Best sound system for business — restaurants, bars, stores

Music is a vital component in most business environments and has a strong impact on customer experience and purchasing behavior. The right background music in your business can boost sales, increase customer retention, build brand identity, foster brand loyalty, and encourage repeat customers.

In fact, playing brand-fit music versus random hits can increase retail sales by 37% and restaurant sales by 9.1%. However, creating the wrong music experience can actually decrease sales.

Even with the right music, the wrong sound system can ruin the experience for the people visiting your business. Customers will notice when your sound system is sub-par, or lacks the ability to maintain audio quality.

When playing music for your business, it’s important to use a licensed commercial music streaming service. Consumer streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, iTunes, and YouTube don’t have the necessary public performance licenses for use in a business or commercial setting.

Doing so is against their terms of service, breaks copyright laws, and can expose your business to costly lawsuits and fines. Our interview with a music lawyer dives much deeper into this topic.

Soundtrack is the only B2B music streaming service that lets you play what you want, when you want. Has over 100 million fully licensed songs and more than 1,300 playlists in the music catalog, ensuring compliance with copyright law and eliminating the risk of getting fined or sued.

What’s in this guide:

In this guide to the best sound and music systems for restaurants, bars, retail stores, gyms, and other businesses, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

We’ll start with our recommendations for both wireless and wired sound systems, and then dive into the details of the different types of sound systems and important things to consider when choosing the right one for your business.

• Recommended wireless sound systems

• Recommended wired sound systems

• Wireless vs. wired sound systems

• Types of wireless sound systems

• Additional considerations when setting up your business’s sound system

General considerations when setting up your business’ sound system

What is the best music sound system?

Selecting the best sound systems for restaurants, retail, offices and other business environments begins with figuring out your unique music playback needs. Square footage, for example, will dictate sound coverage including the number and size of the speakers deployed and sound level desired. Finding the right high end audio system for your square footage keeps you from wasting money. 

Multiple ceiling mounted speakers can be set to a slightly lower volume level than a pair of much louder speakers and still output focused audio toward the desired areas in your venue. Focused sound means less disturbance to adjacent areas, which is a consideration for businesses located in an open mall with other stores around it.

Zones

Zones are especially important when selecting the best sound systems for bars, restaurants, and other businesses streaming music in various areas. If you run a noisy bar next to a quieter dining area, for example, you need to consider different music programming and sound systems to stream a variety of music at different volume levels. 

Louder music playback requires larger speakers that can produce low end frequencies and subharmonic bass. Certain music genres often feature more bass and trying to play louder levels on smaller speakers won’t reproduce the true sounds of the song. Music tilted towards more bass (and less treble) is easier to talk over. 

Spaces separated from the bar and restaurant such as restrooms or outdoor patios may require a separate set of speakers set at the appropriate volume level.

Spaces that connect or are within earshot of one another would demand consideration of the music played in each space. The simple solution is to play the same music exactly in sync in both spaces. Volume is also an important aspect and depends on the targeted spaces. For example, the bar may have to be louder and use more speakers than the dining room.

Acoustic room treatments

Acoustic treatment products applied walls and ceilings can be expensive and require expert installation. However, getting this element right makes a tremendous difference to both the feeling in the room and the acoustics. Music sounds much better in rooms with acoustic treatment. There is less echo and reflections coming from hard surfaces like uncarpeted floors and stone, marble or plaster walls, or windows.

The right acoustic treatment also enables natural conversational tone and volume even while music is playing.

The best times to install acoustic room treatments within new walls are during remodeling and as part of any sound isolation (sound proofing) construction.

Ready to add stylish and effective acoustic treatment products  to your existing room? We recommend these companies for both the audio quality of their products and also their free consultation on the installation.

Gik Acoustics

Auralex

Primacoustic

Acoustic Geometry

Installation processes and costs

The best speakers for retail stores and other businesses (loudspeakers) are one of the biggest equipment costs, especially if you need to cover a large space with multiple speakers. Speakers are usually attached to mounting brackets on walls, installed in ceilings, or placed somewhere out of reach of customers. White and black are the primary mounting bracket colors but many manufacturers offer custom colors if you plan to install multiple speakers. 

There are both powered and passive (unpowered) loudspeakers. Unlike the passive PA/paging system speakers from back in the days, modern powered speakers have power amplifiers built inside of them which require wiring for AC power (from a wall socket) in addition to the actual audio signal. 

