Best products from r/amazonecho

Tl;dr at the bottom because wow I wrote a lot here.

I don't know if there's a way to specify on an app by app basis, but you could potentially get around that by essentially telling Alexa to switch a Music Mode on or off. As a note, I personally have NOT tested this to see if it works, but I see no reason it wouldn't.

First of all, you're gonna want to buy a Harmony Hub (Or at least something like it). It's basically a big IR blaster that shoots out signals to your devices to turn them on or off, change their inputs, and other such stuff. You can create "activities" where it will turn on or off the devices you specify and change them to their correct inputs all at once. It also has direct Alexa integration so you can say something like "Alexa, turn on my TV," which could prompt Alexa to tell your Harmony Hub to run your "turn on TV" activity to turn on your TV and AV receiver, and set them to the right inputs.

This next step depends on whether or not your AV reciever has bluetooth. If it does, cool, you're already done. You just have to make sure that you make an activity in the Harmony Hub that will turn on the necessary stuff for listening to music, and make sure that when it turns on your AV reciever, it also turns on its bluetooth. Then just make sure it's paired with Alexa. This way, whenever your reciever's bluetooth is turned on, even if you have speakers plugged into the AUX port on the Dot, Alexa will still automatically connect to it and play through it instead. When it's off, Alexa's audio will play through her internal speaker or whatever speaker that's plugged into her AUX port.

If you don't have bluetooth built into your AV receiever, it gets a little more complicated. First off, you're gonna want to get this. That is a bluetooth receiver that requires power to function. Plug it's audio output into your AV receiver, and BAM, now your AV receiver has bluetooth. You're also going to want to get a smart plug to plug its power cable into. Because this bluetooth receiver needs power to function, this will allow you to turn the bluetooth on and off whenever you want from a distance, simply by powering the smart plug on or off. Pair that, and Alexa should automatically connect to it when you turn it on with the smart plug, and use her internal speakers or AUX connected speakers when it's off.

The main downside to the above is that you're still going to have to power the bluetooth on separately from you powering on your music mode with the Harmony Hub. From my understanding, you can fix this, but it requires getting a Smart Things Hub and a Smart Things Plug it will connect to. You can apparently integrate Smart Things into your Harmony Hub activities, meaning that you can power the Smart Things plug on at the same time that you activate your music mode on your Harmony Hub, or power it off when you turn that mode off. Frankly, this is a decently expensive solution to a minor annoyance of a problem, so I'll leave that up to you to decide if you want to go this extra mile.

As a note, the Smart Things integration with Harmony Hub is the thing that I'm most unsure about how it works. I believe I've seen it mentioned that it worked that way, but I cannot confirm, and honestly haven't researched into that as much as I'd like to have. If you go this route, I'd definitely recommend looking into it more for yourself. Also of note is that this was a setup I was planning for my particular situation. It may be that there's much cheaper options and alternatives to this whole mess that I don't know about or just simply overlooked because it didn't work for me. I encourage you to do more research into this on your own if you really want the best results.

And finally, if ALL of this is way too much over your head, you could just do what I decided to do that was ultimately so much cheaper and easier: Just buy a Roku Streaming Stick/Amazon Fire TV Stick and use that as your dedicated music streaming device to your AV receiver. Then just use your Dot for everything else.

 

Tl;dr: Buy a Logitech Harmony Hub. Have bluetooth on your AV receiver? Pair it with Alexa, and then just add turning on its bluetooth to your Harmony Hub's turn on music activity. You're done.

Don't have bluetooth on your AV receiver? Buy this and a smart plug compatible with Alexa to plug it into. Pair the bluetooth receiver with Alexa. Turn the plug and the receiver on when you want to listen to music through it. Turn them off when you don't.

Want to be able to turn that smart plug on at the same time as your music mode? Make sure you buy a Smart Things smart plug and a Smart Things hub, then integrate turning your plug on into your Harmony Hub's music mode.

Or just buy a Roku Streaming Stick/Amazon Fire TV Stick for music instead if you're a cheapass

I'm quite fond of my TP-Link light bulbs. They don't require a hub, and work great with Alexa. I can control individual bulbs by assigning them a unique name. I named the main room in my apartment "lights", so I can just say "Alexa, Lights on." and it works.

They start at $20, and like I said, you don't need anything else. No hub or special switches or anything. You really can't go wrong with that price. You need to set them up with the Kasa app (from TP-Link) but then you can go into Smart Home setup and find the skill to make them work with Echo. Good luck!

One note, though: If you put them in a lamp with a three-way switch, leave it in the second position (not too dim, not too bright) and DO NOT switch it to #3. These will feedback and trip a breaker if you do that. They have a very specific amount of wattage/power they can handle, and going over that isn't supported. Otherwise, they work wonderfully.

And though it's not what I'd call "cheap", the Logitech Harmony Hub is quite affordable. That's also a great choice to get your smart home started.

