Turning your backyard into a personal oasis with an outdoor sound system. Whether hosting a lively summer BBQ, enjoying a glass of wine under the stars, or gathering friends for a movie night, having quality sound harmonizing with the outdoors is essential. Picking the right outdoor sound system might feel daunting, especially if you’re just starting out with audio tech. This guide dives into speaker types, placement tips, sound coverage, and some common pitfalls to dodge.

SEE MORE: Create the Perfect Atmosphere With Outdoor Audio 

Your Outdoor Speaker Options

Choosing outdoor speakers means navigating through a few different options. Landscape speakers often blend into your garden, looking more like natural fixtures than tech gadgets, while delivering fantastic sound. Then there are in-ground subwoofers, which provide that punchy bass while staying hidden, perfect for keeping your yard looking classy. If you're after something more traditional, all-weather outdoor speakers can be mounted on walls or patios. Each type has its perks, so think about what’s most important to you in terms of sound quality, style, and budget as you decide.

1. Landscape Speakers

These speakers are designed to blend beautifully into your garden. Top-notch models, like those from Sonance, deliver even sound distribution, so you can enjoy your tunes without any distortion, no matter where you are in the yard.

2. In-Ground Subwoofers

If deep bass is what you crave, in-ground subwoofers are a must-have. They dig down below ground level, keeping your space tidy while delivering rich sound. We offer options from a wide range of high-end vendors. 

3. Wall-Mounted Speakers

If you're looking for reliable performance with a clean, elevated look, wall-mounted speakers are a strong choice. These all-weather models are designed to withstand the elements while delivering consistent sound coverage across patios, porches, and exterior walls.  

Strategic Placement for Optimal Sound Coverage

Getting the placement right is just as important for making your outdoor sound system shine. You want your music to reach every corner without leaving any dead spots where sound fades out. Here’s how to nail that sound coverage:

1. Distance and Angling

Speakers should be strategically placed based on where people will be hanging out. If setting up near a patio or pool, try putting the speakers about 10 to 15 feet away at angles that direct music toward your main seating spots.

2. Avoiding Obstructions

When placing your speakers, watch out for trees, walls, or anything else that could block sound waves. You want sound that flows naturally and fills your outdoor space.

3. Defining Zones

If your backyard has several areas for entertaining, install multiple speakers to create defined zones. This way, groups can enjoy different audio experiences without interfering with one another.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To really get the most out of your outdoor sound experience, dodge these common missteps:

1. Skipping Professional Installation

It’s tempting to go the DIY route and settle for wireless options. But professional installation makes a world of difference. Experts will place speakers for optimal sound and properly integrated with your home automation.

2. Ignoring Weather Resistance

Not all speakers are built to last outdoors. Non-weather-resistant options will get damaged in the rain or heat. Always pick high-quality, durable speakers designed for the outdoors.

3. Forgetting About Power Sources

Think ahead about how you’ll power your speakers, especially if you’re opting for hard-wired models. An improper electrical setup can lead to those frustrating moments when you just want to enjoy your music but can’t.

Investing in the right outdoor sound system can really enhance your backyard experience, making it a space where memorable moments with family and friends come to life.

If you want to explore your outdoor sound options One Touch Living can help. Just give us a call or fill out our contact form to get started.