We love improving our outdoor areas with shade and comfortable seating. Another way to add to your outdoor experience is to add a good sound system.
One of the most popular outdoor audio setups is satellite + subs type systems. Typically these don’t take much space with smaller satellite speakers, especially if keeping things to the minimum with maybe up to 8 satellites and just one sub. These systems are great for coverage of any area, and can be easily extended if needed. These can work great around a pool area for example. They can be nice and discreet and really add to the experience with good sound, without seeing big speakers mounted on walls. Installing these in the landscaping is always a good spot, or they can be concealed in timber pergola type structure so they are not too noticeable.
The placement of speakers needs to achieve the best sound for the main listening area, so all the speakers are pointing in the right direction. The speakers shouldn’t disturb neighbours for example, the direction of sound shouldn’t be pointing away from the house.
It’s best to use an amplifier that is specifically tuned for the type of outdoor system you are using to power all the satellites and subs effectively. These types of amps have special features that make the outdoor system sound much better. Another important element of the set up is having a good WIFI to control your outdoor system, like adjusting the volume from your tablet or phone.
Outdoor system can tie in with the multi-room audio set up and can be controlled seamlessly when you are entertaining whether people are in your house or in the outdoor area. The volume could be adjusted according to each area for the best listening and socialising experience. The Cabling for the outdoor systems needs to be a special underground waterproof type. It needs to stand the test of time and perform reliably in the outdoor conditions. One of our preferred brands of manufacturers of outdoor systems is Sonance.
Costs of installing an outdoor sound system are higher than the typical 2 speaker setups. But the quality of sound and the area coverage are far better. Especially for larger areas, where having just the 2 speakers might be a bit too loud next to them and not loud enough in other areas. For an idea of costs and equipment we’ve put together an Outdoor Landscape Package.
We recommend equipment that we consider good quality and value. This is not an advertisement or an affiliate content. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your installation – feel free to contact us.