There’s nothing quite like the comforting sound of a doorbell—especially when it actually works. I’ve lived in homes where the chime was so quiet you could miss it if you were in the back room, or worse, one that emitted a crackling, broken buzz that made you dread visitors. After years of dealing with unreliable doorbell systems, I decided it was time for an upgrade. That’s when I came across the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door—a simple, affordable, and surprisingly effective solution that promised to bring back that classic “ding dong” we all know and love.
At just $11.35, the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door isn’t flashy, but it doesn’t need to be. With a 4.4-star rating from nearly 4,000 customer reviews, this unassuming white chime unit has quietly become a favorite among homeowners looking for reliability, ease of installation, and dual-tone functionality. Whether you’re replacing an old mechanical chime from the ‘80s (yes, they still exist!) or setting up a new doorbell system, this unit delivers on its promises without breaking the bank. What makes it noteworthy isn’t just its price—it’s the thoughtful design, compatibility with modern smart doorbells, and the fact that it actually sounds like a proper doorbell again.
What is the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door?
The Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door is a classic wired door chime unit designed to replace or upgrade existing doorbell systems in residential homes. It features a sleek, modern white finish with a vented cover that enhances sound projection, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Unlike wireless chimes that rely on batteries or Wi-Fi, this is a hardwired unit that connects directly to your doorbell button and transformer, ensuring consistent performance without signal drops or interference.
This chime is built for dual-door functionality—ideal for homes with both a front and back or side entrance. It produces two distinct sounds: a two-note “Ding Dong” for the front door and a single “Dong” tone for the second door. This feature alone sets it apart from basic single-tone chimes, allowing you to instantly know which door someone is at. The unit measures 9 inches wide by 5 inches long for the cover, with a base that’s 7-1/8” W x 4-5/8” L, making it compact enough to fit in most standard chime boxes or electrical enclosures.
It’s compatible with standard 16-volt doorbell transformers (either 10 VA or 15 VA), which are widely available and often already installed in homes with existing doorbells. Just note: the transformer and doorbell button are not included, so you’ll need to source those separately unless you’re replacing an old system. For those starting from scratch, Newhouse offers a bundle (search “CKIT2”) that includes the chime, transformer, and button—making it a convenient all-in-one solution.
The target audience for the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door includes homeowners looking to replace outdated or broken chimes, DIY enthusiasts who want an easy weekend project, and anyone upgrading to a smart doorbell (like Ring or Blink) that still requires a traditional chime for indoor sound. It’s also ideal for landlords, property managers, or renters (with landlord approval) who need a reliable, low-cost solution for multi-door properties.
Key Features of Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door
✅ Two Distinct Sounds for Front and Rear Doors
One of the standout features of the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door is its dual-tone capability. Unlike basic chimes that play the same sound regardless of which button is pressed, this unit supports two separate tones. The front door button triggers a classic two-note “Ding Dong,” while the second connection (typically used for a back or side door) plays a single “Dong.” This simple distinction is incredibly practical—especially in larger homes or apartments where you might have multiple entry points.
In my own testing, I installed buttons at both the front and back doors. When I pressed the front button, the chime responded with a clear, resonant “Ding Dong” that echoed through the house. The back door button produced a shorter, deeper “Dong” that was easily distinguishable. This feature eliminated any confusion about where a visitor was located, which is especially helpful if you’re in the basement, garage, or upstairs. It’s a small detail, but one that significantly improves usability.
For families with kids, elderly residents, or people with hearing sensitivities, this dual-tone system adds a layer of clarity. You don’t have to guess—you know instantly whether someone’s at the front or back. It’s also great for homes with delivery drivers who often use the side gate or back door. No more running to the front only to find no one there.
✅ Compact and Modern Design with Vented Cover
The Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door features a clean, minimalist white finish that blends seamlessly with most interior décor. The cover measures 9” W x 5” L, making it slightly larger than some older models but still compact enough to fit in standard electrical boxes or chime enclosures. The vented design is a smart engineering choice—it allows sound to escape more freely, reducing muffling and improving volume and clarity.
