Restaurant Audio Cabling: Zones Beat Power
Quick answer / TL;DR: Short answer: use a 70V distributed system with ceiling speakers on tap settings, one zone per area, and 16 or 18 AWG cable sized by total run. Put volume controls where staff work, not where the amplifier is. Keep speaker cable away from dimmer circuits and label every zone at the rack.
Four gauges, four distances: the conductor size follows the run.A restaurant needs even coverage at low level, not volume in one corner. That is a distributed system with zones.
Cabling follows from that: many speakers, modest power each, and controls staff can operate.
System Choices
| Element | Choice | Note |
|---|
| Distribution | 70V line | Many speakers |
| Cable | 16 to 18 AWG | Low current |
| Zones | One per area | Independent level |
| Control | Wall volume | Staff accessible |
The tap setting row is where coverage is tuned: 2 W per ceiling speaker in a low ceiling is often too loud at full amplifier output.
Installation Rules
- Separate from dimmers
- Label zones at the rack
- Controls at staff height
- Avoid taps at maximum
- Test at normal level, not full
Testing at full output hides uneven coverage; normal listening level exposes it.
Real-World Applications
A 60-seat restaurant uses two zones: dining and bar. A cafe with an open kitchen adds a third zone for the counter.
Standards and Verification
| Reference | Relevance |
|---|
| IEC 60268-5 | Loudspeakers |
| IEC 62368-1 | Safety |
| NEC Article 725 | Class 2 |
Amplifier power and speaker tap choices are not provided in the knowledge base. Calculate from datasheets.
References
- IEC 60268-5, Loudspeakers
- IEC 62368-1, Safety of IT equipment
- NFPA 70 (NEC) Article 725
Practical Notes
Draw the zone map and leave it at the rack. Every future change depends on it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
70V or 8 ohm?
70V for many speakers.
What cable?
16 or 18 AWG is typical.
How many zones?
One per area staff control.
Why is coverage uneven?
Tap settings and speaker spacing.
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