ArtSound Smart hide

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Specifications and features

Overview

The Smart Hyde from ArtSound is a compact stereo amplifier delivering 2 × 50 W into 4 ohms. Its chassis measures 158 × 146 × 40 mm and weighs 540 g. It combines class D amplification with multiroom functions. Succeeding the Hyde model, it adds internet streaming capabilities and access to online music platforms while keeping installation simple.

Class D amplification and sound reproduction

The Smart Hyde is based on digital class D amplification that delivers 2 × 50 watts RMS into an impedance of 4 ohms. This technology stands out for its energy efficiency: the transistors operate in switching mode (on or off) rather than in linear mode, which greatly reduces heat dissipation and allows for a compact design. Unlike class A or AB amplifiers that require large heatsinks, class D maintains a moderate operating temperature even during prolonged use.

The total harmonic distortion is 0.03% at 1 kHz for 1 watt, a value that reflects the amplifier’s ability to reproduce the signal without audible alteration. This low level of distortion contributes to precise reproduction of musical detail and faithful rendering of instrumental timbres. Class D amplification, long confined to professional applications, has matured in recent years and now equips many home hi-fi products where compactness and efficiency are sought.

The design of the amplification stage allows it to drive speakers with an impedance ranging from 4 to 8 ohms. This flexibility makes it easy to pair with different speaker models without risking overload or underuse of the available power. The two output channels operate independently, ensuring clear stereo separation.

Access to streaming and traditional sources

The Smart Hyde provides access to more than 10,000 internet radio stations via TuneIn and vTuner services. This global library covers all musical genres and languages, from New York jazz to European classical music programs, as well as specialized thematic radio stations. Reception is via the network connection, eliminating the reception quality issues encountered with FM or DAB+.

The music streaming platforms Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, and Qobuz are directly integrated into the amplifier. Unlike simple Bluetooth streaming, these native implementations allow the Smart Hyde to retrieve audio streams directly from the services’ servers, without passing through a smartphone or tablet. Once playback is started, the mobile device can be turned off or used for other tasks without interrupting the music.

Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity completes the wireless streaming options. It makes it easy to play content stored locally on a smartphone or to stream from apps that do not offer native integration. Apple’s AirPlay protocol allows iPhone, iPad, and Mac users to stream their music over the Wi‑Fi network with preserved quality.

Network playback via DLNA/UPnP allows access to music libraries shared on a computer or NAS server. The audio files stored on these devices become accessible from the 4STREAM app, turning the Smart Hyde into a fully-fledged network player.

On the physical input side, a stereo RCA input lets you connect a CD player, games console, or any other device equipped with an analog output. The Toslink optical input accepts digital sources such as network players or televisions. The micro-USB port operates in DAC (digital-to-analog converter) mode when connected to a Mac or Windows computer, turning the Smart Hyde into a USB audio interface. Finally, the standard USB-A port plays music files stored on a flash drive or external hard drive.

This wide range of sources covers most modern listening needs: online streaming, local wireless playback, network playback, and traditional wired connections all coexist in the same device.

Home network and multiroom operation

The Smart Hyde connects to the home network either via Ethernet cable through the RJ45 port or wirelessly via the built-in Wi‑Fi module compatible with 802.11 b/g/n standards. The wired connection ensures maximum stability for high-quality streaming, while Wi‑Fi offers greater flexibility for installation.

The 4STREAM app, available free on iOS and Android, centralizes control of the amplifier. It allows you to browse available sources, adjust volume, select internet radio stations, access streaming services, and manage presets. The interface is translated into several languages (French, English, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese) for easier use.

Two handy features enhance the listening experience: the music alarm schedules automatic playback at a defined time, with your choice of source and volume. Conversely, the sleep timer gradually stops the music after a configurable delay. These options turn the Smart Hyde into a sophisticated clock radio, especially when it powers speakers in a bedroom.

The multiroom aspect is one of the major evolutions compared with the basic Hyde model. Several Smart Hydes can be deployed in different rooms of a home and connected to the same local network. From the 4STREAM app, you can then play the same music in sync in all zones, or play different content in each room according to individual preferences. This flexibility extends to the other members of ArtSound’s Smart family: Smart Stream (streamer preamplifier), Smart Zone 4 (four-zone preamplifier), Smart Evo (amplifier with OLED display) and Smart In (active in-wall/ceiling speakers). These devices communicate with each other and are controlled from the same app, allowing you to gradually build a coherent home audio system.

