Avoid These 3 Mistakes in Your Outdoor Sound System

You’ve decided this is the year you are going to invest in an outdoor audio system. Congratulations, you have made a great choice! At GHT Group, we have always thought that audio and video entertainment is not exclusively an indoor sport.

Outdoor sound, however, is not the same as indoor sound. There are a few things to contend with that you don't have to worry about inside. Indoors, it doesn't rain on your audio equipment. Most of the time, you don't have to worry about a clandestine wasp nest being built on the back of your speaker either. And finally, there are fewer walls and ceilings outside – more specifically, almost none.

We jest, but these are the things that make a distinct difference between an indoor and outdoor audio system for your Woodstock, GA home. Now, keep reading for three mistakes to avoid (hint, it's easy), and you'll be on your way to a killer sound system to make your outside spaces much more fun.

SEE ALSO: Creating Your Own Outdoor Soundtrack with an Audio System

Mistake #1: Using Speakers that Have No Business Outdoors

Outdoor environments are different than indoors. Electronics and audio equipment should be specifically designed for the elements if you will keep them outside. Your typical speaker is not intended for outdoor use. You might ask, what about moving a wireless speaker outside or using it in a covered patio? You can, but don't leave them there! Outside, there is humidity (this is the South!), rain, heat, cold, and insects with which to contend. If you do want a temporary outdoor wireless speaker, we would steer you to the Sonos Move. It's portable, water-resistant, and not a permanent solution, but it will work, especially if you are already invested in Sonos products. The solution? Choose outdoor, weatherproof, built-in speakers from quality vendors like Sonance and Coastal Source.

Mistake #2: A Poor Speaker Layout

The right speaker layout is critical for great sound. Remember the nonexistent walls outside? Outdoors, sound has fewer places to reflect. The result is that you may need a more powerful speaker and amplification to get the sound level you want. How far apart speakers are positioned, how they're powered, and in what direction they are aimed can all play a role in the sound quality you achieve in your patios and landscape. The solution? A carefully designed system with the right number of speakers spaced appropriately and the right set of source and amplifier components that will fit your needs.

Mistake #3: A Complicated System

You may ask, how does this get complicated? To start, many outdoor sound systems begin as an extension of an indoor one. There's nothing wrong with that if it's done correctly. However, if the way to start the music is three remote controls to turn on different pieces of equipment and change inputs and outputs on various things, it may be more than you bargained for. The solution? There are several, but the best approach is an integrated whole-home audio system that makes the outdoor area just another zone. And the control should be as easy as an app on your phone where you select your source, hit play, and tap which zones (areas or rooms) you want to hear the sound.

We did say it was easy to avoid these mistakes. Here's the real pro tip – call us! GHT Group is an expert integrator of home technology and outdoor entertainment and will steer you far, far away from these mistakes to the perfect outdoor audio system for you. Call GHT Group at (770) 955-8909, contact us here or use the chat box below to connect with us right away. We look forward to working with you!