Best Ceiling Speakers of 2024 - What to know before buying!
Best Ceiling Speakers - Cover Image - Speakers Reviewed

Best Ceiling Speakers

If you’re looking for a low-profile speaker to install in your home, look no further than the ceiling speakers! Ceiling speakers are perfect because they can be installed with barely any notice. They blend into the decor and reduce sound distortion while still maintaining good quality audio output. In this article, we will highlight some of the best ceiling speakers currently available.

This means you don’t have to compromise aesthetics or performance when adding music to an intimate setting, like inside your living room or patio deck area, where less space is available for bulky equipment. 

Polk Audio RC80i Ceiling Speakers
Our Top Pick!

Polk Audio RC80i Ceiling Speakers

The Virtually Invisible 791 Series II ceiling speakers are an excellent choice for any living space. They’re easy to install so you can enjoy them in your home as soon as possible.

Meet the Winners!

The affordable Micca M-8C Ceiling Speaker is perfect for those on a budget. Despite being sold in singles, the cost per pair still beats out every other speaker we offer here at Soundworks!

The Definitive Technology Di 8R is capable of delivering a 225W peak with a 90db sensitivity. This will surely shake your ceiling and wake the neighbors at full volume!

The Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit is the system you’ll want to choose if your goal is background music applications. This kit, among others on our list of great speakers for in or around a home entertainment center, has an output that’s not quite enough for big sound but it can work well when there are many other speakers installed with this one.

Speaker cones are usually made of a material that closely resembles cardboard, which is completely destroyed when it comes into contact with moisture. Many speakers have been found to die prematurely because they were in the bathroom or in other areas prone to humidity and dampness. You should also be aware that water and electronics don’t mix well!

The Polk Audio RC80i or Yamaha NS-IC800 are both options for a powerful speaker that will not let moisture damage it. The cheaper option is the Polk Audio but does lack sound quality, while Yamaha’s offering provides an excellent sounding portable system and its cost reflects this difference in value.

If you have limited funds then consider picking up the Yamaha NS-IC600 which has nearly as much power as the IC800 just without all of those expensive extras!

If you need ceiling speakers for a surround sound installation then consider these few recommendations. Ceiling speakers are best for rear left/right and effects speaker positions, but they may not offer the best audio experience in other locations – especially if your front left/right or center channels aren’t ideal either.

Polk Audio RC80i

The RC 80i is an awesome speaker for a home theater surround sound. You can choose between the 8” or 6.5″ model and have the option to use Polk Audio’s 255C-RT which will fit nicely in your wall as left, right, and center speakers with added bass by using their 505 powered subwoofer if desired! With its price range, it offers a great quality of sound that you are sure to love.

Klipsch CDT-5650-C

Klipsch CDT-5650-C is an excellent premium option for a complete surround sound system and has the widest range of in-wall speakers so you can build your surround sound system to match any requirements. Klipsch also offers selections when it comes to power subwoofers that will provide all frequencies whether small or large budgets, making them the perfect choice if your budget isn’t anything but the tightest one possible!

Micca M-8C

The Micca M Series In-Wall/In-Ceiling speaker is the perfect way to achieve a surround sound experience in your home theater without blowing out all of your budget. Offering both box and circular shapes with an added specially designed center, these speakers are sure to provide excellent quality for any environment at a price that won’t leave you broke!

Definitive Technology Di 8R

The Di 8R is another premium option for an in-wall or ceiling home theater surround sound system. It features both circular and box-shaped speakers so you’ll be able to find the speaker that will fit into any position, along with Definitive Technology’s ProSub 1000 as well if needed. Like Klipsch, it comes at a higher price tag but is worth every penny once installed!

The Polk Audio RC80i is perfect for most living spaces. The easy installation means these speakers shouldn’t be a challenge to install on any level of a DIY enthusiast, from the newbie who just learned how to change an air filter in their HVAC system or replace a lightbulb and has no experience with wiring whatsoever to seasoned veterans installing sound systems like this every day.


Things to Consider Before Purchasing Ceiling Speakers

The first step in installing ceiling speakers is to figure out what you want. Are you looking for a vibrant sound? Or do you need something discreet and simple, with little installation work required afterward? While there are many factors that go into this decision process, we suggest checking the following 6 tips before making any commitments!

Can your ceiling accommodate the speakers’ depth?

Make sure to take into consideration any low-hanging beams or obstacles before you start drilling. Check for clearance between ceiling boards and roof while looking up at the ceiling from below it, as well as checking whether there is extra insulation above your head.

Can your ceiling board handle the added weight?

When purchasing a new speaker, it’s important to make sure your ceiling board can handle the extra weight. Most ceilings won’t have any issues but for thinner boards, you may need to double-check if they are rated enough.

Do you need an amplifier?