Proper speaker installation is subject to local electrical building codes and safety, so consider consulting an electrical contractor first. 

The source is the unit that receives the music stream from the Internet and plays it out to the speakers. Many commercial streaming services provide dedicated units with analog stereo audio outputs that connect to your powered speakers and a Cat-5 network connector that plugs into your router. Usually, a simple app on your smartphone handles your account and details. 

Wireless versus wired sound systems

The first decision to make before you select the best sound system for your shop, restaurant, bar, or business is between wireless and wired.

Wireless speakers use low power microwave radio frequencies for either Bluetooth pairing or a WIFI connection over a network connection to convey the music to them, from a source device. Wireless systems save you the hassle of drilling holes and running cables like you would need to do for a wired system.

You may already have a pre-existing wired speaker system in place that can work, but may be limited to a single zone. Your current speaker system  could be outdated, placed in a poor position for optimal audio, or simply unfit for the aesthetic or décor of the space. Modern sound systems have come a long way and generally sound a lot better. However, you can consult with a sound contractor or integrator before you make the decision to replace an already wired system.

Wireless sound system for your business pros and cons

Pros

Cleaner look - A wireless sound system offers a more modern, neater look with no wires hanging from the walls or ceilings. .

Safer - A wireless sound system saves you the trouble of worrying about  customers or staff tripping over speaker wires.

Simple to operate - Digital sound systems use a digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) and an amplifier to create the sound you hear. Both components work automatically with a wireless sound system, saving you the hassle of tinkering with them. 

Better for multi-room businesses that need multiple speakers - No wires means easy installation even if you need several speakers around your facility.

Cons

More expensive - Wireless sound systems use advanced technology to transmit sound without wires, which can make them more expensive. 

Lack of control - Wireless systems handle DAC and amp settings for you, which takes away your ability to  perfect the sound. However, unless you put on concerts or  other events, the standard settings sound great  for most businesses.

Smart speaker are generally not conducive for businesses

Wired sound system for your business pros and cons

Now, let’s dive deeper into the advantages and disadvantages of wired sound systems.

Pros

Top sound quality - With a wired sound system, you can control the sound better and benefit from decades of manufacturers’ experience. Remember that most listeners are more than happy with the sound of a good wireless system.

Reliable - Reliability is important. No need to worry about speakers becoming unpaired or the WIFI going down. As long as your sound system is connected your music is good to go. 

Less expensive - Wired sound systems tend to cost less, which makes them a good fit for mid-size to small businesses. 

Easy setup (for small spaces) -  With no speakers to pair or wireless connections to set up,  a wired sound system can be easier to  set-up, if you only need a few bookshelf speakers.

Cons

Can be hazardous - Aside from being an eyesore, if placed in the wrong area, wires can be a tripping hazard for your customers and staff.  Consider where you will place equipment before making your final decision. 

Challenging for more than a couple speakers - If you need four or more speakers in your restaurant, office, or retail shop, expect a few hassles and planning required to connect and hide all of the wires. 

Difficult to move around - Moving wired equipment after the initial setup can be a hassle. Only go with a wired system if you don't plan on moving things around. 

Types of wireless sound systems for your business 

There are two main types of wireless sound systems, Bluetooth and WIFI based. Most businesses will choose WIFI, but small restaurants and cafes might opt for Bluetooth.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth speakers are best for short range use in small rooms. Bluetooth is a single device ( smartphone, tablet or laptop) that pairs to a single speaker. 

Bluetooth speakers require pairing every time you use them. You may also have to re-pair them often if radio frequency interference derails the Bluetooth signal.

Keep in mind that wired sound systems can also include Bluetooth technology to allow you to play music from your smartphone. However, the amplifier and speakers will all be wired. 

WIFI

WIFI speakers can operate over longer distances without an HDMI or other type of wire.. You can connect any number of speakers all on the same WIFI system. 

WIFI systems generally sound better than Bluetooth. WIFI systems don’t compress data the way Bluetooth does  (to squeeze good music fidelity into a low bit stream) and, once set up, the speakers start playing automatically, as soon as they power up. This is a blessing if you are in an area of frequent power outages. Rarely, WIFI signals can be interfered with, but this only causes temporary silence (instead of having to re-pair the device, as you would with Bluetooth).

