🎵 The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Audio for Texas Backyards

Brady Christian • July 24, 2025

Why Outdoor Audio Is More Than Just a Luxury

Outdoors as the “New Living Room”
Architects and landscape pros say outdoor spaces have become vital for mental and physical well-being. Integration of technology—like discreet audio systems—is a top trend for 2024–2025. Your Panhandle backyard is prime real estate for turning simple patios into immersive entertainment zones.



Key Features You Need for Texas Backyards

When considering audio systems built for harsh conditions like those in the Panhandle—intense sun, heat, dust, occasional hail—these are crucial:

  • Weatherproofing & Durability
    Look for
    IP ratings: IP67 or better ensures resistance to dust, rain, and even temporary submersion. Episode outdoor speakers are built for long-term performance in extreme weather conditions.
  • Smart & Seamless Control
    Voice-enabled systems (e.g., with Josh.ai or Control4) let you manage volume and playlists hands-free—even while grilling.
  • Invisible Integration
    Systems today can blend into your landscape: bollard-style units, sub-terrain subwoofers, or satellite speakers that visually disappear while delivering crisp, immersive sound.
  • Outdoor Shades for Year-Round Comfort
    High-quality
    motorized outdoor shades help regulate temperature extremes—blocking harsh summer heat and buffering against the Texas wind and cold in the off-season. This makes your outdoor audio experience more enjoyable all year long, particularly when paired with overhead heaters or fans.



Best Outdoor Audio for Texas Conditions


For homeowners serious about quality, coverage, and aesthetics, Episode outdoor speakers offer one of the best permanent solutions on the market. Designed for reliability in tough climates, Episode delivers powerful sound while staying nearly invisible in your landscape.

  • Episode Landscape Series
    These satellite speakers and burial subwoofers are built to be heard, not seen. With 70V/8-ohm tap settings, they’re flexible for both residential and commercial installs. Spread them across your yard for full, even coverage without disturbing the view.
  • Episode Surface-Mount Speakers
    Available in various sizes and finishes, these speakers mount to pergolas, patio walls, or soffits. Built with UV-resistant enclosures and powder-coated aluminum grilles, they handle Texas sun and dust with ease while delivering deep, detailed sound.
  • Episode Bollard Speakers
    Perfect for patios, fire pits, and pool decks, these elegant, all-in-one speakers include both mid/high drivers and built-in subwoofers. They provide 360° sound dispersion and are built from aircraft-grade aluminum—stylish and rugged.
  • Episode Radiance
    A true game-changer, Episode Radiance combines premium outdoor audio and low-voltage landscape lighting in a single fixture. This hybrid system reduces clutter and wiring, while delivering uniform sound and warm, dimmable lighting. Radiance integrates seamlessly with Control4 for smart automation—allowing you to create lighting/audio scenes at the touch of a button. It’s ideal for homeowners who want a sleek, modern look without sacrificing performance or control.
  • Customization & Integration
    All Episode systems—including Radiance—work seamlessly with smart home platforms like Control4, enabling multi-zone control, time-based audio scenes, and full voice activation. Whether you’re hosting a party or winding down at sunset, your system responds with precision.


Smart Setup & Strategic Placement


Apply “Acoustic Logic”
A good rule-of-thumb: a 6‑inch speaker covers roughly a 6‑foot radius. To avoid sound gaps or dead zones, plan speaker placement around patios, seating areas, and poolside zones. Episode’s landscape speakers are designed to be daisy-chained and evenly spaced for consistent volume across large yards.

Zoning & Automation
Use zones to adjust music by location. You might want powerful sound by an outdoor screen yet calm ambiance in a dining nook. Smart automation can lower volume at dusk or ramp it up during parties.

Wiring Considerations
Episode systems require professional low-voltage wiring. Planning ahead during a renovation—or when adding outdoor lighting or shades—allows for cleaner installs and better long-term reliability. Hardwired systems also perform better than wireless in windy or interference-prone environments like the Texas Panhandle.