Ceiling speakers are usually not powered, which means they need amplification from a receiver or amplifier. Make sure you have budgeted for this if you don’t already have one! Throughout this article, we make recommendations based on the speaker and offer some tips at the end of it to help with your decision-making process.

What cable length do you need?

Getting into the ceiling will require longer cable runs than your average home theater installation. Make sure you measure accurately and take into account the length to the wall, up a wall, around any obstacles in-between, and then finally plugging it all together by connecting your speakers to an amplifier or receiver.

What tools do you need?

The installation of ceiling speakers is relatively simple. Here are the tools you’ll need and what they’re for:

  • Jab Saw
  • Drill
  • Screwdriver (Phillips)
  • Measuring Tape
  • Utility Knife
  • ​Diagonal Pliers​
  • Pencil ​

Our Selection of the Best Ceiling Speakers

1. Polk Audio RC80i Ceiling Speakers

Speakers Reviewed Score 5-0
Polk Audio RC80i Ceiling Speakers

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included2
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 8” driver with 1 x 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification20-100W @ 8 Ohms
Weight4.3 lbs
Dimensions9.37 x 3.25 inches

The Polk Audio RC80i is the perfect speaker to explore for a full sound system. You can find variations of this speaker that will perfectly match your needs and budget, from an affordable starter kit all the way up to premium speakers with adjustable features.

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Polk Audio RC80i is a speaker that will add some serious boom to your sound. It has an 8” woofer and a single 1” tweeter for accurate highs. You can even swivel the high frequencies towards where you want them most of the time, which gives it more versatility than other speakers on this list!

Installation

The Polk Audio RC80i features a protective coating which means these speakers are able to be installed in any number of places around the home. Whether you want sound without drilling into walls or something more permanent, this speaker is perfect for your needs! The only downside? It’s not exactly one-of-a-kind – but if it fits your budget and aesthetics then great news: what matters most to me will matter just as much to you.

The RC80i speakers are quick and easy to install with just a couple of screws. They come with templates so stenciling the holes is simple and they have locking tabs that swivel when you tighten them, making installation even simpler than before! The speaker grilles can be painted to blend in with your existing paint or decor.

Cabling & Amplification

Polk Audio doesn’t recommend specific models of amplifier or receiver, but the output must be able to produce 20-100W at 8 Ohms. To power your sound, we recommend the Onkyo TX-RZ610 7.2 Receiver which will give you theater-quality surround sound throughout your home. If all that’s needed is amplification for a small space like an office or den, Bose SoundTouch SA-5 Amplifier would be perfect!

Polk Audio doesn’t specify an exact speaker gauge per distance other than the minimum of 18 gauge. The RC80i can handle speakers up to 30ft – we recommend a 12-gauge wire for anything over that length, though!

What’s in the box?

  • 2 x Polk Audio RC80i Ceiling Speakers
  • 2 x Speaker grilles
  • 2 x Installation templates

Conclusion

The Polk Audio RC80i is a speaker equipped with two 8” woofers and one 1.5″ tweeter which can be used for in-ceiling or wall installation to provide the best sound throughout your house when you are playing music, watching TV, movies, or gaming at home. The moisture-resistant coating will keep this unit safe from water damage if installed near bathrooms and outdoor areas while also providing great sound quality that won’t disappoint any listener’s ears. For those who love surround sound listening experiences but want more bass than what their current setup provides; they should opt for purchasing the combo pack of an RC60i/PSW505 subwoofer as it delivers high performance across all frequency ranges without overpowering any other component within.

2. Bose Virtually Invisible 791 Series II in-Ceiling Speaker

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-8
Bose Virtually Invisible 791 Series II in-Ceiling Speaker

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included2
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 7” driver with 2 x 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification10-100W @ 4-8 Ohms
Weight4.6 lbs
Dimensions10.0 x 4.4 inches 

The Bose Virtually Invisible 791 Series II In-Ceiling Speaker is perfect for those looking to hide their decor or design choices from view. The speaker grilles are white and come with a paint kit that can be used to match your ceiling, so you don’t have to worry about clashing colors when it comes time to redecorate!

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Bose Virtually Invisible 791 Series II features a whopping 50W IEC continuous power handling. Each speaker is compatible with an amplifier or receiver rated between 10-100W at 4-8 Ohms and can deliver up to 6 Ohms of sound pressure level (SPL). The speakers themselves are individually capable of delivering more than enough in the way of clear, crisp audio for even bigger living spaces like apartments—or offices!

The way Bose has arrayed the tweeters to fire in opposite directions at 45° from the center of their speaker creates a stereo sound image that you can hear no matter where you are within a room. The Invisible 791 Series II is so powerful it delivers an immersive listening experience when paired with high-quality speakers or headphones, and will take your entertainment system to new heights by reproducing every sonic detail – regardless if its music or movies!

