A while ago I got an Airport Express to pump iTunes through my stereo and had a few problems setting it up. Rather than use it as an access point, I wanted it to act as a node on my existing wireless network. It supports this but I experienced frequent audio dropouts when using AirTunes this way. Forums suggested changing channels, unplugging cordless phones, moving access points etc. etc. and I tried all of them, and all to no avail.
The solution? Well I believe the problem stems from AirTunes using A LOT of bandwidth; 160 kB/s in my experience. I suspect this is flooding the wireless network as it has to go in 2 “directions”, i.e. from the MacBook to the router, then from the router to the Airport Express. So the solution I found was to disable the Airport Express wireless altogether and plug into my router using the ethernet cable. This eliminates one of the “directions” and so alleviates the flooding. The only problem others may see with this solution is that you need to move your broadband router next to the stereo. This isn’t a problem for me as it’s already there for the Xbox 360.
Now I can use my Airport Express for what it was intended, and it totally kicks arse. It’s just a shame Apple didn’t spend the time to test thoroughly in node mode.
My problem is that ITunes loses my remote speakers when the computer is not being actively used. I have Windows XP and I have tried disabling sleep mode, hibernation, etc. It still seems to lose the remote speakers when it is at rest. Any ideas?
I can only guess: maybe its your wireless card that has a sleep feature that you need to turn off. Have a look in Device Manager or any utilities that came with your card.