How to Add Bluetooth to Stereo or A/V Receiver? (2023)

If you are setting up an entirely wireless home theater, you will want to add Bluetooth to your receiver so that you can connect your TV with your receiver via Bluetooth. There are different kinds of Bluetooth receivers available on the market. But not all of them are suitable choices for home theater sound. So you have to be sure about what you are looking for before you purchase one.

A wireless Bluetooth adapter can be the problem solver. You can find these adapters available in different price ranges based on the quality. Moreover, these adapters are easy to use also.

After adding Bluetooth to your home theater system, you will be able to play any sound right from your phone or from any Bluetooth-supported device, including your laptops and some smart home devices

How to Install a Bluetooth Receiver

How to Install a Bluetooth Receiver

You will see a lot more detail about what to look for in a Bluetooth receiving unit and how to set it up and start using it. But now you can get to know that installing these devices is so easy. You just have to follow some easy and simple steps. Moreover installing process for all the Bluetooth receivers will be almost the same.

Choose the Hardware

Esinkin Wireless Audio Adapter

Firstly, you have to study the information below and get to know how to connect and use the hardware you’ve chosen. After you have selected your receiver, you do not have to worry much because the install process is mostly the same for all the receivers available on the market.

Connect the Bluetooth Adapter to the receiver

RCA Cables

You have to connect the adapter with your receiver using the red and white A/V cables that will come with the Bluetooth adapter. These cables are also called RCA cables. There will only be two cables because of the limitations of Bluetooth technology. The system will only carry two channels of sound.

The cables will be very easy to connect. You just have to connect the red RCA cable with the adapter’s red connection port and the white RCA cable with the white connection port, then connect the other end of the cables with the receiver’s red and white RCA input ports, and you will be ready to go.

Connect a Device to the Bluetooth Adapter

How to Add Bluetooth to Stereo or AV Receiver

After you have connected all your equipment, you are now ready to make the wireless connection with your receiver. Turn the power on of the Bluetooth adapter and connect it with the device you want to play audio. Via Bluetooth, you just have to pair your device with the adapter by following the steps specified by the adapter’s manufacturer.

It is as easy as turning the adapter on and finding it in your phone or computer’s Bluetooth pairing menu.

Power On and Test

After you have successfully paired your device with the adapter, you are now ready to power on the receiver and test it out. 

Sometimes you may have to change the input on the receiver to the channels you’ve plugged the RCA cables. So if you do not hear anything first, you do not have to worry; change the input on the receiver. You can also check the receiver’s manual for any help.

Choosing the Right Equipment

At first, you have to make sure that your Bluetooth receiver’s output plugs match with the input plugs of the channel you want to use on your A/V or stereo receiver. But if you do not have one or can’t find one that matches, you have to get an appropriate converter cable.

Aside from USB connections, Bluetooth receivers have universally analog audio output. So if your A/V or stereo receiver only has digital inputs, you have to purchase a converter unit that plugs into the wall.

There are two kinds of Bluetooth receivers available on the market. Those are battery-powered and wall-powered.

Battery-powered units are generally used for the auxiliary input of car radio systems. They come with a minimalistic look because they have fewer cables. But you have to recharge them or replace the batteries. 

But we think that Wall powered receivers are the best choice for a home theater system. For this, you may need to extend your surge protector, but it really worth it. After setting it up, there will be no maintenance.

A High-Quality Bluetooth Adapter Option

bluetooth 5.0 transmitter receiver
On Amazon

One of the most significant issues that you can face with Bluetooth for audio is the strength of the signal. So if you want the best performance from your hardware, you can try and solve the possible issues with wireless Bluetooth signals. 

The Bluetooth 5 feature will be suitable for your signal strength, but it will also pull triple duty by being a Bluetooth broadcaster and receiver. So it can solve your problem. Besides, it will add more functionality by routing sound to other devices, such as from your TV to a pair of wireless headphones.

A More budget-Friendly Option

esinkin wireless audio adapter.

The Bluetooth technology is easy to use, and it is pretty cheap to implement also. Bluetooth Adapters like this esinkin Bluetooth Audio Adapter (on Amazon) is able to convert your Bluetooth signals to the left and right channel sound without coming close to breaking the bank. 

This adapter comes with a limited low number of channels, so you will be able to get it at an affordable price because the wireless signal can’t carry all the channels.