Installation

The Invisible 791 Series II is perfect for any installation. You can easily cut the hole to size before you install it or use a template provided with your purchase of this speaker, and connect wires in seconds by matching them up on both terminals found at the back of your new device. Mounting couldn’t be easier – just push through the opening that has been created and tighten down using standard dogleg clamps so they stay firmly attached! The grille magnetically attaches as soon as put into place making setup quick and easy whether installing inside or outside where elements may cause damage to unprotected speakers over time.

Bose has made it easy to install your own system. Even if you’re a beginner, the manual will provide instructions as simple and clear as day for a novice DIYer like yourself!

Cabling & Amplification

The Bose SoundTouch SA-5 Amplifier is the perfect option if you are unsure of which amplifier or receiver to use. The amp features 2 x RCA inputs, 1 x ⅛ inch input for connecting your phone via Bluetooth, and WiFi so that streaming music from apps like Pandora, Spotify, etc., can be possible over a long-range connection without any disturbance in sound quality. It also works with Alexa! If you plan on using this amplifier with speakers (sold separately), it’s best to purchase a speaker cable when connecting from the amp to the speakers as well because these cables offer maximum fidelity and frequency response between all components within an audio system – such as amplifiers/receivers, loudspeakers, and most importantly power.

When connecting from the amplifier to your speakers, Bose recommends the following speaker cable:

Lengths up to 20ft18 Gauge
Lengths 20ft to 30ft16 Gauge
Lengths 30ft to 50ft14 Gauge
Lengths 50ft to 90ft12 Gauge

What’s in the box?

  • 2 x Bose Virtually Invisible 791 Series II Speakers
  • 2 x Speaker grilles
  • Installation template

Conclusion

The Virtually Invisible 791 Series II is the perfect addition to any living space. The easy installation should make it a breeze to install these speakers and they’re great for TV, music, or movies! You can enjoy stereo sound no matter where you are in the room with Stereo Everywhere technology.

3. JBL SP8CII In-Ceiling Speaker

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-9
JBL SP8CII In-Ceiling Speaker

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included2
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 8” driver with 1 x 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification25-100W @ 4-8 Ohms
Weight5.6 lbs
Dimensions8.0 x 4.25 inches

For those who need a high-quality speaker for professional purposes, JBL is the leading name. Their exceptional consumer products include their SP8CII In-Ceiling Speaker which provides rich quality sound and deep bass that can be installed in many settings such as offices and conference rooms.

Sound Quality & Technical Features

JBL SP8CII In-Ceiling Speakers are a great way to bring sound into any room in your house. These speakers feature an 8″ subwoofer and single 1″ tweeter, which can be powered by most receivers or amplifiers at either 25 Watts or 100 Ws of power. The JBL’s rating is for 8 Ohms nominal with 100W peak output – more than enough for the average living area!

The JBL SP8CII offers high-quality sound with its durable, titanium-laminate woofer and tweeter. With the ability to swivel your tweeters directionally for a more directed listening experience, there’s never been an easier way to enjoy music or movies in great detail!

Installation

The JBL SP8CII comes with two speaker templates, one for each speaker. These come in handy when you want to stencil the holes accurately and make sure that your stereo image is as accurate as possible! The tweeters should be angled at head height so they will fire over a listener’s head, which can provide optimal audio clarity depending on where it’s being used – such as by placing them opposite an individual sitting down or behind someone looking up from their chair. For surround placement, place these speakers about 10-12 feet away from the listening position (behind) and angle them towards overhead heights to create perfect sonic environments.

For those who retrofit speakers into existing holes, the product comes with dog-ear brackets which make it possible to do so. If you have cut a new hole for your installation and added this speaker in, there are locking tabs on each side if need be – they will swivel into place fastening the speaker to the ceiling’s surface. There are also instructions about how to paint around these grilles at home as well; always remember safety first by using painter’s tape or shield before applying any paint finish.

Cabling & Amplification

JBL doesn’t recommend a specific model of amplifier or receiver other than the output must produce 25-100W at 8 Ohms. If you need to power your speakers, we strongly suggest getting an Onkyo TX-RZ610 7.2 Receiver and if all that is needed is amplification for those same speakers, our pick would be the Bose SoundTouch SA-5 Amplifier which has plenty of juice for most rooms up to about 1 500 ft² (145 m²).

When connecting your speakers to an amplifier, JBL recommends the following speaker cable:

Lengths up to 20ft16 Gauge
Lengths 20ft to 30ft12 Gauge
Lengths greater than 30ft10 Gauge

What’s in the box?

  • 2 x JBL SP8CII Ceiling Speakers
  • 2 x Speaker grilles
  • 2 x Mounting templates

Conclusion

The JBL SP8CII In-Wall Speaker is the perfect way to achieve a fantastic home theater surround sound experience without having speakers scattered around your living area. The 8” subwoofer produces plenty of bass and with swivel mount tweeters, these speakers can be used for the front left/right and rear left/right channels in any standard 5-speaker setup. Mounted either on the wall or ceiling you have excellent options that will help boost your entertainment system.

