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Would you use a smartphone as a controller?

Hi all. I am new to digital but just recently purchased a dacMagic and am very impressed with the sound while played from the laptop. I want to simplify the way files are selected and managed. I essentially want to do this from my listening spot however do not want to sacrifice sound quality or clutter by using long (~20 foot) usb cable. I live in the country and my only access to internet is via an air card. I was wondering if an Android/Smartphone/Iphone would be suitable remote controllers to access the files on my laptop? I remotely accessed music files with another laptop last night and although it worked well I can see me questioning portability and flexibility in the future. Looking to make the right choice. How are you audiophiles employing the use of smartphone's or pads these days?
Thanks you in advance for your input.
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12 responses Add your response
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
I use both my iphone and ipod touch to remotely control the Mac Mini. The remote app is free and works very well to select and play music.
I don't know if it works to control windows based pc.
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,610 posts
 
.
I use my iPhone to control my SqueezeBox and Roku players. Works as good as or better than the remote that came with the players.
.
switchback OP
19 posts
 
timrhu,
Are you actually tapped into your computer remotely with your iphone?
4est
507 posts
 
I sure would- the limiting factors would be cover art and finding a remote app that you like that also works with your player/OS.
switchback OP
19 posts
 
timrhu,
Are you actually tapped into your computer remotely with your iphone?
switchback OP
19 posts
 
4est,
would it still be limited if you took control of your computer with your iphone? For instance, if you use the "LogMeIn" software and log on your computer via net, you will have access to everything that is on your computer. The only difference would be the size of display. This is what I did last night via another computer. I was just wondering if I could do this on a smartphone.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
timrhu,
Are you actually tapped into your computer remotely with your iphone?
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With the remote app you can access your entire itunes library that is on the Mac though the phone. Play albums, songs, playlists, or shuffle. That's all I use it for.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
timrhu,
Are you actually tapped into your computer remotely with your iphone?
Switchback

With the remote app you can control the entire itunes library on the Mac Mini over the wireless network. I can view and play albums, songs, playlists or use shuffle. The interface looks pretty much identical to the itunes library stored on the ipod touch. Very simple and user friendly.
switchback OP
19 posts
 
Thank you for the responses. It looks like I will consider purchasing a phone. This options appears to be more convenient than using another computer. It should also be a quieter option.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
Quieter until the phone rings. ;)
knghifi
1,668 posts
 
Yep, using iphone app to control my MW Transporter and Boom and not looking back. With iphone 4s, it's fast and loaded with features that I need plus FREE.
switchback OP
19 posts
 
Thanks for the feedback. I bought an Galaxy tablet an it works great.
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