Walk into a busy hotel lobby and take a moment to listen. You’ll most likely hear hotel staff greeting and checking in guests, maybe nearby bar, restaurant or gift shop conversations as well. But what’s another thing you’ll hear? Music.
From soothing spa melodies to cheery restaurant beats or simple instrumental elevator tunes, background music is chosen carefully in each space to evoke emotions and memories and boost guests’ moods. This auditory experience isn’t just incidental; it’s a deliberate strategy to create an ambiance aligned with the hotel’s brand values. But crafting the right atmosphere requires more than a playlist — it depends on the technology behind the sound, and choosing the right audio system to deliver it is paramount for hotels. Here are some considerations for hoteliers when choosing the next audio system for their property.
- Match the audio system with your brand. Just as a movie theater relies on high-end sound systems to elevate the viewing experience, hotels need premium audio solutions to ensure clarity and quality. Poor sound—whether muffled or jarring—can detract from the guest experience and clash with the brand’s image. Thoughtfully chosen music paired with crisp audio reinforces a hotel’s identity and values.
- Modern systems provide greater flexibility. Gone are the days of static systems that play one tracklist across the property. Modern audio systems make it possible to tailor these spaces precisely, with customizable zones and volumes controlled from a single interface. Additionally, these systems combine public address capabilities that allow staff to make announcements across all zones and loudspeakers in a facility or to selected zones.
- Automation benefits staff. Many dated hotel audio music systems still require manual volume adjustments from staff. Sometimes, systems are so complicated that only the onsite AV or IT manager has the training and knowledge to make those adjustments. Today’s modern systems are designed not just for guests but for the staff who operate them. Features like automation ensure the music adjusts with the day’s rhythm —quieter during check-in rushes, livelier during happy hours.
- Mobile accessibility. Today’s modern audio systems are now accessible and controllable via mobile or web-based devices. This allows approved staff members to easily adjust volume or playlist changes whenever they are on a property. In those areas that don’t have ambient sensors, hotels can choose to install access panels with a simple knob to adjust the volume or an LED screen that allows staff to make the same adjustments as they would on a mobile device. Depending on the hotel’s size and staff, many properties rely on system integrators or installers to provide ongoing maintenance and support. With newer systems, integrators can securely log in to access the system from anywhere, either across town or the other side of the state or country. This access allows them to troubleshoot and avoid unnecessary site visits while helping save hotels money on those same visits. Additionally, the latest software-based systems can add features through simple-to-install software updates over time that add value and provide future-resistance (system longevity) and a better return on investment.
Music and audio capabilities are essential to hotel operations, enriching every moment guests spend on your property. Whether subtly in the background or taking center stage, sound weaves your brand’s story into the guest experience.
Story contributed by Ivan Schwartz, director of consultant relations, AtlasIED.