4. Klipsch CDT-5650-C II Ceiling Speaker

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-9
Klipsch CDT-5650-C II Ceiling Speaker

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included1
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 6.5” driver with 1 x 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification50-100W at 8 Ohms
Weight7.0 lbs
Dimensions9.5 x 4.5 inches 

Klipsch is the industry leader when it comes to audio. Their CDT-5650-C II speakers are in a class all of their own – featuring incredible design features and excellent sound quality.

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Klipsch CDT-5650-C II Ceiling Speaker is perfect for any room, and can even give you a different listening experience than other ceiling speakers. This speaker features a 6.5” driver with a one-inch titanium tweeter coupled to the Tractrix horn which swivels 100 degrees; so it will always be pointed at you! The weight of this unit is just over 10 pounds making installation quick and easy as well – not that we think it would take much time or effort anyways given how good these sound. The Klipsch CDT-5650 CII Ceiling Speakers are outstanding quality yet affordable enough for anyone’s budget!

The CDT-5650-C II comes equipped with a treble and midbass attenuation switch to fine-tune the sound, depending on your room. For both of these switches, you have options for 0db or -3dB adjustments which are located right in front of the speaker so that no matter where it is installed; you can make changes as necessary.

Installation

The Klipsch CDT-5650-C II in-ceiling speakers are a simple, efficient, and quick installation. Cutting the hole for these models is as easy as sticking on a stencil before you cut out your shape with an electric knife or hacksaw blade. If that’s lost during installation there’s also detailed instruction on their website to ensure everything goes smoothly when positioning them up high! Once fitted inside the place you can angle both tweeter and speaker driver so they’re aiming at where your ears will be seated off to enjoy the best sound quality possible – from any listening position too!

The IK-650-C install kit is designed to make the CDT-5650 III easy and safe. The installation process will be a breeze with this handy, preassembled package that includes everything you need including straps for safety in high spaces like overgrown beams above ceilings or walls where speakers are mounted. All of our grilles can also be painted to match your decor too!

Cabling & Amplification

Klipsch recommends that the amplifier or receiver gives off 50-100W at 8 Ohms. We recommend either an Onkyo TX-RZ610 7.2 Receiver, which is great for surround sound with multiple speakers, or a Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver if you’re looking to use it in a stereo system. Don’t forget about speaker cables – Klipsch says they should be no less than 18 gauge and won’t work over 30ft of cable length without any problems.

What’s in the box?

  • 1 x Klipsch CDT-5650-C Ceiling Speaker
  • 1 x Speaker grille
  • 1 x Mounting template

Conclusion

Klipsch CDT-5650 is going to be your best option when it comes to sound quality. The Klipsch sound has high quality with good low-end definition and clear highs, so if you’re looking for a speaker system that will deliver the goods then this one’s just what you need! With options like in-ceiling or wall speakers, there are many different ways that these could work into any home theater room design–especially paired up with their subwoofer R-12SW.

5. Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-5
Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included1
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 8” driver with ½” tweeter 
Recommended AmplificationMini digital amplifier supplied
Weight5.12 lbs
Dimensions9.5 x 4.5 inches

The Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit is just what you want in an affordable all-in-one speaker kit. With four speakers, a mini amplifier, and your choice of grilles that include circles or squares to meet your needs, this package has everything needed for installation.

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit is a speaker system that features four speakers and one amplifier. The peak output of the whole kit, including all five pieces combined, is 250W; but realistically it isn’t more than 100 watts per channel.

Installation

Installing the Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit is a breeze. With the Bluetooth mini digital amplifier, there’s no need to run speaker cable into the ceiling or try to find ways of running cables through walls and ceilings.

The mini digital amplifier is Bluetooth enabled so you can install it in the ceiling without having to drill holes for the signal cable. This device includes Bluetooth version 4, which will allow wireless streaming from your phone or other devices.

The Bluetooth digital amplifier will allow you to use your phone as a remote and also comes with an on/off switch. It has the latest version of pulse width modulation, which is necessary for more than one speaker system. Place it in the ceiling or wall at least 30ft away from the primary playback device (TV). Get help installing if needed, but make sure any other electrical components are clear before installation!

With a selection of speaker grilles, it is easy to select the right shape for any decor. Pyle supplies you with both circular and square shapes which means that there will be no problem matching your home’s décor or even painting them if they are white like most speakers.

Cabling & Amplification

The speaker kit comes with 4 lengths of speaker cable. But just in case you need to install these speakers further apart, keep some extra on hand! The mini amplifier isn’t the most powerful so increasing the distance will reduce your sound power from each individual speaker

What’s in the box?

  • Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit
  • 4 x Round grilles
  • 4 x Square grilles
  • Speaker wire
  • Bluetooth mini digital amplifier
  • Power supply

Conclusion

The Pyle PDICBT286 Ceiling Speaker Kit is perfect for installing in places where background music will be the main focus. These speakers are appropriate for restaurants, cafes, and small retail stores. They can also work well at home as a low level of sound to fill up space or provide some ambiance while watching TV or movies on your big screen television without taking over what you’re focusing on with dialogue from actors. The Bluetooth ceiling speaker system eliminates any need to run cables into ceilings during installation which makes it quick and easy!

6. Definitive Technology Di 8R In-Ceiling Speaker

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-8
Definitive Technology Di 8R In-Ceiling Speaker

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included1
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 8” driver with 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification10-225W at 8 Ohms
Weight4.8 lbs
Dimensions9.75 x 3.88 inches

The Disappearing™ Speaker Series is one of Definitive Technology’s many ceiling and in-wall speakers. These fixtures are perfect for a wide range of sound installations, from small necessities to large extravagant rooms. The Di 8R In-Ceiling speaker can be installed anywhere thanks to its slim design that blends into the background effortlessly!

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Definitive Technology Di 8R In-Ceiling Speaker is the most powerful ceiling speaker in this article with a maximum output of 225W. The BDSS™ technology delivers an efficient listening experience across all frequency ranges and pivoting 1” tweeter allows you to pinpoint precise locations for accurate sound projection.

Say you’ve just purchased your new system and are anxious to hear the sound. The Di 8R also features an Environmental EQ switch which can be changed depending on what kind of room it’s in; if there are a lot of hard surfaces like glass, stone, or hardwood then setting this switch to “- (minus)” will compensate for these reflections while soft reflective surfaces may call for more treble boost set at “+(plus)”. Try playing around with this setting until you find the right sound!

Installation

The Definitive Technology Di 8R is a speaker with many features. The template to stencil the hole before cutting will ensure you cut out precisely what you need for your project, and it’s simple enough that beginners can use! There are cable clamps on each terminal so there won’t be any loose cables hanging around when not in use or accidentally getting tangled up. With these tabs swiveling into place once tightened, they’ll lock the speakers into a position where they’re needed most.

Painting this product might seem like an easy task but make sure to check out their user manual first because of how particular Definitive Technology wants us to paint grilles – I think we want our customers happy more than anything else though!

Cabling & Amplification

It is important to know that you need an amplifier with a maximum of 225W output at 8 Ohms for your Definitive Technology speakers. For home theater installations, I would recommend the Marantz SR5012 7.2 receiver because it operates very efficiently and will deliver enough power to drive the Di8R speaker effectively!

The Definitive Technology Di 8R is the perfect speaker for a small room because it has an output that can fill up space. However, you need to use nothing smaller than 18 gauge cables with this product in order to get its full sound capabilities.

What’s in the box?

  • 1 x Definitive Technology Di 8R Ceiling Speaker
  • 1 x Speaker grille
  • 1 x Mounting template

Conclusion

The Di 8R is a premium ceiling speaker for those that want the best of both worlds. You’ll enjoy unparalleled sound quality and high-end power with this top-shelf product from Definitive Technology, but it won’t stop there. If you’re looking to take your home theater experience up a notch or two then fret not! This powerful model can be paired easily with one of DT’s Disappearing Speaker Series speakers – full surround sound at its finest without sacrificing any aesthetic appeal in your living room space thanks to their disappearing design.

7. Yamaha NS-IC800 In-ceiling Speakers

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-9
Yamaha NS-IC800 In-ceiling Speakers

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included2
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 8” driver with 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification50-140W at 8 Ohms
Weight4.2 lbs
Dimensions11.14 x 4.7 inches

The Yamaha NS-IC800 Ceiling Speaker features one of the most low-profile, flush-mount speaker grilles on the market. Once installed, this sleek little 8-inch woofer is perfectly hidden behind a metal screen that won’t show any signs of wear or tear from years in your living room ceiling! With multiple wattage options to suit every install and lifestyle need – from 90W to 140w for those looking for more power without sacrificing sound quality – the NS-IC range has you covered.

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Yamaha NS-IC800 features a single 8” with 1” tweeter per speaker each producing 140W of power. This is an impressive amount of power output, and when paired together these speakers will produce some serious sound. The moisture-resistant cone on the 8″ speaker helps it to be installed in any room across your house without worry about getting wet or damaged by dust because it’s sealed back protects against such threats. You can angle them however you want for optimum listening performance thanks to their fluid-cooled tweeters which are fixed onto swivel mounts so they’ll always point towards where you’re sitting at!

