Central Audio
Central Audio systems are ones that use one receiver, CD changer, tape deck, etc. and routes the sound throughout the entire house. This is accomplished with a pair of speakers in each room and the wires ran back to the main system.

Normally, a volume control is installed in each room with speakers to allow separate volume adjustments. Also, some of the more important rooms, such as the master bedroom, may also incorporate an infrared remote receiver. This would allow any adjustments to be made to the main system from that room. Change CD's or radio stations and fast forward tape decks are some examples. A room with the IR receiver should still have a separate volume control. If not, then a volume adjustment to that room would affect the entire house. By using this type of IR system, you could then set the equipment out of sight in a closet or cabinet. The speakers in a central audio are usually in-wall, flush mounted, and paintable. This makes the speakers disappear with the decor of the room. This type of system is perfect for people who do not wish to have the sound system visible in their home. It can create background music throughout your entire home.

Another option to this type of system is called multi zone. This would allow, for example, background music to play in your foyer or entrance, while you watch a movie in your living room. All on one system. Any combination of sources, be it a CD, tape, or VCR to be played in any combination of rooms. A common scenario would break the home into 4 zones, or any number of zones, allowing any combination of sources to be played in any zone. For example, one zone might include the master bedroom, master bathroom, and outside porch on the master bedroom. The zone would include 1 keypad which usually contains an IR sensor, and 3 volume controls. On the source equipment end, there would be a multi-zone pre-amp and multi-zone amp.

Central audio systems become very technical and should only be installed by experienced people. You can not just tie all of you speakers to one output jack on your amp. This would cause your equipment to be damaged. Choose your installer carefully and ask many questions about impedance matching and other technical aspects. Ask the installer to explain all of the details. These systems are best installed during the pre-wire stage of new home construction, but may also be retrofitted in your existing home.