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If you have multiple amps and stereos around your home, it may be time to upgrade to a speaker selector. Speaker selectors access you individual control over all of these devices, all while offering additional overload protection to the amps.
Even if you are pretty well versed in stereo equipment, selecting the best speaker selector can be difficult. There are many options on the market, meaning you are flooded with great, subpar, and poor choices alike. The key is finding the speaker selectors that perform wonderfully.
To help you out, we analyzed 23 products and 640 consumer reviews over 28 hours. From this research, we were able to determine the best speaker selector in Canada in 2023, as well as 6 great runner ups.
In our opinion, the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector is the top pick because it offers versatile zones, great protection, and an affordable price, making it a great choice for most users.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Speaker Selector Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector
|
|
8.6/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
DIGITAL AUDIO PICK
|
LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter
|
|
8.8/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector
|
|
9.6/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Speaker Selector
Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector Review
The Best Overall
Monoprice
The Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector is our top pick for the best speaker selector in Canada in 2023. It offers one of the most versatile designs at a very affordable price, making it a great choice for the majority of home users.
What We Think of the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector
No matter which way you look at it, the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector is the best all around speaker selector on the market. It offers a 4 way design, making it compatible with 2, 3, or 4 zone setups. It has a total max output of 140 watts.
Whenever you enable the optional circuit protection, the device can handle 70 watts per channel. However, you can turn off this protection so that each channel can handle 140 watts per channel. We don’t recommend leaving the circuit protection off all the time, but it is helpful if you need to vary the wattage.
Furthermore, the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector comes with more optional protection. It comes with an optional impedance protection circuit. With the help of the circuit, your amplifier sound remains constant, even when many other speakers are in use.
On top of this really versatile zone and helpful protection, the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector is very affordable. Especially in comparison to our high performance pick, which we will look at shortly, most people will gladly be able to afford this device without tightening their belts too much.
The speaker selector has let me route a 2 channel amplifier to different parts of my home. Connecting the speaker wires to the back of the panel was easy. It works and the price is very reasonable.
Donald M.
In terms of protection and sound distribution, most customers are very satisfied with this product. A few people noted that the speaker selector comes with minor drawbacks. For example, both the tabs and wiring break easily. Because of this fact, you will need to be gentler when handling the device.
Aside from the more breakable additions, the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector is a great overall speaker selector. Its 4 zones are great for most homes, and it comes with flexible yet effective protection so that your amps stay constant.
Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector Specifications
- Brand: Monoprice
- Style: 4 way
- Max Output: 140 watts
- Control Method: Knobs on selector
Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 4 zones
- Efficiency and flexible protection
- Good sound
- Affordable
Cons
- Some parts break easily
Our Final Opinion About the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
From just about every angle, the Monoprice 109995 4-Channel Speaker Selector rocks the house. It has good sound quality, and flexible protection, making it suitable for most users. Just remember to be a bit gentle when handling it.
Our Digital Audio Pick for The Best Speaker Selector
LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter Review
The Digital Audio Pick
Linkfor
The LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter is our digital audio pick because it supports a variety of digital audio formats, long distance transmission, and more. It has wide compatibility and is very affordable too, but you need a free USB port or adapter for power.
What We Think of The LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter
For digital audio devices, you will need a separate speaker selector. We recommend the LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter for digital audio purposes. It is suitable for a variety of audio formats, including the following:
- Digital 5.1CH
- Dolby-AC3/DTS/PCM/LPCM2.0
- 32kHz
- 1kHz
- 48kHz
- 96kHz
More so, it is widely compatible with various devices. You can use it for a PS3, DAC converter, Blu-ray DVD, HDTV, or STB. You can use an optical fiber cable for long distance signal transmission. Output distance is up to 25 meters. At no additional purchase, the LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter comes with four PCs optical fiber cables.
Even more impressive is the fact that this model is incredibly affordable. This splitter is more affordable than our best overall pick. In fact, its price is comparable to our budget pick, which we will look at later. Not to mention, multiple customers noted how easy this device is to use.