Documentation

Documentation (brochure)
French User manual
French

Technical specifications

Amplification

Class D multi-room amplifier
Power: 2 × 50 W RMS at 4 Ω
Total harmonic distortion: 0.03% at 1 kHz, 1 W
Audio settings: volume, treble, bass

Audio sources

Internet radio: more than 10,000 stations worldwide
Music streaming services: Spotify Connect, TuneIn, vTuner, Deezer, Tidal, Qobuz
Bluetooth 5.0
Apple AirPlay
Network playback: NAS server via UPnP / DLNA

Connectivity

Audio inputs
- Stereo RCA
- Optical
- Micro USB (DAC)
- USB (mass storage)
Audio outputs
- Stereo RCA
- Subwoofer output

Network

Local network (LAN): 10 / 100 Mbit
Wi-Fi: 802.11 b / g / n

Control and functions

4STREAM app (iOS and Android)
Alarm function
Sleep timer

Physical characteristics

Dimensions (W × D × H): 158 × 146 × 40 mm
Weight: 0.54 kg
Power supply: 110 V - 240 V

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Hyde and the Smart Hyde?

The original Hyde offers a compact 2 × 25-watt amplifier with an FM/DAB+ tuner and Bluetooth reception. The Smart Hyde doubles the power (2 × 50 watts) and replaces terrestrial radio with access to internet radio and online streaming services. It also adds multiroom functions and control via the 4STREAM app, which are absent from the basic model. Both share a compact form factor and an RF remote control, but the Smart Hyde is an evolution geared towards network connectivity.

Can the Smart Hyde be used as a DAC for a computer?

The micro-USB port does indeed operate in DAC mode when connected to a Mac or Windows computer. The Smart Hyde then becomes a USB audio interface, receiving the digital signal from the computer to convert and amplify it. This setup is particularly suitable for improving the audio performance of a laptop or workstation, directly driving a pair of passive speakers without the need for an external amplifier.

How many Smart Hyde units can be grouped in a multiroom setup?

The 4STREAM app does not impose a strict technical limit on the number of connected devices. In practice, performance depends on the home network’s ability to handle several simultaneous streams. A standard internet router with a properly configured Wi‑Fi network can control around ten Smart devices without difficulty. For larger installations, especially in professional environments, the use of multiple Wi‑Fi access points or a wired network is recommended to maintain stable streams.

Is the Smart Hyde suitable for driving in-wall or in-ceiling speakers?

The 2 × 50-watt power into 4 ohms is indeed enough to drive a pair of in-wall or in-ceiling speakers in a medium-sized room. Compatibility extends to speakers with an impedance between 4 and 8 ohms, which covers the majority of models on the market. The class D amplifier maintains high efficiency even at moderate volume, and the compact form factor makes it easy to install in a suspended ceiling or cable duct close to the speakers. The dedicated subwoofer output allows you to add extra low-end reinforcement if the chosen in-wall/ceiling speakers offer limited bass extension.

Does the 4STREAM app require a subscription?

The 4STREAM app is free and does not require any subscription to operate. It can be downloaded freely from Apple’s App Store or the Google Play Store. Only access to music streaming services requires an active account with each platform: Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, and Qobuz operate according to their own subscription terms. Internet radio via TuneIn and vTuner remains available free of charge, as does playback of files stored on a NAS server or USB flash drive.

How does the initial setup of the Smart Hyde work?

The process begins by connecting the speakers to the dedicated outputs and powering on the amplifier. The 4STREAM app automatically detects the Smart Hyde on the network when it is connected via Ethernet cable. For a Wi‑Fi connection, the app guides the user through the steps to join the home network: selecting the network name, entering the password, confirming the connection. Once the device is recognized, you can assign it a custom name (living room, bedroom, office) to make it easier to identify in a multiroom installation. The app also checks for any available updates to the internal firmware.

Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
GTIN / EAN: 5420020106172