Music is a great way to liven up your space and turn visitors into repeat customers, but setting up audio equipment isn't everyone's strength. If cable management and sound coverage aren't in your vocabulary, don't fret: Our guide to picking a commercial audio system will help you orchestrate the right speaker system for your business.

Wired vs. wireless commercial sound systems

Choosing between a wired and wireless sound system is the first step in setting up audio in your business.

Wired sound systems:

• Installation: More complex, requires cables

• Sound Quality: More stable, higher fidelity

• Scalability: Harder to expand

• Cost: Lower up front

Wireless sound systems:

• Installation: Less complex, minimal wiring

• Sound Quality: Can suffer from interference

• Scalability: Easy to add more speakers

• Cost: Higher up front

Wired sound systems provide superior sound control and reliability in a commercial setting. They don't rely on a Wi-Fi connection, which ensures uninterrupted music playback. Smaller businesses with simple setups may find a wired system much easier and more affordable to install. However, cables can be an eyesore and a tripping hazard if you don't properly manage them. Expanding a wired system beyond a small handful of speakers also requires careful planning, and shifting your setup around can be difficult.

On the other hand, wireless audio systems use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to transmit sound throughout your business, which eliminates the need for drilling and cable management. Wireless speakers offer a sleek, clutter-free look that reduces tripping hazards and simplifies playback control. Wireless audio systems are ideal for multi-room commercial setups but tend to be more expensive. They also limit manual sound adjustments, although most users find the default settings sufficient for their needs.

Wireless speakers generally work through one of two connection types: Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Most businesses use Wi-Fi-enabled speakers, but smaller businesses may prefer Bluetooth. Bluetooth speakers work best in short-range use when connecting a single device (phone, tablet or computer) to a single speaker. However, Bluetooth speakers are prone to interference and often require frequent re-pairing if the conditions aren't perfect.

Wi-Fi speakers work over longer distances and can connect an entire system's worth of speakers on the same network. Wi-Fi-enabled speakers deliver higher sound quality because they don't compress audio the way Bluetooth speakers do. After setup, they play automatically after power outages, so there's no need for re-pairing. While rare, interference may cause brief silences but typically doesn't necessitate manual reconnection between the speakers and the audio source.

Ultimately, wireless audio systems are best suited for flexible, modern installations, while wired commercial setups are more budget-friendly and reliable. If your business already has a wired sound system, consult a sound contractor before deciding to replace it, as upgrading it may be unnecessary.

What to consider when choosing a commercial audio system

Music can transform an everyday moment into an unforgettable encounter, but there's plenty to think about in order to achieve this in a commercial setting. Designing the perfect music experience for your customers requires the right commercial audio system, and this depends on a number of factors. Here are a few of the most important.

How spacious is your business?

• Small spaces like cafés or boutiques: Compact Bluetooth- or Wi-Fi-enabled speakers are often sufficient to fill the space.

• Large spaces like restaurants, gyms or offices: A multi-speaker system (either wired or wireless) ensures even sound coverage.

• Outdoor spaces: A weather-resistant outdoor speaker system is a must.

How will your business use music?

• Background music: Use low- to mid-range volume with clear audio. Multiple ceiling-mounted speakers at a lower volume creates a balanced sound.

• Announcements or live events: Your commercial audio system should have high power output and microphone compatibility.

• High-energy environments like bars and gyms: Invest in powerful amplifiers and subwoofers for deep bass.

How many areas of your business need music?

• Keep everything in sync: Spaces within earshot should play the same music in sync to avoid clashing sounds. Consider bass-heavy music over treble-focused songs for environments where you want to encourage conversation.

• Vary the music when you can: Areas of your business that are insulated from the sound of busier rooms (think washrooms or outdoor seating) give you the chance to set a different tone. Install speakers that are appropriate for the size of the room so your guests aren't overwhelmed while washing their hands.

How can your business comply with local copyright laws?

