How to Choose the Best Ceiling Speaker Option for Your Home
Finding the best ceiling speakers for your space can be a difficult subject to navigate at the best of times. With so much choice on the market, making the right decision is harder than ever. We hope that this Ultimate Ceiling Speaker Guide will be useful to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best ceiling speakers for your home.
We have a large number of ceiling speakers to choose from on our website, which all have different pros and cons for different homes. This Ceiling Speaker guide will help you find the best solution for your space & make a more informed decision.
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Already have an idea of where you want to start or a certain brand in mind? Feel free to jump to the relevant category below.
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- Best All-Round Ceiling Speakers Overall - KEF
- Best Ceiling Speakers To Pair With The Sonos Amp - Sonos
- Best For Upgradeability - Bowers & Wilkins
- Best Value For Money Ceiling Speakers - JBL
- Also Worth Considering - Monitor Audio
- Best Budget Ceiling Speakers - Lithe Audio
- Best Ceiling Speakers For Outdoors
- Best Single Stereo Ceiling Speakers
- Best Amplifier For Your Ceiling Speakers
We've also written a guide on everything you need to know before installing ceiling speakers which might be worth reading before you embark on your installation!
Active or Passive Ceiling Speakers?
First things first, you need to decide whether you need Active or Passive ceiling speakers. Active ceiling speakers have an amplifier included in the unit, while Passive ceiling speakers require a separate amplifier to power them.
Active ceiling speakers
Reasons to consider active ceiling speakers: If you’re on a tight budget but still want that aesthetic feel, Active speakers can be a great compromise.
Not suitable for: As these speakers are an all-in-one unit (with the amplifier included), you may find there are certain limitations, such as reaching higher volumes and filling large rooms due to a lack of power. If you’re still limited by budget, a way to improve this would be to add more pairs to fill the room more evenly.
Passive ceiling speakers
Reasons to consider passive ceiling speakers: Passive ceiling speakers are generally a more popular choice as there’s more room in the driver for better technology as well as more power behind the speakers due to the amplifier being external.
Not suitable for: Due to the need for an external amplifier, these may not be the best choice for those on a tighter budget, as the price can mount up quickly.
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Do you need a budget mid or high-range ceiling speaker?
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Which Are The Best Ceiling Speakers For You?
You should now have an idea whether you need an Active or Passive speaker solution and if you would be considering a budget, mid-range, or high-range option for your space. Now let's look at some popular options to help you choose the best solution for you.
Still unsure? Read our Complete Beginner's Guide to Ceiling Speakers to clear up the basics!
Best Passive Speakers
Best All-Round Ceiling Speakers - KEF
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Reasons to consider KEF: KEF are one of our best-selling ceiling speaker options and they are a popular choice for their versatility. With a wide range of models, they offer exceptional audio quality to suit various applications. While we have a selection of top-performing ceiling speakers, KEF's options provide excellent value and adaptability for any listening environment.
KEF also utilises decades worth of experience to provide impressive speakers. Their infamous Uni-Q drivers match dispersion and aim to provide a superior stereo image compared to other brands. Due to this, these speakers are great if you have a unique layout and want everyone to experience the same sound, no matter where they are in the room.
Not suitable for: The grilles are a slightly cream colour and not the usual white you’d expect from a ceiling speaker grille. You’re still able to spray paint the grille for a seamless appearance, which is easy enough to do, though it’s just a good thing to keep in mind.
Looking to get the best from your home cinema? Read our Best Ceiling Speakers for Dolby Atmos (and why they matter) blog to find out more!
Best KEF Ceiling Speaker Options
| Good - CI130.2CR (5") | Better - CI160QR (6.5") | Best - CI200QR (8”) |
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✓ Uni-Q driver array (disperses the sound widely and evenly throughout your room) ✓ Marine-grade treatment protects the speakers from moisture and UV light (IP64 certified) ✓ Extremely shallow mounting depth |
✓ QR range guarantees deeper bass, and higher treble than the CR range ✓ Uni-Q driver array for wider listening range ✓ Tangerine waveguide technology to minimise distortion ✓ Moisture resistance along with UV protection |
✓ Audiophile standard ✓ Uni-Q driver array for wider listening range ✓ Tangerine waveguide technology to minimise distortion ✓ QR range guarantees deeper bass, and higher treble than the CR range ✓ 8inch woofer replicates sound you’d expect from a traditional standalone speaker. |
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Looking to get even more from your home cinema? Read our Best Ceiling Speakers for Dolby Atmos (and why they matter) blog to find out more!