All around great. Really great item. It was just what I needed with fast shipping. Thanks heaps!
Graham H.
In most respects, the LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter is a great choice for digital audio uses. One drawback is that it only comes with a USB cable for power, not an adapter. This means you will need a free USB port for power or some type of adapter to plug into.
Aside from the lack of multiple power sources, the LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter is a great option for digital audio purposes. It is compatible with a variety of formats and devices, making it perfect for most users.
LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter Specifications
- Brand: LiNKFOR
- Style: 3 way
- Max Output: Not listed
- Control Method: Knobs on selector
LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Compatible with many digital formants
- Long distance transmission
- Easy to use
- Highly affordable
Cons
- Requires free USB port for power
Our Final Opinion About the LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
If you need a digital audio splitter, the LiNKFOR 3 Port Optical Splitter is a great option. It is easy to use, compatible with many digital devices, and is one of the most affordable options on this list. Keep in mind that you will need a free USB port for power, but that’s not too much of an ask, in our opinion.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Speaker Selector
OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector Review
The High Performance Pick
OSD
The OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector is our upgrade pick because it is a 7 zone speaker selector with remote control, A/B input, and superior sounds. The one drawback is that it is highly expensive. This is only a good option for those who need an intense speaker selector.
What We Think of The OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector
If you need professional sound quality for your speaker setups, you will need a high performing speaker selector, such as the OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector. The speaker selector certainly is not a good choice for regular homeowners, but it can be a great option if you need upgraded quality.
For starters, the OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector is compatible with 7 zones. Each zone comes with an A/B input, allowing even more connection capabilities. In comparison to all the other options on this list, this has the most connectivity options.
This high performing speaker selector comes with a remote control, making it easy to control the selector, no matter where you are located. The front panel features LED indicator lights for further convenience and control. Setup is also easy. Multiple users noted that this is an incredibly easy device to set up and use.
Great device. I can have 7 speakers in seven different rooms and control the ones I want at anytime.
Jimmy
In terms of sound quality, connections, and protection, the OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector is top tier. However, all of these professional grade features mean that the model is highly expensive. This is about twice as expensive than the second most expensive option on this list. Only those with a big budget should consider this option.
Because it has the best zone-age, connection, sound, and protection, the OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector may very well be worth the price for some users. After all, it is the best in just about every regard other than price. Just be ready to shell out quite a bit for this product!
OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector Specifications
- Brand: OSD Audio
- Style: 7 way with A/B input
- Max Output: 400 watts
- Control Method: Remote control or knobs on selector
OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 7 zones
- A/B inputs
- Superior sound quality
- Easy to use
Cons
Cons
- Very expensive
Our Final Opinion about the OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
If you need the absolute best speaker selector on the market, the OSD Audio ATM-7 7 Zone Speaker Selector is what you should select. It is our high performance pick because it offers sound, connectivity, and ease of use, but it is very expensive.
Alternative Products to Consider
PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch Review
The 6-Channel Pick
Pyle
The PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch is a great alternative choice to our high performance pick because it offers 6 channels, but it is notably more affordable, even though it is more expensive than the other products. It also offers great overload protection.
What We Think of the PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch
If you need many channels but cannot afford our high performance pick, you should go with the PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch. This speaker selector is compatible with 6 zones, but it is half the price of our high performance pick. This allows you to have a lot of uses with this product without completely destroying the bank.
On top of having 6 channels, each channel has independent control. The speaker selector switch comes with volume controls for each channel for independent listening. It has a simple push button design for easy use.
This speaker selector has a 100 Watt max power per channel. This makes it a great choice for home studios. It has a compact design so that it can complement just about any room or home theater setup. For protection, it is equipped with front panel control switches and protection circuitry.
In many ways, the main drawback of this model is that it is very similar to our high performance pick, but it doesn’t offer as good of sound quality. However, it is more affordable, which makes up for the difference.