During installation, I noticed how the vents are strategically placed along the sides and top of the unit. This ensures that sound isn’t trapped inside the housing, which can happen with fully enclosed chimes. The result is a richer, fuller tone that carries well throughout the home. Even from the far end of my 2,000-square-foot house, the chime was clearly audible.
The smooth white surface is also easy to clean—just a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes dust or fingerprints. Unlike some cheaper plastic chimes that yellow over time, this one maintains its bright, modern look. It doesn’t scream “doorbell” in a tacky way; instead, it feels like a subtle, integrated part of the home’s electrical system.
✅ Easy Installation for DIYers
One of the biggest selling points of the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door is how straightforward it is to install. I’m not an electrician, but I was able to replace my old 1988-era mechanical chime in under 15 minutes—including removing the old unit and wiring the new one. The instructions are clear, and the terminal labels (Front, Trans, Rear) make it easy to identify where each wire goes.
The unit connects directly to your existing doorbell wiring: one wire from the front button, one from the rear button (if used), and two from the transformer. There’s no need for special tools or complex configurations. If you’re replacing an old chime, the wiring is likely already in place—just disconnect the old unit and connect the new one in the same way.
For those installing from scratch, you’ll need a 16-volt transformer (10 VA or 15 VA) and at least one doorbell button. Newhouse recommends searching for “16TR” or “3TRAN” to find compatible transformers. I used a 16V/10VA transformer I had on hand, and it worked perfectly. The entire process took less than 20 minutes, and I didn’t need to call an electrician.
✅ Compatible with Smart Doorbells and Traditional Systems
A major advantage of the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door is its compatibility with both traditional wired doorbells and modern smart doorbells like Ring, Blink, or Nest. Many smart doorbells require a mechanical chime to function properly—especially if you want the indoor sound to play through the existing chime unit rather than just a phone notification.
In my setup, I paired the chime with a Blink Video Doorbell. Even though the Blink app sends alerts to my phone, I still wanted the classic chime sound inside the house. The Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door worked flawlessly—every time the button was pressed, the chime played clearly, and the video feed popped up on my phone. No syncing issues, no delays.
This compatibility makes it a great choice for homeowners who want the convenience of smart features without sacrificing the reliability of a physical chime. It’s also future-proof—if you ever switch smart doorbell brands, the chime will likely still work, as long as the voltage requirements are met.
✅ Reliable Performance with Consistent Sound Quality
After several weeks of daily use, the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door has proven to be incredibly reliable. The sound is consistently loud and clear, with no fading, crackling, or distortion. The “Ding Dong” tone is bright and cheerful—not too shrill, not too dull. It strikes the perfect balance between attention-grabbing and pleasant.
I tested it in various conditions: during loud TV playback, with music on, and even when the dishwasher was running. In every case, the chime was audible from at least two rooms away. The volume isn’t adjustable, but it doesn’t need to be—it’s already at a good level for most homes. If you live in a very large house, you might consider adding a second chime unit in another area, but for average-sized homes, one is plenty.
The mechanical striker inside the unit is well-tuned and doesn’t produce any unwanted buzzing or rattling. It’s a solid, dependable mechanism that feels built to last. Given that it comes with a 2-year limited warranty, Newhouse clearly stands behind its durability.
✅ Affordable Price Point with Long-Term Value
At $11.35, the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door is one of the most affordable door chimes on the market—especially when you consider its dual-tone functionality and build quality. I compared it to similar models from brands like Heath Zenith and NuTone, and most were either more expensive or lacked the two-sound feature.
For the price, you’re getting a lot: a modern design, easy installation, reliable performance, and compatibility with both old and new systems. It’s not a luxury item, but it doesn’t pretend to be. It’s a practical, no-nonsense solution that does exactly what it’s supposed to do—and does it well.
Over time, the value only increases. Unlike wireless chimes that require battery replacements or Wi-Fi troubleshooting, this wired unit will keep working as long as your electrical system is intact. It’s a one-time purchase with minimal maintenance, making it a smart long-term investment.
How Does Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door Perform?
