Suggestions for multimedia and sound system

[Martin5692]

I'm currently providing a sound system with separate DVD player, Bluetooth adapter, Android TV Box and a projector. There's also a switch to connect an external HDMI source. The cable connections are a total mess hidden behind the cupboard and turning everything on is a procedure some of the guests don't seem to be able to accomplish. Some also complained about it.

What simple solution can you suggest that includes (most of) the current functions: Bluetooth adapter, DVD, external HDMI source, TV Box for Internet TV streaming and HDMI output for a projector?

Thanks a lot in advance!

[Shelley159]

Hi @Martin5692 

I think you can at least let the DVD go, it's unusual to still offer that (unless you have a specific reason, for example a large selection of classic DVDs).

[Alicia753]

Hi Martin,

To simplify your entertainment setup and enhance the guest experience, the best solution would be to invest in a universal remote control.

This approach allows you to maintain all the current functions like the Bluetooth adapter, DVD player, external HDMI source, TV Box for internet streaming, and HDMI output for the projector, while significantly reducing complexity for the users.

The universal remote can consolidate control of all these devices into a single, easy-to-use interface, reducing confusion and improving the overall user experience. Additionally, providing a well-illustrated, simple instruction guide alongside the remote will help guests understand how to operate the system effortlessly.

I hope this helps.

All the best,

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[Paula]

Hello @Martin5692, welcome to our community.

Have you had a chance to read the suggestions from our Hosts? I’m curious to know what you decided to do in the end.

Keep us posted! 😊

[Rose422]

Hey Martin, 

Wow for someone who barely watches any TV, I feel like you are doing too much as a host. In my opinion all guests need is a smart TV that they can connect their phones or tablets to log into their Netflix, I feel like you don't have to do so much and airbnb usually doesn't expect hosts to have those amenities. Great job if you can make it work though. If anything is complicated leave written instructions, that's the only thing you can do. I had guest who didn't know how to flip a light switch or flush the toilets so I have to go and show. 

Rose. 

[Juan63]

First of all I would say a DVD player is unnecessary. We provide Netflix, Apple TV and Amazon Prime video. This is more enough options for visiting guests. Why do you have a projector? Is it in place of a TV?

[Zheng49]

I would like to echo the replies given by other hosts on this subject matter. 

I think the only thing that's needed is a TV that has Youtube, Netflix, etc. 

Keep it as simple as possible. It should be as simple as one TV, and one remote. When you turn on the TV with the on/off button, then you click one button to access the apps for Netflix, Youtube, etc. 

[Marie8425]

@Martin5692 

Reading your reviews I on ly see compliments for your incredible media experience.  Are you dealing with a recent guest who said complicated because I didn't sede any mention of hatea problem?  Or is the problem guests asking you the same easy question becoming annoying?  I would suggest if it is too many questions maybe a video of yolu doing the set up and giving instructions that they can watch frequently rather than call you frequently.

[Martin5692]

@Marie8425 First of all, thank you very much for all the feedback! The guests who struggled with the technology didn't document it in the reviews, but told me personally. So far, I've been lucky. 😉 However, it's not uncommon for something to be out of place or a cable disconnected because guests try something instead of asking. A tutorial video is a good idea. That might help.

DVDs are really outdated, that's true. I still have some old DVDs with movies that aren't available online. But I will probably take the player down at some point. 🙂

Netflix etc. are not a good solution, as it technically isn't allowed to be used commercially (i.e., for Airbnb), and guests could transfer the access to their own devices (which would require manually logging out all devices after each stay). Additionally, there are extra monthly costs. I do offer Netflix and similar services on the TV box as an app, where guests can log in with their own credentials.

The space (it's a loft apartment) is really large. That's why there’s a surround system and a projector, with the image covering the entire wall. I think a Smart TV would just simply get lost there (in terms of size and sound). Additionally, the loft is also used as a photo studio, so a TV on the wall would be more of an obstacle.

A universal remote could reduce the number of remotes, but there would still be so many devices and cables. I’ve already looked into a soundbar, which could be a solution, but it’s quite an investment. I still need to think about that.

Thanks again to everyone!

[Marie8425]

@Martin5692 

On that thought make it simple some of us our technology challenged.  Take a video on your phone you can just text to the number you are given after approval.  Even I know how to use my phone lol

[Frances3408]

@Martin5692. Martin, you are an engineer so I get that you lean towards the technical: I have 3 generations of engineers on my husband's side which is German.

The KISS principle means appealing to the majority of guests. So unless most of them are technically inclined I'd be surveying them and asking what features/gadgets they used and found most helpful. @Alicia753 remote idea is great.

As others have suggested the smart TV does all the heavy entertainment lifting these days. Let them use their own streaming accounts and yes that means logging them out each time of the TV but that is part of turnover process/checklist. Save the projector for special requests (in advance and for a fee) if you want to offer that and its convenient. Its expensive equipment.

I am a regional host so we are used to the internet going down and inclement weather so I have in one location an old fashioned DVD player with classic and out of print DVDs, mainly for kids and that retro/holiday vibe.