I installed this for my outdoor area. You can control the volume in each area. Works great. Extremely happy with this product.
Morris B.
Speaking of the price, it is important to note that although this speaker selector is half the price of our high performance pick, it is still very expensive. If you are on a tight budget, this may not be the choice for you. Instead, this is a great choice if you can splurge a bit but don’t feel like shelling out what the upgrade pick requires.
With these facts in mind, the PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch is a great choice if you are looking for a more affordable alternative to our upgraded pick. It has 6 zones, easy controls, and good protection. Still, the sound quality isn’t quite as great as our upgrade pick, but it can be overlooked since it is more affordable.
PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch Specifications
- Brand: PYLE
- Style: 6 way
- Max Output: 100 watts
- Control Method: Knobs on selector
PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 6 zones
- Good protection
- Independent volume control
- More affordable than upgrade pick
Cons
- Still expensive
- Sound quality not as impressive as the upgrade pick
Our Final Opinion About the PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.7 Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.6 Price:4.2]
The PYLE PSLSW6, 6 Channel Speaker Selector Switch is a great choice if you want a slightly more affordable high performance option. This is not suitable for those on a tight budget since it is still more expensive than most of the other options on this list.
Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch Review
The Home Pick
Xtrempro
Many of the speaker selector so far are great for commercial or more professional use. If you just need a all around great speaker selector for home use, you will like the Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch. This product provides just enough power for home use without needing more external devices.
What We Think of the Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch
The Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch is a stereo speaker control that allows for 2 or 4 zones. For this review, we are only giving specs about the 1 x 2 way, but most of the specs are the same for both. Both of these options are ideal for a low cost residential speaker selector.
The speaker selector can handle an impedance constant at 4-16 ohms. Its max output is 300 watts total, or 150 watts per channel. The cable length is 164 feet, which should be enough for most home uses.
We really like that the connector is the basic HDMI. Just about every homeowner should have an HDMI cord. The box is also very small and attractive. It is metal non slip, meaning it won’t distract from anything in your home.
This is an easy to use audio switch for switching between two zones or using two zones at the same time. Good and easy to use.
Aypar
In terms of price, this isn’t the most affordable option, but it is much more affordable than the upgrade pick. Most homes should be able to afford the speaker selector without too much of a concern.
Most people noted that the quality of sound and protection is pretty good considering the price. However, a couple of customers did have some alarming complaints. More than one customer said that their device got hot and burnt up in a very short amount of time. Because of this complaint, you really need to be careful when using this product.
If you are careful when using this device, it is a great choice for home use. We especially like the Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch for its zones, features, and protection that are perfect for most homeowners.
Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch Specifications
- Brand: Xtrempro
- Style: 2 or 4 way
- Max Output: 300 wats
- Control Method: Knobs on selector
Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 2 or 4 way
- Good protection
- Good sound quality
- HDMI connection
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Some complaints about it overheating and dying quickly
Our Final Opinion About the Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price:4.3]
For most homeowners, we would recommend something like the Xtrempro 61049 2 or 4 Way Speaker Switch. It offers just the right amount of power and connectivity for most homeowners without killing the bank or causing unnecessary stressors. Remember to watch the wattage since multiple users have issues with this item dying quickly.
Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher Review
The Budget Pick
Nobsound
The Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher is a great budget pick because it is highly affordable, connects to two audio sources, offers volume control and multiple colors to choose from, making it a great pick for its value.
Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher Video Review
What We Think of The Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher
If you are on a really tight budget, you can still get a pretty good speaker selector without breaking the bank. The Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher is our favorite budget pick of the options we analyzed.
Starting with price in and of itself, this selector is the most affordable. Anyone should be able to afford this price without sweating about their budget. The company offers good customer support, further extending the value of the selector.
Not to mention, the company even takes responsibility in the case that the device is not compatible with the speakers you are trying to use. This isn’t likely to happen, but the fact that the company is willing to take responsibility is a huge plus to the value.