I use the Roav Viva and I’ve been pretty happy with the results. I have a two seater convertible only two options for which charging port to put it in but it’s pretty responsive.
Initially it was pretty much just useful for Music but it’s getting much better at navigation. It works perfect if you use an address and most of the time if you say Get Directions to [Business Name], it will find the right place. It also can use Apple Maps, Google Maps or Waze.
Audio books works well and it seems to integrate with either your car’s Bluetooth or via your phone either way.

The echo dot was my first product in the smart home world and it's still my only hub. I love it! I wasn't using it to it's full potential at first, only using it to play music while I was home but now it controls my smart tv, some lights, and my security camera.

It SUCKS as a speaker. In fact I never play music directly through it. It's paired to an awesome bluetooth speaker I have. It's not made as a speaker so don't fool yourself with that. But if you want to get into smart home products this is the perfect way to start.

It's kind of like getting a 4k tv. You get the tv first before you pay for 4k games, cable, etc. Sure you're not using it to it's fullest potential but it has limitless room to grow! If you do it the other way around you're wasting money with no incentive to ever fully upgrade.

TLDR; Don't get it to use as a speaker. That's not what it's made for and it shows. If you want a speaker get this .
However if you want to get into smart home things this is a perfect opportunity.

I just use an Anker speaker. A friend recommended it, and it's been a great choice.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016XTADG2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_b0QrybS96GJR8

The battery lasts for a loooooong time. It is supposed to last for up to 24 hours on a full charge.

The sound is pretty good. I live in an apartment, so I don't need anything huge, and this one is more than enough for me to listen to in the living room and kitchen.

I have it connected to the WiiU with the USB cable, so it charges whenever I play, and I haven't had to touch it in weeks now.
Overall, I've been very happy with it, and would definitely recommend it.

But like mentioned, as far as i know, it needs to be wired to have more than one speaker at a time connected.

The Lutron Caseta switches don't require a neutral. They are Alexa, Harmony Hub, and Apple HomeKit compatible. They also work with IFTTT. They do have their own hub but they are rock solid. They are by far the most reliable bit of smart home tech that I have (even more so than Hue). Pricey but worth it. They are more buttons than switches but I like the way they look.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00MXCRAX8/ref=psdcma_507840_t1_B00JJY0S4G#

The standard dimmer includes a remote that can easily replace a three-way switch. They are super versatile (LED, CFL, or incandescent) and work with Lutrons really expensive blinds if you have that kind of money :)

OK, here's an approach that should work and has worked for others:

Use a TP-Link HS100 Smart WiFi/Alexa-enabled plug driving an isolated relay, e.g.. https://amazon.com/Enclosed-AC-Protection-Bounce-Terminals/dp/B017743I7S/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1483241234&sr=8-2&keywords=120v+Relay+switch

Here is a quote from a reviewer who controlled a fireplace:

>Does exactly what it's supposed to. I used this with a TP-Link Smart Plug to allow me to use my Amazon Echo turn my gas fireplace on and off. The project took literally 5 minutes to hook up and works great. If I were going to pick any nit, I wish they had a version with a solid state relay so it doesn't "click" on and off, but that's really minor, and for this price, it can't be beat.Does exactly what it's supposed to. I used this with a TP-Link Smart Plug to allow me to use my Amazon Echo turn my gas fireplace on and off. The project took literally 5 minutes to hook up and works great. If I were going to pick any nit, I wish they had a version with a solid state relay so it doesn't "click" on and off, but that's really minor, and for this price, it can't be beat.

Setup the smart plug at an AC outlet close to the FP. Then plug the AC cord that comes with the relay module into the smart plug. The two wires that control the FP connect to the Gnd and NO contacts of the relay. Those two wires are very low voltage and current ("Millivolt circuit") that turn on the fire when connected. They should never contact a 120V circuit, which is why you need the isolated relay module.

I'm doing what you described with the Harmony Home Control (Amazon link) and IFTTT.

What you do is setup the Harmony device with "Activities." So for example I have one Activity called "Watch AppleTV" that turns on the ATV, turns on the receiver and switches it to HDMI3 out, then turns on the TV and switches it to input1.

Then you login to IFTTT and add your Harmony and Amazon Echo accounts to IFTTT. Then you make a two IFTTT recipes for each activity. So I made an activity that turns on Watch AppleTV and another that turns off Watch AppleTV. You run these from the echo by saying "Alexa trigger run on the AppleTV." You need to say trigger to the Echo knows to send it to IFTTT. After about two seconds the command runs from the Harmony and you are all set.

The key is you need to make a Harmony activity on the Harmony for everything you want. Then those activities show in the dropdown list for Hamony on IFTTT.

The only one I'm not sure about is your up/down volume idea. I think you could make a Harmony activity for recover volume up then an IFTTT trigger to match. Then another activity and trigger for receiver volume down. I just use the Harmony remote for volume.

I'm using Logitech Harmony Hub and I can control my tv via voice with Alexa. I'm using Smartthings in between (had to add new Logitech Harmony device), but it works pretty well. Logitech Harmony mobile app is far from good, but with Smartthings works quite well. You can also add IFTTT in between (and skip Smartthings hub), but it might be more laggy. Here is the model I have: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00N3RFC4Q/

Good write up. I wish I had considered this or truly, had anyway to know it when I started my setup.

