Speaker volume controls are an essential part of any home audio system. They allow you to adjust the volume of your speakers to your desired level, without having to get up and manually adjust the volume on the speakers themselves. There are several types of speaker volume controls available on the market, including wall-mounted, in-line, and remote-controlled options.
When choosing the best speaker volume control for your needs, there are a few critical things to consider. First, you need to think about the type of speakers you have and the power they require. Different speakers require different amounts of power, so it’s essential to choose a volume control that can handle the power requirements of your speakers.
Secondly, you need to consider the size of your room and the number of speakers you have. If you have a large room or multiple speakers, you may need a volume control with multiple channels to adjust the volume of each speaker independently. Finally, you need to consider the type of input/output connections your speakers have and ensure that the volume control you choose is compatible with your setup.
In this article, we will review the best speaker volume controls on the market and help you choose the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re looking for a wall-mounted, in-line, or remote-controlled option, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect speaker volume control for your home audio system.
Best Speaker Volume Controls
If you’re looking to control the volume of your speakers with ease, a speaker volume control is the way to go. These handy devices allow you to adjust the volume of your speakers without having to fiddle with the knobs on your amplifier or receiver. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best speaker volume controls on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
OSD Audio 100W In-Wall Volume Control
If you’re looking for a volume control that can handle high power, then the OSD Audio 100W In-Wall Volume Control might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- Can handle up to 100 watts per channel with minimal bass roll-off
- Lets you adjust the volume of a pair of speakers independently of other speakers in a house audio system
- Includes impedance protection to avoid overheating and damaging expensive equipment
Cons
- The unit is quite deep (just over 2.5 inches) and may not fit in regular outlet boxes
- The slider is not as smooth as some other volume controls
- The impedance selection switch is hidden and may be difficult to find
The OSD Audio 100W In-Wall Volume Control is a good option for those who need to control the volume of their speakers in a dedicated audio zone. It includes front-mounted adjustable jumpers to add up to eight pairs of 8 ohm speakers simultaneously, and it accepts up to 14 gauge wiring. The rotary-style knob allows for a wide range of listening volumes, and the unit comes with white, ivory, and almond trim plates to match any room decor.
One thing to keep in mind is that the unit is quite deep, so it may not fit in regular outlet boxes. Additionally, the slider is not as smooth as some other volume controls, which may be a concern for some users. Finally, the impedance selection switch is hidden, which may make it difficult to find.
Overall, if you’re looking for a volume control that can handle high power and offers independent speaker control, then the OSD Audio 100W In-Wall Volume Control might be a good choice for you.
Pyle Home Wall Mount Volume Control Knob
If you’re looking for a convenient way to control your audio system, the Pyle Home Wall Mount Volume Control Knob is a great option.
Pros
- Allows for multi-position light-touch rotary knob adjustment
- Works with up to 4 pairs of speakers
- Universal in-wall/wall mount design
Cons
- May not work with all speaker systems
- Installation can be tricky
- May not be as durable as other options
This volume control knob is easy to install and provides smooth volume adjustment using multi-position, light-touch adjustments. It works with up to 4 pairs of speakers and features universal electrical pigtail wire speaker connectors. The in-wall/wall mount design is perfect for custom home theater, office, or business sound system applications.
However, it may not work with all speaker systems and installation can be tricky. Additionally, some users have reported that it may not be as durable as other options.
Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient and easy-to-use volume control knob, the Pyle Home Wall Mount Volume Control Knob is definitely worth considering.
Moonrise MVR-100 Rotary Wall Plate Volume Control
If you’re looking for a simple and efficient way to control your speaker volume, the Moonrise MVR-100 Rotary Wall Plate Volume Control is a solid option.
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Can handle up to 100 watts per channel
- Provides 12 positions for volume adjustment
Cons
- Does not come with a wall mounting bracket
- Limited frequency response range
- Some users reported issues with screws and jumper settings
This rotary-type wall plate volume control is designed for speaker systems with power ratings of up to 100 watts per channel and impedance ratings of 4 to 16 ohms. It can be set to one of 12 positions, from minimum (off) to maximum volume settings. The wall plate mounts into a standard single-gang low-voltage wall bracket and has inputs and outputs for one pair of stereo speaker wires.
While the Moonrise MVR-100 is easy to install and use, it’s worth noting that it does not come with a wall mounting bracket. Additionally, some users have reported issues with screws and jumper settings. The frequency response range is also somewhat limited, with a range of 35 Hz to 20 kHz (+0/-2dB) at the full power rating of 100 watts per channel.
Overall, the Moonrise MVR-100 Rotary Wall Plate Volume Control is a good choice if you’re looking for a simple and effective solution for controlling your speaker volume.
OSD Audio SVC100
If you’re looking for a high-quality volume control that is easy to install and can handle up to eight pairs of 8-ohm speakers, then the OSD Audio SVC100 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The SVC100 is rated at 100 watts per channel with minimal bass roll-off, making it ideal for both softer and higher volume locations.