Budget Planning & Long-Term Enjoyment

Cost Breakdown

  • Episode satellite speakers: ~$300–$600 per unit
  • Episode burial subwoofers: ~$800–$1,200+
  • Complete zone systems: $3,000–$10,000+ depending on layout and number of zones
  • Outdoor shades: Varies by coverage area, control type, and installation complexity


Value Beyond Money

Outdoor audio boosts your enjoyment, raises your home’s appeal, and encourages more time outdoors—supporting well-being, social life, and even property value. Pairing a quality Episode audio system with motorized outdoor shades, durable patio furniture, and reliable lighting creates an all-season living experience that rivals even the best indoor setups.



Texas Panhandle homeowners are well-positioned to tap into the booming trend of outdoor living—especially via high-quality audio. Episode offers best-in-class, weatherproof solutions for immersive, long-lasting backyard sound. Combined with smart control and protective shades, you can create an outdoor oasis that’s as functional as it is fun.

Choose Episode speakers for permanent, professional-grade outdoor audio.

Use landscape, surface-mount, or bollard options based on your space and style.

Plan for speaker zones and smart automation to match your backyard layout.

Install outdoor shades to extend usability and comfort during both hot and cool months.


What to Do Next:

  1. Sketch your backyard zones (patio, grill, pool).
  2. Decide how many speaker zones and shade areas you want.
  3. Get a professional consultation for wiring, smart control integration, and shade installation.
  4. Choose Episode for reliable, beautiful outdoor sound that works all year.


Your backyard’s best days are just a playlist away.