I do have one additional Smart Plug not listed I can add to your list..

Weemo Smart Plug

Physical Dimensions

• 2.5 x 5.3 x 8.2 inches
  
  Plugs spaces used in regular outlet
  
• 2
  
  Plug Spaces in 6 outlet power strip (side by side)
  
• 2
  
  I don't have a power strip that is "stacked" but given how long it is, I have to assume it takes up all of them.
  
  Price
  
• $39.99
  
  I wish I had seen this before I dropped almost $90 on two plugs that are logistically very challenging (to be fair, they work great they are just huge)
  
  

I know, right? It's like the people that made some of these never use them. You would think Reuters would be fixed by now, since it's really could be a simple fix. Others I've tried are either way too long and/or obviously biased. Some of the local news ones had potential, but again too long because they take a long story or weather report and just let Alexa read it. Another common problem with the recorded skills is they just aren't updated daily so you hear the same thing every day.

The only suggest I have that isn't already mentioned is This Week in Tech, aka TWiT as it's short, is well done and critically invites you to hear other stories on their full podcast which means it's supported and will continue to be updated daily.

[Meep] (https://www.amazon.com/Meep-LLC-Personal-News-Radio/dp/B01N75RKCH) which is a custom news podcast you can tailor to you actually looks pretty good and I'll be trying that out now. Another one that I just found is 60dB which sounds very similar.

What we really need is a skill which plays a list of brief podcasts of your choosing. Right now they are either stand alone skills that aren't implemented as flash briefings or just podcasts outside of Alexa skills. I could envision a hack solution which would download the podcasts on a PC and merge them, then upload to where a skill could simply play. Creating a publicly available skill is not likely unless Amazon gets on board though.

I'm very happy with this:

https://www.amazon.com/Cambridge-SoundWorks-OontZ-Angle-Generation/dp/B010OYASRG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500589399&sr=8-1&keywords=oontz+angle

It has good range and great sound and can resist dust & splashes. Search Amazon for OontZ Angle and you will find some other options that might suit your needs better. :)

Assume you mean THIS and not THIS?

It looks like if you do mean the first one, that is kinda pointless with Alexa. You can create your own scenes and just activate them via voice, not sure why you'd want to press a button to do it.

But, to your question, it looks like you don't need the hub with the Echo Plus

"Echo Plus is a simple way to start your smart home. It has a built-in ZigBee smart home hub, which allows for simple and direct setup of compatible ZigBee lights, locks, plugs, and in-wall switches from brands like Philips Hue, GE, and Yale. No additional hub required."

Edit: Now I am curious by what they mean by "in-wall switches", maybe just plain smart lights still need a hub.

In my mind, the all-time best Flash Breifing is current Word of the Day, which is a humorous take on an educational Flash Briefing. It's the best for me not because it's doing anything special, but just because it's one of the only Flash Briefings that is voiced by a human, updated every day, and not about the news. I doubt it will be for everyone, but I certainly like it.

However, BBC is probably my favorite strictly news skill.

I'll second Anker, though I have this one instead. It has great sound, great range, and outstanding battery life.

Yes, you would. I recommend you get the hub + remote anyhow, it's just so useful.

Logitech Harmony Companion All in One Remote Control for Smart Home and Entertainment Devices, works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N3RFC4G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_hm-fybCM2E7YT

Do you have a Wink or anything else that can talk Z-Wave?

The GE 12730 Z-Wave Smart Fan Control is working quite well for me. I just say, "Alexa, set ceiling fan to 25/50/100 percent," (each of those values fall within the range for those three speeds). You can also simply turn it on and off.

It does, however, require you're wired with separate switches for fan and light.

This is probably not what your looking for but it's most likely a solution to your problem and give you sound from both at the same time (but not the internal speaker)

How does your amp connect to your TV? if it's older/via RCA wires you can just get a Y splitter

Dual Y connectors into the imput. 2x 1 male two female

something like this: https://www.amazon.ca/FosPower-Adapter-Splitter-Connectors-Extension/dp/B01M1I3OFH/

If it's newer and your amp gets sound via HDMI it's a little more complicated and not sure if this will 100% work but anyways. You'd need a HDMI source Y splitter and a RCA to HDMI adapter/extractor.

Plug the HDMI splitter into the amp, connect the source to one of the imputs, then connect the echo imput to the RCA to HDMI adapter, then finally connect the adapter to the other imput on the HDMI Y splitter.

https://www.amazon.ca/GANA-Composite-Converter-Adapter-Supporting/dp/B07KTDG177/

https://www.amazon.ca/Splitter-Fosmon-Powered-Duplicated-Simultaneously/dp/B07DD3LD44/

Personally I just got speakers from this company to reduce the overall imprint of my setup, both inputs are active so I ran a 3.5mm to rca from my echo dot to one of the inputs and 3.5mm to rca from the headphone jack on my tv to the other set of inputs and everything plays at once, not surround sound but great sound, I also have a 10" powered sub connected, no needs for amps or anything like that anymore just two powered speakers and a sub, really cuts down on footprint.

https://www.amazon.ca/Edifier-R1280T-Bookshelf-Speakers-Monitors/dp/B016P9HJIA/

Keep in mind all those are in CAD/Canada Dollars so prices may seem inflated if you're in the US.