The Best Music Player for Controlling Playlists Remotely

As a business, you need to consider who you want controlling your background music and sound system. If you don’t want employees on location to be able to set the music, then you should use a remote player that allows you to control what songs and playlists are playing at all times. 

Our Soundtrack Hardware Player is available on Amazon and preferred by our Enterprise customers who’d rather control the music centrally. You can always add the iOS Remote app if you want your employees to adjust the volume or switch songs. Even though our hardware is well suited for Enterprise businesses with many locations, the Soundtrack Player is also a great alternative for any size business seeking to pre-set their music.

Since the Soundtrack Player is equipped with analogue outputs and is dedicated for our service, it also works perfectly for small to medium venues with more traditional Hi-fi setups  such as amplifiers and cabled speakers. Simply connect the Soundtrack Player next to the amplifier and easily control it remotely from your iPad or mobile device through the web portal or by using the Soundtrack remote app. 

5 Recommended wireless sound systems

Here are a few of the top rated wireless sound systems for businesses. (You can also check out our Sonos speaker page for more information on their wireless sound systems.)

Audio Pro

Audio Pro makes four complete system sizes with up to 80 of their SP-3 wireless speakers in their X-Large version. The smallest system has four SP-3 speakers, one SUB-3 wireless subwoofer, the TX-1 transmitter and the VOL-1 handheld wireless remote control.

SP-3 speakers look like track lights and get their power from existing lighting tracks. They use different frequencies than WI-FI or Bluetooth and claim twice the range.

Bluesound

Bluesound makes wireless extension speakers for your TV or stereo system and can be used at a business establishment or as a home audio system. All under the control of the same app, the speakers come in three sizes, can be individually voice-controlled, and stream in hi-resolution, 24-bit/192kHz audio.

Denon

Denon also makes wireless speakers and subwoofers using their HEOS® technology. You could start with their AVR-S660H receiver and add their Denon Home 150 wireless speakers as needed around your shop. The speakers work on either Bluetooth or WI-FI.

Ecler

Ecler’s WiSpeak system has a Core transmitter that sends wireless Bluetooth audio to both their Tube and Cube loudspeakers, which attach anywhere in your business on compatible track light rails, walls, or desktops using one of their accessories. Core transmits individual configuration commands to each loudspeaker.

Genelec

Genelec Smart IP Manager is a software application that interconnects all Genelec 4400 Series Smart IP (PoE) speakers in a network using conventional CAT-5 or CAT-6 cabling to all speakers and your Network PoE router at once.

Each speaker receives power, audio, and control via Ethernet wiring. The Smart IP Manager software conveys all audio and control signals including zone set-ups, volume, frequency response, and optimized acoustic performance for any zone.

If connected to a wireless router, Genelec also offers the Smart IP Controller application for your smartphone or tablet.

5 recommended wired sound systems 

If you’re looking for a dependable audio experience and aren’t afraid to install some wires, then check out these great systems:

1) Rockville commercial/restaurant amp with Bluetooth

The Rockville RCS650-6 650-watt, six-zone, 70-volt commercial/restaurant amp uses Bluetooth technology to allow you to play music from your phone, but it is actually a wired sound system, because you’ll need to connect wires between the amplifier or receiver and your speakers.

2) JBL wall speakers and amp for restaurant, office, café, bar

JBL offers many different commercial sound systems and speakers, including in-ceiling speakers and in-wall speakers. You can purchase the amps, speakers, and speaker wires that you need for your unique location. Commercial-grade speakers tend to be more discreet and less of an eyesore.

3) SVS System Builder for conference rooms and other small spaces

SVS makes high-quality wired sound systems and speakers. Although the company does cater to home theater sound systems, it can be a great fit for businesses where everyone is seated in the same general area, such as in corporate meetings.

It could also be a great fit for cafes with open mic nights or karaoke nights. With their System Builder, you can purchase a pre-built system or customize your own, placing your commercial speakers exactly where you want them.

4) Pro Acoustics retail store sound system

The Pro Acoustics retail store sound system includes three pairs of Pure Resonance Audio S3 3-inch loudspeakers that are easy to mount, a commercial amplifier, and 250 feet audio speaker wire.

This system is an excellent choice for small retail stores, shops, and boutiques. It can also work for small medical spas or other offices. The Bluetooth connectivity allows you to play music from your phone, but keep in mind that the system itself is still wired.

