DIY Audio Distribution

Typical DIY audio distribution can involve using two receiver channels to power speaker pairs in other rooms.

Do-it-yourself audio distribution does not need to be intimidating. The effort can be well worth it when you can listen to music in all of the areas of your home, such as while cooking in the kitchen, working in the den, dancing in the living room, and even out on the deck or backyard for a barbecue. Start by choosing the best kind of setup for your needs. The effects of DIY audio distribution can be enjoyed for years to come. Whole-house audio distribution can increase your home's value, while enhancing your livability and lifestyle as well.

Instructions

1. Set up multi-room capability. Try to run the wire from a receiver so that the volume knob will control the speaker volume. Use a home theater receiver that has an assignable or powered second zone. For example, some receivers may have three or more zone controls to choose from. A powered second zone from a home theater receiver can make it possible to have an additional pair of speakers to use simultaneously. This can be accomplished with a separate source. Thus, while watching movies in the living room on the surround sound channel, the second zone could have a CD playing in the kitchen.

2. Use an impedance matching speaker selector to have amplified sounds in multiple rooms from one stereo receiver. The speaker selector distributes the power signal from a two-channel (stereo) amp or receiver, and sends it to multiple speaker pairs. The amp or receiver "believes" that it is powering only one pair of speakers, which protects it from damage. In actuality, the impedance matching mechanism makes it possible for the two speaker pairs to work. The speaker selector setup may work well for whole-house and outdoor background music.

3. Install a distribution amplifier for better quality sound and higher volume. This can be particularly beneficial for entertaining. The distribution amplifier is similar to a speaker selector device since it allows for multiple pairs of speaker. The sound quality is improved with the added amplifier.

   Think about how the distribution amplifier will be used to determine which type to purchase. For example, those with higher range will cost considerably more -- up to thousands of dollars. An average device with minimal channels and power output may only cost a few hundred dollars. If one volume control will suffice, you may be able to use a less expensive distribution amplifier. You may need to invest in a system that offers more at a higher price, if volume controls are required in every location.

Tips & Warnings

• Before drilling holes for a wire, draw out a diagram and measure the distance from receiver to speakers.

• Allow for extra wire so that there is an ample supply. This is more beneficial than running short at installation time.

• Buy the wire in bulk to save on cost.

• Before you begin, ensure that your home's electrical scheme is up to governmental code guidelines.

• Use the highest quality 12-gauge wire, CAT-5 or CAT-6 cable, that is durable and rated for safe in-wall usage.

• The speaker selector audio quality and volume may suffer when using the impedance matching speaker selector. This is due to power distribution between more than one speaker pair.

References

• NXG Technology: NX-SSVC6 6-Zone Automatic Impedance Matching Speaker Selector with Volume Controls
• Aperion Audio: Whole House Distributed Audio