Outdoor Wireless Speaker

If you like to entertain or relax on your deck, poolside, or elsewhere, then you may be interested in an outdoor wireless speaker. Many outdoor models are wired which means that they can be a bit labor intensive to install, requiring a trench in which to bury the necessary wires. Wireless systems however install within minutes. The speakers are highly portable and can resist moisture from high humidity, splashing, and even rain.

These devices transmit signals via radio frequency (RF) or infrared, although there are a few models that use Bluetooth. RF will pass through objects such as walls or doorways but can experience interference from other cordless devices so those that allow you to shift the frequency can have an advantage. Infrared is another option but works best when there are few obstacles.

While outdoor wireless speakers are built to be weather resistant, bringing them indoors or keeping them sheltered from heavy rain and so forth will certainly extend their life.

These systems generally uses a wireless transmitter placed near the sound source. These are very small devices. Some include a dock for MP3 players and so forth, while others are designed to sit in proximity to your stereo or TV. The receiver is then located outdoors, this is your speaker. Getting the signal is as simple as tuning the receiver to the same frequency as the transmitter.

There are a few things to consider to get thwhen shopping for an outdoor wireless speaker :

Your Budget
The prices on outdoor wireless speakers covers a wide range. While some are quite affordable at under $100, others may cost upwards of $800. Certainly sound quality and range will increase along with the price.

Operating Range
The operating distance between the sound source/transmitter and the receiver/speaker varies as well; from 50 feet to over 300 feet. Of course the number of obstacles and the materials used in the construction of your home can influence this range as well.

Certainly a device with 100 watt power will tend to have a significantly greater range and more volume capability, than one with 15 watts. It would also use more power.

Sound Quality
In general, stereo sound will be preferrable to mono. Just as with any sound system, you can get a general idea about the audio capabilities of these wireless models by considering the size of the woofer and tweeter. As an example, while a good one might offer a 5" woofer and 1" tweeter, a better one might provide an 8" woofer and 3" tweeter.

Control
Clearly if you're outside on the deck, it would be ideal to be able to control your music volume and so forth without having to go inside to the sound source. Many outdoor wireless speakers have controls on the speaker itself. Others also have a wiress remote control that provides additional convenience.

Power
In general, these devices are battery powered. However, some offer the ability to also use AC power and there are even a few models that function with solar power. The most long term cost efficient solution for battery powered devices are built in rechargeable battery packs. These may cost more upfront however.

Other
If you'll be using an MP3 player as your sound source, having a docking station transmitter can be important.

If you want to assure the best reception and reduce the chance of interference with other wireless devices, microwave ovens and so forth, then an RF system can best be served when the speaker alllows you to adjust the frequency/channels.

Introduction photo by McClurg Team at www.McClurgTeam.com.