The Google Chromecast streaming dongle is very cheap but only connects to HDMI. That is a limitation if you only want to stream audio. There are HDMI switch boxes that split out the audio to Toslink, but that cost more than the Chromecast! Some has noted here http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?99234-Google-Chromecast&p=771098&viewfull=1#post771098 that there are very cheap (<£10) HDMI to VGA adaptors that have an audio output on a 3.5 mm jack. (Search ebay) That might make for a cheap secondary audio streaming station. Just as interesting is the reference to a Tripath Amp which is also discussed here http://www.audiokarma.org/forums/showthread.php?t=464404 in some detain and with pictures. That amp is out of stock at Amazon UK but is on Ebay UK See http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lepai-Tri..._HomeAudioHiFi_Amplifiers&hash=item5d48632e40 The above is not the cheapest supplier, but look at the other similar products available. These products raise interesting low cost options that could sound very good if falling short of excellent. --- Major Hitch: Google has still not launched Chromecast in UK http://www.techradar.com/news/telev...ly-three-times-more-expensive-than-us-1188012 Amazing!
I have also been following this with interest especially now Chromecast will be launched in Europe shortly. See this article on the VGA adapter http://liliputing.com/2014/02/10-adapter-turns-chromecast-into-cheap-sonos-competitor.html