Drawbacks of Bluetooth

Bluetooth connectivity is mainly designed for broadcasting signals between portable devices. Nowadays, many home theater systems come with built-in Bluetooth connectivity, so it should be one of your last resorts for wireless audio transmission.

Range

Bluetooth is designed so that you can connect your personal devices without headphone wires or other cables. It is common to connect with a car stereo system, a portable speaker unit, or any other audio devices you expect to be close by when using.

Bluetooth comes with a range of 30 feet only. You can play your playlist from your phone, but you should not do that if you want to travel with it. However, Bluetooth 5 can provide you with three to ten times this range. But if you want to enjoy this feature, you have to have Bluetooth 5 in both the receiver you are going to buy and the device you want to connect to it. This feature has been available since 2017, but you can find it only in the top of the line devices.

Channels

Bluetooth technology is only able to play two-channel stereo sound. So if you want to broadcast 3.x or 5.x audio to your receiver, your sound will be compressed into two channels. However, you can not get 3.x audio or higher from a Bluetooth receiver.

Quality

Another disadvantage is the circuit of a Bluetooth receiver. Bluetooth receivers are not able to transmit a digital audio signal. But most of home theater systems can receive the digital audio signal. So it is a disadvantage of using Bluetooth.

Two Ways to Set Up a Bluetooth Receiver

But actually, there are two ways to connect a Bluetooth receiver to your home theater. You can use any of the ways to connect your receiver. It mostly depends on how you are going to use it. Moreover, you may need another kind of equipment. Make sure how you will connect your Bluetooth receiver to your home theater before you start to buy something.

Separate Channel (Safest Way)

You can set up a Bluetooth receiver by connecting it to the audio inputs of its own channel on your receiver. Moreover, it is the safest way. After selecting the input channel, you can connect the right and left channels of the Bluetooth receiver with the input channels.

Now you can select the input channel and play music from any device by pairing it with the receiver. During testing the sound, connect to the Bluetooth with your device’s lowest volume, then play a song and gradually increase the sound.

HT Bypass (Best Sound)

Some of the available A/V or stereo receivers come with a separate HT (home theater) bypass. This system allows you to bypass the preamp stage and play your sound straight through the power amp into your left and right speakers and your subwoofer so that you do not get any muddy crossover from your center and rear speakers. 

It is also risky because your speakers will do the processing. So if you accidentally connect the receiver with your phone at full volume and play any sound, it could damage your speakers.

Let’s Get Wireless

So after reading the article, we hope that now you can take your decision. You can purchase a Bluetooth adapter, plug it in, connect your device, and start hearing sound without any wire connection. You may be limited to only two channels, but the elegant look of fewer wires really worth it.

-our editorial board has reviewed this article and has been approved for publication according to our editorial policy.

Best Seller List of Bluetooth Network Adapters:

