This week in our final chapter of in our series of “What Are You Talking About”, we are going to discuss speakers. Over the past couple of weeks we have discussed sources and amplifiers and now at the end of the audio path with speakers. It is important to know your speaker type when trying to diagnose a problem. There are 2 fundamental types of speakers, powered and passive. A powered speaker has the amplifier built into the speaker and does not require a separate amplifier. A powered speaker receives its power either from connecting to an electrical wall outlet or internal batteries. Some battery-powered units have rechargeable batteries. Most wireless speakers, such as Sonos and Bose Smart speakers, are powered speakers and are not weatherproof and should not be left outdoors. Passive speakers require external power and need to be connected to an amplifier. There are multiple variations of passive speakers such as in-wall or ceiling, bookshelf, surface mounted, and in ground. Passive come in both indoor and outdoor models. In selecting outdoors speakers, be sure to understand the difference between weather-resistant and weatherproof. Weatherproof speakers are designed to be exposed to the elements; weather-resistant speakers are not and should be installed under a deck or awning. Please visit our website at www.wbsouth.com.