Technology moves fast these days. Phones keep getting smaller and smaller, TVs are getting thinner and thinner, and who knows what computers will be able to do in a few more years, if they haven’t taken over the world by then. And if all you want to do is come home and relax and listen to some music, well, even speakers are continually getting upgraded.
And as technology continues to move fast, it can be hard to keep up with the latest trends, gadgets, gizmos, and thingamabobs. There’s only so much time in a day, and Netflix keeps putting out new shows, the laundry still needs to be done, and the kids’ clothes folded and put away … you get the idea.
Well, fear not. If you’ve always wondered about those fancy wireless speakers you keep hearing about, but haven’t found a free second until now to send such an inquiry into the depths of the internet, fear not. We have put together a beginner’s guide to wireless speakers and how they work. You’re welcome.
Can you read me now? Good. Let’s talk wireless.
Cutting the Cord
Much like traditional, wired speakers, wireless home theater speaker systems come in a wide variety of sizes, speaker configurations, and options. But, instead of having wires connecting all of the speakers together, the speakers communicate wirelessly. Many of them actually use the same frequency range as cordless telephones, so that gives you a general idea of what you are working with.
Of course, as with life, liberty, and libations, there’s always a trade-off. Wireless speakers tend to not have the same sound quality as their wired counterparts, though more people probably won’t be able to tell the difference. They also allow you space to move freely so you avoid acting like you are walking around one of those spy rooms with red laser sightlines all over it.
Wireless surround sound systems can come in both 5.1 speaker configurations – with five speakers and a subwoofer – or 7.1 configurations – with seven speakers and one subwoofer – giving you options to pick from depending on how many speakers you want. And if you don’t know which set up matches your lifestyle best, stop by and one of our sales associates will be glad to help you out. And unlike your friends with wired speakers, you won’t have to worry about making sure the cords on the rear speakers are long enough for ideal placement!
Blue in the Tooth
Home theater speakers aren’t the only ones going wireless, either. Bluetooth speakers are popping up all over the place, and these can go everywhere from your pocket, the bathroom, and even tied to your bicycle handlebars. These pint-sized portable speakers use Bluetooth – another type of wireless communication technology – to connect to other devices, such as your cell phone.
Rechargeable batteries also mean that you don’t have to worry about being tied down by wall outlets or other sources of power: You could easily take such speakers out camping, hiking, or even use them pool side for some sonic swimming action.
Now that you know what wireless speakers are and how they work, you can start deciding how best to upgrade your own speaker system. Stop in and we’ll be able to help you find whatever wireless – or wired – speakers will be best to really revitalize your home audio setup.