Rigging your outdoor area, no matter the size or shape, doesn’t have to be a burdensome chore. The key is to stay focused: what are the essentials, those core necessities? Start with those and build your utopia one step at a time, that’s our advice. We also advise calling or visiting Audio Video Charlotte to learn more about furnishing your exterior with the finest in all things audio and video. We can talk about the importance of always using direct burial wiring designed for outdoor use, which television works best outdoors, the use of outdoor lighting, like Lutron to improve the total project, and plenty more—all specified to the dimensions of your exterior plot.
Beginning the Process
Before looking at speakers and televisions, have a closer look at the area you want to convert. What is your situation? Do you need to make some landscaping adjustments first? Maybe move a few things around? If so, it’s a good idea to do this first. Once wires, sound, and pictures are in you do not want to have to undo everything.
The honest question may be, “Do I need to change the landscaping?” It’s hard to tell what the best look for your particular yard is. We suggest inviting us over for a look. Our professionals can give you an educated opinion on what would look best. As long as you find someone you trust, someone with a good eye for design, to give your area a once-over before you start making moves you will be in good shape to move on to the next stage.
Television Placement
Do you want the television to be the main focus of your exterior area, or would you rather it blend and be hidden? Might be a good idea to call that trendy friend back over, or give us a call as well to get a professional opinion for the layout and size of television best suited for your area.
We are professionals and are happy to help you in this area, but it is a good idea to make a trip and physically look at different sized televisions. Once you have a size in mind, picture the wall or section of your exterior it will sit and try to determine if it’s either too big or too small or just right. We suggest going with at least a 65-inch screen. This is a good size for movie nights, sporting events, televised concerts, you name it. Once you have an idea, you don’t have to commit. Since this is the biggest step—deciding on the size and placement of your new system—we will actually come out to your house for a free consultation before you buy anything.
Outdoor TVs Versus Indoor TVs
Once you know the size and placement of the television you would like, you need to make sure you get the right kind. What exactly is the difference between an outdoor and an indoor television? Can’t you just use an indoor television outside? We get these two questions a lot. The truth is, there is a big difference between the two types of TVs, and no, you do not want to spend the money on an indoor television to then place outdoors in the elements.
Here are a couple of reasons to spring for the televisions made specifically for outdoor use:
- They have special screens that can be seen in exterior light. Because natural, exterior light is much brighter than indoor light the screens to outdoor televisions have to be brighter and a bit stronger than those built for indoors. Do keep in mind, however, that no television should be positioned so the sun is directly facing it for long periods of time.
- All outdoor televisions are designed to withstand exterior elements. These TVs are waterproof and built to fight against pollen, as well as, extreme temperatures. (If you are looking to transform your exterior area this spring, you will quickly be reminded of the amounts of pollen in the Charlotte area.) With this in mind, it is still a good idea to weatherproof your outdoor television during those really hot and those really cold months of the year. You’ll be glad you went the extra step, as it will make your system last much longer.
To truly get your money’s worth, get what you need: a TV made specifically for the outdoors. With the right placement, and by caring for your television properly, you will be able to enjoy it year after year. Outdoor TVs have improved dramatically and come way down in price. While you are looking at brands, consider SunBrite and Samsung. Both manufacturers make affordable and high quality outdoor TVs.
*Tips: Stream your favorite television programs by using Apple TV. This is usually the way to go, as opposed to setting up bulky cable boxes. Another tip is to boost your outdoor WiFi. This is usually very helpful as you will be using it more, and only requires a quick call to your cable company.
Exterior Speakers
Adding an outdoor TV to your patio or deck or garage, etc., is a great way to elevate your outdoor entertainment areas, but you can’t stop there. What about getting that superior sound?!
Just like figuring the placement of your TV, there are things to consider with speakers. First, think about the size of your yard. Where do you want sound coming from—all over, or in certain areas? What are your favorite outdoor activities, will you need a speaker that can really crank up? You don’t want to have to rely on Bluetooth only, so how accessible are your outdoor electrical outlets? The answers to these questions should directly inspire your desired locations for placement and the types of speakers required.
The Setup
It’s much better to run wires and not think WiFi will fix everything. And, in addition to access to an electrical outlet, try and find a spot for speakers that remain shaded for most of the day. They don’t have to be shaded all day but look for those that don’t get too hot.
Once you have a general idea of where to put speakers—or, if you have no idea at all—it’s time to have the professionals come in and give you an expert opinion. (Did we mention we give FREE estimates?)
We also sell and install a wide variety of outdoor speakers, which we use depending on the location. These include mounted speakers to put on a porch, in-ceiling or in-wall speakers, rock-speakers to use in landscaped areas. We even subwoofers specially made for exterior use.
Which speakers do we recommend? Sonos are great additions for music delivery because their compact, high-performance speakers can be placed nearly anywhere in and around your home with ease. They receive signals through the air and deliver fantastic fidelity at lightning-fast speed. And best of all, you can control the wireless audio video system with simple and intuitive apps on your smartphone or iPad.
Our trained and experienced experts would be delighted to show you the benefits of Sonos, and they can also provide expert advice and installation of systems that bring, not only audio, but also a high-quality video to any area of your home without unsightly wires or complicated operation.
At Audio Video Charlotte, we design, install and service any and all kinds of home entertainment devices. From surround sound speakers to 4K Ultra HD smart TVs to universal remotes, we can deliver the home entertainment experience you’ve always wanted (maybe even the ones you didn’t know you wanted). The key to great exterior entertainment is designing a solution that fits your lifestyle and needs, which is why we offer no-obligation, free in-home consultations in the North and South Carolina areas. We’ll assess your space and offer recommendations for the best equipment and set up to meet your goals.
