Want to get more out of your existing sound system without adding another bulky component? The Xiaomi Mi Box S offers a compact and affordable solution. This Android TV box isn’t just for watching movies; it’s a surprisingly capable audio streamer. We’ll explore how the Mi Box S can enhance your music listening experience, from its compatibility with popular streaming services like Spotify and Tidal to its ability to handle high-resolution audio through external DACs. Whether you’re a casual listener or an audiophile on a budget, let’s discover how the Mi Box S can transform your living room into a concert hall.
Key Takeaways
- The Mi Box S is a budget-friendly way to add 4K streaming and smart features to your TV. Its small size and simple setup make it a practical upgrade for any home entertainment system.
- Think about your sound system when comparing the Mi Box S to Chromecast Audio. The Mi Box S connects via HDMI or mini TOSLINK, offering flexibility. Chromecast Audio’s 3.5mm connection is great for direct speaker hookups.
- The Mi Box S is easy to use. The Android TV interface is straightforward, and voice control adds convenience. While the remote has limitations, it’s simple and effective for everyday use.
What is the Xiaomi Mi Box S?
The Xiaomi Mi Box S is a compact Android TV box designed for streaming 4K video and audio to your TV. It’s essentially a mini-computer built for entertainment. Measuring less than four inches across and weighing next to nothing, it easily integrates into any entertainment setup. You connect it to your TV using an HDMI cable, opening up a world of streaming options. While some reviews, like this one from Android Authority, mention performance limitations, its affordability and features make it attractive for those looking to upgrade their home audio and video. T3 also emphasizes its small size, which is great for tight spaces. Running on Android TV means the Mi Box S supports a wide range of streaming services and apps, providing simple access to your favorite music, as highlighted by 9to5Google. With its straightforward interface, the Xiaomi Mi Box S aims to create a better home entertainment experience, according to Tom’s Guide, making it a practical choice for streaming audio, which we’ll discuss in more detail.
Key Features of the Xiaomi Mi Box S
The Xiaomi Mi Box S offers a lot for its small size and price. Here’s what makes it stand out:
4K HDR and HDMI
The Mi Box S supports 4K High Dynamic Range (HDR) video at 60 frames per second. This means a crisp, detailed picture with vibrant colors, especially noticeable on 4K HDR-compatible TVs and sound systems. This video quality is comparable to other streaming devices in its price range, as noted in Android Authority’s Mi Box S review, which highlights its 4K HDR at 60fps capability. The HDMI connection ensures a stable link to your display.
Voice Control
The included remote has a built-in microphone for easy voice control. Search for content, control playback, and ask Google Assistant questions hands-free. Darko Audio’s thoughts on the Mi Box S praise its voice search functionality.
Wide App Compatibility
Running on Android TV, the Mi Box S gives you access to a huge range of apps via the Google Play Store. This includes music streaming services like Spotify and YouTube Music. As 9to5Google mentions in their review, it offers access to almost every major app you might want.
Compact and Versatile Design
The Mi Box S is small and unobtrusive, blending easily into any entertainment setup. T3’s review describes the device as discreet and smart-looking, emphasizing its compact size and light weight. This makes it easy to place, even in tight spaces.
Xiaomi Mi Box S vs. Google Chromecast Audio
This section compares the Xiaomi Mi Box S and Google Chromecast Audio, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses for audio streaming. Choosing the right device depends on your current setup and how you plan to listen.
HDMI vs. 3.5mm Audio
The Xiaomi Mi Box S connects to your audio system via HDMI. This means you’ll send audio to your TV first, then to your sound system. Some TVs offer audio outputs (like optical) to connect directly to a receiver or soundbar. Alternatively, your TV might send audio back to your receiver through an HDMI ARC connection. The Mi Box S also has a mini TOSLINK port for a direct connection to some audio systems. The Chromecast Audio, on the other hand, uses a 3.5mm analog jack. This makes it easy to plug directly into speakers or a receiver with an auxiliary input. If your setup doesn’t have an available 3.5mm input, you might need an adapter.
Streaming Service Compatibility
Both devices handle popular streaming services differently. The Mi Box S runs Android TV, giving you access to apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Spotify directly on the device. You control everything with the Mi Box remote. The Chromecast Audio relies on your phone, tablet, or computer to “cast” audio. You open the app on your device and use the cast button to send the audio to the Chromecast. This setup works well for many, but some prefer the dedicated interface of the Mi Box S. Reviews highlight the Mi Box S as a good choice for accessing streaming apps.
Interface and Controls
The Mi Box S offers a standard remote control for navigation. It also supports voice commands through Google Assistant. While convenient, some reviews point out that the remote’s limited TV control features might be a drawback. Chromecast Audio, being entirely app-driven, relies on your phone or other device as the controller. This can be streamlined and intuitive, but some find a dedicated remote more convenient. Consumer Reports offers a helpful review on the Mi Box S interface.
Audio Quality and Formats
The Mi Box S supports various audio formats and can output high-resolution audio through its HDMI and mini TOSLINK connections. Discussions online provide valuable information on its performance with USB DACs. The Chromecast Audio, while limited to 48kHz/24-bit audio, is generally sufficient for most users. The key difference lies in how you prioritize convenience versus high-resolution audio support.
