Wireless Outdoor Speakers

Basically all indoor or outdoor wireless speaker systems consist of a speaker with an amplifier and RF reciever and an RF transmitter connected via an RCA plug usually to the hi-fi, ipod or whatever device you are using for your music. A good example of this is the acoustic research aw871 wireless speaker. Although not strictly an outdoor system they can still be used outdoors if protected from the weather. The Acoustic Research AW822 900 Mhz Outdoor Wireless Speaker is a much better example of a good system to buy from this company for outdoor use.

Indoor Outdoor Differences

The main difference between an indoor and outdoor system is one of waterproofing. Obviously outdoor wireless speakers have to be waterproof. There are many models on the market also that can be disguised in the garden like speakers shaped like outdoor rock speakers for example.

The Advent AW810 is one of the best outdoor speakers. It has 900 MHz wireless technology and can transmit signals up to 300 feet through walls.

Wireless Outdoor Speaker Problems

One of the main problems associated with wireless outdoor speaker systems is that a lot of them use the same 900 MHz RF as cordless telephones and other such devices. Many have complained of picking up interference on the speakers as a result. To counteract that, a lot of manufacturers have added the ability to tune the frequency slightly to avoid RF interference.

Depending on the layout of the garden stereo speakers might not be very effective and therefore a mono single solution can be used.

Wireless Outdoor Speaker Advantages

Obviously the main advantage of having a wireless system is that there are no wires to dig into the ground or worse, trip over! This also gives you the advantage of being able to place the speakers virtually anywhere you want in your back yard or garden. The modern design of some units also means they can belend into the garden really well and look like part of the lanscape.

Sound Comparison

Probably one of the biggest debates in the wired versus wireless speaker world is one of sound quality. Many people have very different opinions on this and a lot of people claim that they get worse quality from a wireless system compared to wired. They say the bass response in wireless is poor and also the sound can be tinny sounding.

Having said that, a lot of people say completely the opposite and have noticed absolutely no difference in sound quality. Proabably the truth is that in some areas RF interference is worse than others and probably contributes to the poorer sound quality. Also, a good wireless setup needs to ensure two things.

1. The input audio does not clip on the transmitter. Optimal sound is usually around 80% of the output volume of the sound device.
2. Correct tuning and placement of the outddor speaker is important especially when a wireless outdoor stereo system is used.

Conclusion

In the realms of home theater, a good wireless system can be a fantastic option for people who are looking for simplicity and flexibility in their garden or yard. The sound quality debate is probably here to stay but the differences in a good wireless outdoor speaker is minimal when setup correctly.