In terms of capabilities, the Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher connects to two audio sources. Its main functions include selecting audio input and output. It comes with volume control, and it is a passive device, meaning it doesn’t need any power. You even get the choice between seven different colors and models for your preferences.
I use this switch with my speakers and headphones. I don’t detect any noise and switching is easy. The volume control is nice. The price is good enough.
Justin
Although this is a great budget pick, there are a few drawbacks about the Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher. Most importantly, multiple users noted that there is an odd change in the sound. If you want pristine sound quality, this may not be the option for you.
A couple customers also complained about the headphone jacks. They specifically said that the headphone jacks are poor quality, which causes the headphones to wiggle inside the connection.
For its price, the Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher is a great speaker selector. Although it does come with its drawbacks, it offers good value based on its super affordable price tag.
Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher Specifications
- Brand: Nobsound
- 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher
Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Great customer support
- Volume control
Cons
- Poor sound quality
- Bad headphone jack
Our Final Opinion about the Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price:4.9]
In terms of price alone, the Nobsound Little Bear MC102 Mini 2(1)-IN-1(2)-OUT 3.5mm Stereo Audio Switcher is a great budget pick. It should not be the go to choice if you want perfect sound quality, but it may be a great starting point for those on a budget.
Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch Review
The Compact Pick
Nobsound
Speaker selectors don’t tend to be very big, but you may want a super compact option if you are tight on space. We recommend the Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch for its compact design. It certainly does not offer great sound quality, but it is still a notable pick.
Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch Video Review
What We Think of the Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch
The Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch is a super compact 3 way stereo splitter. It only weighs 581 grams, making it super small and lightweight. The outside is also very sleek and attractive, so you don’t have to worry about it being an eyesore in your house.
As we mentioned, this splitter works for one stereo input and three outputs. It is your choice to decide which audio devices to use. The sound is OK, but not perfect.
Luckily, the protection of the Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch is pretty impressive. Every channel comes with shield wiring, which allows it to avoid interference and prevent signal transmission loss. It even has gold plated ports, offering a reliable electric connection.
As we already hinted at, one issue we have with the Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch is the sound quality. A couple users noted that the sound bleeds, though the sound quality doesn’t seem to be horrendous based on consumer reviews.
A few customers note that the product feels cheap in the hand, although no customers really complain about it breaking prematurely.
Great piece of gear. Came super fast.
Michael C.
Aside from the subpar sound quality and cheap feel, the Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch is a pretty good speaker selector. Especially because of its compact design, this is a great choice if you have limited space in your home.
Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch Specifications
- Brand: Nobsound
- Style: 3 way
- Max Output: Not listed
- Control Method: Knobs on selector
Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Compact design
- Sleek appearance
- 3 zones
- Great protection
Cons
Cons
- Okay sound quality
- Feels cheap to the touch
Our Final Opinion About the Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.3 Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
The Nobsound 1-IN-3-OUT XLR Audio Switch should not be your first choice if you want great sound quality or a super durable build. However, it is a great choice if you need a very compact model.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Speaker Selector
What is the purpose of a speaker selector?
The point of a speaker selector is to distribute the audio amplifier’s or AV receiver’s audio signal to different speakers and speaker sets around your home. At the same time, the selector protects the amp from overloading. Although some cheap models may not come with great overload protection, we recommend making sure your model provides ample protection.
In order for the speaker selector to do its job, you will need to connect the amp to the selector using wiring. The most difficult part of using one of these devices is that it will require you to complete some wiring, especially if you have many speakers throughout your home.
Are there different types of speaker selectors?
Yes. There are different types of speaker selectors, and most are divided by their number of zones. For example, there are 2, 3, 4, or more zones that speaker selectors can have. You can also select between speaker selectors based on the number of additional functions they offer. Here is a look at the four main categories based on features:
- Simple Speaker Selectors just switch between two or more speaker sets. Most units sold classify as this type of speaker selector.
