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Outdoor Stereo SpeakersOutdoor stereo speakers can bring your favorite music to your patio, pool area, or even entertain on holidays like Halloween and Christmas. The first outdoor stereo speakers I ever saw were some Radio Shack models that looked like a rock. They were cool since you didn't notice them but could hear the music. The quality was OK, nothing to rave about and then you had to bury or hide the wires. But they were weatherproof and quite a novelty in those days. Several manufacturers still sell the rock looking outdoor stereo speakers. The big difference is in the quality of sound. With all the new materials and technology, many of the outdoor models have 2 and 3 way speakers (providing specific high, mid, and low range sounds). Some are wireless, which means you can put them anywhere in range and not have to worry about hiding the wires. Prices are pretty reasonable for outdoor stereo speakers since any good speaker should have an air tight enclosure anyway. Many of the major speaker manufacturers have at least one or two models that can work outside, some have several. They also come in many sizes to fit just about any outdoor scenario. Outdoor Location Issues: You have two factors outdoors that you don't have indoors to consider with where you locate your speakers. The ambient noise outside is going to be an issue, might want to stay above 75 watts if the budget can handle it. If you choose a wired model the wiring needs to be waterproof too. If you bury the wires, use plastic conduit to protect against bugs and critters chewing the wires. If the units require power, same goes for the power wires. You also have to consider how big of an area you want to cover. If larger than 10 or 12 feet square, consider using 4 speakers instead of two. That way you don't have to crank up the sound so it's too loud close but not loud enough far away. Test Locations Before Digging: Before you reach for that shovel, put the speakers in place, wire them up. Walk around the area to see how well the music flows and make sure of the locations. This also insures that you have enough wire and can see that you can bury the wires without obstructions. If possible keep the speakers off the ground and at ear level. I've seen many an outdoor speaker sitting in a tree. Use Insulated Connectors: The speaker connections are the weakest point and are subject to oxidation outdoors. You can get special units that are designed to be used outside and are weatherproof. If possible, keep the speaker and connectors out of direct sunlight. A light coating of Vaseline helps to keep moisture away. Warranties: Outdoor stereo speakers are subject to a lot more abuse. The weather and sun are relentless. And if on the ground, people and animals can kick, chew, urinate on, you name it. So it's a good idea to make sure your chosen model and brand has a good warranty and covers any additional risks from being outside. |
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