Google Home Speaker’s $99 Audio Flaw Eases With 1 Default Output Switch
Updated
Updated · Android Authority · Jun 25
Google Home Speaker’s $99 Audio Flaw Eases With 1 Default Output Switch
3 articles · Updated · Android Authority · Jun 25
Summary
$99 Google Home Speaker can sidestep its weak built-in audio by routing music to another Google Cast device as the default speaker in the Google Home app.
58mm single-driver hardware leaves the new orb sounding closer to the discontinued Nest Mini than the Nest Audio, even though it gets louder than some rivals such as Apple’s HomePod Mini.
Google lets users change the setting under Audio > Default music speaker, where eligible Cast targets can include Nest speakers, Chromecast or Google TV devices, TVs, soundbars, receivers and third-party speakers.
A JBL MA710 receiver became the author’s default output instantly, sending voice-requested Apple Music playback through a surround-sound system without manual casting or repeated voice instructions.
The workaround could make the speaker more appealing for buyers who want Gemini’s newer processor and dedicated NPU but already own better-sounding Google Cast audio gear.