Bestseller No. 1
COMSOON Bluetooth Receiver for Car, Noise Cancelling 3.5mm AUX Bluetooth Car Adapter, Wireless Audio...
  • 【Enjoy Wireless Streaming Music】This car Bluetooth adapter can be connected to non-Bluetooth car audio systems, home stereos, speakers, wired headphones via the 3.5mm AUX adapter; And equipped with a Bluetooth 5.0 chip for stable connection / fast transmission / wide signal range. Just pair it with your phone and start listening to your favorite music!
  • 【Intelligent Noise Reduction Tech】Our Bluetooth audio receiver adopts the latest CVC8.0 Noise Cancellation and Digital Signal Processor (DSP) technologies, which can eliminate echo and block out intrusive background noise (such as wind, traffic, or crowds), providing you with crystal-clear calling sounds.
  • 【Up to 16 Hours of Battery Life】The working time of this aux Bluetooth adapter is up to 16 hours when making calls or playing music. And it takes only 2.5 hours to fully charge the device by using a Type-C fast charging cable (Included in the package). In addition, this Bluetooth music adapter can be used while charging, which is very convenient.
  • 【Hands-free Calling & Navigation】A built-in microphone and one “MFB” button to answer / redial / hang up / reject calls, help you make hands-free calls. And the Bluetooth audio adapter supports broadcasting voice notification from existed navigation App. You don’t have to look down the phone on the move. Make sure you drive safely!
  • 【Dual Connection】The portable Bluetooth stereo adapter can be paired with 2 devices at the same time. You can enjoy your music and never worry about missing any calls. Once paired, the car receiver will automatically reconnect to your last paired Bluetooth devices, as long as they are within the wireless range.
Bestseller No. 2
Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Music Streaming Sound System, Esinkin Wireless Audio Adapter Works with...
  • Listen music wireless: Connect with computer speakers, home stereo systems or other speaker systems via the 3.5 mm or RCA cable, then pair with the Bluetooth audio devices such as smartphones or tablet for streaming music.
  • Easy setup and automatic reconnect: There is a big bluetooth symbol button in bluetooth receiver middle. Pair your bluetooth device to this adapter with a single button press. Click once means Start/Pause. Hold the botton 3 second mean ON/OFF. It can reconnect automatically with the previously paired device.
  • Wireless range: Indoors(without obstacles) connect rang up 30-40 ft (10-12 m).
  • Works with most device: Bluetooth enabled device including smartphones, tablets, computers, laptops upon and any powered PC speakers, home stereo systems and A/V receivers.
  • NOTE: This adapter doesn't have built-in battery, power by AC to DC power adapter or USB cable. This product is a bluetooth receiver ONLY, not a bluetooth transmitter. Only to give Bluetooth capabilities to an existing stereo / powered speaker / PA.
Bestseller No. 3
Bluetooth Receiver for Home Stereo, AUX RCA to Bluetooth Adapter for Old Speakers, NFC Wireless...
  • SEAMLESS WIRELESS MUSIC STREAMING: Whether you want to upgrade your home stereo as a Bluetooth receiver for home stereo, breathe new life into an old system using it as a Bluetooth adapter for old receiver, or add Bluetooth to your stereo receiver, this device is the key to a modern, wire-free listening setup.
  • MULTIFUNCTIONAL CONNECTIVITY: This Bluetooth adaptor for old stereo is a connectivity powerhouse. With support for RCA and 3.5mm jacks, it's compatible with 99% of speakers. From classic AV receivers to your car or home stereo, a Bluetooth audio receiver fits right in. Plus, its TF card music playback support gives you extra ways to enjoy your tunes.
  • FAST NFC QUICK CONNECT: Our Bluetooth to RCA adapter features a built-in NFC chip. Just bring your NFC-enabled smartphone or tablet close, and you're instantly connected. No more tedious manual pairing. It's the quickest way to start streaming your favorite music.
  • PREMIUM CRYSTAL CLEAR SOUND: Experience audio like never before. Our aux to Bluetooth adapter ensures crystal-clear sound. The 3D music playback mode creates a rich, surround-sound experience. Whether it's soft ballads or high-octane tracks, you get distortion-free sound, even at full volume.
  • EFFORTLESS AUTOMATIC PAIRING: Once you've set it up, the Bluetooth RCA receiver pairs automatically every time you power it on. No more struggling with wires or complex connections. Just turn it on and let the music play.
Bestseller No. 4
Anker Soundsync Bluetooth Receiver for Music Streaming with Bluetooth 5.0, Dual Device Connection,...
  • Bluetooth 5.0: The latest Bluetooth technology delivers an ultra-stable connection.
  • Music Streaming: Stream from Bluetooth devices to non-Bluetooth headphones or speakers.
  • Bluetooth Reception Only: Connect via AUX to receive Bluetooth signals for streaming audio to non-Bluetooth devices.