Set Up Your Xiaomi Mi Box S for Audio Streaming
Initial Setup
The Xiaomi Mi Box S is compact and minimalist—a small, matte-black box. It’s surprisingly light, which makes connecting it to your existing home entertainment setup easy. Simply plug the Mi Box S into your TV’s HDMI port and power it on. The initial setup will walk you through connecting to your Wi-Fi network and signing in to your Google account. The interface will feel familiar if you’ve used other Android TV devices. For a complete overview of the initial setup and features, check out this Xiaomi Mi Box S review.
Connect to Your Audio System
The Mi Box S connects to your TV via HDMI. Your TV then becomes the audio output source. If your TV is connected to a soundbar or another audio system, the sound will automatically route through it. This setup is seamless for most users. The Mi Box S also has other audio output options, including a 3.5mm audio-out port and a USB port, which allows you to connect a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for improved audio quality. For more information about connecting the Mi Box to a sound system, see this helpful Reddit thread. These various ports give you flexibility when integrating the Mi Box S into your audio setup. You can find more details on the device’s ports in this 9to5Google review.
Optimize Audio Settings
While the Mi Box S generally handles audio processing well, consider a few things to get the best listening experience. The device handles medium-quality audio conversion easily, but its processing power has limitations with high-quality audio files. This AVForums discussion offers helpful information on audio compatibility. If you’re using a USB DAC, the Mi Box S upsamples all audio output to 96kHz. This upsampling, discussed in this Darko.Audio article, ensures consistent output, but might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer native audio playback. Experiment with different settings to find what sounds best on your audio system.
Streaming Services and Apps
The Xiaomi Mi Box S offers a good range of streaming options for audio enthusiasts. Let’s explore some popular platforms and how they perform on this device.
Popular Platforms: Plex, Tidal, Spotify
The Mi Box S shines with its support for apps like Plex, Tidal, and Spotify. As Darko Audio points out in his Mi Box S video, Plex acts as a central hub for your personal video and music libraries. You can easily browse your collection, select an artist on Tidal, and play videos. This versatility makes the Mi Box S a solid option for managing and enjoying your media. Dedicated apps for Tidal and Spotify ensure high-quality music streaming.
Access the Google Play Store
The Mi Box S provides access to the Google Play Store, opening up a world of apps. Keep in mind that this version is tailored for Android TV devices and differs from the smartphone version. The app selection isn’t identical, and some mobile apps may not be optimized for a TV screen. You’ll still find a variety of streaming services, music players, and other apps to enhance your audio experience.
Chromecast and Roon
The Mi Box S supports Chromecast, letting you cast audio from compatible apps on your phone or computer. This is convenient for sharing audio, but be aware of potential limitations. Darko Audio notes that Chromecast streaming isn’t always gapless, which can disrupt certain music like classical or live recordings. Platforms like SoundCloud and Mixcloud generally avoid this issue. The Mi Box S also works with Roon, a high-fidelity streaming platform. Roon’s compatibility with Chromecast devices adds another layer of flexibility for serious listeners.
Audio Performance and Connectivity
The Xiaomi Mi Box S offers a few different ways to connect to your audio setup, each with its own quirks. Let’s break them down so you can get the best possible sound from this compact streaming device.
Sound Output
The Mi Box S keeps its audio output options straightforward. You get an HDMI 2.0a port, the primary connection for both audio and video to most TVs and receivers. It also includes a 3.5mm audio-out port, useful if you have older powered speakers or want a simple headphone setup. This provides flexibility depending on your current equipment. For more information on HDMI and its capabilities, take a look at our discussion on soundbars, many of which use HDMI connections.
High-Resolution Audio
If high-quality audio is your priority, the Mi Box S delivers. Users have successfully paired the Mi Box S with external DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters), such as the AudioQuest Dragonfly, playing high-resolution files from services like Tidal. This setup bypasses the Mi Box S’s internal audio processing for a cleaner sound. If you’re curious about DACs, our guide to studio monitors explains their function within a recording studio.
The Gapless Playback Issue
One potential hiccup is gapless playback. While the Mi Box S can play high-resolution audio, it’s not always seamless. Small gaps can appear between tracks, which disrupts the flow of certain music genres, like classical or live albums. Some users have found that apps like USB Audio Player PRO (UAPP) can fix this.
Connectivity: Mini Toslink and USB DAC
While the Mi Box S lacks a dedicated optical (Toslink) output, an HDMI to Toslink converter offers a workaround if your audio setup requires it. The USB port expands the possibilities, allowing you to connect a USB DAC for improved sound, as mentioned earlier. This makes the Mi Box S a surprisingly versatile option for budget-conscious audio enthusiasts. For more on connection types, our speaker types overview covers the fundamentals.
User Experience and Interface
The Xiaomi Mi Box S shines with its user-friendly design, making it a breeze to set up and use daily. This section explores the interface, remote, and how it works with your mobile devices.
