Whole Home Audio Systems - Everything You Need To Know
So you want music in the kitchen and the living room but don't know where to start? How to plan for a multiroom system; Speaker types (recessed, shelf/wall mount, soundbar); how many zones; type of use - high performance, background music, TV, etc.
Whole home audio has come a long way. Not so long ago it was reserved for the high tech audio fanatics who were willing to spend time and lots of money rewiring and upgrading their homes, in a bid to realise that sweet spot of flawless sound and mood, it’s now an option for anyone who is interested in a seamless audio experience at home. If, like so many, you are not satisfied with that solo Bluetooth speaker, then a whole home audio system could be the way to go.
Sounds Simple Right? But What Exactly Is A Whole Home Audio System And How Can You Make It Work For Your Home?
Whether you plan to start over with an entirely new music system, or want to boost your existing setup, there is a whole home audio solution for you. Whole home audio, in reality, means adding multiple wireless speakers or devices in individual rooms to your current set up. These speakers can then communicate with each other and be controlled using your voice, or an app on your phone or another device. Once the setup is done, you can then play a variety of audio in each room or if you want, have the same track play collectively throughout your home. You can choose to stream music from subscription based providers such as Apple Music or Spotify etc. or play from your own music catalogue on your computer or device.
Getting Started
It’s simple really. To get started, all you need is a Wi-Fi connection and some compatible speakers, ideally a minimum of at least two or three.
Speakers?
The answer to this question will very much depend on your budget and your needs. Market leading brands such as Sonos, Denon and Naim each have their own app that allows you to control a system from your phone. But there is more to whole room audio than just traditional speakers. Ranges now include wireless speakers, smart speakers, soundbars, in-ceiling speakers, AV receivers, stereo amplifiers and network streamers. In-ceiling or in-wall speakers can be ideal for whole-home audio systems. On the plus side, they don't take up any floor space and can be painted to blend in with the room making them virtually invisible. On the down side, this will involve more work which equals more expense.
There are also device options that can enable connecting an existing hi-fi system to a multi-room system, such as the Sonos Connect. If you choose to go down the Wi-Fi only route, there are loads of choices out there to suit every budget and style. In the world of whole home audio, the options are endless.
Different Zones And Audio Sources
One of the first things to consider is how many zones (or rooms) you want included in the system and the number of audio sources that you want included. For example, if you currently have two good speakers but want to be able to listen to music in four different areas, you will obviously need to invest in new speakers for these zones. Different speakers will compliment different rooms (i.e. in-ceiling speakers work well in a bathroom) so keep that in mind when you are considering new speakers.
When it comes to audio sources, it will depend on your individual household. Live alone? No problems. But, if you are sharing the space with other family members, allowing for one person to listen to music while another watches a DVD is the smart play. Planning for multiple sources could well avoid any future arguments over who controls the sounds.
Speak to the experts at HiFi Hut today to find out more. We can help you plan the ideal whole home audio system that’s perfect for you.