• Use a licensed commercial music service: Consumer platforms like Spotify and Apple Music lack public performance licenses for business use.

• Avoid legal risks: Using a personal streaming service on a commercial audio system violates these services' terms of service and copyright laws, which exposes your business to potential fines and lawsuits.

• Be safe with Soundtrack: Soundtrack is the leader in background music, with a catalog of over 100+ million licensed songs.

What costs are involved with a commercial audio system?

• Hardware: The speakers themselves are a major expense, especially for large spaces. Speakers can be wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted or simply placed out of reach. Other equipment such as amplifiers can also contribute a significant amount to the final total.

• Installation: Powered speakers need both audio hookup and electrical wiring, which requires compliance with local electrical codes. Costs will increase if your business outsources the installation process.

• Music: This is an ongoing expense, but the cost depends on the country your business is in. Businesses need to pay for the music streaming service itself, of course, but most services in most countries also require that you get a license to play that music publicly.

• Acoustic treatment: Acoustic panels improve sound quality by reducing echoes and reflections off of hard surfaces. Some of the more reputable acoustic treatment providers include Acoustic Geometry, Auralex, GIK Acoustics and Primacoustic.

How to install your commercial sound system

There are three basic steps to setting up the audio system in your business: choosing, placing and installing your gear. Here, the steps at a glance:

Step 1: Choose your equipment

• Speakers (ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted or portable)

• Amplifiers (if necessary for a wired setup)

• Mixer or receiver (to control volume and inputs)

• Music streaming service with an optional player (for legal music playback)

Step 2: Place your speakers

• Position the speakers evenly throughout your business to prevent volume drop-off.

• Be sure the speakers are at ear level or slightly above.

• Avoid placing speakers too close to walls, to prevent echoing.

• Test the sound coverage before the final installation.

• Create separate groups of speakers for rooms that require different music (e.g., dining area, bar, kitchen).

Step 3: Install your devices

• For wired setups, hide cables or use conduit covers.

• For wireless systems, ensure there's strong Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.

• Connect to a licensed music streaming service.

The best wireless commercial audio systems

Wireless speakers have come a long way in recent years. What was once a low-quality novelty has turned into the backbone of home theaters and stereos in living rooms all around the world. Some wireless speaker brands, like Sonos, have become staples for home use — but, under the right conditions, they can also work for a commercial audio system.

If you're looking for a flexible alternative to a wired audio system in a commercial setting, then check out some of these wireless options.

Audio Pro

Audio Pro makes a range of four commercial audio systems, with as many as 80 SP-3 wireless speakers in the X-Large version. The smallest Audio Pro system has four SP-3 speakers, one SUB-3 wireless subwoofer, one TX-1 transmitter and a VOL-1 handheld remote control.

Audio Pro SP-3 speakers look like track lights for a reason: They draw their power from an existing track light setup. Audio Pro speakers use different wireless frequencies than Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and claim twice the range as a result.

Bluesound

Bluesound builds consumer-grade wireless multi-room speaker systems for home TVs and stereos, making them one of the foremost competitors to Sonos. Their robust multi-room system with easy setup also makes Bluesound a viable option for a commercial audio system.

All operated using an intuitive remote control app, Bluesound speakers come in four different sizes; can also be controlled by voice command; and are capable of streaming high-resolution 24-bit audio.

Denon

Denon has long been a leader in consumer audio systems, which makes their wireless speakers an attractive choice for commercial audio.

Denon's wireless speakers and subwoofers use the company's HEOS technology to build a multi-room speaker network, all controlled easily by the HEOS app. Wireless speakers can connect to your music via either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Ecler

Barcelona-based Ecler builds audio systems specifically for commercial settings. While much of their lineup uses a wired connection, Ecler's WiSpeak-enabled speakers use a wireless connection to make the setup process much simpler.