I own this to control all my lamps. It works great, but I see amazon is starting to pump out their own as well if you want a cheaper option.

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Heavy-duty-certified-Assistant-HS100/dp/B0178IC734/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-skills&ie=UTF8&qid=1520459871&sr=8-1&keywords=wifi+outlet

As for the garage, I think that's something you'll have to control, like others recommended, with a raspberry pi.

I would say you need more information.

Is he an audiophile? Is he looking for something that plays in multiple places through out his house (like a Sonos?)

I would look towards something like what's showing up here:
List Of Amazon wireless speakers

Because honestly, some of those in the articles listed by others may be complete overkill.

The OontZ looks really nice - I might get one based on the feedback I'm reading there.

Awesome guide! I've just added Slate to mine.

I would also recommend This Week In Tech. I had replaced Daily Tech with TWIT a while ago because, as you pointed out, Daily Tech can be lengthy. TWIT is perfect in length, depth, and personality. And despite the name, it IS updated daily.

I picked up two TP-Link HS100 plugs and two HS110 plugs on sale for $80 combined and love them. The HS100 (same as HS110, but without power monitoring features) is currently $23.95 on Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/TP-LINK-Amazon-Electronics-Anywhere-HS100/dp/B0178IC734

The control software may not be as powerful as what is available for the WeMo, but it works well for me. It includes remote network control, timers, schedules, etc. They also have native integration with the Echo, so there is no need for IFTTT. On the other hand, if you want to use IFTTT, look elsewhere, because they don't currently support it. The software also doesn't support plug groups, but the Alexa software does, so that solved that problem for me.

Setup was an absolute breeze and they have been rock solid. They also retain their settings when unplugged and moved.

Whatever you buy, it will probably work with most devices that have a "hard" power switch instead of a "soft" switch. Pull cord light switch? Yep, pretty much any of them will work.

Put in any light fixture and bulbs you want and use a Lutron Caseta in wall dimmer switch. First light switch is about 100 bucks,

https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-P-BDG-PKG1W-Caseta-Wireless-Selected/dp/B00MXCRAX8/ref=sr_1_3?s=lamps-light&ie=UTF8&qid=1482958038&sr=1-3&keywords=lutron+caseta

This includes the Smart hub needed to make it internet accessible.
Each additional switch thereafter is around 50$.

https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-Caseta-Wireless-Dimmer-150-Watt/dp/B00KLAXFQA/ref=sr_1_2?s=lamps-light&ie=UTF8&qid=1482958148&sr=1-2&keywords=lutron+caseta

You can also purchase them with remotes for $60

https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-Wireless-600-watt-150-watt-Multi-Location/dp/B00JJY0S4G/ref=sr_1_1?s=lamps-light&ie=UTF8&qid=1482958148&sr=1-1&keywords=lutron+caseta

and you can purchase plug in versions that allow you to control standard lamps and such ($60)

https://www.amazon.com/Lutron-Caseta-Wireless-Dimmer-300-watt/dp/B00JJY1QG0/ref=sr_1_7?s=lamps-light&ie=UTF8&qid=1482958148&sr=1-7&keywords=lutron+caseta

Lutron Caseta is not only compatible with alexa, ("alexa turn my living room to 50%" "alexa turn off my bed room" "alexa turn my living room to 10%" etc.) it is also fully homekit enabled. ("Hey siri, set my chamber to 2%" ) and utilizing the home app on your iDevice, you can set up schedules and such, for example my bedroom light turns on to 10% 30min before my alarm, and up to 50% 5 minutes before my alarm. This really helps me wake up on time.

Lutron caseta work great. worth the money

Works now.

Plug your kettle into a smart outlet.

"Alexa: Turn on Kettle."

People right now are using smart outlets such as the TP-Link Smart Plug or the WeMo Switch Smart Plug to control lamps, electric fans, Christmas trees, aquariums, etc.

You can use the Lutron Caseta for 3 way switches or more. Install the full Lutron Caseta switch in one box, and use remotes for the other boxes. You can put another switch anywhere, even if there isn't wiring there.

