If you want to make the most of an Echo Link Amp, you’ll need to look at your home’s audio needs and decide if the product fits. The Link Amp is designed to be a complementary device to an existing home audio setup or Echo product. This means that, out of the box, the Link Amp needs other devices in your system in order to function. The reason for this is the fact that the Link Amp works as a central hub for both wired and wireless connections. The back of the Link Amp contains a variety of audio output plugs to which you can connect your headphones, speaker system, or soundbar. As for audio input, you also have the ability to connect devices like record turntables, iPods and other physical media players. You can also connect your mobile device to wirelessly play music through your speakers.

The Link Amp, however, can connect your exiting echo device to the strongest speakers in the house without any additional wires. All you need to do is connect the Link Amp to your speakers. When it is in place and connected to your audio setup, simply make sure your Echo is connected to the same wireless network and talk into it just as you would normally. The echo device acts as a microphone for the Link Amp, translating your speech into commands that the device can use. This gives any speaker in the house Alexa potential, and can help you create a network of audio devices that spans multiple rooms. If you’re throwing a party, or want to enjoy music throughout your house, the Link Amp can make your music follow you and your echo device. Plug a Link Amp into your outdoor speakers, for example, and ask Alexa on your Echo to play your favorite tune. The music will play from whatever speakers are connected to the Link Amp — all without any additional wired connections.

As our homes continue to become more advanced, the ways we enjoy leisure will change as well. Technology we didn’t even see coming 10 years ago is now commonplace. The Link Amp is just another step in the direction of a totally immersive digital home. Who knows what we’ll be up to indoors in the next decade.