Setup Guide: HomePods + Sub sound amazing!
Video that assisted me: https://youtu.be/ieGMIKCqC2c?si=Q5a5b1JEbqZfbzmV
I recently purchased two Apple HomePod 2’s for my living room TV. Upon receiving them, I found they sounded pretty good, but I wasn't sure if they were better than my soundbar to justify the price. Nonetheless, I appreciate having all my Apple products connected. I was on the verge of returning them until I stumbled upon this video while researching pairing capabilities for a subwoofer. To my dismay, I discovered that Apple only allows pairing of up to two HomePods, and I've heard that connecting two pairs together doesn't yield the best surround sound for TV and can be costly. After watching the video, I decided to purchase the newer Apple AirPort Express from Amazon along with the recommended RCA cables. Upon plugging everything in with my subwoofer (see video for requirements or scroll down), I encountered a couple of issues connecting the AirPort Express to WiFi instead of using a direct Ethernet cable. I couldn't find much information on how to do this, but I tinkered around with the AirPort Utility app on my MacBook Pro and managed to figure it out. I use a Linksys Mesh “Node” home system.
Below are the steps for setting up the Apple AirPort Express and connecting it to WiFi for those who are new to using it with the Apple Home app/AirPlay:
(1) Plug in the Apple AirPort Express.
(2) Plug in the Subwoofer.
(3) Connect the recommended RCA cable to both like in the video above.
(4) Download AirPort Utility on iPhone or on Apple Computer. I found it easier to use the AirPort Utility app on my MacBook Pro (2022 M2).
(5) Once it detects the AirPort Express, click on its picture.
(6) A window will pop up; click “Edit."
(7) You'll see options in the top bar for Base Station, Internet, Wireless, and AirPlay. Click on "Wireless," then navigate to "Network Mode" and choose "Join a Wireless Network" from the drop-down menu.
Afterward, you should see the Internet connected to the AirPort Express once it reboots, and the status lights will turn solid green.
After successfully connecting the AirPort Express to your WiFi, it will function as an accessory. Connecting your subwoofer to the AirPort Express accessory is as easy as setting up the HomePod, HomePod 2 or HomePod Mini.
(8) Open the "Home" app on your iPhone.
(9) Tap the '+' sign at the top right.
(10) Select "Add Accessory”
(11) Choose "More Options…"
Your AirPort Express should appear there after a few seconds to a minute, allowing you to add it to the same room as your HomePods.
Now, you can “pair” them together. In the video above, you can select your HomePods and your new subwoofer/AirPort Express. I renamed my AirPort Express as "Sub" in the living room where my HomePods are connected.
I have my subwoofer volume turned all the way up on my phone, as well as my HomePods. Then, when I use my Apple TV remote, the subwoofer volume adjusts along with the HomePods as if they're paired.
I hope this explanation helps.
I opted for a sleek subwoofer that can be wall-mounted and comes with floor stands. However, I chose to place it under my couch to keep it hidden.
What I ordered for setup:
Apple AirPort Express - 2nd Gen:
You can buy one on eBay or Amazon. Some are cheap, but I went with seller history on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01556X1R2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and the 4 star rating seller has 15 available as I write this. This tells me they know what they’re doing when it comes to refurbished products. I like reliability.
TotalMount Apple AirPort Express Mount - like for an Apple TV:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009HC7BL8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
RCA Cable - Same as recommended in video above:
3.5mm to RCA Cable | 3.5mm Male to 2RCA Male Stereo Y Splitter RCA Cord, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XFQNFSS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
Subwoofer:
Requirements as shown in video above, RCA Cable Line In ‘Red & White’, Phase, Crossover, and Auto ON/OFF, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CYQ4LOO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
