Take The Party Outside!
Sometimes all you want to do on a summer evening is relax in your backyard or on your patio, with your loved ones around you and music playing in the background. However, phones tend to have speakers that are simply not loud enough, and moving the stereo system outside seems like a lot of work. That’s why outdoor speakers are a perfect choice.
We understand that there is no 'one size fits all' when it comes to choosing outdoor speakers and designing an outdoor system, however, we do have some guiding principles when it comes to the brands and models we stock that we believe will help set you on the right path.
That being said - we definitely recommend you get in touch and chat with our custom install experts so they can help guide you to the best setup possible.
What To Look For When Choosing Outdoor Speakers:
Durability & Weatherproofing
An outdoor speaker's ability to be durable and weatherproof is most definitely one of its most important attributes. Outdoor speakers are constantly exposed to the elements, so they must be built to withstand various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, heat, and cold. Weatherproof or all-weather speakers are designed to resist water and dust ingress, maintaining their performance and durability over time. Therefore, checking the IP rating, which indicates the degree of protection against such elements, and matching it to the conditions you plan to expose it to is a crucial step.
Sound Quality
As with buying any speaker for any situation, sound quality (we believe) should be at the forefront of your decision-making process! Outdoor spaces are typically larger and more open than indoor environments, which can lead to sound dispersing quickly. For this reason, your outdoor speakers should be able to produce high-fidelity sound to fill these large spaces. High-performance drivers and passive bass radiators in the speaker can help deliver clear, loud, and full-range sound that's equally as impressive as what you'd get indoors.
Speaker Size & Compatibility
This follows on from the previous point, but you will need to consider the speaker's size and its compatibility with your outdoor space. Larger speakers can offer more power and range, making them suitable for spacious yards or patios. On the other hand, smaller speakers can be a more economical choice for balanced and clear sound in smaller spaces. The speaker should be a good fit for the space, neither overpowering with too much sound nor underperforming due to the space's size.
Connectivity
Lastly, factor in the connectivity options. Many outdoor speakers now offer wireless connectivity (via Wifi and/or Bluetooth), which allows for streaming from most smartphones and tablets. This feature adds a level of convenience, enabling you to control your music from anywhere within range.
Get In Touch
We've put an extra 'Quickfire FAQ' below to help answer a few more specific questions we often get about outdoor speakers, however, if you're considering installing an outdoor system or looking to upgrade your current setup - we highly recommend you get in touch as years of experience designing and installing these types of setups has given us some great insight into what really delivers the 'best bang for the buck' in a range of different environments!
Quickfire FAQ:
Can outdoor speakers be connected to a Hi-Fi system?
Yes, many outdoor speakers can be wired into your existing Hi-Fi system, depending on its capabilities and configuration.
Can I use outdoor speakers in my garden?
Yes, certain outdoor speakers can be used in gardens to provide sound for outdoor activities or create a pleasant ambience. They typically have a high IP rating to withstand the elements and are designed to blend in with your garden scape.
Do outdoor speakers require any specific setup or installation?
Some outdoor speakers may require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by following the manufacturer's instructions. It is all brand and model specific.
Can I use outdoor speakers indoors?
Yes, technically you can use outdoor speakers indoors, however, it's not recommended. Outdoor speakers are designed to withstand various weather conditions and may have different acoustic properties compared to indoor speakers.
Are Sonos outdoor speakers suitable for all-weather use?
Yes, Sonos offers outdoor speakers specifically designed for all-weather use. These speakers are durable and can comfortably withstand the outdoor elements.
