bluetooth 5.0 support;
• Codecs aptX, aptX LL, SBC and AAC;
• Minimal audio delay;
• Good design;
• 9 hours of operation on one battery charge.

Flaws:

• Operating radius is up to 10 meters.

This Bluetooth adapter does not work with various devices and requires periodic recharging, but provides high quality audio transmission with support for modern codecs with minimal latency.

Xiaomi Bluetooth Audio Receiver

The trend in recent models is to omit the analog 3.5mm jack due to the introduction of new technology.
After releasing smartphones without mini-jacks, many manufacturers switched to new connectors that correspond to the latest solutions. Xiaomi has proven that it is a smart manufacturer. Its flagship smartphones do not have a headphone port and use wireless technology. For the flagship, in addition, you need to purchase wireless gadgets: adapters, headphones, adapters with a USB type C connector. The Chinese manufacturer has released a modern adapter that has a mini-jack with a diameter of 3.5 mm. The analog signal carries all the bits of sound, so audiophiles who prefer to use wired headphones will be happy with this model. What's new is versatility: you can connect any headset via the mini-jack. The adapter has compact dimensions of 59 x 13.5 mm. The appearance is democratic, individual and practical. The front panel is equipped with a control button and indicator light. There is a clip on the back that allows you to attach the gadget to a belt, pocket, or lapel. The plastic case is of excellent quality and protects the device from mechanical damage and dust. The built-in polymer battery charges to 100% in 120 minutes. Its power is 97 mAh. The adapter will work for up to 5 hours. You can connect multiple devices to the device at the same time. Customer reviews paid special attention to the quality of the device, accuracy and uniqueness of the design. Advantages:

• strict design;
• fast charging;
• built-in battery;
• high-quality assembly;
• there is a universal 3.5mm analog output;
• Suitable for all kinds of headphones and major platforms.

Flaws:

• firmware is not updated;
• lack of color range.

Ugreen CM107

In appearance, the headphone receiver is not much different from others - it is a rectangular parallelepiped at one end of which there is a connector for connecting a USB-A/microUSB charging cable (included), and from the other end comes a cord 40 cm long, ending with a 3.5 plug mm.

Externally, it is not much different from the others - it is a rectangular box, on one side of which there is a socket for connecting the USB-A/MicroUSB charger cable (included in the kit), and on the other side there is a 40 cm long cable ending with a plug with a 3.5 connector mm.

The transmitter is convenient for watching TV together, as well as listening to audio files from headphones without a Bluetooth module. Sound quality is ensured by the adapter's support for the aptX codec.

The adapter does not have a built-in battery, so to operate it must be connected either to the USB port of the audio device itself, or to headphones, or to an AC adapter with a constant voltage of 5V.

Pros of Ugrreen

• Sound.
• Connecting two devices.

USB 2.0 PC Adapters

Most Bluetooth adapters were designed to connect to a personal computer, so their connection interface is a USB 2.0, 2.1 or 3.0 connector.

TP-LINK UB400

TP-LINK has released this miniature adapter in solid packaging. The fourth version of Bluetooth is immediately indicated on the cardboard box, and graphic symbols show devices that can be connected to the adapter:

• smartphone;
• tablet;
• e-book;
• wireless mouse, keyboard or gamepad;
• bluetooth headphones and speakers;
• bluetooth printer.

The bluetooth adapter does not include an installation disk, since the adapter can work without drivers with Windows 8/8.1/10.

How to install drivers for version seven and XP is described in detail in the instructions. The range of the gadget does not exceed 10 m, but it can communicate with seven headphones (devices) at once.

Advantages of UB400

• Fast connection.
• Stable signal transmission.
• Compact size.
• Use of quality materials.
• Price.

Disadvantages of UB400

• Not compatible with Linux and macOS.

Baseus USB Bluetooth 4.0

The transmitter is small in size, but the back of the case has protrusions through which the adapter can be easily removed from the USB port of the headphones. The model is available in two colors: black and white.

Bluetooth version 4.0 ensures reliable signal reception at a distance of up to 10 m.

It will be useful for gamers, since the built-in high-performance CSR chipset has zero latency between audio and video signals. Baseus USB Bluetooth 4.0 supports not only all versions of Windows, but also Linux.

Pros of Baseus USB

• Miniature dimensions.
• Reliability in operation.
• Linux support.
• Price.

Cons of Baseus USB

• To support Windows 7 and XP, you have to install drivers yourself.

ASUS USB-BT400

The back of the case has a protruding edge around the perimeter, and there are three ribs on the sides for a secure grip with your fingers.

The transmitter is available in a black cardboard package, which indicates the Bluetooth 4.0 version, and also that the transmitter is compatible with USB 2.0/2.1/3.0. The connection occurs with all Bluetooth devices at a distance of up to 10 m.

The adapter comes with an installation disk with drivers, although it can be configured automatically with Windows 8/8.1/10.

Advantages of ASUS

• Design.
• Compound.
• Sustainable operation within one room.
• Reliability.

Disadvantages of ASUS

• Price.

Buro BU-BT40A

Buro has released the BU-BT40A wireless adapter in a brightly designed polypropylene blister. The red window indicates class 1.5, which means that with the same version of Bluetooth 4.0, the range of the transmitter has increased to 20 m.

The dimensions of the adapter are small, so it protrudes 8 mm from the USB port, and the rounded back prevents it from being accidentally damaged.

A mini CD is included.

Pros of Buro

• Small sizes.
• Work with headphones within a radius of up to 20 m.
• Price.

Cons

• Not compatible with Linux and macOS.

ORICO BTA-408

The metal part is closed with a cap, and in the back of the case there is a hole that allows you to carry the Bluetooth adapter as a keychain.

The wireless adapter is available in six color options:

• white;
• yellow;
• pink;
• red;
• blue;
• black.

Thanks to the BCM20702 chipset, you can simultaneously connect up to seven devices and headphones to the transmitter, which will reliably pair at a distance of up to 20 m.

The adapter comes with a mini CD with software.

Advantages of ORICO

• Compactness.
• Connect up to seven devices, headphones.
• High-quality sound transmission.
• Price.

Disadvantages of ORICO

• No compatibility with macOS and Linux.

Vention CDDB0

The computer adapter has a distinctive design with a large eyelet on the back of the case, allowing you to carry it with a bunch of keys.

The wireless gadget's support for Plug and Play technology allows it to be paired with a computer or laptop without additional software. The transmitter is built on the Qualcomm CSR 8510A10 chipset and provides stable communication at a distance of up to 10 m.

The adapter supports the aptX codec, which ensures sound transmission to headphones.

Pros of Vention

• Plug and Play technology support.
• Gold plated contacts.
• Sound transmission quality.

Cons

• Price.

HAMA H-53188

The adapter released by HAMA allows you not to remove it from the USB port when transporting the headphones.

With Windows 8.0, 8.1 and 10, as well as with Linyx, the transmitter connects automatically. To combine with versions of Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7, a CD with the necessary drivers.

The Bluetooth version of the H-53188 is 4.0, but class one, which allows the gadget to maintain communication at a distance of up to 100 m. And, although the company did not indicate this, the adapter contains a CSR chip, which means there is support for the aptX codec.

Advantages of H-53188

• Compact with headphones.
• Linyx support.
• Stable communication over a long distance.

Disadvantages of H-53188

• Doesn't connect to macOS.