02 Apr 09 Building a 2-zone whole house audio system with VortexBox
Build a 2 zone whole house audio system with outdoor and in ceiling speakers
There are many different recommendations for what hardware and software to use for a whole house audio system. This article shows a design that really works. We will cover how to build a system that “just works”, is inexpensive, and has good quality sound. We will also show you the exact models of equipment used. We have set up a store that is backed by Amazon.com to sell all the equipment used in this article.
Four outdoor and kitchen speakers I am looking good sound (not audiophile quality) just a really good sounding system.
Shopping list
Router – TRENDnet TEW-633GR – Very inexpensive, high speed works well with streaming audio
Buy the TEW-633GR at the VortexBox Store
Server/NAS – VortexBox appliance – Inexpensive, works well and has 4 zone audio built in
Buy the VortexBox appliance at the VortexBox Store
Media player/ controller – Logitech Squeezebox Duet – works really well if you just want two zones you could by just the controller
Buy the Logitech Squeezebox Duet at the VortexBox Store
Amp – AudioSource AMP-100 – Great quality amp for the price. Simple. You need one for each zone.
Buy the AudioSource AMP-100 at the VortexBox Store
Celing Speakers – Polk Audio RC60i – good quality for the price
Buy the Polk Audio RC60i at the VortexBox Store
Outdoor Speakers – Polk Audio Atrium 45 – Good quality for the price
Buy the Polk Audio Atrium 45 at the VortexBox Store
Installation instructions
1. First hook up your router and get it working with your cable modem or DSL router. You can use your own router if you want. We chose the trendnet because it has high throughput, Gigabit Ethernet and N wireless.
2. Next connect ypur VortexBox appliance to your to your router using the provided Ethernet cable. A hardwired connection will provide fast throughput for your VortexBox /NAS
3. Connect your Amp to your VortexBox. There are 4 audio outputs on the back of your VortexBox. Pick two audio outputs and connect one amp to each audio outputst you have selected.
4. Use good quality speaker wire to connect one pair of speakers to each amp.
5. Insert your CDs one at a time into the VortexBox CDROM . The VortexBox will rip them to the hard drive and eject them.
6. Power up your SqueezeController and enter your wireless network password
7. Select a Zone on your controller. Then select a song and press play.
8. Sit outside on your deck and enjoy controlling your new music system
