Which music system is right for hospitality? Buyer's guide

What are the components of a music system for hospitality?

A complete music system for hospitality consists of several layers:

1. Speakers and hardware (the output)
These are the devices that produce the sound: wireless speakers, in-wall speakers, soundbars or complete multiroom systems. Brands such as Sonos, Bluesound, JBL Commercial, Yamaha and QSC are widely used because they are professionally tuned and reliable.

2. A music source with legal licences (the input)
This is the essential component that is required by law: a service that arranges licences for playing music in a business. This can be Backsound, but also Spotify Business (where available). Without a legal licence you are playing music illegally and your business runs the risk of hefty fines.

3. Network and control system (the brains)
This connects everything: the WiFi connection, multiroom coordination and control apps so you can manage your music remotely.

Understanding this distinction is crucial: Sonos is not enough. Sonos only provides the speakers; you still need a legal music source.

Which speakers/hardware are suitable for hospitality?

The market offers various options, depending on your budget and type of venue:

Sonos
Popular in cafés and restaurants thanks to its ease of use and design. Offers multiroom, but the audio quality is average. Good for smaller spaces.

Bluesound
A specialised audiophile option with higher quality. Better for music-focused venues (lounges, cocktail bars).

JBL Commercial
Professional installation, suitable for larger spaces. Offers more choice in speaker types and installation options.

Yamaha
A reliable choice for mid-sized hospitality venues. A good balance between quality and price.

QSC
High-end, professional-grade systems for premium businesses or large venues.

The choice depends on:
– Room size: Small café → Sonos; large restaurant → JBL/Yamaha; premium venue → Bluesound/QSC
– Budget: Sonos is cheaper; QSC is more expensive
– Quality requirements: Simple background music → Sonos; audiophile → Bluesound

Which music source do you need (and why does the licence matter)?

This is the part that many hospitality businesses get wrong. You cannot simply sign up for Spotify in a hospitality venue. That is illegal and can lead to fines of €500–€10,000+.

Backsound is a specialised solution for hospitality:

– Business licence: music that may be used for business purposes; you arrange the BUMA/Stemra and Sena licence yourself via mijnlicentie.nl
– Clear costs: one fixed amount per month, no hidden charges
– Convenience: Music computer, remote control, and guests can submit requests
– AI playlists: Automatically generated playlists based on style and mood
– Multiroom: Different music in different areas (bar, terrace, kitchen)
– 24/7 Support: Technical help always available
– On-site repair: Should any devices break down

Price: €39.95/month (free hardware included) or €34.95/month (own PC/hardware).

Other legal sources are Spotify Business (very limited availability in the Netherlands) or Soundtrack (more music, less specific to hospitality).

How do you combine hardware with Backsound?

Step 1: Decide on your speakers
Choose your hardware based on room size and budget (see the section above).

Step 2: Install Backsound
Backsound works via:
– A music computer (PC or Mac) running the Backsound software
– A connection to your speakers via WiFi (Sonos, etc.) or cable
– A remote control app on a smartphone or tablet

Step 3: Configure multiroom (optional)
If you have several areas (bar + terrace), you can set up separate playlists for each area.

Step 4: Enable guest requests
Backsound offers a guest app so customers can request songs.

Installation: Backsound also offers an installation service. Call 088-4259888 for a quote.

Cost overview: what does a complete system cost?

One-off investment in speakers: €500–€5,000 (depending on your choice).

So for a small café: Sonos system (€1,500 one-off) + Backsound (€34.95/month) = practical and affordable.
For a premium restaurant: JBL/Yamaha system (€3,000–€5,000) + Backsound (€39.95/month) = professional and flexible.

Why music matters in hospitality

Research shows that the right music:
– Makes customers stay longer: On average, 20% longer stays
– Generates more orders: Music influences spending behaviour
– Creates the atmosphere: Music is part of your brand

At the same time: illegal music is a risk. BUMA/Stemra carries out checks, and fines are quick to follow.

Summary: your checklist

✅ Choose your hardware: What type of venue do you have and what is your budget?
✅ Install the speakers: Yourself or with professional help?
✅ Sign up for a music source: Backsound or an alternative?
✅ Arrange the licences: BUMA/Stemra and Sena via mijnlicentie.nl
✅ Activate the guest feature: Can customers request songs?

Many hospitality businesses choose Sonos + Backsound because it is simple, affordable and fully legal. Contact Backsound for a personal explanation or a demo.

Contact Backsound

A well-chosen music system is essential for the atmosphere and profitability of your hospitality business. Backsound combines professional hardware integration with legal music licences, so you can enjoy background music fully compliant and without worries. Many hospitality entrepreneurs rely on Backsound for their music system. Get in touch for a personal explanation, a demo or a tailor-made quote for your business.

📞 Phone: 088-4259888
🌐 Website: www.backsound.nl
📧 Contact form: Available on the website

See also

• Music system for hospitality
• Audio equipment, speakers & Sonos
• Music computer for hospitality