In-ceiling speakers offer the best of both worlds when it comes to design and functionality. These discreet audio powerhouses can offer sound inside and outside of your home all while blending into their surroundings. The Sonance Architectural in-ceiling speakers take things to the next level by integrating directly with the Sonos ecosystem. This allows these speakers to work in conjunction with audio apps, and with whole-home audio through AirPlay 2 streaming technology. We have gathered all of the best in-ceiling speakers to help you choose the best for your budget and needs.
The Sonance Architectural in-ceiling speakers offer room-filling, high-quality audio, in a small, out of sight package. These frameless, flush mount speakers house a powerful 6.5" woofer, paired with a 1" ceramic dome tweeter capable of outputting up to 150 watts of audio goodness.
Deep integration with the Sonos ecosystem allows the Sonance Architectural speakers to work with various apps and audio protocols. Perhaps the most significant benefit comes in the form of AirPlay 2 compatibility. That uses Apple's audio technology to match playback with any connected speaker, enabling true whole-home audio.
Although it requires an additional purchase, the Sonance Architectural speakers sound can also be finely tuned for their surroundings thanks to Trueplay tuning. The Sonos amp enables this functionality, which uses the acoustics and positioning within a room to determine optimal sound performance.
Pyle's PDIC1661RD offers entry-level sound at a price to match. Inside the package are a 6.5-inch woofer and a 1/2 inch tweeter which is plenty for installations that are good for occasional, ambient listening.
These no-frills speakers come with an easy to install spring-loaded clip installation, making them great for quick replacements. Wiring is also convenient thanks to the speaker's push-in terminals, making the complete process virtually tool-free.
Not all in-ceiling speaker installations are in living rooms or home theaters. Polk Audio's RC80i speakers are available for those looking for true whole home placement. A powerful 8-inch woofer rests underneath its grill, along with a swivel-mounted tweeter, enabling the ability to direct sound to the perfect location.
Featuring a rubber-sealed driver, and rust-resistant components, this speaker can withstand damp areas such as bathrooms or covered locations outside. While it is water-resistant and not waterproof, Polk provides a little extra insurance for your investment, as it offers a lengthy five-year limited warranty.
The Pyle PDICBT852RD is an in-ceiling speaker pair that offers playback from more than just your connected amp or receiver. Bluetooth capability allows these speakers to work with phones, tablets, computers, and more with just a few taps, as long as you are within 40 feet of them.
These speakers use a spring-loaded installation method, allowing them to be set up in a matter of minutes as they snap into place after inserting them into the desired spot. To top things off, these versatile speakers come with both round and rectangular stain resistant grills. This allows them to act as a set-it-and-forget-it solution that will keep their visual appeal for years to come.
As its name suggests, the Bose Virtually Invisible 891 is a speaker that aims to disappear into its surroundings. While it may not be completely invisible, this speaker has an ultra-thin bezel and a paintable grill making it pretty much as close as you can get.
Of course, Bose is best known for its sound quality, and the 891 does not disappoint. Inside of this beauty is a large 7-inch woofer along with two 1 inch tweeters, perfect for acting as a surround sound system for movie nights, or just for jamming to the latest tunes.
The JBL LCT81C/T is a purpose-built speaker that provides easy installation and a cleanly integrated design. These speakers are made to match the look of traditional drop tile ceilings. This appearance allows them to fit in around the home, all while providing sound in just the right place above your room.
Perfect for the basement home theater, the LCT81C/T can be set into place with a drop, just like a ceiling tile, forgoing the mess of cutting, and keeping down the installation time. The large panel design also allows for big sound as it features a dual cone driver, with high sensitivity that is customizable by a dial located on the rear of the unit.
Listen up
In-ceiling speakers are a great way to provide rich sound in locations that may not have the floor or table space. These speakers also help with keeping the focus of your home on your decor, blending in with your ceilings and walls, and keeping ugly cords and bulky speakers out of sight.
Despite their high price, we love the Sonance Architectural in-ceiling speakers for their deep integration with Sonos making them essentially future proof. Once connected, these speakers can work with audio protocols such as Apple's AirPlay 2, enabling whole-home playback. Adding in a Sonos Amp adds Trueplay tuning, ensuring that these speakers sound their best for their environment.
