By Joe Whitaker, VP Business Development Origin Acoustics, Connected Design Contributor
As the temperatures rise and the sun brings its hottest months to the world, the promise of an exhilarating summer beckons us. While many associate summer with outdoor adventures, let us not overlook the incredible potential of transforming our indoor spaces into audio safe-havens. As we prepare for those unbearable days, let’s look at the art of indoor audio and dive into the exciting possibilities it offers for embracing and beating the summer beat.
Summer is a season pulsating with energy and vibrancy, and our indoor spaces can reflect that spirit through the magic of audio. Imagine stepping into your living room, where an immersive soundscape transports you to a tropical paradise. The rich melodies of reggae serenade your ears, while the rhythmic beats of samba urge your body to sway. With the right audio setup, you can transform any room into a hub of summer vibes.
Let Wireless Audio Work for You
One of the greatest gifts that technology has bestowed upon us is wireless audio. Gone are the days of tangled cords and limited mobility. Now, with the click of a button, you can seamlessly connect your devices to a world of sound.
Bluetooth speakers and wireless headphones liberate us from the confines of wires, allowing us to groove to our favorite tunes wherever we please. Whether you’re hosting a summer soiree or enjoying a lazy afternoon, wireless audio grants you the freedom to carry your summer soundtrack with you. Brands to keep in mind in this journey include Sonos, BlueSound, and Yamaha. For those that don’t want the clutter that comes with Wireless Speakers, (yes while you ditch some cords you clutter countertops!) find a CEDIA Integrator and go with architectural audio.
In-ceiling and in-wall speaker technologies continue to advance, bringing audio clarity and power efficiency that is often only found in large floor-standing speakers. Look to companies like Origin Acoustics, B&O, Bowers and Wilkins, and Monitor Audio for some of the most amazing sounding speakers that blend in with your environment. They also don’t take up the counter space you will need to set your margarita or pina colada.
No summer audio experience is complete without a carefully curated playlist. The power of music lies in its ability to transport us to different places and evoke memories. Craft a playlist that embodies the essence of summer, from the carefree tunes of beachside melodies to the invigorating beats of electronic music festivals. Consider including songs from diverse genres to cater to every mood and occasion. Let music guide your indoor summer adventure. Always keep in mind, music is entirely subjective to personal preference. If you are hosting a gathering, make sure not to forget your guest’s taste.
Smart Technology Is Opening Doors
The evolution of smart technology has revolutionized the way we interact with our indoor audio systems. From voice-controlled speakers to AI-powered soundbars, the possibilities are endless. Imagine walking into your living room and commanding the audio system to set the mood with a simple voice command. Smart technology allows us to synchronize our audio devices and control them remotely. They even adapt to our preferences. Embrace the convenience and innovation of smart audio to elevate your summer experiences. While brands like Amazon Alexa and Google command the most attention by sheer marketing budgets, let’s not forget the most secure and discreet brand for voice control and artificial intelligence. Josh AI blends voice, security, and AI into a small discreet form factor with seamless control and flexibility.
Audio and lighting go hand in hand when creating an immersive summer ambiance. Consider incorporating ambient lighting solutions to complement your indoor audio setup. LED strips (linear lighting), color-changing bulbs, or smart lighting systems can bathe your space in a vibrant spectrum of hues that synchronize with your music. Picture the room awash in a soothing blue during a mellow summer evening or pulsating with energetic reds and oranges during a lively gathering. Lighting can amplify the audio experience and enhance the summer atmosphere. Linear lighting can be used nearly anywhere. Under cabinet, at-toe kicks, accenting crown molding and even flushed recessing into wood and drywall are all possibilities with LED linear lighting. Look for brands like Phillips HUE, Lighting Leaf, and others if you want your summer to be lit.
Make the Most of Summer from the Comfort of Your Couch
While the thrill of attending live concerts and festivals is unparalleled, indoor audio allows us to experience the magic of virtual events. As technology advances, virtual concerts and music festivals are becoming increasingly immersive, bringing the summer stage right into our homes. With a robust audio system, you can feel the bass reverberate through your soul, transporting you to the front row of a live performance. Embrace this innovative trend to expand your summer horizons. This year you will find many concerts and comedic shows on streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. This experience is very high on my list of “living room experiences” I am planning to enjoy during some of summer’s hottest days. From Old Bob Marley concerts to Zac Brown Band live recordings, I am already setting the stage at my own home.
Indoor audio has the power to ignite our summer spirit and create unforgettable experiences. Through wireless technology, architectural audio, curated playlists, smart devices, and ambient lighting, we can transform our indoor spaces into summer hotspots. So, as the summer sun shines brightly, let us embrace the thrill of indoor audio and dance to the beat of an unforgettable season. Stay Cool my friends!