- The controls allow you to adjust the volume of a pair of speakers independently of other speakers in a house audio system, which is perfect for customizing your listening experience.
- The impedance protection feature of the SVC100 assists in stabilizing the ohm load going back to the amp or receiver with parallel connections to avoid overheating and damaging expensive equipment by matching the impedance.
Cons
- The knob could be a bit more responsive, requiring a bit of effort to turn.
- The trim plates may not match all room decors, limiting your options.
- The SVC100 is a bit more expensive than some of its competitors.
The OSD Audio SVC100 is a well-designed volume control that can handle a lot of power and provides excellent impedance protection. It’s easy to install and works well for customizing your listening experience. However, the knob could be a bit more responsive, and the trim plates may not match all room decors. If you’re looking for a high-quality volume control that can handle multiple speakers and provides excellent impedance protection, then the OSD Audio SVC100 is an excellent choice.
Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector
If you’re looking for a speaker selector that can handle multiple speaker pairs with a single amplifier, then the Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector is a good choice.
Pros
- Can safely connect and control up to four pairs of speakers with a single amplifier
- Each zone can be turned on or off independently using push buttons on the front panel
- Has individual volume controls for each zone
Cons
- May not work well with amplifiers with low output power
- Some users reported issues with the buttons
- The screw-type connectors may not be very user-friendly
The Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector is a resistor-based selector that can handle up to four pairs of 4-ohm or 8-ohm speakers, while maintaining a safe impedance load for your amplifier or receiver. It has an automatic impedance protection circuitry that ensures safe operation. Each pair of speakers can be independently turned on or off using push buttons on the front panel, with no need for worrying about amplifier loading. Each zone features an independent volume control.
The Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector has heavy-duty screw-type connectors that support 12-18 AWG speaker wire. It also has isolated left/right circuit grounds that provide safe connection for amplifiers with floating grounds or bridged configurations. The switching is accurate and noise-free.
Overall, the Monoprice SSVC-4.1 Speaker Selector is a good choice if you need to connect and control multiple speaker pairs with a single amplifier. However, it may not work well with amplifiers with low output power and some users reported issues with the buttons. The screw-type connectors may not be very user-friendly.
OSD Outdoor 100W Volume Control Impedance Matching
If you’re looking for a weather-resistant volume control for your outdoor spaces, the OSD Outdoor 100W Volume Control Impedance Matching is a great choice.
Pros
- Weatherproof and can withstand extreme temperatures
- Easy access impedance matching switch to stabilize the ohm load and avoid overheating or damage to the amplifier
- Can control up to eight pairs of stereo speakers simultaneously around the home
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the volume is reduced quite a bit
- The left channel sounds weaker than the right at a certain volume
- The product description and instructions may not match the product
The OSD Outdoor 100W Volume Control Impedance Matching is the perfect solution for those who want to enjoy music outside without worrying about the weather. It is weatherproof and can withstand extreme temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor decks, patios, and pool areas.
The volume control knob allows you to adjust the volume up and down, without adding more volume than the master volume level on your amplifier or receiver. The easy access impedance matching switch stabilizes the ohm load and avoids overheating or damage to the amplifier, receiver, and other equipment.
The OSD Outdoor 100W Volume Control Impedance Matching can control up to eight pairs of stereo speakers simultaneously around the home, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy music throughout their entire home. However, some customers have reported that the volume is reduced quite a bit and the left channel sounds weaker than the right at a certain volume.
Overall, the OSD Outdoor 100W Volume Control Impedance Matching is a great product for those who want to enjoy music outside without worrying about the weather. However, make sure to read the product description and instructions carefully to avoid any confusion.
Pyle PSLSW4 Speaker Selector Switch
If you’re looking for a powerful speaker selector switch for your home theater sound system, the Pyle PSLSW4 is a great option. Its compact design makes it easy to integrate into any home theater setup, and it features independent audio source channel volume controls for a customized listening experience.
Pros
- Controls up to 4 speaker pairs connected to a stereo amplifier at the same time or in combination
- Independent audio source channel volume controls
- Equipped with front panel control switches consisting of rotary knobs for volume control and a master speaker switch
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- No remote control
- Some users may find the rotary knobs difficult to use
The Pyle PSLSW4 is a great option for those looking for a powerful speaker selector switch. Its compact design makes it easy to integrate into any home theater setup, and it features independent audio source channel volume controls for a customized listening experience. The front panel control switches consisting of rotary knobs for volume control and a master speaker switch provide easy access to the controls. However, the lack of Bluetooth connectivity and remote control may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, some users may find the rotary knobs difficult to use. Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful speaker selector switch, the Pyle PSLSW4 is a great option.
