Whole House Audio

If you like the thought of having music at your fingertips, without equipping each room with the clutter of a separate stereo system, consider a whole house audio system. It is the finishing touch to your home, providing relaxation and entertainment. Whole-house audio systems let you listen to music throughout your home and even outside through the use of touch pads or volume controls in inconspicuous locations. Speakers can be concealed or placed in walls and ceilings or outdoors to create an extraordinary effect. These systems come in a variety of configurations, however, they are all categorized into 2 types:

• Single-Source
  This type of system plays the same music in all rooms. There is 1 amplifier that is sending music to all rooms, so, whatever source is selected on the amplifier is what is heard in each room, hence the term 'single-source'.
• Multi-Source
  This type of system has the ability to play different music in each room. There is 1 amplifier for each source, so each room can select to hear any of the sources, hence the term 'multi-source'.

Configurations
There are numerous ways to accomplish whole-house audio. Some use all your existing components, while others use their own components. Functionality in each room can range from none, to volume only, to complete control of next track, next CD, play, stop, source selection, radio station selection, etc.

Which one do I need?
The type of system you choose will depend on your lifestyle and how you intend to listen to music. Aesthetics may be important, so you may choose a system just because the user controls fit best with your decor. Many times it simply comes down to budget. If there are only 2 people living in the house then ask yourself if you ever want to listen to different music. Decide in which rooms you want to have music. If the rooms are all close to each other and sound easily travels from one room to the other, such as with a kitchen, family room, dining room and living room, then a single-source system is probably well suited. However, if you wish to have music on your patio, basement, garage and master bedroom, then maybe you would prefer a multi-source system. This system is also an ideal choice for families with a number of different music preferences. A multi source system will also, when integrated with an automation controller, allow for audio messaging and response of home status conditions and voice recognition control.