Lutron Caseta Wireless In-Wall Dimmer, 600/150-Watt, Single Pole, Works with Amazon Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KLAXFQA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_BazDyb4YRKZ8B

Remote with wall bracket
Lutron PJ2-WALL-WH-L01 Pico Remote Control with Wall Mounting Kit, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JR202JQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ObzDybQ8C594T

You need the hub as well

Hub, 1 switch, and 1 remote
Lutron P-BDG-PKG1W Caseta Wireless Dimmer Kit with Smart Bridge for Amazon Alexa and Selected Models, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MXCRAX8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_kdzDybXVZ4ZGM

They sell the wall brackets seperate as well
Lutron PICO-WBX-ADAPT Pico Wallplate Bracket https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JZRAFEA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_nfzDybQX74B01

Basically you can get a 2way solution for $100, and add a 3rd switch for $20

I can definitely vouch for Anker as bluetooth speakers!!! I personally have this one and LOVE it and its incredible battery

There are probably other solutions but you can use GE's Z-Wave Smart Fan Control switch via SmartThings. Should work as well with the other Z-Wave hubs.

It has been wonderful. I'm able to navigate with Google Maps and play music and control my smart home on the road. It is so nice to turn off my lights or set my AC on early coming home from work. And ask if my front door is locked, its made by Anker In a direct partnership with Amazon.

Roav VIVA, by Anker, Alexa-Enabled 2-Port USB Car Charger for In-Car Navigation, Hands-Free Calling and Music Streaming. iPhone Users: Update to the latest iOS (11.3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079FYG5TC?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Word of the Day is high-quality, hilarious, and a human voices it every day. Oh, and you'll learn something. Easily the best Flash Briefing skill.

Just in case you're interested in the harmony hub, I don't know how long this will be on sale but it's a really good deal and the remote is freaking great... simple and a perfect addition to the hub with out being overly complicated.

Interesting, does that work via HDMI-CEC or is it just a glorified IR blaster? I like that they dropped the price from the previous offering; I assume this is what you're talking about? https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Control-Entertainment-Devices/dp/B00N3RFC4Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1542566003&sr=8-2&keywords=hub+harmony

Thanks all for the reply. Lifx bulbs are expensive. Like $50 on amazon. I found these tho and wonder if they are good.

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Dimmable-Equivalent-Amazon-LB100/dp/B01HXM8XF6/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1482033174&sr=8-9&keywords=lifx+bulb

I love this one. It came up once at $30 on sale. For that price it's perfect. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B016XTADG2

At the moment, even the TP-Link Smart Plug is $25 on Amazon. That's a great deal. I have a couple myself and have never had any issues.

EDIT: £24 on UK Amazon also, by the way.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0178IC734/

$29.99 is pretty much the standard price, however, as with anything on Amazon, that price varies widely at times. I use camelcamelcamel.com to track a number of items, including these, and pick them up a couple at a time whenever the price drops to $22 or lower. For Cyber Monday, you could get one on sale by ordering through Alexa, and that deal was posted in this sub. Also watch the price on the 2-pack, sometimes that's a better deal per unit.

They've been consistent performers for me, and one nice feature is that they remember their settings through power outages. Their biggest annoyance is their size; you pretty much lose an entire double outlet unless you plug them into a short extension cord or a power strip. They also don't link to IFTTT, which I know is important to some people.

I have the Harmony Home Hub and it integrates well with the Alexa.

I first downloaded the Logitech App to my desktop, connected the Harmony Hub to the desktop via USB, answered a few questions about my TV & STB (DirecTV) brand/model, and it loaded the Hub with everything it needed to know. Then I enabled the Logitech Harmony skill on Alexa, and "linked" the accounts (told Alexa my Logitech ID & password.)

I can do the following by voice with Alexa: TV on/off/ volume up/down/mute. DirecTV: pause/resume, "channel ###" (e.g.: "Tell logitech to go to channel 854" or many favorites by name (e.g.: "turn on espn").

I can't have Alexa navigate the DirecTV channel guide or DVR features (beyond "pause"/"resume"); I have to find the remote for that.

You can do more with the Harmony Hub from the Logitech Harmony App on your IOS or Android smartphone or tablet, and you can add other tricks to the Harmony Hub by programming it from any existing IR remote, but those things don't have Alexa voice control.

Is that hard wired? The reason I asked about the switch is because I'm hoping Hook will help since the switch I referenced uses RF. The GE Fan Switch only controls the fan, not the light kit. Hook should be able to mimic the RF controls for the fan switch that I have and has some Echo integration. This is all speculation at this point, but I'll post once my device arrives by the end of April.

EDIT: Nope, Hook doesn't work with this type of RF connected Fan switch.

I don't see how you can do better than the Anker SoundCore. ~$26 and 24-hour battery life. It will power off if I remove the Bluetooth source, but otherwise stays active. Not sure if aux cable keeps it alive.

OK, I have an Echo, Dot and the Harmony Hub (https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Smartphone-Entertainment-Automation/dp/B00N3RFC4Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1474460678&sr=1-1&keywords=harmony+hub)

1-The Echo does not natively support the Harmony Hub (not yet)

2-You have to use IFTTT or Yonomi to interface these two together.

3-The Universal Hub you linked should be able to do IR, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi so I don't think you need the remote control adapter.

I personally use the Vaux speaker for the dot. Sound is ok not great. Good enough for podcasts and kitchen music it uses the aux cable. I don't have an echo to compare sound quality. Having the battery powered dot and speaker is nice. I use it way more than expected. The Vaux also has an additional aux in for plugging in another device. Haven't had much use for the additional aux in.