5) Bose restaurant sound system with 12 pendant-mount speakers

The Bose restaurant sound system with 12 FreeSpace FS2P pendant-mount speakers can cover up to 5,000 square feet of space. It includes 12 pendant speakers, one commercial amplifier, mountable volume controls, and 500 feet of audio speaker wire so you can reach the inputs.

The system is a great fit for larger restaurants or retail locations. It also includes Bluetooth functionality for playback from your phone.

Wireless vs. wired sound systems

The first decision to make before you select the best sound system for business use is choosing between a wireless or wired audio sound system.

Wireless speakers use low-power microwave radio frequencies for either Bluetooth pairing or a WI-FI connection over a network to convey the music from a source device. Wireless systems save you the hassle of drilling holes and running cables like you would need to do for a wired system.

You may have a pre-existing wired speaker system in place that can work, but it may be limited to a single zone, outdated, placed in a poor position for optimal audio, or simply unfit for the aesthetic or décor of the space.

Modern sound systems have come a long way and generally sound a lot better than older systems. However, you can consult with a sound contractor or integrator before you make the decision to replace an already wired system.

Wireless sound systems for your business: Pros and cons

Here are the general positives and negatives of wired sound systems in a business setting.

Pros

Cleaner look: A wireless sound system offers a more modern, neater appearance with no wires hanging from the walls or ceilings.

Safer: A wireless sound system saves you the trouble of worrying about customers or staff tripping over speaker wires.

Simple to operate: Digital sound systems use a digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) and an amplifier to create the sound you hear. Both components work automatically with a wireless sound system, saving you the hassle of tinkering with them. 

Better for multi-room businesses that need multiple speakers: No wires means easy installation even if you need several speakers around your facility.

Cons

More expensive: Wireless sound systems use advanced technology to transmit sound without wires, which can make them more expensive. 

Lack of control: Wireless systems handle DAC and amp settings for you, which takes away your ability to perfect the sound. However, unless you put on concerts or other events, the standard settings sound great for most businesses.

Smart speakers are generally not conducive for businesses

Wired sound system for your business: Pros and cons

Now, let’s dive deeper into the advantages and disadvantages of wired sound systems.

Pros

Top sound quality: With a wired sound system, you can control the sound better and benefit from decades of manufacturer experience. Remember that most listeners are more than happy with the sound of a good wireless system.

Reliable: Reliability is important. No need to worry about speakers becoming unpaired or the WI-FI going down. As long as your sound system is connected, your music is good to go. 

Less expensive: Wired sound systems tend to cost less, which makes them a good fit for a midsize or small businesses. 

Easy set-up (for small spaces): With no speakers to pair or wireless connections to set up, a wired sound system can be easier to set up if you only need a few bookshelf speakers.

Cons

Can be hazardous: Aside from being a potential eyesore, if placed in the wrong area, wires can be a tripping hazard and create an impedance for your customers and staff. Consider where you will place equipment before making your final decision.

Challenging for more than a couple speakers: If you need four or more speakers in your restaurant, office, or retail shop, expect a few hassles and planning required to connect and hide all of the wires.

Difficult to move around: Moving wired equipment after the initial set-up can be a hassle. Only go with a wired system if you plan on leaving things where they are.

Types of wireless sound systems for your business 

The two main types of wireless sound systems are Bluetooth and WI-FI based. Most businesses will WI-FI, but small restaurants and cafes might opt for Bluetooth.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth speakers are best for short range use in small rooms. Bluetooth allows a single device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop) to pair to a single speaker. 

However, Bluetooth speakers require pairing every time you use them. You may also have to repair the connection often if radio frequency interference derails the Bluetooth signal.

Keep in mind that wired sound systems can also include Bluetooth technology to allow you to play music from your smartphone. However, the amplifier and speakers will all be wired.

WI-FI

WI-FI speakers can operate over longer distances without an HDMI or other type of wire. You can connect any number of speakers all on the same WI-FI system. 

WI-FI systems generally sound better than Bluetooth. WI-FI systems don’t compress data the way Bluetooth does (to squeeze good music fidelity into a low bit stream) and, once set up, the speakers start playing automatically, as soon as they power up. This is a blessing if you are in an area of frequent power outages. Rarely, WI-FI signals can be interfered with, but this only causes temporary silence (instead of having to re-pair the device, as you would with Bluetooth).