Best Ceiling Speakers To Pair With The Sonos Amp - Sonos
Reasons to consider Sonos: Not only do we love the Sonos Ceiling Speakers for their superb surround sound performance when paired with a compatible Sonos Home Cinema, but they also excel as in-ceiling speakers for open-plan living spaces, boasting top-notch performance, innovative features, and seamless integration into the Sonos home ecosystem. Ideal if you already have Sonos throughout your home.
Not suitable for: Those looking for full-functionality from a third-party amplifier. Unfortunately, you are slightly bound to the Sonos Amp with Sonos in-ceiling speakers. You can use a third-party amp. However, you will miss out on the ability to use the TruePlay Tuning feature.
Best Sonos Ceiling Speaker Options
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Best - Sonos In-Ceiling Architectural Speakers by Sonance (6.5") ✓ Exceptional all around speaker for multiple environments ✓ Sonos ecosystem ready ✓ TruePlay Tuning will allow the speakers to acoustically optimise for the room they’re in ✓ A pivotable driver makes it ideal for installing on pitched roofs or for directing the sound. ✖ Bound to the Sonos Amp if you want to use the TruePlay feature |
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Want to learn more? Read our full Sonos In-Ceiling Speaker Review on our website!
Best Ceiling Speakers For Upgradeability - Bowers & Wilkins
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Reasons to consider Bowers & Wilkins: Bowers & Wilkins is a renowned audio brand that offers fantastic value for money. All ceiling speakers in the Bowers & Wilkins Performance 600 Series Ceiling Speakers are quick and simple to install, taking approximately 1 minute to fit due to the innovative universal cage. This is also installed in two separate parts, enabling the user to simply unscrew the ceiling speaker from the cage and upgrade it as and when they would like to, saving on the long-winded rewiring process.
Not suitable for: The universal cage means there’s a deep mounting depth, so it won’t be suitable for shallow ceiling voids.
Best Bowers & Wilkins Ceiling Speaker Options
| Good - CCM665 (6.5") | Better - CCM664 (6.5") | Best - CCM683 (8") |
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✓ Boast similar components as the superior 664 models for a budget price ✓ Benefits from low distortion ✖ Fixed tweeter so audio can’t be directed - only really suitable for simple layouts. |
✓ Offers a smoother and more detailed high-frequency performance ✓ Pivotable tweeter, ideal for awkward shaped rooms ✓ Adjustable EQ helps to optimise sound quality |
✓ 8 inch driver to provide better bass ✓ Offers low distortion, high-resolution drive unit technologies ✓ Pivotable tweeter, ideal for awkward shaped rooms ✓ Ideal for filling large open plan spaces ✓ No compromises to the sound when reaching high volumes |
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Best Value For Money Ceiling Speakers - JBL
Reasons to consider JBL: JBL ceiling speakers offer an exceptional blend of quality and affordability. They deliver iconic JBL sound, perfect for filling your home with immersive music or enhancing your home cinema experience. Their sleek design seamlessly integrates into your ceiling, while the easy installation process ensures a smooth setup. Want even more bang for your buck? Pair your JBL ceiling speakers with the Wiim Amp - A perfect bundle delivering stunning sound without breaking the bank.
Not suitable for: While JBL offers a compelling value, audiophiles seeking absolute top-tier performance might explore other brands for potentially higher fidelity sound.
Best JBL Ceiling Speaker Options
| Good - JBL Stage 260C (6.5") | Better - JBL Stage 280C (8") | Best - JBL Studio 2 8IC (8") |
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✓ Distinctive JBL Sound thanks to a 1-inch aluminium dome tweeter and a 6.5-inch polycellulose woofer. ✓ Acoustic Lens Waveguide delivers accurate sound throughout your room. ✓ Made to last with premium components |
✓ Rich, room-filling audio delivered by a powerful 8-inch woofer and a crisp 1-inch aluminium dome tweeter ✓ Acoustic Lens Waveguide delivers accurate sound throughout your room. ✓ Stunning acoustic performance at an attractive price point. |
✓ Crafted with technology from the renowned M2 studio monitor. ✓ High-Definition Imaging (HDI) waveguide technology disperses audio flawlessly ✓ Adjustable tweeter for optimal sound in awkward shaped rooms ✓ Nearly invisible integration with paintable, magnetic grille |
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Also Worth Considering - Monitor Audio
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Another popular option of ceiling speakers is Monitor Audio. From their premium Creator Series to their more great-value options like the Monitor Audio C165, they offer a range of options available for every use-case and budget.