I also got taotronics 4.0 Bluetooth receiver for my existing stereo in the adjoining room. Pretty cool that it has an optical out and can be paired with more than one device. I can then route the audio to the stereo by saying "Alexa connect to speaker".

The Oontz angle series speakers are bad, a bit boomy though. However it is an option.

Edit:
VAUX Cordless Home Speaker + Portable Battery for Amazon Echo Dot Gen 2 Black/Carbon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XH96736/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_1yTAzbSYJP74X

TaoTronics Bluetooth Transmitter and Receiver, Digital Optical TOSLINK and 3.5mm Wireless Audio Adapter for TV / Home Stereo System - aptX Low Latency https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KO1JNCA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_8zTAzbF2EVH3V

Cambridge SoundWorks OontZ Angle 3 Next Generation Ultra Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker : Louder Volume 10W+, More Bass, Water Resistant, Perfect Speaker for Golf, Beach, Shower & Home (Black) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010OYASRG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_jBTAzbE1FK2KG

Dude, this is the one to get. It sounds like a $100 Bluetooth speaker but it's only $27.99 on Amazon right now! It's their #1 seller. I currently have it plugged into the wall and into my Amazon Echo Dot. It never shuts off. The damn thing is incredible. Trust me, you won't regret it. OontZ Angle 3

I bought one of these which I plugged into my audio receiver and it's working great. When we want Alexa to play music, we simply say "Alexa, connect bluetooth" and the music will come out of my surround sound system. If the surround sound is off and we go to interact with Alexa but can't hear her because BT is connected but the receiver is off, just say "Alexa, disconnect bluetooth. It's an extra step but it's working flawlessly.


The BT receiver I mentioned above works very well for this. There are cheaper solutions out there but I've found that the really cheap BT adapters automatically reconnect to Alexa when the signal is lost. This one doesn't do that.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016XTADG2/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If you leave it plugged in, it never loses connection.

If you unplug it, it doesn't either, but after a set amount of time it will beep to ask you to recharge it (several days, depending on use)

Great speaker, on sale now for 43.

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He's correct. The bluetooth receiver is what reconnects, not the transmitter.

I own multiple of these receivers and they work great. One is plugged into the sound system in the workshop. I just issue an "Alexa, connect to bluetooth" and she connects right away. Play music. When done, "Alexa, disconnect bluetooth". She stays disconnected until I reconnect her again.

Also operated the same way with cell phones.

I used the same relay as /u/upnorth77 https://www.amazon.com/Enclosed-AC-Protection-Bounce-Terminals/dp/B017743I7S/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1503427639&sr=8-10&keywords=dry+contact+relay+120v and a TP Link smart switch https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0178IC734/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 . Pretty simple to hook up if you have a switch that turns your gas fireplace on/off.

I got a single outlet switch to control a single lamp to start me off: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BB2MMNE

It lets me experience cool voice light controls without all that extra cost. That being said, I'm planning on my Christmas bonus getting me at least a couple multicolor lights and light strips!

> https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Dimmable-Equivalent-Amazon-LB100/dp/B01HXM8XF6/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1482033174&sr=8-9&keywords=lifx+bulb

I have bought LB100, 110, 120 and 130.

MY thoughts on LB100:
the listing seems to be a lie unless they updated the bulb, lb100 and 110 are just yellow, not white....

LB 120: I absolutely LOVE this one (with tunable white - Because I really like white light, not sure why, but it's just what I'm used)

LB 130: the colors are cool, but if you are looking for WHITE light, this is NOT for you because you can never get a true white out of it unlike the LB120.

Yes. But honestly, you can get almost the same functionality with a Roav Viva. On sale right now for $38.

Was in the same situation as you, purchased the Amazon Basics one. Amazon support told me that my Echo Dot was defective- didn't buy into it. Returned the Amazon Basics and got this one: HomeSpot NFC-Enabled Bluetooth Audio Receiver for Sound System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009OBCAW2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QoPDyb27NDPXN. Works like you would expect!

Learned about this inexpensive speaker $28.00 adequate for me.
Cambridge SoundWorks OontZ Angle 3 Next Generation Ultra Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker : Louder Volume 10W+, More Bass, Water Resistant, Perfect Speaker for Golf, Beach, Shower & Home (Black)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010OYASRG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm pretty sure it's this

I think mainly you need Product with Harmony Hub included. I have Harmony home control which includes Remote and Hub.

http://amzn.com/B00N3RFC4G

I have two of these and love them

[Amazon] (https://www.amazon.com/Anker-SoundCore-Bluetooth-Dual-Driver-Distortion/dp/B016XTADG2/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491240859&sr=1-3&keywords=anker+soundcore)

Is the hub that comes along with the remote this same hub

Logitech Harmony Hub for Control of 8 Home Entertainment Devices, works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N3RFC4Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_pvLHzbR86ZBFF

I don't care too much about the included remote i just like the idea of getting the hub that will work with my echo's at a lower price

I use [this one.](AmazonBasics Bluetooth 4.0 Audio Receiver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I59VBH4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fLRHybTCS06WS) Works great.