Monoprice Outdoor Speaker Volume Controller
If you’re looking for a weatherproof outdoor speaker volume controller, the Monoprice Outdoor Speaker Volume Controller is a great option.
Pros
- The water-resistant enclosure makes it perfect for marine (boating) applications.
- The rotary design allows you to set your audio to the perfect listening level.
- This rotary control can be set to one of twelve positions.
Cons
- The box is tight, and wiring can be a bit challenging.
- The screws inside to attach the speaker wires are very small.
- Some users reported muffled and distorted sound.
The Monoprice Outdoor Speaker Volume Controller is a specially designed unit that comes in a weatherproof sealed enclosure specifically designed for outdoor installations. The simple rotary design allows you to set your audio to the perfect listening level. The water-resistant enclosure also makes it perfect for marine (boating) applications. This rotary control can be set to one of twelve positions, including the minimum (off) and maximum volume settings.
While some users reported that the box is tight and wiring can be a bit challenging, the Monoprice Outdoor Speaker Volume Controller is a great option for those looking for a weatherproof outdoor speaker volume controller. However, some users also reported muffled and distorted sound, so it’s important to keep that in mind. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable outdoor speaker volume controller, the Monoprice Outdoor Speaker Volume Controller is definitely worth considering.
Monoprice Speaker Volume Controller RMS 100W (Slide Type) – White
If you’re looking for a simple and affordable volume control for your speaker system, the Monoprice Speaker Volume Controller RMS 100W (Slide Type) – White might be worth considering.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Can handle up to 100 watts per channel
- Offers 12 volume positions
Cons
- Slider can be noisy when moving
- Feels clunky compared to other volume controls
- Does not include a wall mounting bracket
This slide-type wall plate volume control can handle power ratings of up to 100 watts per channel and impedance ratings of 4 to 16 ohms. It offers 12 volume positions, including the minimum (off) and maximum volume settings. The wall plate mounts into a standard single-gang low-voltage wall bracket (not included) and has inputs and outputs for one pair of stereo speaker wires.
While the Monoprice Speaker Volume Controller RMS 100W (Slide Type) – White is easy to install and can handle a decent amount of power, some users have reported that the slider can be noisy when moving and that it feels clunky compared to other volume controls. Additionally, this product does not include a wall mounting bracket, which may be an inconvenience for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a basic volume control that won’t break the bank, the Monoprice Speaker Volume Controller RMS 100W (Slide Type) – White could be a good option. However, if you’re looking for a more premium product with smoother operation and additional features, you may want to consider other options.
Monoprice 108237 Outdoor Speaker Volume Controller
If you’re looking for an outdoor speaker volume controller, the Monoprice 108237 is a great option.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Can be set to one of twelve positions
- Weatherproof and water-resistant enclosure
Cons
- Difficult to wire
- Larger and heavier than it appears in the picture
- Cheaply made
This specially designed unit comes in a weatherproof sealed enclosure specifically designed for outdoor installations. A simple rotary design allows you to set your audio to the perfect listening level. The water-resistant enclosure also makes it perfect for marine (boating) applications. The rotary control can be set to one of twelve positions including the minimum (off) and maximum volume settings.
Installation can be a bit tricky, as there’s little space inside for left and right speakers in and out. It’s also larger and heavier than it appears in the picture, and the plastic screws holes are easily broken. However, once installed, the Monoprice 108237 works well outside and is durable enough for long-term use.
In summary, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly outdoor speaker volume controller that gets the job done, the Monoprice 108237 is a good option. Just be prepared for a bit of a challenge during installation.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a speaker volume control, there are a few key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Compatibility
The first thing to consider is compatibility. Make sure that the volume control you choose is compatible with your speakers and your audio system. Check the specifications of the product and make sure that it will work with your equipment.
Type of Control
There are two main types of speaker volume controls: passive and active. Passive controls work by reducing the amount of power that is sent to the speakers, while active controls use electronic circuitry to adjust the volume. Active controls tend to be more expensive, but they offer more precise control over the volume.
Number of Channels
Consider how many channels you need. If you have a stereo system, you will need a volume control with two channels. If you have a surround sound system, you may need a volume control with more channels.
Impedance
The impedance of your speakers is an important factor to consider when choosing a volume control. Make sure that the product you choose is compatible with the impedance of your speakers. If the impedance is too high, the volume control may not work properly.
Build Quality
The build quality of the volume control is also important. Look for a product that is well-built and durable. Check the materials used and make sure that they are of high quality.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the product. Make sure that you are getting good value for your money. Compare prices and features of different products to find the best option for your budget.
Feature | Consideration |
---|---|
Compatibility | Ensure compatibility with your audio system |
Type of Control | Choose between passive and active controls |
Number of Channels | Determine how many channels you need |
Impedance | Check compatibility with speaker impedance |
Build Quality | Look for a well-built and durable product |
Price | Compare prices and features to find the best value |
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.