What is a Multi-Zone Background Music System?
Posted by Tom Brown on 17/06/2025
At AV Xpert, we understand that creating the right atmosphere is essential for any commercial space. Whether it’s a warehouse, factory, office building, café or retail store, background music plays an important role in shaping how people feel and interact in your space.
A multi-zone background music system can help to enhance atmosphere for your customers, and can also boost staff morale, by providing tailored sound experiences across your business space.
Overview
A background music system is an integrated audio setup designed to play ambient music unobtrusively throughout a space. Unlike foreground music, background music is intended to subtly enhance the atmosphere rather than dominate it.
A multi-zone background music system takes this concept a step further by allowing you to deliver different audio to different areas, or ‘zones’, throughout your premises. Each zone can operate independently, or be grouped together, meaning you can control the volume, audio source, and even the playback schedule for each area separately.
You can also connect microphones if desired, to allow announcements to be made across different zones.
How Do Multi-Zone Background Systems Work?
The process begins with the music sources, such as a streaming service, media player, Bluetooth connection, aux input or radio. From the source, the audio signals are then received by an audio matrix mixer which process the signals and sends them to the appropriate outputs (or zones).
This processed audio signal is then sent to one or more amplifiers, (with a separate amplifier channel for each zone), and finally each amplifier channel is connected to the speakers in the respective zone, allowing you to play background music or make announcements in the space.
Centralised vs. Distributed Control
Multi-zone background music systems can be operated through either centralised or distributed control systems.
With centralised control, the entire system is managed from a single location, often through a dedicated touchscreen panel or via web interface on a computer, tablet or smart phone. This is ideal for factories and warehouses, where the controls need to be operated by management only.
Alternatively, a distributed control solution places individual control panels or remote access in each individual zone, allowing the users in each zone to select sources and adjust volume directly from within their zone.
Benefits of a Multi-Zone Background System
With a background music system, the music remains discreet, contributing to the environment without becoming a distraction. The right background music can make a meaningful impact, helping to enhance the working environment.
With a multi-zone background music system, you can deliver a tailored sound in each individual zone, supporting the unique function or mood of that space.
About AV Xpert
At AV Xpert, we’ve installed background music systems in a wide range of settings, including retail outlets, cafés, offices, sports venues, warehouses, and industrial facilities. Every installation is customised to meet the acoustic and operational needs of the client.
From the initial consultancy and system design through to expert installation and comprehensive support, we manage the entire process. Beyond manufacturers’ warranties, we offer a complimentary one-year on-site callout warranty and provide access to a priority technical support line for our clients.
If you’re looking to enhance your business environment with a background music system, AV Xpert is your trusted partner in delivering audio that works for your space. Contact us today for more information.