- Speaker Selectors with Volume Control allow you to switch between zones, and each zone has separate volume control options.
- Speaker Selectors with A/B Amplifier and Volume Controls allow you to connect two amps in the same zone to the selector. Each input with have separate volume controls.
- Speaker Selectors with A/B Amplifier allow you to connect two amps in the same zone to the selector. It is different from the above option because it does not come with volume control. Very few models fall under this category.
How do you hook up a speaker selector?
Connecting the speaker selector is pretty easy, but it requires some work. You will need to grab some speaker wire. This wire will connect the speaker selector to your amps. Make sure that you select wiring that fits with the selector you choose. Most do not accept banana plugs. Bare wire are the most useful. Look for 12 gauge wires, but 14 and 16 work too.
Whenever you hook up the cables, we recommend labeling the speakers they go to. This can save you a lot of time in the future if you need to fix or unhook a specific item. Some speaker selectors will come with labels. If yours doesn’t, make your own.
What are the zone of a speaker selector?
Zones of a speaker selector tell you how many channels they can switch. Often, the zones refer to speakers in different rooms. Some selectors will even allow you to connect two amps from one room using A/B inputs.
The most common selector zones are 2 and 4 way. 4 way are by far the most popular and are suitable for most users. If you have many speakers, you may need 5, 6, 8, or 10 way speaker selectors. A/B inputs are a great choice if you have multiple different amps that need different controls in the same room.
Is a speaker selector the same as a speaker selector switch or speaker switch?
Yes. These terms all refer to the same device, which is a speaker selector.
How to Properly Choose Your Speaker Selector
If you are looking for speaker selectors, you probably know a thing or two about stereos. Still, picking out the right speaker selector can be a bit difficult. Even if you know which models are best overall, they may not be ideal based on your needs.
When you go to buy a model, even a model listed in this roundup, you need to consider five main factors. These factors ensure that the model you get is perfect for your home and needs. Check out these five factors in more detail below:
Speaker Pairs/Zones
The most important factor to consider is the speaker pairs or zones. The zones generally refer to the number of areas in your home where the amps will be located. The more locations you have in your home, the more speaker pairs or zones you need. Some manufacturers also use the words “way” or “channels” to refer to these zones.
Most people only need a 2 way or 4 way speaker selector. 2 way selectors work when the speakers are 4 ohms. 4 way selectors can be used for 2, 3, or 4 zones in your home. Over half of the speakers sold fall under this category. If you need more than 4 zones, you will need to get a 5, 6, 8, or 10 way selector. Anything more than 4 ways is excessive for most home uses.
In the case that you have more than one speaker in a single zone, you may want to consider speakers with A/B input. A/B input allows you to connect and control two separate units that are in the same zone.
Power Output
Power output is just as important as zones when buying a speaker selector. The power output tells you how much power it can take on. You want it to match the power output of your amp. Most manufacturers offer 8Ω loads. Check to confirm that your amps can handle this load.
Gauge
Gauge tells you how thick the wiring that connects the amps to the speaker need to be. Most wires are too thick for speaker selectors. For best results, opt for a 12-guage wire. 14 and 16 gauge wires work too. Confirm that the wire you have matches the speaker selector.
Protection
Distributing the signal of the audio is not the only job of the speaker selector. In addition, they are supposed to protect the amps so that they don’t blow or break in any way. Looking at the protection helps to ensure that the speaker selector does this part of its job.
At the very minimum, the speaker selector needs overload protection. Most cheap options offer manual overload protection, or series resistor circuits. More advanced options often come with matching impedance transformers. Avoid any models without protection.
Other Features
Finally, the last factor to consider are the additional features that come with some models. Some of the most popular features include power handling, volume controls, and labels. These features make the device easier to use, but they also make the device more expensive. It is up to you which extra features you select.
Volume control is one of the most popular features to consider. It allows you to control the volume for each individual zone. Volume control with A/B inputs may especially be a great choice if you need maximum control, but these models will be pretty expensive.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of speaker selectors allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