Installation

The Yamaha NS-IC800 speaker system is a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys listening to music or watching movies with their loved ones. The speakers come equipped with an easy installation guide that makes them great for any homeowner, and the large mounting clamp ensures they are secure against your wall or ceiling. With the proper spacing of 6ft-10ft apart from each other as well as equal distance away from focal points like TVs and HiFi systems, these speakers will provide you optimal clarity no matter where you stand in the room!

If you want to feel like a movie star, then surround sound is for you. This type of speaker system will allow listeners to experience films as if they were in the front row seats at any premiere and make it seem like every action is taking place right around them!

When installing speakers for your home theater or living room entertainment area, consider placing additional loudspeakers behind the listening position with an equal distance between left and right so that viewers can enjoy their favorite movies on DVD covers while feeling completely immersed by what’s happening all around them. The speaker grilles can also easily match decor or wall color by being painted accordingly.

Painting this product might seem like an easy task but make sure to check out their user manual first because of how particular Definitive Technology wants us to paint grilles – I think we want our customers happy more than anything else though!

Cabling & Amplification

To get the most out of your NS-IC800 in-ceiling speakers, you want an amplifier capable of producing as close to 140W per speaker. For this application, we recommend a Yamaha RXV373 or higher receiver with THX Certification and Multiroom capability for those who crave one less wire running around their home theaters!

For those who want to turn their living room into a movie theater, the Yamaha RX-V483BL 5.1-Channel is an excellent option with features like WiFi and Bluetooth for your convenience while streaming video from different sources such as Netflix or Hulu; you can also control it all through Alexa voice commands if she’s in range of your home network! The other models are worth considering too depending on how many speakers you need so be sure to invest wisely but know that this model has everything necessary for great sound quality at any level.

With the Yamaha NS-IC800, it is recommended that you use 16 gauge speaker wire for runs shorter than 30ft and 12 gauge on longer ones.

What’s in the box?

  • 2 x Yamaha NS-IC800 Ceiling Speakers
  • 2 x Speaker grilles
  • 1 x Mounting template

Conclusion

The Yamaha NS-IC800 is a versatile speaker for all your audio needs. Music, movies, and TV will sound great with this in-ceiling speaker on hand! The NS-IC800 also does well at home theaters where the variety of speakers can fill up walls or ceilings to bring you every detail from each scene faithfully.

8. Micca M-8C 8” In-Ceiling Speaker

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-8
Micca M-8C 8” In-Ceiling Speaker

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included1
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 8” driver with 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification20-100W at 8 Ohms
Weight4.55 lbs
Dimensions10.75 x 3.6 inches

The Micca M-8C 8” In-Ceiling Speaker is a perfect addition to any home theater system. This speaker produces an energetic and rich sound, while still being low-cost enough for the average consumer. These speakers are sold as singles so you can buy one or many depending on your budget needs!

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Micca M-8C 8” In-ceiling Speaker is an excellent choice for anyone in search of quality, powerful speakers that can be installed into a ceiling. The speaker features one woofer and tweeter with the ability to produce 100 watts at peak capacity depending on how you amplify them. The 1-inch tweeters are fixed onto swivel mounts so they may direct sound towards different listening positions.

Installation

For those with less than steady hands, Micca’s template will make it easier to stencil the correct size before cutting. Once in position, tightening the screws swivel the tabs of this speaker grille into place for a snug fit that won’t budge an inch. And thankfully you don’t need to paint these- they come pre-painted and ready for your ceiling color or decor!

Cabling & Amplification

The Micca M-8C 8″ is a great speaker for the home. It requires an amplifier or receiver to produce 20W at 8 Ohms, and we recommend that you get either the Onkyo TX-RZ610 7.2 Receiver for multiple speakers or the Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver if your set up will be left/right configurations. For cabling, we suggest using 18 gauge wire (or 12 gauge in installations longer than 30ft). 

What’s in the box?

  • 1 x Micca M-8C Ceiling Speaker
  • 1 x Speaker grille
  • 1 x Mounting template

Conclusion

The Micca M-8C 8” In-Ceiling Speaker is a great choice for anyone looking to easily set up their own stereo left/right system or, get the full home theater experience. The speaker comes in a box shape and circular shapes, depending on where you wish to position it with an even more specific option of adding an in-wall center speaker (Micca MCS). With all these options at your disposal, no matter what type of music preference you have from jazz standards and rock & roll hits alike will sound just right coming out of this little device!

9. Pyle Pro PDIC60T Ceiling Speaker

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-6
Pyle Pro PDIC60T Ceiling Speaker

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included2
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 6.5” driver with 1” tweeter
Recommended Amplification20-125W at 8 Ohms
Weight6.09 lbs
Dimensions9.0 x 4.62 inches

The Pyle Pro PDIC60T In-Ceiling Speaker is a high-quality speaker that produces exceptional sound and functionality. The new, sleek design with a ceiling mounting system makes installation easy. The lightweight aluminum construction also provides excellent acoustic performance while the die-cast zinc basket ensures the durability and longevity of this product.

