Outdoor Speakers Buying Guide

• Independent and integrated systems
• Powered and un-powered systems
• Mounting options
• What about wireless systems?
• Weatherproofing
• Placement

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There was a time when outdoor speakers were hardly worth the effort, providing about the same level of quality as a battery powered boom box - without the portability! Fortunately, those days are now officially over and, as the boom box slowly bites the dust, the time has come to have a fresh look at alternative ways of getting music out of the lounge room and into the back yard. This guide covers all the main features to look for in an outdoor speaker system.

Independent and integrated systems

There are a couple of different ways you can rig up outdoor audio setup. One of the biggest deciding factors is whether you want the sound system to be driven by the lounge room Hi-Fi, or whether you want an independent audio source. If you want to share the lounge room Hi-Fi for both indoor and outdoor use (that is, if you want an "integrated" system), you will need to make sure your amplifier supports an extra pair of speakers. Most amplifiers have A and B speaker outputs for exactly this reason, although if you are already running two sets inside, you may need to consider an alternative configuration. Another factor to consider when planning an integrated outdoor system is the distance and feasibility of running speaker cable. While it is possible to run cable for 50 metres or more - provided you use high quality shielded cable - it just may not be practical to do so. If you have underfloor access, then running cable is the best option. Otherwise, you may need to consider a pair of wireless speakers. This will significantly affect either the price or the quality of the system you choose.

If you are thinking of setting up an independent outdoor sound system, however, you have a few more options. This will mean the extra expense of purchasing a dedicated amplifier, but the added flexibility means that you probably won't have to worry about running cable in awkward places. Instead, you can think about whether you want an amplifier that is located indoors that drives the speakers, or whether you want speakers that have an amplifier built-in.

Powered and un-powered systems

Powered or "active" speakers are those that incorporate a built-in amplifier. The advantage of using powered speakers is that you can control the volume and input source from outside - where you will be listening to them. The downside is that you need to plug an audio source directly into the speakers. This may be perfect if you only ever intend to use a portable media player, but it can be problematic if you want to plug in a CD player that runs on mains power. Not only will your amplifier controls be outside while the CD player controls are inside, but you'll need an audio cable connecting the two. Stereo RCA leads are considerably more expensive than speaker cables, so a powered system can be inconvenient if it is permanently installed. Alternatively, an FM transmitter can be used from inside the house to beam any audio source to a standard FM radio which is connected to the outdoor speakers. These transmitters range from $30 to $100 and you will need the best one you can get if you want to ensure reasonable quality, as they are subject to considerable hiss and noise. The real benefit of a powered system, however, is that it is portable and can be stored inside while not in use. Not only will this prolong its lifespan, but it means you can use it in other locations. Powered systems range greatly in power and quality, so definitely compare a few in advance. You will need at least 30 watts to get acceptable amplification, and look for something that is 2-way with equalisation controls (ie: bass, middle and treble knobs).

An un-powered pair of outdoor speakers will provide you with much better quality for the same price, as you won't be paying for compact amplifier technology. Un-powered speakers are suitable for both integrated and independent systems, both of which require you to run speaker cable into the house. The cheapest un-powered speakers you're likely to find start at about $70, although you're up for at least $300 if you want something that is remotely comparable to standard indoor speakers. Comparatively, powered outdoor speakers will set you back at least $200 with around $500 being more likely if you want something that sounds better - as well as louder - than your old boom box.

Mounting options

What about wireless systems?

If you're worried about whipper-snippering the speaker cable, or you are stuck with concrete slabs and nowhere to run cables, you might want to consider wireless instead. Infrared speakers will give you about 10m direct line of sight, which means they aren't always good for locations where trees and other objects (like people) can get in the way. Radio frequency (RF) is a more common technology for outdoor wireless speakers, and these will operate for distances up to 100m, and the signal will pass through walls. The downside to using wireless speakers is that they require power, usually in the form of batteries. You will definitely want to look for a model that automatically switches off after a period of inactivity, or else you will be chewing through batteries like nothing else.

With the added convenience of wireless comes a compromise, however, and that compromise is usually the sound quality. While the speakers may have good specifications, the weakest link is the radio transmission signal. You will get a certain amount of hiss, plus additional interference from other devices like cordless phones, door bells and baby monitors. The exceptions to this rule are speakers that use digital encoding, similar to the way a computer modem works. By isolating the noise during the digital phase of the transmission, the clarity of the original audio signal is preserved. This is a feature that is not clearly described in product specification sheets, so if you want it, be sure to ask for it. At the very least, always try out wireless speakers before buying a pair - the risk of disappointment is just too high.

Weatherproofing

Outdoor speakers are designed to be able to withstand getting wet, but some are better than others at coping. The problem with waterproofing speakers is that, in order for the sound to be heard clearly, air holes are needed-and where there are air holes, water can get in. To get around this problem, most outdoor speakers have coated drivers. They can get wet, but you should try to minimise their exposure to rain and hose water. Always tilt speakers downwards to maximise the drainage and, if possible, keep them under a cover of some kind.

Water may be the biggest problem with leaving speakers outside, but it's not the only one. Exposure to the Australian sun can dry-out and crack plastic and rubber seals, so a shady spot is always preferable to an exposed one. Some speaker designs are encased in cabinets that look like garden objects such as rocks. While this may seem a little kitsch, the extra enclosure can provide additional protection from both the sun and rain. Alternatively, other garden-friendly designs are shaped like lamps with protective umbrella style roofing. These are not only very durable, but are usually designed to radiate sound over 360 degrees.

Placement

Rectangular speaker boxes are best positioned near walls to maximise their bass output. Otherwise, outdoor speakers have a tendency to sound like they have no bottom end because bass frequencies will dissipate quickly when there are no walls to reflect the sound off.

Positioning speakers high off the ground will also maximise their sound projection. If you are using 360 degree speakers, however, place them as centrally as possible. For semi-permanent installations you may need to dig trenches for the cables. Make sure they are at least 20cm down or else there is a risk they will become exposed and/or cut. If you have concerns about council restrictions or potential noise complaints, use directional speakers that are positioned to direct sound from the perimeter of the yard inwards. This way you stand to get the most volume while your neighbours get the least. For specific details of noise restrictions in your area contact your local council.

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