How to Choose the Right Jukebox for Bars and Restaurants

The jukebox has become an icon of fun and simpler times. Having one in a bar or restaurant can bring back warm memories among friends and strangers.

Since its inception in the late 1800s and early 1900s, this sound machine has come a long way and has become a staple in diners, pubs, bars, and restaurants. Since music sets a good mood, enhances the taste of food, and encourages people to drink more, having a jukebox is crucial to the growth of your business.

However, to get the best from this iconic sound machine, you should know how to select the right one for your restaurant or bar. Here are a few tips to help you pick a suitable machine for your bar or restaurant.

Why Add a Jukebox to Your Bar or Restaurant?

If you want to own one of these devices, it’s best to identify your goals. Jukeboxes, for example, serve several purposes in a bar or restaurant.

Therefore, understanding your motivation or your customers’ needs will help you make the best choice.

Some of the reasons why you may want to get the machine are:

Substitute for a DJ or Band

This is one of the main reasons why this sound machine was invented. Having an in-house DJ or live band to entertain guests can be costly. Many operators take advantage of turning the jukebox on to free play mode for dedicated nights or hours, allowing their venue’s patrons to play music for free – a cost-effective alternative to hiring a DJ, given the low monthly fee.

You should ensure good music selection and a sound system to use the machine as a substitute.

Your Guests Expect It

Some guests only walk through your doors, hoping to get a turn on the jukebox. Depending on your location, style, or type of establishment, the expectations of your target customers will also influence the kind of machine you get.

To Make Money

You can also earn money from the machine and cater to your guests’ needs. Remember, the right jukebox can be a good source of extra income for your business, and the wrong one can only take up space in your establishment.

Increase Customer Engagement

The music you play in your bar or restaurant can help liven up the mood of your customers and get them dancing as they enjoy their favorite tunes.

If you aim to give your customers the freedom to choose the music they want and have fun, consider getting a machine with a vast selection of music from various genres. Operators can also limit the choice of music if they’re going to maintain a certain “vibe” at their location.

Types of Jukeboxes

Now that you understand why you need these music machines, the next step is to determine the suitable machine to buy. Jukeboxes have evolved alongside the music industry and can be found in any establishment. Today, these machines can be operated using credit cards, dollars, and even your phone. When selecting a jukebox, consider the type of music it will play, your budget, and the level of control you will have over it.

There are several types of jukeboxes that you can choose from. They include:

Vintage Jukeboxes

As the name suggests, these are some of the old-model machines. They are also known as a record player juke. Watching the records as they play on these machines can be fun.

They are an ideal choice for a retro-themed bar or restaurant. The vintage machines will give you control over the music you play and a feeling of nostalgia.

However, if the machine breaks down, you may struggle to find a replacement part. These machines also require frequent maintenance, have decreased audio quality, and offer a limited music selection. Also, buying them outright can be expensive.

Modern Jukeboxes

These are an upgrade to the vintage model. They use CDs and very limited MP3s and tend to be less expensive than vintage jukeboxes. They have a more comprehensive selection of music; if you own it outright, you will retain the profits.

On the downside, since they are from the 90s, they may not be suitable for a modern bar or restaurant. They also have a limited selection of music and are costly to maintain.

Digital Jukeboxes

You can have these latest systems and offer millions of songs and styles. A company like AMI provides millions of songs, customizable catalogs of full albums, and over 27,000 music videos, along with a slate of great-looking jukeboxes. They come in a flashy design and can be controlled via a smartphone app. With the current state of regulations, contactless control is essential for customers.

One of the benefits of digital jukeboxes is that updates are pushed directly from companies to the units. For instance, AMI jukeboxes can play back video for AMI’s complete library of music video titles. As a result, music video jukeboxes earn 40% more than jukeboxes with audio playback only.

Innovations like the AMI Ad Manager give you the power to reach more customers with custom ads. This easy-to-use digital signage tool lets you create, edit, schedule, and run promotions on your AMI products and connected TVs. For example, promote daily specials or limited-time offers and boost revenue.

Use These Tips to Find the Right Jukebox for Your Establishment

If you don’t have a DJ or band and don’t want to connect your phone to a jack to play music through it, consider using a jukebox instead.

Remember, since the machine you choose will say something about your business and brand, you should consider all options and make the right choice for your business.

Are you looking for the right jukebox? Then, Betson has what you need for your establishment.

Ready to upgrade your venue? Browse our commercial jukebox options or contact a Betson rep today.