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Pyle Pro PDIC60T is a 6.5” woofer with a 1” tweeter that can handle 125 watts at 8 Ohms, which depending on your amplification will depend on the sound quality and power of the speakers. The best part about this speaker? It has an adjustable pivot in its design so it points towards you to get an excellent listening experience!

Installation

Remember, you can’t just screw the speakers on and hope for the best. Pyle provides a template to measure your speaker’s correct size with their PDIC60T speaker mount which doubles as an alignment tool. Simply place it over top of where you want your hole cutout made in any material up to 1-1/2 inch thick such as sheet metal or plastic then tighten down until tabs swivel into position locking onto both sides of your project surface ensuring that everything is lined up properly from start to finish without guessing at all those measurements!

Cabling & Amplification

Installing sound systems has never been easier. Pyle PDIC60T speakers are designed to be used with the 70V amplifiers by Pyle, such as the Pyle PCM60A. The amp comes equipped with three RCA inputs each and rotary volume control for every input so you can adjust it accordingly.

For home theater set-ups, we recommend the Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver for left/right configurations or the Onkyo TX-RZ610 7.2 Receiver for multiple speakers. We recommend using 16 gauge cable for up to 20ft. If you’re using the 70V amplifier, go with 14gauge if your run is less than 100ft and 12gauree if it’s longer.

What’s in the box?

  • 2 x Pyle Pro PDIC60T Ceiling Speakers
  • 2 x Speaker grilles
  • 1 x Mounting template

Conclusion

The Pyle Pro PDIC60T Ceiling Speaker is a versatile speaker suitable for both large and small-scale installations. The speakers can be used as announcement systems or background music in restaurants, offices, etc with an amplifier that provides 70 V of power to the system. Home theaters are also perfectly suited for this model’s 8 Ohms capability; it comes in either circular or boxed shapes which will fit any position you may need them to go into within your home theater installation space!

10. Yamaha NS-IW280CWH Ceiling Speaker System

Speakers Reviewed Score 4-8
Yamaha NS-IW280CWH Ceiling Speaker System

Specs & Features​

Speakers Included2
Paintable GrilleYes
Speaker Drivers1 x 6.5” driver with 2 x ¾” tweeter
Recommended Amplification20-100W at 8 Ohms
Weight3.37 lbs
Dimensions10.28 x 5.0 inches

With its versatile design, the Yamaha NS-IW280CWH Ceiling Speaker can be mounted in any position and at various angles. This allows the listener to hear only what they want from their own area. Great for all applications!

Sound Quality & Technical Features

The Yamaha NS-IW280CWH In-Ceiling Speaker is perfect for those looking to spruce up their home sound system. This in-ceiling speaker features a 6.5” driver and two ¾” tweeters, so you know it will give off some top-quality sounds with crystal clear highs and lows–perfect if you’re into watching movies on the big screen or streaming your favorite tunes through your phone! The speakers are 8 Ohms, which means they should be driven by an amplifier of at least 20 Watts per channel (40 W max). The sound can be pointed in a specific direction thanks to the pivoting tweeters and drivers. 

Installation

The Yamaha NS-IW280CWH is the perfect speaker for those who want to do some DIY and get creative with their home theater. The kit includes one template so you can stencil where your hole should be, there are also plenty of accessories including clips that secure it in place securely. And if painting is not an option, worry not because they are paintable!

Cabling & Amplification

The Yamaha NS-IW280CWH 6.5” speaker features a ¼” connector for attaching it to an amplifier or receiver that produces 20-100 watts at 8 Ohms, and we recommend the Onkyo TX-RZ610 7.2 Receiver for multiple speakers or the Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver if you’re using left/right configurations since they provide more power than most stereo receivers do!

The Bose SoundTouch SA-5 is the perfect amplifier for anyone who wants to play music on their speaker wirelessly. It requires no more than 18 gauge speaker cable and has a long range of up to 30ft!

What’s in the box?

  • 2 x NS-IW280CWH Ceiling Speakers
  • 2 x Speaker grilles
  • 1 x Mounting Template
  • 1 x Paint cover

Conclusion

The Yamaha NS-IW280CWH is a professional speaker with excellent sound and quality. You can choose between 100 or 120 watts of power, depending on your application needs; it’s great for music applications as well as home theater surround systems. This incredible system delivers the best possible clarity to any listening position you prefer!


Installing your Ceiling Speakers

When installing a new speaker system in your home or office space, be sure to take into account where power outlets will need to go so as not to create unsafe work areas for staff members who may have access at any time of day (or night). This can help keep the flooring from being damaged by dangling cords and wires while also avoiding tripping hazards when walking around this area during busy periods such as lunchtime breaks or before/after-hours maintenance sessions.”

