A few months ago I bought an Essence, set it up in my bedroom and installed the Beomusic app etc. All was well apart from a few inconsistencies such as short drop outs or the speakers (BL6000's) just switching off and then immediately turning back on again.
I could lie in bed and stream Spotify, Tunein Radio etc, controlled via my iPad Air2 and simultaneously lay back and enjoy a game of Papa Pear, Candy Crush or whatever 'intelectual' game I chose to play, or even read the BBC online, soothed by the music from next to me.
However, since the app update of the Beomusic app, I now cannot do that. The only thing that will play via the Essence is now what I have 'active' on the iPad display. So, if I start Spotify for example, music plays. But now, if I open say a game of some description, or the BBC app, the Essence switches to that as a 'source' and the music stops.
Also, the Essence I understand is supposed to play the last used source if it is switched on via the wall controller. No it doesn't! It always reverts to the first station in my saved list of radio stations - not the last station I played. Incredibly frustrating as I have to try to find it by using the back and forward buttons if I don't have my iPad with me. I just want to walk into the room and play the last thing I listened to in that room. Why can't I do that?
I can't find any controls or settings to sort this out and wonder if anyone else has the same issue?
I really don't think B&O have this streaming set-up properly at all - or maybe it's me? I've also just bought 2 Beolit 12's (thanks Lifestyle AV for great deals by the way!). One was a nightmare to set-up and half the time won't connect. The second one is flawless and was easy to set-up and work, set-up was the same etc for both. Frustration is not the word I'd use. The Beosetup app half the time can't or won't detect one of the Beolit 12's, Essence or the A8 I have in the kitchen and sometimes the Playmakers I have.
I know others and B&O will shift the blame to 'Airplay' and say it's not B&O's fault but I have to disagree. If you sell a product to operate via a system such as Airplay, you should get it right.
I do not find drop outs or non-connectivity an acceptable or enjoyable part of my listening experience. Unlike the carefree days of slipping in a CD, tape or piece of vinyl into a player. Yes, tapes got chewed, records needed cleaning and a laser lens needed a clean but they seemed to be a part of the experience and enjoyment of the media (not the tape chewing admittedly) but I just don't get that with streaming I'm afraid. Unfortunately, the way things are going, it's becoming the only way to access music for many these days and I know from talking to others that they also feel frustrated by it but don't see an option or alternative!.
Streaming rant is over but if anyone can help with the Essence I'd much appreciate it. I'll also contact B&O to see if they have an answer.
Dave.
