Affordable Audio Solutions for Office Build-Outs
When a business moves into an office building and starts converting that space into a customer-facing location, audio is often one of the last things on the checklist, but it makes a big difference. A great sound environment helps your new space feel polished, welcoming, and on-brand without adding major costs to your build-out.
That was exactly the challenge for Removery, a national tattoo removal brand converting office suites into client-focused studios. They needed an inexpensive office audio setup that sounded professional, was easy to install, and worked consistently in multiple locations. Their question: should they go with a hardwired speaker system or a flexible, app-based setup like Sonos?
Hardwired Speakers: Reliable and Professional
Traditional hardwired speaker systems are the go-to choice for many businesses because they offer consistent performance and long-term reliability. The speakers are physically connected through the walls or ceiling to a central amplifier or music player. Once installed, the system is stable and does not rely on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections, which can sometimes drop or fluctuate.
For office or retail spaces with multiple rooms or zones, a wired setup allows centralized control and uniform sound across all areas. It is a clean, professional solution that is ideal for high-traffic environments or spaces where music needs to play continuously without interruptions.
Pros:
- Reliable playback that is not affected by Wi-Fi issues
- Professional installation with clean, built-in appearance
- Great for larger offices or multi-room spaces
Cons:
- Higher upfront installation cost
- Requires wiring through walls or ceilings
- Less flexibility if you reconfigure rooms later
For hardwired systems, Custom Channels provides a compact, plug-and-play music player that connects directly to your amplifier or receiver. Once it is installed, your business music plays automatically every day with no phone, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi control required.
Sonos and Wireless Speakers: Flexible and Easy to Install
Wireless speaker systems like Sonos and Bluesound are popular for businesses that want an affordable office audio setup that is simple to install and flexible to manage. Instead of running wires through the building, these systems connect via Wi-Fi. You can place speakers in key areas such as reception, treatment rooms, or waiting areas and manage everything from the app.
Pros:
- Quick and inexpensive to install with no wiring required
- Flexible placement in different rooms or zones
- Each room can have its own playlist or volume level
Cons:
- Depends on a strong, stable Wi-Fi network
- Higher per-speaker cost (typically $200–$400 each)
- Can lose connection if Wi-Fi signal is weak or crowded
Custom Channels integrates directly with Sonos and Bluesound, letting you stream your licensed business music channels right through their apps. Learn more about the speakers at Sonos and Bluesound. It is a clean, modern option for businesses that want background music without the complexity of a wired install.
See all playback options for your business
Custom Channels streams seamlessly through any device you choose — from Sonos and Bluesound to dedicated Custom Channels players. Explore our devices page to find the right fit for your setup and budget.
Finding the Right Audio Setup for Your Business
Choosing between Sonos and hardwired speakers depends on your space, your internet setup, and how permanent your installation will be. If you are building out a long-term location or want maximum reliability, hardwired is worth the investment. If you are leasing, expanding quickly, or want something easy to manage yourself, Sonos is a great way to start.
In many cases, a hybrid setup works best, using wireless speakers in smaller rooms and wired systems in shared or public areas. The good news is that Custom Channels supports all major device types, so your music and messaging will sound great no matter which route you choose.
Making Audio a Smart Part of Every Build-Out
Setting up professional audio does not have to be an afterthought or an expensive add-on. With Custom Channels Devices, you can choose the hardware and setup that fits your space and budget while we handle the licensed music and scheduling behind the scenes.
Whether you use Sonos, Bluesound, or a Custom Channels Music Player for a hardwired setup, your business gets professional, worry-free background music that helps your new space feel polished and complete.
Talk to Us About Your Office Audio Setup
Talk with our team about your next office or retail build-out. We can help you design an audio setup that is affordable, reliable, and built to last. From Sonos to hardwired systems, Custom Channels makes it simple to get the right sound for your business.
