A speaker selector with volume control is a must have for any intricate indoor or outdoor stereo system setup. It allows you to have multiple zones setup for music while using a single amplifier to power the speakers. In an outdoor system this is a great option if you want to have speakers in your garage as well as your patio and an additional set by your fire pit. With a single amplifier or receiver you can power them all while adjusting the volume to each zone. Indoor you can have your home theater system power speaker in your kitchen as well.
One cool thing is that you can find the speaker selector with volume control in weatherproof models for outdoor use so you can adjust the volumes from outside where the speakers are actually located, although there are also models that will fit just about any décor inside. This allows you to be near the speakers to better get an idea if you have set the volumes to an acceptable level. I recently installed one on our deck under the handrail. When I want to turn up the music I simply reach over and turn the volume nob up. I can also turn the speakers by our fire pit on when we decide to have a bon fire later in the evening.
Although you can find these at your local electronics store, I found a great sale online and was able to pick one up for about $30 plus a little for shipping. The installation was a snap and I was able get it all wired up to the speaker selector with volume control and run all the wires in about an hour. Depending on how in depth your setup is, it may take more or less time.
I really am happy with the speaker selector and volume control and would have bought one years ago if I knew how cheap I could find one on sale online. No more running into the garage to turn up the music when the cookout starts to get loud and our guests want the music louder.