  • 12-Hour Battery: Enjoy up to 12 hours of playtime.
  • Hands-Free Calls: Plug into your car and answer calls while you drive.
Bestseller No. 5
Twelve South AirFly SE | Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter Adapter for AirPods/Headphones, 20+ Hr...
  • Wireless Freedom - Say goodbye to tangled cords with the Twelve South AirFly. Listen to audio from in-flight entertainment, gym equipment, gaming devices, or any 3.5mm audio jack to your AirPods, earbuds, or wireless headphones.
  • Extended Battery Life - Enjoy uninterrupted audio for over 20 hours on a single charge, perfect for long-haul flights. Plus, the AirFly can be used while charging with the included USB-C cable, ensuring you never run out of battery life.
  • Compact and Portable - Designed for convenience, the Twelve South AirFly is lightweight and easy to carry, making it an essential travel accessory for anyone who values comfort and high-quality audio on the go.
  • Seamless Bluetooth Connectivity – Quickly pairs with your AirPods, wireless earbuds, or headphones for a hassle-free listening experience, letting you enjoy your favorite music, movies, or games in seconds.
  • Intuitive Controls – Easily adjust volume with built-in buttons, giving you full control of your audio.
Bestseller No. 6
[Upgraded] 1Mii B06Pro Long Range Bluetooth Receiver, HiFi Wireless Audio Adapter, Bluetooth 5.3...
  • 【DUAL ANTENNAS&LONG RANGE】With dual antennas and class 1 Bluetooth technology, the 1Mii B06Pro Long Range Bluetooth receiver can achieve a range of up to 197ft (60m) line-of-sight in the open air and up to 60-100ft (20-30m) indoors(without obstacles). NOTE: operation range can be affected by Wi-Fi routers or antennas on the stereo receiver, etc.
  • 【APTX LOW LATENCY&HD&3D AUDIO】1Mii B06Pro Bluetooth receiver for home stereo features Bluetooth 5.3 chip to ensure high fidelity Bluetooth audio signal for music streaming to speakers or home stereo systems that don’t have the capability. This Bluetooth adapter also supports aptX Low Latency and aptX HD. And the 3D audio can be switched on or off by pressing the “3D” button on the Bluetooth audio receiver. The green LED will be on when switched to 3D audio.
  • 【VOLUME & TRACK ADJUSTMENT】Press the volume button on the 1Mii B06Pro Bluetooth receiver to volume up and down. Press and hold the volume button for 2 seconds to do next or previous track. (NEW FUNCTION)
  • 【OPT&AUX&COAXIAL, EASY SETUP】Easy plug, pair and play. Plug into computer speakers, home stereo systems or other speaker systems via the 3.5 mm, RCA, coaxial or optical cable, then pair the Bluetooth receiver with the Bluetooth audio devices such as smartphones or tablet. After that, you can enjoy the music. NOTE: This product is a receiver only, NOT a transmitter.
  • 【WORKS WITH VOICE COMMANDS】Connect this 1Mii B06Pro Bluetooth audio adapter to your stereo via a 3.5 mm, RCA or optical cable, pair the Bluetooth receiver with your Echo via Bluetooth on the Alexa app, it is easy to control your music with voice commands. Please make sure to use the audio cable to connect the Bluetooth receiver with your stereo, not with the Echo.
Bestseller No. 7
2 in 1 Bluetooth 5.3 Transmitter Receiver, AUX Wireless Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Car, TV,...
  • 2-in-1 Bluetooth Transmitter & Receiver:This 2-in-1 wireless audio adapter supports both transmitter and receiver modes. In transmitter mode, it streams audio from TV, CD player, PC to Bluetooth headphones, AirPods or speakers. In receiver mode, it upgrades wired car stereos, home audio and headphones to wireless, enabling hassle-free music streaming.
  • Bluetooth 5.3 for Stable & Long-Distance Transmission:Adopts advanced Bluetooth 5.3 technology for faster pairing, stable connection and up to 33ft long-range transmission without delay or dropout. Enjoy uninterrupted, clear audio whether you’re driving, watching TV or traveling.
  • Built-in HD Microphone & Hands-Free Calling:Equipped with a high-definition microphone and one easy-to-use control button. You can answer/end calls, play/pause music and control volume with one simple press, keeping your hands on the wheel and driving safer.
  • Plug & Play & Ultra-Portable Compact Design:Features an ON/OFF switch; automatically enters pairing mode when turned on for instant use. The ultra-compact, lightweight body is easy to carry and store in your car, pocket or bag, perfect for daily use and travel.
  • Wide Compatibility & Reliable Performance:Works with most 3.5mm AUX-enabled devices such as car stereos, home speakers, wired headphones and more. Compatible with smartphones, tablets, laptops and TVs. Please fully charge before first use and avoid obstacles for optimal Bluetooth connection.
Bestseller No. 8
UGREEN Bluetooth 6.0 Receiver with LDAC, Hi-Res Wireless Audio Adapter with Low Latency, for Old...
