Level Up Your Outdoor Entertainment: Advanced Tips for Installing Outdoor A/V Systems

Introduction

You’ve laid the groundwork with basic outdoor speakers, but now it’s time to elevate your outdoor entertainment game by incorporating advanced audio and video (A/V) systems. From integrating subwoofers and outdoor TVs to ensuring professional wiring and cabling, these advanced tips will help you transform your outdoor space into a world-class entertainment venue.

Adding Subwoofers for Richer Bass

Most outdoor speakers deliver excellent mid-range and high-frequency audio, but they often lack the deep bass needed for a full sound experience. Here’s how to integrate subwoofers:

1. Weatherproof Subwoofers:
   • Designed to withstand outdoor conditions.
   • Example: Polk Audio Atrium Sub100, Klipsch PRO-10SW-LS.
2. In-Ground Subwoofers:
   • Discreetly hidden in the landscape.
   • Example: Sonance Landscape Series LS15SUB, Rockustics EconoRock Subwoofer.
3. Placement Tips:
   • Place subwoofers near walls or solid surfaces to enhance bass resonance.
   • Elevate them slightly off the ground for better sound dispersion.

Installing Outdoor TVs for Ultimate Viewing

Enhance your outdoor entertainment setup with weatherproof TVs:

1. Weatherproof TVs:
   • Built to withstand the elements while delivering excellent picture quality.
   • Example: SunBriteTV Veranda Series, Samsung The Terrace.
2. Mounting and Placement:
   • Place TVs in shaded areas to reduce glare.
   • Use weatherproof enclosures for added protection.
3. Connectivity:
   • Ensure strong Wi-Fi coverage or wired connections for streaming.
   • Pair with your outdoor sound system for a complete audio-visual experience.

Professional Wiring and Cabling

Achieving a clean, professional installation with reliable performance requires careful planning of wiring and cabling:

1. Direct Burial Cables:
   • For underground wiring, use cables rated for direct burial to withstand moisture and pests.
2. Conduit Piping:
   • Use conduit piping for neat and protected installations along walls and eaves.
3. Proper Routing:
   • Plan the cable routes to avoid physical damage and interference.
   • Secure cables with outdoor-rated cable ties and clips.
4. Power Supply:
   • Ensure you have GFCI-protected outdoor outlets nearby.
   • Use weatherproof outdoor extension cords if necessary.

Integrating Lighting and Sound

Combine lighting and sound for a fully immersive experience:

1. Outdoor Light Show Systems:
   • Sync lights with your music for a dynamic light show.
   • Example: Philips Hue Outdoor, Govee Outdoor String Lights.
2. Speaker-Lighting Combos:
   • Integrated speaker-light systems save space and offer synchronized audio-visual effects.
   • Example: Coastal Source Bollard Lights, Sonance Patio Series.

Smart Home Integration

Make your outdoor A/V system an extension of your smart home:

1. Voice Assistants:
   • Integrate Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free control.
   • Example: Sonos One, Bose Portable Home Speaker.
2. Automation:
   • Schedule music and lighting changes based on time of day or events.
   • Example: Savant Pro, Control4 Smart Home OS 3.

Advanced Amplification and Equalization

Get the most out of your A/V system with the right amplification and equalization:

1. Amplifiers:
   • Use a high-quality amplifier to power your outdoor speakers and subwoofers.
   • Example: NAD CI 8-120 DSP, Russound MCA-66.
2. Equalizers:
   • Fine-tune audio settings for optimal sound quality.
   • Example: Behringer FBQ6200HD, DBX 2231.

Conclusion

Taking your outdoor entertainment to the next level involves more than just adding more speakers or a TV. By integrating subwoofers, outdoor TVs, advanced amplifiers, equalizers, and creating immersive audio-visual experiences with professional wiring and cabling, you can turn your outdoor space into the ultimate entertainment hub.