Let me try to summarize:
I think that @GR8Dane has answered the OP’s question by testing both TV Connector and Bluetooth streaming from a cellphone and noting that the quality seems to be the same. Thanks for that!
If we are trying to decide whether to pony up the “$200.00+ for the Phonak TV connector versus streaming by smart tv Bluetooth or a $50.00+/- streaming device like used for headphones”, then…
- Phonak’s proprietary Airstream vs Bluetooth, who cares? The connection seem simpler than Bluetooth handshaking, etc. But still, who cares? However, Airstream claims to deliver low hearing aid battery consumption. If it delivers significantly less battery consumption, that’s important!
- Auto-connect to the hearing aid when you move in-range. I would turn that off because I don’t always stream. eta, OH wait, some ppl like this feature.
- The TV Connector can supposedly be picked up by an unlimited number of devices as long as they are paired and you can’t do that with Bluetooth. This may or may not be important for you. How many ppl will stream at your house?
Has anyone tested battery consumption (Airstream vs Bluetooth). I dunno?
eta: Maybe I am over-simplifying by saying “Who Cares?”. It was just to make a point.
eta: Hey, Let’s ask about battery consumption over on the Phonak Marvel battery life thread.