The easiest way is to get a GE Fan Controller and a compatible hub, such as SmartThings, Wink, or Vera.

Yes, the Dot is not very loud. I use these Bluetooth speakers on 2 of mine and it makes a huge difference.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016XTADG2

Yeah, I bought https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Control-Devices-Anywhere-HS100/dp/B0178IC734/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481685194&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=tp+link+alexa&psc=1 this with it. I just connected my printer and managed to make it function. Thank you!

• Answer calls in a different room than is currently being called.
  
• Manipulate music from a different device ("pause in the living room"; "stop in the living room")
  
• Music/timer/alarm hand off from device to device ("echo, I've moved from the living room"; "echo, I'm going to the office")
  
• Zigbee remote buttons support to trigger actions (e.g. use one of these and have it turn on and off a set of lights / plugs without needing to speak, if desired)

The setup you're wanting sounds like it could benefit from a mixer and some bluetooth audio receivers. You would need one receiver per echo and the audio would be mixed, so you'd need to remember to stop playback on one device before starting playback on another.

what about getting a wifi power outlet / ups that works with echo instead? You wouldn't be able make adjustments but you could turn it on and off.
Edit: something like this - https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0178IC734/

I have mine paired with the Oontz Angle 3 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010OYASRG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_avjzyb8XN0XST) which is about 30 bucks and it works great. You can leave it plugged in all the time if you'd like, but the included cable is only a few inches long so it must be close to its power supply.

you can get a 'smart plug' for $30 that will do this.. no hub or special bulb required.

tplink smartplug

This is pretty much the exact same setup I was planning on doing in my bathroom remodel that is currently in process. I was going to plug my amp into this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0178IC734/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Let me know how your setup goes.

I just got one of these for my birthday. I have a string of white christmas lights on my porch that I can now turn on and off using the Echo.

You download the app on your phone to get it setup and then add the skill to Echo and say "Alexa turn on the porch lights" and it works. Really easy to setup.

https://smile.amazon.com/TP-LINK-Control-Devices-Anywhere-HS100/dp/B0178IC734/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479819310&sr=8-1&keywords=tplink+smart+plug

Have you used any of the 3rd party Alexa car options before? How does it compare to them?

Example 1

Example 2

I use SoundCore 2 and so far I'm liking it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MTB55WH

That sounds like an issue with the blue tooth in your avr.

I have this guy connected to my receiver and it stays paired.

HomeSpot NFC-Enabled Bluetooth Audio Receiver for Sound System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009OBCAW2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_BrKlxb7JFMCRC

Of course, I never turn it off. If turning off your receiver is what's causing the pair to drop and it's not auto reconnecting then try a separate BT adapter like the one above.

Christmas lights and then something like this?

https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Required-Control-Anywhere-HS100/dp/B0178IC734/ref=pd_sim_60_4?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0178IC734&pd_rd_r=5AQH7B77TK4GH3HW6JSG&pd_rd_w=wCz3d&pd_rd_wg=0Aak8&psc=1&refRID=5AQH7B77TK4GH3HW6JSG

You don't need a hub for this

I'm thinking of getting something like:
https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Required-Control-Anywhere-HS100/dp/B0178IC734/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1503112143&sr=8-15&keywords=amazon%2Becho&th=1

For my current soundbar that way it works with Alexa, What do you think?

I did the same thing. Your favorite alexa-enabled wifi plug and one of these should do the trick.

I have this one but it's out of stock currently. TP-Link Smart Plug, No Hub Required, Wi-Fi, Control your Devices from Anywhere, Works with Amazon Alexa (HS100) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0178IC734/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_1xwvybC7FKRG5

man, I can't wait to have a full house to automate. not worth it for an apartment in :-/ This is the total POS "Best Seller" in question

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B009OBCAW2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This one was suggested to me and i have seen many people say that this one works properly with the echo. I just ordered one myself, hopefully it works

I went with a pair of active bookshelf speakers. No battery to worry about, always on, sound great. $99. https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-R1280T-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B016P9HJIA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495810932&sr=8-1&keywords=edifier+speakers

"Alexa, order echo dot", "No x2".
"Alexa, order TP Link Smart Plug", "No x2".

Log into Amazon and add these two items manually to cart to check out...
Echo Dot (black): https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01DFKC2SO
TP-Link Smart Plug: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0178IC734


Items (2): $79.98
Shipping & handling: $0.00
Alexa : -$12.90
Alexa: -$20.00
TP-Link Promo: -$24.99
Total before tax: $22.09

$29.95 TP-Link Smart Plug, Wi-Fi, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0178IC734/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_OKy3xbNHF58GX

Looks like it's $81.99 now

Buy a WeMo then power a relay like this to convert the Ac WeMo to a DC switch. I use this combo with smarthings to open my garage door.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B017743I7S/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481691193&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Enclosed+AC%2FDC+Power+Relay+with+Protection+%26+De-Bounce.+Screw+Terminals.+120V+Trigger+Input.

