Distributed Audio
Retail & Restaurants: Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Distributed Audio?

Music plays a central role in creating the ambiance of your restaurant or retail space. A distributed audio installation typically consists of installing speakers on the walls and ceiling, with the ability for you to quickly, and easily select what audio you want to hear, at the desired volume.

Multi Channel Vs Multi Zone Audio 

All distributed audio systems will include wither a multi channel, or multi zone amplifier. A multi-channel amplifier will reproduce the same audio source distributed at the same volume over multiple speakers. When you turn up the volume, the volume is increased on each speaker equally. This is prefect for smaller, single room restaurants or retail spaces.

A multi-zone system will give you independent control over groups of speakers in different locations. For example, a restaurant may want to have the volume of music in its lounge area to be different than in the dining area. This would require a multi-zone audio system.

Controlling Your Distributed Audio System

There are several ways to control your distributed audio system, and we work with clients to determine the best way for their specific use case. For smaller locations, many people find it easiest to control through the smartphone app. We can also install wall switches to make changing audio sources a breeze. 

For medium-large stores or restaurants, we typically wall mount an iPad or other tablet for easy control of the audio system.

How Many Speakers Do I Need?

Ultimately this will depend on factors like your ceiling height, whether you want audio to be the primary focus (like a nightclub) or if it's background music like in a retail space, and your room layout and decor. That being said, for standard commercial layouts, a good rule of thumb is if you have 10 ft. ceilings, each speaker will cover about 400 sq ft.

More Questions? Contact Us For Help

After decades of distributed audio installations in homes, restaurants, stores, and offices, our trained & certified installers have seen it all. Contact us for help determining what type of distributed audio system will work for you, and we will be happy to help.