Configuring an Airport Express for audio only?
Hi,
I’m trying to set up my airport express as an airplay2 device and can’t seem to get the configuration right. I’d appreciate any pointers.
I have an existing (non-airport) network which I would like the Airport Express to connect to as a client (ideally as a wired client), and then I would like it to show up in the list of available airplay speakers that my apple devices have the option to send music to. (I then have speakers connected to the Express’s optical audio jack. I do not want the Express to create or extend my wireless network.
What are the right settings to use to do this?
For example: in order to appear as an airplay device, must the Express be connected to WIFI (or can I have it connect to the network via wired Ethernet only)? (I.e., does the airplay2 protocol somehow require wireless for proximity even if the computers themselves are both connected to the same (faster) wired network — like airdrop does?) If WiFi is required, what settings do I use to have it connect to the network without trying to extend it? If no WiFi is required, what settings do I use to turn off the radio altogether?
So far I’ve either ended up with the Express becoming a rogue WiFi access point and fighting with real routers, or disappearing from the network altogether (despite still showing a green light)?
(Note: I’ve been using the “airport utility” app on my iPhone to do the configuration. Please let me know if there’s a better way.)
Thank you!