Home Max Suffers From Line-In Latency Issue, And Google Knows It

Updated on

The Google Home Max is reportedly having an AUX line-in latency issue, a problem that could be unsettling for DJs and musicians if they are using the Max as a studio monitor. The Google Home Max, launched in October, is the latest Google device to be struck by technical glitches. A few months back, the Home Mini was caught spying on its users.

What’s the issue?

The Google Home Max, unlike other models, offers a line-in port, which can be used to connect a CD player, or another source of sound. According to Variety, there is a slight delay when the music is played from the external source using the port. Though the delay is only a fraction of a second, it is there.

It is surely not good news for Google, especially at the time of the holidays. A good thing for the search giant is that the issue possibly can be fixed with a software update, and that the glitch might not be a big problem for the majority of users who are planning on buying the gadget now.

Google has acknowledged that there is an issue, but believes it would not impact the synchronization of the sound. This seems to suggest that the company might not have any plans to release the update soon.

“We’re aware of a slight delay with aux-in. The delay is in regards to how long it takes for the music to start playing, and does not affect synchronization of sound across home devices – which are near perfect for most setups,” a Google Spokesperson told Variety, which first spotted the issue.

To play the music externally, Google Home and Home Mini support only Wi-Fi streaming and Bluetooth paring options, unlike the AUX port on the Home Max. Therefore, the Home Max comes out as the only model for users with a classic tape deck, notes Gadgets360. However, if Google decides not to release the update anytime soon, it could surely drift such users to other models. If you remember, Google used a professional DJ, Diplo, to promote the Max in October.

Google Home Max – overall, a good device to own

Sans the AUX line-in latency issue, which Google will surely take care of sooner or later, the Home Max is a good device offering multiple features to the user. A user can customize the setting as per their needs and preferences.

The Google Home Max, priced at $399, is equipped with 4.5-inch woofers with improved bass performance over the Home and Home Mini. The speaker has custom-made 0.7-inch tweeters. Further, the device comes with the smart sound feature, which adapts the audio on the basis of a user’s presence. If the reviews are to be believed, the Home Max offers better sound quality compared to even the Alexa-equipped Sonos One.

Talking of its size, the Google Home Max may not be compared to any of Amazon’s Echo devices or Apple Home Pod. The device measures 13.2 x 7.4 x 6.0 inches and weighs 11.7 pounds. One good feature is, it can be placed horizontally or vertically on any surface.

Leave a Comment