Additional considerations when setting up your sound system for business use

Before you choose one of the sound systems we’ve recommended, here are some important things to consider.

What are my business’s music needs?

Selecting the best sound systems for business environments begins with figuring out your unique music playback needs. For example, square footage will dictate sound coverage including the number and size of the speakers deployed and sound level desired. Finding the right high-end commercial audio system for your square footage keeps you from wasting money. 

Multiple ceiling mounted speakers can be set to a slightly lower volume level than a pair of much louder speakers and still output focused audio toward the desired areas in your venue. Focused sound means less disturbance to adjacent areas, which is a consideration for businesses using outdoor speakers or those located in an open mall with other stores around it.

How many zones do I need?

Zones are especially important when selecting the best sound systems for bars, restaurants, and other businesses streaming music in various areas. If you run a noisy bar next to a quieter dining area, for example, you need to consider different music programming and sound systems to stream a variety of music at different volume levels.

Louder music playback requires larger speakers that can produce low-end frequencies and subharmonic bass. Certain music genres often feature more bass, and trying to play louder levels on smaller speakers won’t reproduce the true sounds of the song.

Spaces separated from the bar and restaurant such as restrooms or outdoor patios may require a separate set of speakers set at the appropriate volume level.

Spaces that connect or are within earshot of one another would demand consideration of the music played in each space. The simple solution is to play the same music exactly in sync in both spaces. Volume is also an important aspect and depends on the targeted spaces. For example, the bar may have to be louder and use more speakers than the dining room.

When using a restaurant music system, remember that music that uses more bass (and less treble) is easier to talk over.

Should I invest in acoustic room treatments?

Acoustic treatment products applied to walls and ceilings can be expensive and require expert installation. However, getting this element right makes a tremendous difference to both the ambience of the room and the acoustics.

Music sounds much better in rooms with acoustic treatment. There is less echo and fewer reflections coming from hard surfaces like uncarpeted floors, windows, and stone, marble, or plaster walls.

The right acoustic treatment enables natural conversational tone and volume even while music is playing.

The best times to install acoustic room treatments within new walls are during remodeling and as part of any sound isolation (sound-proofing) construction.

Ready to add stylish and effective acoustic treatment products to your existing room? We recommend these companies for both the audio quality of their products and also their free consultation on the installation.

• Gik Acoustics

• Auralex

• Primacoustic

• Acoustic Geometry

What are the installation processes and costs?

The best speakers for retail stores and other businesses (loudspeakers) are one of the biggest equipment costs, especially if you need to cover a large space with multiple speakers. Speakers are usually attached to mounting brackets on walls, installed in ceilings, or placed somewhere out of reach of customers.

White and black are the primary bracket colors for wall mounts, but many manufacturers offer custom colors if you plan to install multiple surface mount speakers. 

There are both powered and passive (unpowered) loudspeakers. Unlike the passive PA system speakers with paging microphones from back in the day, modern powered speakers have power amplifiers built inside of them which require wiring for AC power (from a wall socket) in addition to the actual audio signal.

Proper speaker installation is subject to local electrical building codes and safety, so consider consulting an electrical contractor first. 

The source is the unit that receives the music stream from the internet and plays it out to the speakers. Many commercial streaming services provide dedicated units with analog stereo audio outputs that connect to powered speakers and a Cat-5 network connector that plugs into the router. Usually, a simple app on your smartphone will handle your account and details. 

The best music player for controlling playlists remotely

As a business, you need to consider who you want controlling your background music and sound system. If you don’t want employees on location to be able to set the music, you should use a remote player that allows you to control what songs and playlists are playing at all times. 

Our optional Soundtrack Player is available on Amazon and is preferred by our enterprise customers who’d rather control the music centrally.

You can always add the Soundtrack remote app (available for iOS, Android, and Windows) if you want your employees to adjust the volume or switch songs. Even though our hardware is well suited for enterprise businesses with many locations, the Soundtrack Player is a great alternative for businesses of any size seeking to pre-set their music.

Since the Soundtrack Player is equipped with analogue outputs and is dedicated for our service, it works perfectly for small to medium venues with more traditional Hi-Fi set-ups such as amplifiers and cabled speakers. Simply connect the Soundtrack Player next to the amplifier and easily control it remotely from your iPad or mobile device through the web portal or by using the Soundtrack remote app.