Audio in the Great Outdoors

[csuzor]

With the summer coming for most of us (for those downunder it's sunny all year!), it's time to think about playing the music outside.

I setup 2 good speakers outside close to a wall, in a courtyard with concrete tiles, and I was surprised how good the system sounds. I have no special audio reflectors or absobers inside, so I imagine there is a lot of reflected sound. Outside, no reflections from anywhere (except the wall behind the speakers), and what I hear is a clear soundstage, instruments can be located more easily... it all sounds more natural, less like a music hall or studio. Turning up the volume does not create fatigue.

What are your impressions when listening to music outdoors?

Christophe

[David Meek]

When I'm outside I like to hear the outdoors, so unless I'm at an outdoor concert or puttering around the yard (in headphones), I don't listen to music. Guess I'm a contrarian. . . .

[aphexist]

I am planning on doing something similar. My courtyard has become a popular place for my friends and I to hang out, drink, and smoke. Sometimes it is nice to have the quiet of the night so you can hear the wind blow and the stars whisper, but other times you want some background music.

I am having a crawfish boil next weekend, and rather than crank up the system inside so I can hear it outside, I am going to pick up some of those speakers that look like rocks and hook them up to "Zone 2." Party.

love,

Trey