Posted in: Custom Install
In this article, we’ll explain how you can plan the perfect high-fidelity garden audio system.
Types of Speakers
Firstly, you’ll need to decide which speakers are best for your outside space. There are several options you can choose from, and this largely depends on the outside space itself; is it predominately hard landscaped, or is it more of a traditional garden with large borders, planting and open lawn areas?
The good news is there is a variety of speaker options available to satisfy most applications, yet the most important element is to always ensure that the speakers are designed for outside use and are weather-resistant!
So, what do you need? Some outdoor speakers are suitable for installation at ground level (some are even designed to resemble rocks), meaning they can be hidden by shrubs and plants. Often these types of satellite speakers, available in many different sizes, designs and configurations are often supplied with ground stakes or wall-mountable brackets to aid the variety of applications that they can be positioned.
They’re the perfect option for; installing onto trees, buildings, outbuilding facades, under roof eaves or onto garden fences. Garden ‘satellite’ speakers of this kind will be relatively discreet, depending on their placement and allow good coverage around the outside space. And best of all, they can be accompanied by subwoofers to provide a fuller, more hi-fi sound performance.
Subwoofers
Once you’ve picked out your desired speakers, you’ll need to consider what and how many subwoofers you’ll need for your outdoor setup. Again, make sure that they are weather-resistant!
Some outdoor subwoofers can be partially dug into the ground, which is ideal for people looking to hide their audio equipment. Otherwise, different models of weather-resistant subwoofers can be either installed onto a wall, or simply placed onto the ground.
Amplification
Finally, once you’ve decided your speaker and subwoofer combination, you’ll need to determine what amplifier(s) you’ll require.
Before purchasing your amplifier, make sure you check the power requirements for your speakers/subwoofer(s). This will determine the output required for your amplifier(s).
If you already have a multi-zone amplifier setup in your house, then you may be able to connect this to your garden setup as a new zone. This will allow you to play different audio inside and outside your house.
Regardless of your exterior space, requirements or the budget you have, it’s recommended that you speak to an AV professional, and at Monitor Audio, you can find a list of highly trained installers across the UK, that can help design your perfect outdoor audio system.
Monitor Audio offers an extensive range of weather-resistant speakers, subwoofers and amplifiers, to power them, for all your outdoor audio needs, including the recently released, all-new Climate Series 3G.
Find your local authorised Monitor Audio installer here.
