Listening to music outdoors is great right? Whether it's at a concert, at a garden party, a live radio event, or just in your backyard chilling out and drinking a couple of beers. Who doesn’t love it?
In the modern age, power and quality seep into everything, even our music and our listening, and nowadays we want more power, more accuracy, and more quality in our sound systems, regardless of what we are using them for.
That is why a quality receiver/ amplifier is the most valuable detail for the moments when you need to turn up the sound and listen to your favorite hits.
Well, I have got a treat for you. I’ve collected all the information on the best receiver-amplifier for outdoor speakers, and you are just going to love what I have to show you.
Shall we take a look?
Need something fast?
If you are here there is every chance that you are in desperate need of a new receiver/amplifier fast.
Perhaps you are having a party and want something to give your stereo system a boot. Or maybe your previous one is not working to its full potential and you quickly need a replacement.
No problem we have got you covered, if you are in urgent need of a new receiver/amplifier that will light up your life, we suggest our number one, best pick.
The Yamaha R-S202BL stereo receiver, because it is not only a Yamaha device, a very reputable and efficient audio specialist company but, it also has the power, sufficient enough to power almost any sound system or speaker you need.
It also provides easy streaming, with modern Bluetooth connection abilities, and has also got 40 station FM/Am presets for your convenience.
Yamaha also built it with economical intentions, should you need to save a bit of power, you can easily drop the power consumption to 0.5W automatically with ECO mode.
These are some of my favorite facts about the Yamaha R-S202BL stereo receiver;
- 40 station presets.
- Sleek design, less is more.
- Bluetooth to favorite streaming services.
- Eco mode to reduce power consumption.
Best Receiver/Amplifier For Outdoor Speakers
MY TOP PICK
Need a new receiver/ amplifier that will make you feel out of this world?
Need something that will make you feel like you’re at a live show, swaying along to your favorite songs?
Sound like you? Well, the Yamaha R-S202BL is perfect for you. This receiver collates all of Yamaha’s 125 years of music-making magic and packed it in, to reproduce music as it would be experienced live.
It includes some jaw-dropping features, that make it even more magical, feeling like a live show in your own front room.
The Bluetooth feature adds easy streaming, so you can stream your favorite music services.
Or, if you're less of a streaming music fan and are more of a radio junkie, this receiver offers a 40 station FM/AM preset tuning, which has a frequency response of 10Hz-100KHz.
I love the sleek body of this receiver too, it really proves that less is more. It has a brushed aluminum finish and a simplistic design that will look good, wherever you put it.
It also incorporates a speaker selector for 2 systems with an input sensitivity of 500MV/47K Ohms.
The R-S202 really shows its star factor in its power. It has 2 100Watt channels that will sufficiently power pretty much any 2 sets of speakers available.
You are really unlikely to find another receiver with this kind of power, set up, versatility, and good looks for an outdoor capable system.
Pros
- Easy Bluetooth streaming.
- 40 station presets available.
- Attractive, simple design.
- Eco mode to drop power consumption.
Cons
- Lacks a subwoofer terminal, but most people won’t need one with outdoor speakers.
EDITORS CHOICE
What about a modern option?
Are you an avid music listener with a penchant for the compact modernism style?
If you are a lover of modernism, all the high-tech, multifaceted, highly connectable devices that have been introduced in the 21st Century, making media, music and more, widely more accessible to the general public. Then I am sure you will love the 1Mii Bo6Pro.
This receiver has many loveable things about it. But, first I want to mention its compatibility with modern day devices that are widespread in homes all over the world. This receiver is capable of Bluetooth connectivity with any echo device via Alexa.
This feature makes you capable of commanding your device and your music, through voice. Do you not need to connect it through cable, simply connect through Bluetooth to Alexa and you can use your echo dot.
Another reason I love this device is its range and ease. It uses a dual antenna for long range, up to 197ft in light of sight in the open air, or 50-70 ft indoors without obstacles. Although the operation range can be affected by WiFi routers or the antenna.
It is super easy to use, with simple commands and motions, a simple press for volume up or down, or press and hold for 2 seconds to get to the next track or the previous track.
