Because you can use any decent home stereo amplifier as a power source, this is by far the most cost effective type of installation, but it also provides the most limited functionality. Since most home stereo amplifiers are Single-Zone (can output 1 audio program at a time ONLY), and all the speakers will be connected to the same amplifier, only 1 audio program can be distributed throughout the home at any given time. This can be referred to as a 'Single-Zone' system. The maximum volume level is set using the amplifier, then the local analog volume control knobs are used to taper it down from this maximum to off, or any other level in between. Analog volume controls are basically dimmer switches for speakers. As an additional note, the amplifier's total power output will be divided between all the speakers connected to it, i.e. 100 Watt amp & 4 pairs of (same impedance) speakers and you end up with 25 Watts per pair.

2-Zone amplifiers are available starting at around $400 (like our Onkyo TX-SR506) and they can output 2 independent audio programs from 2 independent sources simultaneously; this allows the grouping of each actual zone into 1 of 2 'Parent' zones instead of just 1, i.e. the master bedroom and ensuite bath can both be on Zone 1 while the dining room and rear deck can be on Zone 2, each of the Parent Zones can have different audio programs playing from independent sources, but individual rooms within each Parent Zone will all have the same program.

The number of zones you can have with these systems is only limited by the number of output connections on your receiver/amplifier and this can be overcome by connecting multiple units together. This gives Analog systems an advantage over all other types of systems; with as little as $400 you can purchase another 2-Zone amplifier and add 2 other independent "High-Power"* zones. Unlike Digital systems, you can easily add just 1 or 2 Zones at a time by simply adding another amp and re-grouping the sub-zones into more Parent Zones, each having fewer sub-zones than before. Additionally, as explained above, fewer speakers per amplifier means there will be more power delivered to each pair resulting in an increase in each zone's total power; this is not the case with Digital systems. *(Comparatively, Digital systems typically have power outputs in the range of 30 to 100 Watts per Zone, adding another TX-SR506 will add 2 more zones at 200 Watts each)

The limitations are the non-existent ability to remotely select or control the source equipment without additional hardware, and a solitary single-Zone amplifier means only one audio program can be distributed at any given time.

The remote source selection and control limitations can be overcome by using an Infrared (Ir) repeater system as described in our Control Solutions section, to go to this section click the appropriate link in the menu above. 

When designing a Complete Analog Distribution System many factors need to be considered; the size and number of rooms, the number of speakers per room, and the desired overall performance level of the system to name a few, feel free to contact us at any time by clicking the link at the top of the page so that we may assist you in designing the most appropriate package for your need and budget.

Provided you already have your own suitable amplifier to power the system, analog distribution starts at under $550 per room, this includes pre-wiring, 1 analog volume control, 1 pair of 5" 90Watt in-ceiling speakers and complete installation. 

PLEASE NOTE, if you intend to have a surround sound system in your home and don't already have a surround sound receiver/amplifier, a 7.x channel 2-Zone amplifier such as the TX-SR506 mentioned above can provide full 5.1 surround sound in one room plus a second independent powered Zone-2 for distribution throughout the rest of the house. For more information on our Home Theater solutions click the link at the top of the page.

To view our complete Price List or to Contact Us at any time, click the Info link at the top of the page.