The WiSpeak system uses an Ecler CORE transmitter that sends wireless audio signals to its TUBE, CUBE and GLOBE speakers, which you can attach anywhere on compatible track light rails, walls or desktops. The Ecler CORE transmits individual configuration commands to each speaker, resulting in maximum control across your space.

WiiM

One of the more affordable audio manufacturers on the market, WiiM boasts an all-wireless lineup of amplifiers, speakers and subwoofers that work together perfectly as a commercial audio system. WiiM's products stream high-resolution audio with seamless multi-room capabilities, ensuring ideal sound coverage throughout your business.

With user-friendly interfaces and compatibility with smart devices, WiiM speakers are a convenient and flexible option for a variety of business types. WiiM devices also work with the most common voice assistants, like Alexa and Siri, so you can manage the music with minimal effort.

The best wired commercial audio systems

For some businesses, relying on a wireless commercial audio system isn't the best choice. A wired setup is beneficial for a number of reasons, including connection reliability and high-quality uncompressed audio. Unreliable Wi-Fi, oddly shaped spaces or thick walls are just a few factors that could make wired speakers the smarter choice.

If you're looking for a dependable commercial audio experience and aren't afraid to install some wires, then take a look at some of these great systems.

Rockville

Rockville offers budget-friendly, high-performance audio equipment ideal for a small- or mid-sized business.

Their line of professional audio products includes complete commercial audio system bundles. Known for easy setup and value-packed hardware, Rockville is a reliable choice for a wide variety of smaller business spaces.

JBL

JBL creates versatile audio system solutions tailored to the needs of commercial spaces. Known for their rich and dynamic audio, JBL's durable systems make background music shine.

Their wide range of amplifiers, loudspeakers, subwoofers and networked audio hardware can be customized for any environment, whether indoors or outdoors. JBL also offers scalable solutions for multi-room setups, with simple integration into existing systems and consistent performance at any volume.

Yamaha

Yamaha is known for delivering professional-grade sound systems with exceptional clarity and control. Their vast product range includes amplifiers, mixers, processors and speakers, all engineered for maximum reliability in demanding environments.

Yamaha's audio systems are ideal for venues where performance and ease of use are high-priority concerns. Their audio systems scale well for commercial spaces ranging from small cafés to expansive conference halls. With support for multi-room audio, wired network integration and flexible configuration, Yamaha is a solid choice for a business audio system with balanced, consistent sound.

Genelec

Known for its high-quality loudspeakers, Genelec offers elegant installed compact audio systems that deliver exceptional clarity, balanced acoustics and long-term reliability. Genelec hardware blends seamlessly into interior designs and supports both background music and immersive audio experiences.

Genelec hardware includes options for networked audio and IP control, so your staff can focus on fostering an inviting atmosphere, not fiddling with music playback. The consistent sound performance is delivered via a single Ethernet cable for each speaker, transmitting electricity as well as audio with a simple setup.

Bose Professional

Bose is a leader in premium audio solutions, with sleek, space-efficient hardware. The Bose Professional product line includes loudspeakers, amplifiers, processors and complete commercial audio systems.

Designed for even sound coverage and audio clarity, Bose's audio systems are a great fit for larger venues like restaurants and retail spaces, with many systems including Bluetooth functionality that enables your team to control music on the fly.

The best music player for remote control

Decide who controls the music in your business: If you want to keep full control of your commercial audio system rather than leave it to employees, a remote player is ideal.

Our optional Soundtrack Player is the right choice for enterprise customers who prefer centralized music management. For added flexibility, the Soundtrack remote app (available for Android, iOS and Windows) lets employees adjust the volume or skip songs as needed.

While designed for multi-location businesses, the Soundtrack Player is also a great choice for any business that wants to preset its music. With analog outputs, the Soundtrack Player works seamlessly with conventional Hi-Fi setups, including amplifiers and wired speakers. Just connect it to your amplifier and control everything remotely via the web portal or mobile app.