Ideas For Controlling a Receiver From Outside?

[tyreal78]

I have a set of patio speakers I'm looking to control from outside. I know there's a few remote extenders out there, and wireless is probably the way to go, but just not sure on the best solution.

Changing song tracks isn't a concern, but manipulating the volume is. Something inexpensive will do.

 

[ParadigmDawg]

You could use a volume control, RF remote system or an IR remote system with an optical eye installed outside.

 

[markw]

I've used something that looks exactly like this that I bought from RatShack years ago. It's a simple as plugging the two units into the wall and aiming them.

http://www.x10.com/automation/pm5900_s.html

Of course, this presupposes that your receiver is IR based.

 

[highfigh]

I have a set of patio speakers I'm looking to control from outside. I know there's a few remote extenders out there, and wireless is probably the way to go, but just not sure on the best solution.

Changing song tracks isn't a concern, but manipulating the volume is. Something inexpensive will do.

RF remote controls are the best way if you're outside. Depending on the sourcec you want to use most, if an iPod is the main one, DLO Home Dock Music Remote is a really good choice. The base station/tranceiver synchs with the iPod and transmits the playlists, artist, album, controls volume and since it's RF, it has good range. The battery lasts a long time and the base station recharges the hand-held remote.

http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/view.2/app.detail/params.aol_refer.false.tpl.detail.msn_refer.false.item.E186649.ref.GBA?cm_ven=GOOGLEBASE&cm_cat=Electronics&cm_pla=Portable Electronics&cm_ite=E186649

If iTunes is the main source, the iPod Touch is probably the best controller. All you need is a wireless network and the computerr connected to the network, whether wired or wirelessly.