By CEDIA - Fri, Sep 20, 2024 - Blog
Smart audio visual (AV) systems are in demand, with connected TVs and voice-controlled speakers growing in popularity. Now homeowners are taking the technology beyond their living rooms thanks to multi-room AV setups.
If you’re considering an AV overhaul, you’ll need to understand the costs before installation. We’ll run through some of your options below.
Want the most advanced AV features? High-end multi-room AV systems are the most expensive, but they’ll also give you the most.
A multi-room AV system lets you listen to music across the home with connected speakers. Plus, you can watch entertainment from every source (including cable or satellite subscriptions) in any room.
To take this up to the premium level, homeowners can integrate it with other smart home systems. So, when you’re entertaining, match the lights with your music to create a party atmosphere. With an advanced system, you can control everything with one device, including room temperature, security and your AV needs.
The more premium your AV system is, the more customisation options you’ll have.
The average cost range for a fully integrated high-end system is between $77,000 - $155,000.
When budgeting for this, keep in mind regular maintenance costs and any future upgrades.
You don’t need every feature to have an excellent AV experience. Mid-range options offer a good balance between performance and cost.
For a mid-range price, look at AV devices rather than multi-system integration. It’s less likely you’ll be able to control your speakers via the same device you use to change the thermostat, but you can still set up speakers in every room. So, you can still play music across the house – whether that's the same or different for each space.
As for the TV, you’ll need to stop short of installing a home cinema with automated lighting but you can still broadcast entertainment across your house.
For a mid-range AV system, expect to pay between $15,000 to $78,000. Remember that additional accessories and any upgrades will increase costs.
Even budget multi-room AV systems will transform how you enjoy home entertainment.
To keep costs low, only buy essential components. So, instead of a connected system, break it down into parts: a wireless speaker system, entry-level smart TVs, and basic smart home controllers. While the result won’t be as sophisticated, it may be all you need.
Depending on how many rooms and components, a budget-friendly multi-room system costs between $1,500 - $15,000.
To minimize expenses, focus on key rooms. So, if you don’t listen to the radio while cooking, cut out the smart speaker in the kitchen. You can also upgrade incrementally. Adding extras separately will cost more overall, but it means you can enjoy some features before you can afford everything you’d like.
Remember that there’ll be some trade-offs in quality and functionality. The cheapest options may not be as durable or have all the features you want, so weigh up your savings against the downsides.
Want more information about AV systems in general? Visit our Smart Audio Visual FAQs.
Once you’ve set a budget, it’s time to find someone to install your vision.
Smart Home Professionals make sure all equipment works as intended. The more devices you have, the more important it is to use a professional installer so factor them into any mid-range or high-end system budget. While you don’t always need an installer for a budget installation, they can still help you get the most out of your system. Plus, it’s cheaper to pay a professional once than get the work done twice due to cutting corners. Unsure about whether you need professional help? Visit our ‘Do I need a Smart Home Installer?’ blog.
When searching for a Smart Home Professional, check their experience, reviews and certifications (including CEDIA certifications).
CEDIA-certified professionals have undergone training and signed up to a code of ethics, so you can trust them. Which CEDIA professional is right for you depends on your project. For AV work, search our directory for audio and visual systems experts. Plus, you can filter for those who are also specialists in other smart home elements, like lighting. So, if you need a professional who can do both, you’ll find one.
Multi-room AV systems vary from budget smart speakers you can buy for several hundred pounds to high-end systems that bring together AV elements with other smart home systems (like lighting or security) and cost up to $155,000. In the middle ground, you can go extra on some features while cutting back anything you don’t use. A professional will help you work out what’s best for you and install your systems.
By planning carefully and using professional help, you’ll achieve optimal results – whatever your budget.
$1,500 - $15,500
$15,500 - $78,000
$78,000 - $155,000
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