Using airport express with existing network

So I have a Zoom wireless modem/router that supports g + b wireless. If I get an airport express, will it connect to the existing wireless network? And if I want to stream music to my stereo, will the airport express communicate with my MacBook at the n network speed, or does it step down to the speed of the Zoom box?
Not sure if the airport express would talk directly with the mac or use the Zoom as an intermediary.

Welcome to the discussions!
You have a couple of options.
1) Configure the AirPort Express (AX) to "join" your existing wireless network. This will allow you to stream AirTunes to the AX over your current wireless network. If you choose this option, the AX will connect at "b/g" speeds.
2) Configure the AirPort Express to "create a wireless network" so you can stream AirTunes at "n" speeds from your Mac if it is "n" capable. The downside to this approach is that you will need to switch wireless networks whenever you want to stream AirTunes, and since the AX will not be connected to a modem, you will not have internet access when you are streaming AirTunes.
Users usually choose the "join" option to allow simultaneous internet connection and AirTunes streaming.
Connection wise, your Mac must communicate to the wireless router, which in turn communicates to the AirPort Express. Your Mac will not communicate directly to the AX unless you choose option 2.

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    Hi All! The following thoughts are for
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    Now re-open iTunes, and start a song playing.  (Don't forget to click on the blue rectangle at the R-hand bottom, and activate the new AE speaker.)  By inserting your speaker cable alternately into each of the AEs, you should be able to verify that, yes, both are now working.
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    My thanks to Sean and Cameron and  Chris and, most especially, Dan, the Apple techs who patiently worked with me to get this system online. 

    I am GREATLY appreciative of this overview. Even though I don't understand a lot of it. I will keep working through. I am-- have for 2 years-- had terrible connectivity with AT&T's service & 2Wire router. My MacBookPro keeps dropping the signal. I'm talking every few clicks at times. Husband's PC drops it, too, but not nearly as much as the Mac. I'm sure what you posted can help us get better connectivity.

  • Join airport express to existing network

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