While the convenience of portable Bluetooth speakers for outdoor audio is great, it’s hardly a solution for luxury entertainment or delivering the absolute best sound to guests.
Those who want a more permanent—and higher-quality—outdoor audio solution for a backyard, patio, or outdoor lounge won’t find it through the local mainstream audio consumer store or with a mini Bluetooth speaker. Whether hanging out around the fire pit on a chilly spring evening or having a midsummer mega pool party, having a fitting soundtrack to suit the vibe is a must. While those portable waterproof Bluetooth speakers can work well in a pinch for smaller gatherings at a cabin or campsite, installing a high-quality outdoor loudspeaker system on your rooftop deck or outdoor lounge is your best bet for delivering unbeatable sound.
So, what should you look for when considering an outdoor audio investment?
There’s only one way to put on an outdoor event that feels like a concert: with a concert-grade sound system used by the pros. Today, the premium live sound industry turns to one manufacturer for half of the world’s top 20 music festivals: L-Acoustics. And the best part about using the same audio systems found in world-renowned touring artists and DJ’s arsenals is that these sound systems deliver uncompromising quality designed to stand up to the elements. They’re IP-rated for weather protection, which is necessary for those major music festivals held in deserts, the mountains, or even on cruise ships.
IP ratings, defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) under the international standard IEC 60529, is a rating that classifies and provides a guideline for the degree of protection mechanical casings and electrical enclosures provide against intrusion, dust, accidental contact, and water. IP ratings usually have two numbers, with the second number sometimes followed by a supplemental letter for specification. The first represents the level of protection from solid materials such as dust, and the second represents the level of protection from liquids. The first digit of an IP rating number in the sequence represents the object’s protection against solids, with a ‘0’ offering no protection and a ‘6’ offering the most protection. The second digit represents the level of protection against liquids, with a ‘0’ offering no protection and a ‘9K’ offering the most protection.
Outdoor elements present audio challenges because harsh atmospheric conditions can impact loudspeaker performance and durability. With L-Acoustics’ 30-plus year proven track record for delivering premium products with lasting performance in permanent outdoor installations and the rigors of international touring and festivals provides confidence. L-Acoustics offers an elevated level of weather resistance on installation loudspeakers, which meet US military environmental standards, including variations in temperature and extreme humidity. Our loudspeakers offer optimal performance in temperatures ranging from -5°C/23°F to 50°C/122°F, with humidity of up to 95% HR.
The L-Acoustics Creations Archipel range offers various packaged systems that withstand outdoor elements. The best part? They’re the same loudspeakers used in major EDM festivals around the globe, such as Tomorrowland, EDC, Creamfields, and more.
Powered, pro sound systems come in various sizes to support different needs and outdoor spaces, and it’s essential to consider what works for you. A high-rise penthouse rooftop might require something with a smaller footprint than an expansive acreage yard in the countryside. Music lovers can turn to the thought-out packaged Tonga 2.1 for a powerful sound system that visually impresses. The ten components of Tonga—two Syva, two Syva Low, four Syva subs, and two LA4X amplifiers—join forces to form a high-performance pro audio system never before available for residential installations. Used in high fashion events worldwide, Syva is touted as the sleekest pro audio loudspeaker on the market and is certainly aesthetically well-suited for enjoying music with friends. Tonga also impresses with its presence and technical prowess in power, throw, and wide coverage at a high SPL. The system is a standard at exclusive members-only clubs, concert halls, and music venues featuring every genre, from classical to EDM. Whether listening to music poolside or on a deck with a view, Tonga is the ultimate sound system for entertaining outside.
For the more compact route, Fiji 2.1 is a potent sound system ideally suited for a smaller outdoor space. With Fiji 2.1, you can experience the realism of a live concert: sound pressure and powerful dynamics delivered with the accuracy of a dual concentric sound source that acts as a point source. The components of Fiji 2.1 are typically deployed by audio professionals for upscale hospitality venues, making it the ideal choice for a high-end outdoor audio experience. Fiji include LA2Xi, X4i, and two SB10i.
Go big or go home. The Ibiza 2.0 sound system comprises the prominent Kara loudspeaker stacks on the stages of the hottest nightclubs and major EDM festivals. The distinctive K-shaped silhouette of Kara is clearly visible across Instagram as the monitor setup for headline talent on those festival mainstages. Ibiza 2.0 comprises six Kara II loudspeakers and four SB18 compact subs, with over 24,000 W providing up to 142 dB of SPL. Clarity and performance have made Kara a perpetual best-seller and top-of-rider favorite for live events.
If you want your outdoor audio to mirror what’s heard at Coachella, Lollapalooza, Reading & Leeds, and other major festivals, Ibiza 2.0 is precisely what you need to impress your guests and make lasting memories. You all deserve that extra thump to fuel the energy from sunset to dawn.
Overall, investing in the best audio for outdoor use can ensure that your listening experience is as enjoyable and immersive as possible. Considering factors such as weather rating, sound quality, sound dispersion, and size, you can find the ideal outdoor audio equipment that suits your needs and will last for many years.
by L-Acoustics Creations
Published 24 January 2023