Speakers for a cafe/bar to go with sonos connect

This approach has the benefit of flexibility at least, you could put up 4 of these and either run them as 4 separate zones (one in each corner perhaps), grouped so that they all play the same music, or you could pair them two and two to create two stereo pairs, which could then also be grouped so that each pair would play in sync with each other. This would give you the benefit of being able to control the volume individually on all 4 (if running as 4 separate zones) or on each pair if paired. Bear in mind you'd need one Sonos device wired to your router (you'll have a router right?), if you aren't able to manage that with one of the Play:3s then you'd need a Zonebridge but they're not expensive (£39). Obviously if you go this route you'll need to supply power to each Play:3 which might be awkward if they're high up on a wall.

It does depend on the size of the property and how loud you want them to run. Also begs another question, where are these going to get their music from and how are you going to control everything?

You should demo the Play:3. I was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality despite the relative small speaker size. Besides, it'll be a lot easier to set up.

Most retailers are offering a free ZoneBridge with Play:3 (which also means that you could end with 4 ZoneBridges!). Speak to the retailer to offer more discount instead of so many ZoneBridges.

To be honest I think it will be easier to get speaker cable to where I will be mounting the speakers as opposed to power cables.  Although I do appreciate the flexibility of having sonos plays instead of standard speakers... decisions!  Presumably seeing as noone has mentioned them ceiling speakers aren't a great option in terms of sound quality?

Ceiling speakers are an excellent option. My dealer suggested ceiling speakers for my bedroom on a number of occasions. But I haven't heard them personally so cannot recommend any.

I'd maybe be looking at pro/PA kit rather than domestic stuff, personally. Especially if you're looking to have 'a bit of volume'.

Nothing wrong with in-ceiling speakers, but I don't think many of us will have had much experience with them. I personally would favour them in a business premises over wall-mounted speakers. I've heard a few which sound great.

Quite a few bars/cafes and even shops that I've been in lately have had sub/sat set-ups. But again, using mainly pro stuff rather than domestic.    

Due to a little more time on my hands than I'd ideally like I go to my local costa cafe on a regular basis. The toilets are amazing and the mirror has soft tungsten lighting which makes my skin look ...

They have these little white passive pro speakers in the mould of the old JBL Control 1's hanging in the corners. They sound good, clear with surprising bass for something so tiny, look modern and come, I assume with mounting brackets.  I'll find out what they are if you want.

regards

Daft question, but are you sure they aren't just Control 1s? They do come in white. With wall brackets, handily enough. :)  

Not daft at all but I suspect you are a shy boy and just wanted to use the opportunity to tell me how pretty I am ... understand and credit where credit is due.

They are in fact Behringers after identifying the logo though I think they may be discontinued looking at the Behringer site. I provided a link with the newest editions, 2 versions ... one active, one passive

http://www.behringer.com/EN/Category/Loudspeakers-and-Studio-Monitors.aspx?s=B420

Looking at the specs, I am either stone deaf or it is quite astonishing what comes out of these little plastic speakers. They have of course something solid behind them which helps ... I should know.

regards

Now if I'd have a mouthful of tea there I'd be sending you the bill for a new laptop...

Que? :) Obviously out of the loop on this one...