Compare your needs versus what your current equipment or setup provides.
How Many Rooms (or Zones) in the System?
The first thing you should consider is how many rooms or zones to include in the whole home system.
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Keep in mind:
You’ll also want to take a look at the connections you have available.
A simple two-room system can be installedusing the Speaker B switchon your receiver.
Many AVreceivers have multi-zone featuresthat can support extra sets of speakers and sources.
If your receiver doesn’t have enough connections, you could consider using a price-friendlyspeaker selector switch.
Also to keep in mind:
How Many Sources?
The number of audio sources is also a key question to answer.
Do you want to listen to the same source in all zones?
Or would you prefer the option to simultaneously stream different sources to separate zones?
How many sources you need is all up to you.
A Wired or Wireless System?
Wireless multi-room music systems are quickly catching up to wired systems in terms of sound quality and control.
One of the primary benefits of using wireless speakers and/or equipment is flexibility.
There are a lot of wireless speakers available, and newer models are always being released.
And modern universal remotes are designed to offer full control over any IR-enabled rig.
Do You Have a Computer data pipe Already Installed?
Either way, this aspect is something to consider.
This can be a powerful and flexible way to connect audio, except for one potential setback.
A CAT-5 web link can’t be used for computer networking and audioat the same time.
To do that, entirely separate networks would be required, which can be a costly deal-breaker for some.
In-Wall, Bookshelf, or Floor-Standing Speakers?
Not everyone is interested in a monolithic eyesore that disrupts the flow of living spaces.
Size, style, and location matters, especially since those aspects go hand-in-hand with output.
Keep in mind:
Ready for DIY or Do You Need a Contractor?
Some tasks, such as speaker placement and running wires between separate rooms, can be done by homeowners.
If you’re doing it yourself, don’t be afraid totest and repositionas you go along.
Some companies, like James Loudspeaker, are experts in custom-designing audio hardware to fit specific needs.
