Installing & Planning for Whole Home Audio
Wiring a new home for audio has changed since the old days of keypads and on-wall volume controls. For modern systems with app control, wiring is straightforward–use a high strand count 14-2 speaker wire with one cable going to each speaker location. Ideally all of the speaker wire will come back to one location - like a utility closet, AV rack, or entertainment console where the amplification will be located.
For individual systems such as living room speakers or home theaters there are ways to tie them to the whole home system even when wired to a separate location. Some systems allow for wireless soundbars to be integrated into the system as well as allowing audio from the TV to be shared wherever you’d like it in your home.
Sonos whole home audio system with Luxul networking gear
Ecosystem Choice
The choice of ecosystem depends on usage, preferred streaming services, and devices that you would like to use with the system. Below is a table with totally subjective personal experience with the different ecosystems:
Note: If you have a majority of Apple devices, an Airplay or an Airplay compatible system is likely the best choice. This will utilize the audio/video sharing service natively on all iOS devices.
Sound Quality- The quality or bitrate of the audio and supported audio formats
App Usability- The ability of the system to seamlessly control multiple zones without error
Connectivity- The ability to work with multiple streaming services while maintaining control throughout your house.
Versatility/Expansion-The ability to add new speakers and zones in different methods (AV receivers, soundbars, standalone speakers, etc.)
Hardware-The products that are available that natively support the system.
Updating Whole Home Audio Systems
If an older style of whole home audio system is currently installed there may be options to upgrade to a newer app based system. If the legacy system has all the speaker wire going to a centralized location all modern options are available. If the old distributed audio system instead has Cat5e/Cat6 networking wire running to keypads throughout the house the options to upgrade are much more restrictive.
Expandability and Options
Many of these systems allow endless expandability in different ways. Standalone speakers, battery powered speakers, soundbars, and AV receivers can all be added to create additional “zones” of audio.
Keep in mind that all “wireless” solutions will require outlets at the location of the standalone speakers as well as a consistent internet connection throughout the house.
Additional Thoughts
Something to consider when choosing where to locate your amplifiers for the whole home system is airflow and cooling ability. Amplifiers produce quite a bit of heat, especially when powering many zones. Many systems utilize AV racks that allow for airflow and additional fan placement to help maintain safe temperatures. If an entertainment console with poor airflow is being used it would be wise to add cooling components to exhaust the excess heat.
A fast and consistent internet connection is integral for a whole home audio system. When possible hardwiring devices is the best choice. It is extremely important to have consistent Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home for flawless control of your speakers with your smartphone or tablet.
For more information or to schedule an in-person consultation please visit here.