By Brady Christian June 6, 2024
Imagine walking into your living room and feeling like you've just stepped into a high-end movie theater or a live concert venue. The right home audio/video setup can transform your space, making every movie night, gaming session, or music playlist an unforgettable experience. Here’s how to choose the perfect home audio/video setup that will immerse you in sound and sight like never before. Assess Your Space The first step in creating an ideal audio/video setup is to assess the space where it will be installed. Consider the size and layout of your room. Large rooms may benefit from more powerful systems with additional speakers to fill the space, while smaller rooms can achieve great sound with fewer, strategically placed speakers. Don’t forget to consider the shape of the room and any furniture or other obstacles that might affect sound distribution. Choose the Right Components TV or Projector Start with the centerpiece of your setup: the display. Decide whether you want a television or a projector. Modern 4K and 8K TVs offer stunning clarity and vibrant colors, making them great for most home setups. If you have a dedicated space and want a true cinema experience, a projector with a high-quality screen might be the better choice. Audio Receiver The audio receiver is the heart of your home theater system. It processes audio signals from various sources (like your Blu-ray player, streaming device, or gaming console) and sends them to your speakers. Look for a receiver that supports the latest audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos or DTS, which provide a more immersive sound experience. Speakers A surround sound system typically includes several speakers: Front Speakers: These include left, right, and center speakers. The center speaker is crucial for clear dialogue. Surround Speakers: Placed to the sides or behind your seating area, these speakers create an enveloping sound field. Subwoofer: This speaker delivers deep bass, adding impact to explosions, musical beats, and other low-frequency effects. For a truly immersive experience, consider a 5.1, 7.1, or even 9.1 surround sound setup. The numbers refer to the number of speakers and subwoofers in the system (e.g., 5.1 means five speakers and one subwoofer). Additional Components Soundbars: If space or budget constraints prevent a full surround sound setup, a high-quality soundbar can still provide excellent audio. Streaming Devices: Ensure you have access to your favorite streaming services by integrating devices like Apple TV, Roku, or Chromecast. Blu-ray Player: For cinephiles, a Blu-ray player can deliver the best video and audio quality available. Consider Outdoor Audio Why limit the experience to just indoors? Extend your audio setup to your patio with weather-resistant outdoor speakers. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, lounging with a book, or having an outdoor party, high-quality patio audio can enhance your outdoor living space. Installation and Calibration Proper installation and calibration are key to getting the most out of your home audio/video setup. Position your speakers at ear level when seated, and use a sound meter or your receiver’s calibration tool to balance the sound. For the best results, consider professional installation, which ensures everything is set up correctly and optimally. Smart Integration Modern home audio/video systems can be integrated with smart home technology. Use voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri to control your system with voice commands. Smart home hubs can also sync your lighting and audio for an even more immersive experience. Budget Considerations While it’s tempting to go all out, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. High-quality audio and video equipment can be expensive, but there are great options available at every price point. Prioritize the components that matter most to you and consider upgrading over time. Creating the perfect home audio/video setup is about more than just buying the latest technology. It’s about tailoring the system to your space, preferences, and lifestyle. By carefully selecting and installing the right components, you can create an immersive experience that brings movies, music, and games to life in ways you’ve never imagined. So go ahead, immerse yourself in sound, and elevate your home entertainment to new heights.
By Brady Christian May 3, 2024
In the age of smart technology, transforming your living space into a modern, automated haven has never been more accessible. While DIY solutions are popular, there's an undeniable allure to professionally installed home automation systems. These systems offer unparalleled convenience, reliability, and customization, making them an ideal choice for homeowners looking to elevate their living experience. In this beginner's guide, we'll explore the benefits of professionally installed home automation systems and provide essential tips to help you navigate the process seamlessly. Understanding Professionally Installed Home Automation Systems Professionally installed home automation systems are comprehensive solutions designed and installed by experienced technicians. These systems typically consist of a range of smart devices, sensors, controllers, and interfaces that work together to automate various functions within your home. From lighting and climate control to security cameras and entertainment systems, professionally installed systems offer a fully integrated approach to home automation. Benefits of Professionally Installed Systems One of the primary advantages of professionally installed home automation systems is their reliability and performance. Unlike DIY solutions, which may vary in quality and depend heavily on user expertise, professionally installed systems are meticulously designed and installed by trained professionals. This ensures seamless integration, optimal performance, and long-term reliability, giving you peace of mind knowing that your automation system will operate flawlessly day in and day out. Additionally, professionally installed systems offer unparalleled customization and scalability. Experienced technicians work closely with homeowners to design a system that meets their specific needs, preferences, and budget. Whether you're looking to automate your entire home or focus on specific areas, such as security or entertainment, a professionally installed system can be tailored to your exact specifications. Plus, as your needs evolve over time, your system can easily be expanded and upgraded to accommodate new devices and functionalities. Choosing the Right Provider When selecting a provider for your professionally installed home automation system, it's essential to do your research and choose a reputable company with a proven track record of excellence. Look for providers that specialize in home automation and have extensive experience designing and installing systems in residential settings. Check online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends and family, and schedule consultations with multiple providers to compare offerings and pricing. During the consultation process, be sure to communicate your needs, goals, and budget clearly. A good provider will take the time to understand your requirements and develop a customized solution that aligns with your vision for your home. They should also provide ongoing support and maintenance services to ensure your system continues to operate smoothly long after installation. Installation and Integration Once you've selected a provider, the installation process will begin. Professional technicians will visit your home to install and configure the various components of your automation system, including smart devices, controllers, and interfaces. They'll ensure that everything is properly connected, calibrated, and integrated into your existing home infrastructure, such as Wi-Fi networks and electrical systems. Throughout the installation process, technicians will work efficiently and minimally disrupt your daily routine. They'll also provide comprehensive training on how to use your new automation system and answer any questions you may have. After installation is complete, they'll perform thorough testing to ensure everything is functioning correctly and address any issues that may arise. Enjoying the Benefits Once your professionally installed home automation system is up and running, you'll be able to enjoy the myriad benefits it has to offer. From controlling your lights, thermostat, and entertainment systems with the touch of a button to monitoring your home security cameras from anywhere in the world, the possibilities are endless. With a professionally installed system, you can rest assured that your home is not only more convenient and comfortable but also safer and more secure than ever before.  Professionally installed home automation systems offer a comprehensive, reliable, and customizable solution for transforming your living space into a modern, automated haven. By choosing a reputable provider and investing in a professionally installed system, you can enjoy the convenience, comfort, and peace of mind that come with smart technology. So why wait? Take the first step toward transforming your living space today and unlock the full potential of home automation.
By Brady Christian April 19, 2024
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