Installing Outdoors Speakers

What’s nicer than being able to enjoy surround sound in your back yard on great summer days? Thankfully manufacturers have begun making speakers that handle the elements effectively and still manage to produce great sound. Look for sets that have been tested for their weather capacity, ones that are weatherproof (not simply water proof). While waterproofing is nice, it doesn’t keep speakers safe from temperature and humidity changes, which is why many products include recommendations on placement. Most outdoor speakers can’t be left without any protection whatsoever. In fact, a prime location for them is under a terrace roof. From here the sound projects well too (the higher up the speaker, the farther you can hear what’s playing in your yard).

This decorative Rock speaker is just one of many weather proof speakers available for outside use

Bear in mind that the majority of outdoor speakers are going to be wired somehow to your stereo system, but being outdoors changes the sound dynamics you’re used to getting in the house. Because these speakers are in the open air, always look for ones that have solid low-frequencies as this is the sound that gives depth to the music and helps it carry over the distances. You also want speakers that offer a 20-20,000 HZ range for full capacity sound. There’s also the issue of amperage, i.e. how much sound the speaker handles effectively. For a normal room you want 30 watts of amperage. Outside you’ll need more or you need more speakers spread out around the space.

The overall style of the speaker is really up to you. Rock speakers blend into your landscape, but don’t forget the pesky wiring issue! No matter your choice, it’s highly recommended that you take your new speakers outside and try them in various locations before permanently mounting them. Set them up, stop and then go listen from where you spend most of your time sitting. If the sound’s not right, move the speakers around until you’re happy with the result.

Those of you who want the latest and greatest in technology can look into wireless outdoor speakers. These are usually fairly small and portable, costing about 150 each. The problem is making sure that the wireless system is compatible with your stereo (or the source of your music) and making sure that it won’t interfere with any other wireless technology in the home. It’s a good idea to take a list of your wireless items (computer router, intercom, telephone) and their frequencies with you when you shop to avoid any problems.

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