We all know that feeling when we love a song so much we feel like we need to listen to it again to appreciate it more.
It’s easy, pair, plug, and play can attach to pretty much any speaker stereo system via a 3.5mm, RCA, Coaxial or Optical cable.
Alongside its QCC3005 Bluetooth 5.0 chip that ensures high fidelity Bluetooth audio signal, for any music streaming.
Pros
- Bluetooth adapter supports apt-X and apt-X Low Latency.
- 3D audio capable.
- Easy, pair, plug, and play system.
- 100% high-quality Bluetooth capable.
Cons
- Static possible on the line when idle.
BEST VALUE
Maybe modern styled technology isn’t for you?
Perhaps you want some time that takes you back to music in the ’90s, where remotes were the end-all-be-all. But something that still has the capabilities of modern high-end technology for your music listening?
Sound like you? Then maybe the Sony STR DH 190 2-ch, is for you.
Sony has been a top-notch, maker of all things tech for a long time. They own phones, PlayStation, computers, televisions and of course, Receiver/Amplifiers too.
While maintaining a modern-cross-retro look, this Sony Receiver lets you enjoy the subtitles nuances of studio-quality sound in high-than-CD quality with the high-resolution audio output!
It is a discrete amplifier, with a large capacity power transformer, able to deliver ample power with exceptionally low distortion for up to 2 pairs of speakers.
It provides 4 analog inputs and 1 output, easily capable of connecting to your traditional audio components such as; a CD player, turntable, or any recording devices.
You can connect up to 4 speakers with A/B switched to play all at once, or in separate zones. It has a low profile design at only 5 ¼ “ tall, making it easy to fit into a conventional AV cabinet.
It includes an FM radio with 30 station presets, a ¼” headphone jack and a remote, batteries, and an FM antenna.
It has built-in Bluetooth, to let you wirelessly stream your favorite music, podcasts, and more from any Bluetooth device. With a speaker impedance of 6-160Ohms and 100Watts x2 in power.
Pros
- Includes; phono input, 4 stereo RCA inputs, 3.5mm input & a stereo RCA output.
- Built-in Bluetooth.
- FM radio with 30 stations.
- The rigid frame and Beam chassis design reduces vibration to help maintain the powerful sound.
Cons
- 100% remote control reliant.
RUNNER UP
What about something that looks and feels high-tech?
Do you want an Amplifier/Receiver that makes you feel like your home is a music studio?
Now, something that isn’t owned by a typical big-name, nor is it something that you immediately relate to the super-high-tech of today. This amplifier receiver looks so cool that you will feel like you are in a radio or mixing studio.
This fantastic amplifier receiver is one of my favorites because, unlike the other top choices here, it adopts a TI (Texas Instruments) chip, to be able to hook with bookshelf speakers or passive speakers (6-8Ohm speakers are recommended).
So it is perfect for Hi-Fi music purposes, home audio, and entertainment. It also has a creative sleep timer function that makes this awesome amplifier unique and more convenient for the modern homeowner.
It works with all devices which have analog or digital outputs, up to 16bit/221KHz, via optical/ SPDIF/RCA or Aux cable.
Supporting various resources, including a ¼” Mic, a USB flash drive, adjustable L/R balance, and EQ options, such as; Country, Pop, Jazz, etc.
Supporting a Bluetooth antenna it can connect to any Bluetooth enabled device up to 65ft in a flat area, and can also stream wireless music in every corner stably.
You can use the knobs or a remote to control the mic volume, ECHO, balance, bass, and treble. While it’s LED digital screen shows options clearly for you.
It has handy 5-level protection, which includes; overload protection, overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, short protection, and self-protection, making the amplifier safer for you.
Pros
- 30-180 minute sleep timer.
- Remote control inclusive.
- Pager/ Mixing Mode.
- User-friendly knob controls.
Cons
- Some issues were reported with the FM radio
RUNNER UP
Perhaps you’re after something high power, with modern features?
Would you like something made by a company that has been making high-quality woofers since the 1960s?