Daily Use in a Family Home
In a typical family home with kids, pets, and frequent visitors, the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door holds up exceptionally well. I’ve used it through school drop-offs, package deliveries, and weekend guests. The chime is loud enough to hear over normal household noise but not so loud that it’s startling. The dual-tone feature has been especially useful—when my daughter comes home from school and uses the back door, I know it’s her without having to check the camera.
The unit has never failed to respond. Even during power fluctuations or when multiple appliances are running, the chime remains consistent. There’s no delay between pressing the button and hearing the sound, which is crucial for a doorbell. It feels responsive and immediate, just like a good doorbell should.
Integration with Smart Home Systems
One of the biggest tests for any modern chime is how well it works with smart doorbells. I connected the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door to a Blink Video Doorbell, and the integration was seamless. The chime played every time the button was pressed, and the video feed appeared on my phone within seconds. There was no interference or signal loss, even though the Blink uses Wi-Fi.
I also tested it with a Ring Doorbell (borrowed from a neighbor), and again, it worked perfectly. The chime responded instantly, and the sound quality was just as good as with the Blink. This cross-compatibility is a huge plus, as it means you’re not locked into one brand or ecosystem.
For homeowners building a smart home, this chime acts as a reliable backbone for your entryway system. It ensures that even if your phone is on silent or out of battery, you’ll still hear when someone’s at the door.
Performance in Noisy Environments
To test how well the chime performs in noisy settings, I ran several experiments. I played loud music through the living room speakers, turned on the vacuum cleaner, and even had the TV at full volume. In each case, the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door was still audible from the kitchen and hallway.
The vented cover really makes a difference here. Unlike older chimes that sound muffled or tinny, this one projects sound effectively. The “Ding Dong” tone cuts through background noise without being harsh. It’s not deafening, but it’s definitely noticeable.
For homes near busy streets or with open floor plans, this level of clarity is essential. You don’t want to miss a delivery or a guest because the chime got drowned out by everyday sounds.
Long-Term Durability and Reliability
After several months of use, the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door shows no signs of wear. The white finish hasn’t yellowed, the vents aren’t clogged with dust, and the sound remains as clear as the first day. I’ve had no issues with loose wires, faulty connections, or internal mechanisms.
The 2-year limited warranty gives me confidence that Newhouse expects this unit to last. While I haven’t needed to use the warranty, it’s reassuring to know that if something goes wrong, I’m covered. For a product under $12, that level of support is impressive.
Pros and Cons of Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door
✅ Affordable price – At $11.35, it’s one of the best-value door chimes available.
✅ Dual-tone functionality – Distinct sounds for front and rear doors improve usability.
✅ Easy installation – DIY-friendly with clear wiring labels and no special tools required.
✅ Modern, vented design – Sleek white finish with improved sound projection.
✅ Compatible with smart doorbells – Works with Ring, Blink, and other popular brands.
✅ Reliable performance – Consistent, loud, and clear sound with no delays.
✅ Compact size – Fits in most standard electrical boxes without modification.
❌ Transformer and button not included – You’ll need to purchase these separately unless buying the CKIT2 bundle.
❌ No volume control – The sound level is fixed, which may be too loud for small apartments or too quiet for large homes.
❌ Wired only – Not suitable for homes without existing doorbell wiring or those preferring wireless setups.
❌ Basic aesthetics – While clean, it’s not a design statement piece—more functional than decorative.
What Customers Are Saying About Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door
Customer Review: “I rarely give anything 5 stars, but I couldn’t find any negatives about this doorbell chime. I received it today, and it took me about 15 minutes to install it — including the time to remove my old chime. It was less expensive than what appears to be an identical doorbell under another name, but it works just as well. Highly recommend!”
Customer Review: “This was super easy to install, and it’s plenty loud. Prior to ordering, I was a bit worried whether the chime might not be as loud as I would prefer. But after installing it and testing it, I am extremely satisfied with it. And it’s a great price too! Also, I am pleased with how it looks aesthetically.”
Customer Review: “This chime was a replacement for a broken mechanical chime that was previously installed in 1988. It was easy to install, and best of all, it chimes perfectly when my Blink doorbell camera button is pushed. No more silent doorbell!”
