Marine speakers for outdoor (patio)?

[Amit]

Probably a stupid question, but has anybody used marine speakers for outdoor use - I've seen several that seem better/cheaper than the typical outdoor speakers. Am trying to setup an amplifier in my storage space next to the patio to drive speakers on the patio, with an iPod providing the music source. Is this too bizarre to even consider?

 

[jaxvon]

You'd have to find a way to flush mount the speakers and then build an enclosure behind them. If you're up for that, then it's a fine idea. Otherwise, a pair of quality outdoor speakers with a bracket is your best bet.

 

[RLA]

Hello
Having tried and installed just about every conceivable type of outdoor speaker I have found that the Horn loaded type like the ones produced by Klipsch provided the best bang for the buck. This is due to the very high efficiency and dispersion characteristics of the horn design these are important considerations when trying to fill a very large outdoor space with sound

 

[Amit]

Thanks for the advice! I'll check out the Klipsch horns - I'm not adept enough with tools to try building enclosures

 

[9f9c7z]

As far as enclosed marine speakers, both the B.o.s.e 251 and the Energy Tempest II can be had new on Ebay.

Marine speakers are designed for use in the pilothouse, cabin, and outside dec areas, and to resist a corrosive environment for some period of time. I believe both those speakers are warranted to work for 5-years while being subjected to a salt spray and torrential rains. Since almost nothing on a boat can withstand 5 years exposed to a marine environment, I’m a little skeptical about the manf’s claims. I guarantee even tin coated copper speaker wire won’t last that long unless all terminal connections are sealed.

Bose also makes the model 151 and 161 enclosed speakers which are also sold thru boat outfitters. Only the model 131 requires flush mounting.

Sorry, can’t speak to the quality of either the B.o.s.e or Energy products. Fwiw, the Bose may not have a good reputation on the audiophile forums, but that 251 speaker does have a good rep within the boating community. Keep in mind boats are not the best place for critical listening.