  • High sound quality LDAC decoding: The Bluetooth audio adapter features the LDAC audio codec, audio sampling rates up to 24bit/96KHz, delivering uncompromised high-definition sound quality; the audio receiver also obtained Hi-Res Audio Gold Label professional sound quality certification. Whether listening to classical or pop, experience audio at its best. (LDAC requires devices to support, some older devices may not be compatible.)
  • Latest Bluetooth 6.0 Chip Technology: Equipped with the latest Bluetooth 6.0 chip, this bluetooth audio receiver provides a more stable and lower latency wireless audio transmission, and reduces the possibility of signal interruption and power consumption.(Bluetooth version mainly affects connection stability and range, not sound quality )
  • Dual Pairing: This bluetooth receiver for home stereo supports connecting two phones simultaneously, letting you share musical experiences with close lovers or friends. However, when one device plays music, the other device needs to be paused first
  • Long Battery Life: The bluetooth stereo adapter provides up to 15 hours of uninterrupted playback time for long-time use; it supports USB C charging and can be fully charged in 2 hours, and can be used while charging
  • AUX 3.5mm/RCA audio receiver : There are 3.5mm or RCA output port for home old stereo speakers/wired headphones and more to connect mobile phones, computers, tablets to play music via Bluetooth. Turning ordinary audio equipment into Bluetooth devices and enjoying the music feast. (If the volume is too low, enable “Volume Sync” in your Bluetooth device settings.)
Bestseller No. 9
1Mii B06+ Bluetooth Receiver, Hi-Fi Wireless Audio Adapter, Bluetooth 5.3 Receiver with 3D Surround...
  • 【98FT LONG RANGE】With Class 1 Bluetooth technology, the 1Mii Bluetooth receiver can achieve a range of up to 98ft (30m) line-of-sight in open air and up to 50-70ft (15-20m) indoors(without obstacles).
  • 【aptX HD & aptX LL & 3D SURROUND】It features Bluetooth 5.3 chip to ensure high fidelity Bluetooth audio signal for music streaming to those speakers or home stereo systems that doesn’t have the capability. It also supports aptX HD and aptX Low Latency. And the 3D audio can be switched on or off by pressing the “3D” button on the Bluetooth audio receiver. The green LED will be on when switched to 3D audio.
  • 【POWER ON AND RECONNECT AUTOMATICALLY】When plugged into a power outlet, the Hi-Fi Bluetooth audio receiver can power on automatically and reconnect with the previously paired device.
  • 【EASY SETUP, EASY TO USE】Easy plug, pair and play. This updated unit comes with a USB power adapter. Plug into computer speakers, home stereo systems or other speaker systems via the 3.5 mm or RCA cable, then pair with the Bluetooth audio devices such as smartphones or tablet. After that, you can enjoy the music. This product is a receiver only, NOT a transmitter.
  • 【WORKS WITH VOICE COMMANDS】Connect this Bluetooth adapter to your speaker via a 3.5mm jack or RCA cable, pair the receiver with your Echo via Bluetooth on the Alexa app, it is easy to control your music with voice commands. Please make sure to use the audio cable to connect the Bluetooth receiver with your speaker, not with the Echo.
Bestseller No. 10
Bluetooth 6.0 Receiver for Home Stereo - Bluetooth Audio Adapter for Old Stereo/Wired Speakers/Music...
  • Upgrade Your Wired Audio Devices - Turn your traditional home stereo, wired speakers, or PC speakers into wireless systems. With AUX 3.5mm or RCA outputs, you can easily connect to iPhone, iPad, Android smartphones, tablets, Windows computers and enjoy high-quality wireless music.
  • Latest Bluetooth 6.0 Chipset - Equipped with the newest Bluetooth 6.0 technology, this bluetooth receiver ensures faster pairing, more stable connections, lower latency, and reduced power consumption for smooth and uninterrupted music streaming.
  • Dual Device Connection - This stereo receiver supports connecting up to two smartphones or tablets simultaneously, making it easy to switch between devices. Please note: only one device can stream audio at a time.
  • Wireless Range - Built-in signal amplifier and high-gain antenna provide a reliable indoor Bluetooth range of up to 80–100 ft (25–30 m), giving you freedom to move around without losing audio quality.
  • Intuitive Physical Buttons - Power on and the Bluetooth adapter automatically enters pairing mode. Once paired, it reconnects instantly to your last used device. Hold the Bluetooth button for 2 seconds to enter pairing mode when connecting new devices.

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Last update on 2026-05-14

TheaterDIY is a dedicated platform where I passionately share my vast knowledge and experiences in the realm of home theaters and home electronics. My expertise and insights are a guiding light for enthusiasts seeking to create their own cinematic havens.