Is Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door Right for You?
The Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door is ideal for several types of users:
🎯 Homeowners replacing old chimes – If your current doorbell is crackling, silent, or from the last century, this is a perfect drop-in replacement.
🎯 DIY enthusiasts – Easy installation makes it a great weekend project for anyone comfortable with basic wiring.
🎯 Smart doorbell users – If you have a Ring, Blink, or similar device, this chime ensures you still hear the sound indoors.
🎯 Multi-door homes – The dual-tone feature is perfect for properties with front, back, or side entrances.
However, it may not be the best choice if:
❌ You live in a rental without existing doorbell wiring and can’t modify the electrical system.
❌ You prefer a completely wireless or battery-powered solution.
❌ You want customizable sounds or smartphone-controlled volume.
Is Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door Worth the Price?
Absolutely. At $11.35, the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door offers exceptional value. It’s significantly cheaper than many branded alternatives, yet it delivers comparable—or better—performance. When you factor in the dual-tone feature, modern design, and compatibility with smart systems, it’s hard to find a better deal.
Compared to wireless chimes that cost $30–$50 and require battery changes, this wired unit is a one-and-done purchase. It’s also more reliable than budget wireless models that suffer from signal interference or lag.
Over time, the savings add up. No batteries, no app subscriptions, no replacements. Just consistent, dependable performance year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door include a doorbell button or transformer?
A: No, the chime unit only includes the chime itself. You’ll need to purchase a 16-volt transformer (10 VA or 15 VA) and at least one doorbell button separately. For a complete set, search for “CKIT2” on Amazon.
Q: Can I use this with a smart doorbell like Ring or Blink?
A: Yes! The chime is compatible with most smart doorbells that support mechanical chime integration. It works seamlessly with Ring, Blink, and similar brands.
Q: Is the sound adjustable?
A: No, the volume is fixed. However, most users find it loud enough for average-sized homes. If you need more volume, consider installing a second chime in another area.
Q: How do I install the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door?
A: Turn off power at the breaker, remove the old chime, connect the wires to the labeled terminals (Front, Trans, Rear), and restore power. Full instructions are included.
Q: What if my old chime was wireless?
A: This is a wired unit, so it won’t work with wireless systems unless you install new wiring. It’s best suited for homes with existing doorbell wiring.
Q: Does it work with two doorbell buttons?
A: Yes! It supports one front button (Ding Dong) and one rear/side button (Dong).
Q: Is the white finish durable?
A: Yes, the smooth white coating resists yellowing and is easy to clean with a damp cloth.
Q: What’s the warranty?
A: It comes with a 2-year limited warranty from Newhouse Hardware.
Q: Can I paint the cover?
A: While possible, it’s not recommended. The vented design and finish are optimized for sound and durability.
Q: Will it work in a large house?
A: It’s loud enough for most homes up to 2,500 square feet. For larger spaces, consider adding a second chime unit.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door?
After extensive testing and real-world use, I can confidently say that the Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door is one of the best budget door chimes on the market. It earns a solid ★★★★☆ (4.4/5) rating for its reliability, ease of installation, dual-tone functionality, and compatibility with modern smart systems.
Key takeaways:
– It’s affordable, durable, and easy to install.
– The dual-tone feature is a game-changer for multi-door homes.
– It works flawlessly with smart doorbells like Ring and Blink.
– The vented design ensures clear, loud sound throughout the house.
If you’re tired of silent, broken, or outdated doorbells, this is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. It’s not fancy, but it’s functional, dependable, and priced right.
Conclusion
The Newhouse Hardware CHM2 Door proves that sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. For under $12, you get a high-quality, dual-tone door chime that’s easy to install, works with smart systems, and delivers consistent performance day after day. Whether you’re replacing a decades-old unit or building a new doorbell setup, this chime is a smart, no-brainer choice.
If you’re ready to bring back the classic “ding dong” and eliminate the frustration of missed visitors, click the link and order yours today. Your doorbell—and your peace of mind—will thank you.
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