Measure Twice – Cut Once

One of the most important steps to consider is cutting a hole in your ceiling that will fit the size and shape of your speaker. If you cut it too small, then either some or all sections won’t be able to work as intended. For example, if there are only two speakers on opposite walls but they’re not centered at ear height, then one person has their head turned while talking into an empty space for part of their conversation with someone else! After stenciling your speakers, you can test how they would appear on the ceiling. Hold up a speaker in an ideal spot and see if it looks good to you!

Check for Obstructions Before Cutting

One of the most common mistakes people make when installing ceiling speakers is forgetting to check before cutting. Once you’ve measured and positioned your speaker, it can be an inconvenience if there are pipes or conduits in the way.

If you want your speakers to sound their best, it’s important that they are placed in the right spot. The easiest way to do this is by using a pilot hole and some wire! Find the center of where you’d like them positioned on or near one side of the room. Drill a small hole at least 2 inches deep into wherever feels sturdy enough for sustained use (drywall works well!).

Using a long piece of flexible metal (a coat hanger does the job well) check for any obstructions or existing conduits by inserting it into the drilled hole. Remember to check both holes!

Speaker Placement

Installing and setting up a home audio system can be tricky. One thing you want to keep in mind is the distance between where your speakers are going because that will affect how they sound when it comes time for listening to them afterward! For example, if you’re installing ceiling speakers then make sure each speaker is equal distances from the source (the TV) as its corresponding match so both sides of dialogue don’t have background noise while someone’s speaking or music playing louder than others in an orchestration.

Surround Sound Installations

When installing surround sound in your home, it’s important to really think about the placement of all speakers. The front left/right and rear left right should be equal distances apart as per stereo installations above; also make sure that your center is at a height on par with these other two channels if you’re putting them up high or near the TV. If not, then there will inevitably be an off-sounding audio image when people are trying to watch movies.

The sound from the left/right speakers is thrown off by a few milliseconds. This can be corrected in some high-end receivers but this would require advanced settings and most home theater systems don’t have these options, so you need to keep all your speakers at the same height as each other if possible.

Stereo Installations

The sound image of a stereo installation is best when the speakers are at least 6-10 ft. apart from each other, but not too close together or else you might hear one speaker over another without any true sense of what things should be like in your room. Too far away and it’ll just seem dull because there will be so much signal loss!
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Speaker Distance

When installing multiple speakers, it is important to ensure each speaker is an equal distance apart. For example: if you have four speakers that need to be evenly spaced apart from one another, the recommended spacing between them should not exceed 10ft or 8ft depending on how much power your amplifier can handle before distorting the sound quality.

Selecting an Amplifier

The best way to get the most out of your speakers is by picking an amp that matches as close to their maximum power output. This will ensure they’re running efficiently and won’t be damaged from overdriving them with more wattage than necessary. For example, if your speaker maxes at 100 watts but has 8 ohms resistive load, a receiver or amplifier around that specification would work well for you–though slightly under or even above it can also do the trick! In almost all cases where there’s not too much demand on amplification capabilities (e.g., low-impedance loads), 8 Ohm loudspeakers are able to run off 6 Ohm amplifiers without any worries about damaging anything important.

Selecting the Correct Cabling

Cabling is often overlooked when installing your speakers. If you’re trying to push too much current, the cable will overheat and cause damage or even fail prematurely while also causing frequency loss in your sound system. Using a gauge that does not provide enough power can result in this issue as well. 

Here are our cable recommendations:

  • 18 Gauge Cable – Maximum 32ft
  • 16 Gauge Cable – Maximum 48ft
  • 14 Gauge Cable – Maximum 80ft
  • 12 Gauge Cable – Maximum 120ft
  • 10 Gauge Cable – Maximum 200ft

For the best sound quality, cables are not something you want to cheap out on. I recommend 18 gauge cable for 8 Ohm ceiling speakers.

Painting Your Ceiling Speakers

You might think painting your ceiling speakers seems easy enough, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you check if the plastic on your speaker can even be painted at all! Manufacturers will usually have this information readily available online or from their user manual when purchasing the product.

  • Painting your speaker grille before installation is a quick and easy way to avoid any over-spray on the surface or speaker itself.
  • Most people usually paint their speaker frame before they install it, and the process can be tricky if you don’t cover your speakers correctly. The manufacturer will provide paper to protect your speaker from any splatters or drips when painting around them; make sure that this stays on until everything is dry!
  • Protect the rear of the speaker from over-spray by wrapping it in newspaper before painting.
  • If you have any over-spray, use a toothpick to clear the holes.
  • Make sure you always have plenty of room around your work for ventilation.

Polk Audio RC80i Ceiling Speakers
Our Top Pick!

Polk Audio RC80i Ceiling Speakers

The Virtually Invisible 791 Series II ceiling speakers are an excellent choice for any living space. They’re easy to install so you can enjoy them in your home as soon as possible.

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