Quick solution is to get a RCA wired bluetooth adaptor and use that instead to connect.

I have had sucess with this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009OBCAW2/ref=cm_sw_r_em_tai_2Iisxb2JN56X2

This is a Z Wave compatible switch designed to control a fan.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PYMGVVQ?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01

Sure, sure.. Look at these though. You can place them anywhere.. and you can tap it 5 times for different "scenes"

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0167Z0P3I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yeah i ordered this:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B009OBCAW2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Cant clarify that it works yet as havent received it but read from comments somewhere that it doesnt aggressively reconnect and waits for a connection.

those look like chinese private label items.

if you already have a power strip, why not a tP-Link smart plug or Wemo Plug
https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Required-Control-Anywhere-HS100/dp/B0178IC734

or
https://www.amazon.com/Smart-Wi-Fi-Enabled-Works-Amazon/dp/B01NBI0A6R

Where on earth are you seeing that? It's 39.99 on amazon too.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BB2MMNE

This GE is one of the only ones I have seen. You need to replace the switch in the wall with this though. There is nothing I have found that you can hook up to the fan instead.

https://www.amazon.com/GE-12730-Z-Wave-Smart-Control/dp/B00PYMGVVQ?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0

Edit: This is just to get the commands to your fan, you would need a Smartthings hub to make the rest work. Not a simple setup I'm afraid.

You could also drop a ton of money on a Big Ass Fan that works with Echo.

https://www.haikuhome.com/?_ga=1.57736226.905240080.1464798273

Yes. I have an Anker Soundcore and an Anker Soundcore Sport and they power off after 10 minutes with no sound being transmitted over BT.

The Soundcore can also be connected via aux jack and I'm not sure if it also powers off after a period of inactivity.

This is the Bluetooth speaker I got with my Echo Dot. It's a $100 speaker on sale for $27.99 right now. Works great, and I've had no complaints with it so far:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010OYASRG

You’ve probably already seen this or don’t want to buy another device, but just thought I’d throw it in the thread

Roav VIVA, Alexa Enabled 2-Port USB Car Charger for In-Vehicle Navigation, Hands-Free Calling and Music Streaming (Spotify Available Soon). For Cars with Bluetooth/CarPlay/Android Auto/Aux In https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079FYG5TC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZgoJAbRA8WW06

We us a Homespot HFC receiver which disconnects when requested and reconnects when requested. https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B009OBCAW2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I started using this bluetooth receiver and it hasn't dropped.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009OBCAW2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This adapter doesn't reconnect automatically:

https://www.amazon.com/HomeSpot-NFC-Enabled-Bluetooth-Receiver-System/dp/B009OBCAW2

If you're in the states this is even cheaper: https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Harmony-Smart-Control-Black/dp/B00BQ5RYI4/

Use a bluetooth adapter? That's how I connected a Dot to my home theater receiver.

I had to also get one of these to have it be loud enough to be heard in the shower.

Maybe I am not understanding what you are asking, but why wouldn't you just use this plug, which is the same cost, and works with the echo directly?
https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Smart-Wi-Fi-Works-Alexa/dp/B0178IC734/ref=pd_sim_60_9?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=BH0RJAVZ1JXGDXYDG8WZ

These ones do: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0178IC734

Just got this one and it works on it's own for cheap.

I've used a Roav in my car which was paired with my phone. https://www.amazon.com/Alexa-Enabled-Navigation-Announcements-Streaming-Compatible/dp/B079FYG5TC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1550859663&sr=8-2&keywords=Alexa-Enabled-Navigation-Announcements-Streaming-Compatible

I used the Home Spot NFC on my receiver (after a recommendation here) and it works perfectly. It does not autoconnect.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009OBCAW2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

HomeSpot NFC-Enabled Bluetooth Audio Receiver for Sound System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009OBCAW2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_T6UDxbQWRFWBH

I use this to connect to my sonos system, about 12 feet away. No drops so far.

hell of a deal. it's never been lower than ~$88:

http://camelcamelcamel.com/Logitech-Harmony-Smartphone-Entertainment-Automation/product/B00N3RFC4Q?active=price_amazon&context=home_alerts

temporarily out of stock, but you can still purchase while on sale.

I recommend the Roav Viva by Anker. Anker has sales quite often on their products and they had this for $39.99 last week ($37.99 if you signed up for their email special). I have been using my for a week, sometimes it has trouble hearing me say "Alexa", only because of location of my car's charger, but you can touch the mic button on it for you to say your alexa commands. No issues with playback or connectivy through my aux in connection. For GPS navigation you can set Google Maps, Waze, or apple maps for default service. The Roav charger connects to your phone via bluetooth connection.

https://www.amazon.com/Roav-Alexa-Enabled-Navigation-Hands-Free-Streaming/dp/B079FYG5TC/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1520879629&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=roav+viva&psc=1