Navigate the Android TV Interface
The Mi Box S runs on Android TV, offering a clean, intuitive interface. If you’re familiar with Android on your phone, you’ll feel right at home. The home screen displays rows of content, including recommendations from your favorite streaming apps like Netflix and YouTube. Finding what you want to watch is straightforward, and the interface is generally responsive. While Android TV hardware can vary, the Mi Box S offers a solid experience, as noted in this Mi Box S review from 9to5Google.
Remote and Voice Commands
The included remote is simple and effective, with dedicated buttons for Netflix and Google Assistant. Navigating menus and selecting options is easy. The voice control functionality, powered by Google Assistant, adds another layer of convenience. You can search for content, control playback, and even ask general questions, all hands-free. A good remote and interface interaction are crucial for a positive user experience, and the Mi Box S delivers on this front, as highlighted in this streaming media review from Consumer Reports.
Mobile Device Integration
The Mi Box S seamlessly integrates with your mobile devices. You can use your phone or tablet as a remote control, simplifying text input. This integration also allows for easy casting. You can send content from apps on your phone directly to your TV screen through the Mi Box S. This is particularly handy for sharing photos, videos, or music. This feature makes the Mi Box S a great option for those looking to add smart features to older TVs, as this Xiaomi Mi Box S review from T3 points out.
Price, Value, and Versatility
Cost Comparison
The Xiaomi Mi Box S typically retails for around $60. This puts it slightly above competitors like the Chromecast with Google TV, a difference worth considering when you’re comparing prices. As Android Authority notes, this roughly $10 difference is worth noting.
Features vs. Price
Even at a slightly higher price, the Xiaomi Mi Box S offers good value. For around $60, you get 4K HDR streaming, a full Android TV operating system, and voice control. 9to5Google considers the Mi Box S an excellent value, especially if you already use Android devices. Its compact design, which T3 describes as “discreet and smart,” easily fits into any entertainment center.
Ideal Use Cases
The Xiaomi Mi Box S is a solid option for adding smart features to a TV and sound system. If you enjoy streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime and like using voice commands, this device is worth a look. T3’s review highlights how easy it is to use with popular apps. It’s also a surprisingly versatile choice for audiophiles. Darko.Audio explains how the Mi Box S has both TOSLINK and USB outputs, so you can connect it to various external DACs and amplifiers for potentially better sound quality.
Xiaomi Mi Box S: Pros and Cons
Advantages
The Xiaomi Mi Box S offers several compelling features, especially considering its price. It delivers 4K HDR streaming, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy high-quality video on your 4K TV. As 9to5Google notes in their Mi Box S review, the value is excellent. The Mi Box S also adds smart functionality to older TVs, effectively upgrading what they can do, according to this T3 review. This versatility extends to audio. The mini toslink output allows for various audio system connections, creating a flexible listening experience, as highlighted in Darko Audio’s video. This makes it a good option for using services like Plex, Tidal, Spotify, and Chromecast audio.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Xiaomi Mi Box S offers a lot, there are some downsides. One significant limitation for music fans is the lack of gapless playback, essential for enjoying albums and live recordings without interruption. Darko Audio also mentions this issue in their review. The remote’s limited functionality is another area for improvement. Unlike some competitors’ remotes, the Mi Box S remote doesn’t offer full control over your TV, as pointed out in this Tom’s Guide review. While the Mi Box S supports many streaming apps, it lacks Amazon Video, which might be a problem for some, also noted in the same Tom’s Guide review. Lastly, audiophiles interested in MQA will find that the Mi Box S requires additional software like UAPP, according to this Audio Science Review discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Xiaomi Mi Box S good for music?
The Mi Box S is a decent option for casual music listening. It supports popular streaming apps like Spotify and Tidal and offers various connectivity options, including HDMI, a 3.5mm jack, and USB for DACs. However, be aware of the gapless playback issue, which can be disruptive, especially for classical or live recordings. For critical listening, consider pairing it with a good external DAC and using an app like USB Audio Player PRO.
Can I connect the Xiaomi Mi Box S to my older receiver?
Yes. If your receiver doesn’t have HDMI, you can use the Mi Box S’s 3.5mm audio output. You’ll need a 3.5mm-to-RCA cable to connect to your receiver’s auxiliary input. Alternatively, if your receiver has an optical input, you can use an HDMI-to-optical converter.
What’s the difference between the Mi Box S and a Chromecast?
The Mi Box S is a standalone Android TV device with its own interface and remote. You install apps directly on it and control them with the remote. A Chromecast, on the other hand, relies on your phone, tablet, or computer to “cast” content. You control playback from your device, not the Chromecast itself. The Mi Box S offers more independence and a traditional remote experience, while Chromecast prioritizes simplicity and casting from your existing devices.
Does the Xiaomi Mi Box S support Dolby Atmos?
While the Mi Box S supports Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD, it doesn’t support Dolby Atmos. This means you won’t get the immersive, object-based surround sound that Atmos provides. If Atmos is essential for your home theater setup, consider a different streaming device.
My internet isn’t super fast. Will the Mi Box S still work well?
The Mi Box S requires a stable internet connection for streaming. While it can handle lower bandwidths for standard definition content, 4K HDR streaming requires a faster connection. If your internet is consistently slow, you might experience buffering or lower video quality.