I sure like the sound of the Pyle 4-channel Bluetooth home power amplifier. It has a power of 2000 Watts and can be used for multiple speakers, with 2-8Ohms of impedance, giving you high quality audio.
It’s a hybrid amplifier equipped with Bluetooth for wireless music options, streaming easily with devices such as; smartphones, tablets, and laptops or PCs. It also has a built-in antenna for extended range.
It can also support USB connectivity, Ipod’s, MP£ players, AM/FM tuners, Aux, DVD, CD, and has 2 Mic inputs with echo for karaoke or live events, as well as much much more.
This professionally integrated stereo receiver has A/B selector capabilities, which allows you to choose between B/W speaker sets, using A or B or both. But, be mindful as to when it is turned on, it will default to both.
Featuring buttons for audio sources and selectors, it also has a rotary knob for equalization and master volume adjustments.
As well as featuring LED blue lights which are brightness-adjustable through the controls.
This device is perfectly lovable with Bluetooth 2.1 and a range of 20+ft. It also maintains a switchable power range of 110 or 220 Volts and an S/N ratio of 76 decibels.
Pros
- Multi-device is compatible.
- Switchable power options.
- Usable for multiple speakers.
- High-quality audio production.
Cons
- Possible pitch noise distortion through the amp.
Buyer’s Guide
Now that we have had a look at some of the best choices of a receiver/amplifier for outdoor speakers, I will help you look into the facts of what you need to consider before making a decision.
No, single receiver or amplifier fits everyone, so you need to consider a few things about your space, your needs, and the requirements of your stereo system before making the leap to purchase.
Let me walk you through it.
Impedance Balance
First and foremost, we have to deal with the impedance balance of the device. This is usually mentioned by manufacturers.
But I am here to give you peace of mind, without any hassle. Basically, you want to ensure there is balance in your sound systems,
If your amplifier/ receiver is at 4Ohms, but your Speaker runs at 16Ohms, you will never, ever achieve the quality sound.
Not only that but if you do this, you risk overpowering the device and damaging it. So be sure to check that the impedance balance between your devices is sound.
User Interface
Setting these devices up can be either, a walk in the park, or a walk through hell.
Some devices may have auto-calibration functions which can be handy, especially if you aren’t a tech wizard when it comes to setting them up.
But always double check this feature is compatible with your speakers or you could be in for a disappointing day.
If you aren’t a tech wizard, then it is always useful to simply invest in a receiver that is easy to manage and set up.
Also, don’t forget to be aware of the user interface post-setup, ease of use is always a bonus. So sometimes it is better to go for the smart options, that basically work themselves.
Multi-room capable
Using this device as an outdoor stereo receiver/ amplifier, you are probably going to want to invest in one that is multi-room capable.
These devices will send an amplified audio source, and sometimes even video to the main zone and then another source in a second zone.
If you do invest in a multi-room capable receiver/ amplifier, it is likely they will come with two remotes, save you carrying one around with you all the time for multiple rooms.
But also double check manufacturer information, as in current times, a lot of newer receivers or amplifiers may be controlled through an app. This is very useful with multi-room capable systems.
The last thing you want to have to do is continually leave your outdoor gathering, to go to the receiver and change the auto file.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of receiver do I need for an outdoor speaker?
For large rooms or outdoor space, you will want a dedicated amplifier or a high-end surround receiver is best.
Can an Amplifier be too powerful for speakers?
You can easily conclude this yourself, but monitoring the output of your amplifier and how much your speaker can handle.
If you check the dynamic power of the amplifier, it will tell you how much power the amplifier outputs.
What size amplifier for speakers?
If you never crank your speakers up to uncomfortable levels, then your amp will probably never actually put out any more than 10 or 20 watts.
So, in this case, you could easily plug in a 1,000-watt amplifier into a 2-inch speaker.
Just be mindful of how loud your speakers are.
What is the difference between 100Watts and 50Watts?
Remember, wattage is not linear, 100 watts is not double the volume of 50 watts, as you may think. In fact, the difference is only a few decibels.
Wattage indicates the power output of your amplifier or receiver, it does not directly correlate to volume.