If you're interested in the Monitor Audio Creator Series, our expert team can assist you in specifying the correct models for a custom installation project tailored to your unique needs. For more information, please get in touch with one of our team or drop us an email to info@smarthomesounds.co.uk and we’ll be happy to help!
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Want to find out more? Read our Monitor Audio Creator Series: Everything You Need To Know blog.
Best Active Speakers
Best Budget Ceiling Speakers - Lithe Audio - Bluetooth/Wi-Fi
Reasons to consider Lithe Audio: This is the cheapest ceiling speaker solution we have, as it’s an active ceiling speaker ranging from £219.99 - £429.99 for a pair of speakers. There's also no need for an external amp, so this would be the total cost.
Not suitable for: Due to the lack of power you’ll find with all-in-one units, you may struggle to reach high volumes and power large rooms, though a compromise would be adding an extra pair to boost the sound.
Best Lithe Ceiling Speaker Options
| Lithe Audio Bluetooth | Lithe Audio Wi-Fi | Lithe Audio IP44 |
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✓ Great budget speaker ✓ All-In-One solution ✓ Connects via any Bluetooth device by BT 5.0 ✖ Not as powerful due to the amplifier being inbuilt ✖ Can’t be used within a multi-room system |
✓ Great budget speaker ✓ All-In-One solution ✓ Connects via Wi-Fi ✓ Allows for multi-room audio ✖ Not as powerful due to the amplifier being inbuilt ✖ No Bluetooth |
✓Great budget speaker ✓ All-In-One solution ✓ IP44 rated so perfect for bathrooms (Learn More) ✓ Both BT and Wi-Fi available ✖ Not as powerful due to the amplifier being inbuilt |
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Read our Lithe Audio Bluetooth Ceiling Speaker Review to find out more!
Best Ceiling Speakers For Outdoors
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There are some really great options for high-quality outdoor speakers at each price point. Although we’ve only included wall-mounted speakers, there are some options for outdoor ceiling speakers too. We’d recommend the good speakers for small outdoor areas, the better for medium, and the best for large outdoor entertaining areas.
Best Outdoor Ceiling Speaker Options
| Good - KEF VENTURA 6 | Better - MONITOR AUDIO CLIMATE 60 | Best - Sonos Outdoor Speakers |
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✓ Compact speaker perfect for smaller outdoor spaces ✓ Wall-mounted speaker ✓ IP65 weatherproof rating - fully resistant to the elements |
✓ High-performance C-CAM tweeter and driver technology ✓ Robust solid sealed, high density polypropylene enclosure - UV rated (IP55) ✓ 175º rotational bracket |
✓ IP66 weatherproof rating - resistant to all the elements, all year round ✓ Speaker cable is hidden from view because of the clever, pivoting mount design ✓ Crisp, detailed and bassy audio |
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Best Single Stereo Options
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Reasons to consider single stereo speakers: In smaller spaces that can’t accommodate a speaker pair, as they feature a twin tweeter to ensure you’re not losing that detail between the left and right channels.
Not suitable for: Larger rooms. As music is produced with two channels in mind, it’s always better to have a dedicated left and right channel if space allows. We recommend fitting a ceiling speaker pair between 2 - 5 between the left and right channels.
Best Single Stereo Ceiling Speaker Options
| Good - KEF CI160CRDS (6.5”) | Best - B&W CCM663 SR (6.5”) | Best - Monitor Audio C1M-T2X (7”) |
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✓ Sonically matched, meaning the tonal characteristics of the speaker doesn’t change as you move around the room. ✓ Tangerine waveguide technology to minimise distortion |
✓ Provides accurate and natural sound ✓ Two-position stereo/surround switch to enable your speaker to be used as a surround channel ✓ High-performance components ensure a true-to-life sound is achieved |
✓ Impressive acoustic performance with RST II mid-bass drivers and C-CAM tweeters ✓ 3 modes are available: Cinema Mode FX, Mono Wide Dispersion and Single Speaker Stereo |
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Best Amplifiers For Your Ceiling Speakers
Option 1. Sonos Amp
In this Ultimate Ceiling Speaker Guide, we recommend the Sonos Amp for ceiling speaker applications, as Sonos is the leader in its field and provides an extremely user-friendly interface. As well as this, Sonos can provide a seamless multi-room audio experience for everyone to enjoy. For the best experience, you can pair the Amp with the Sonos in-ceiling speakers - high-quality ceiling speakers that have a pivotable driver and TruePlay technology.
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Option 2 - WiiM Amp
For powering your ceiling speakers, the WiiM Amp stands out as a fantastic budget option, particularly at the £299 price point. While there might be competitors with a slight edge in specific areas, the WiiM Amp excels as an overall package. It seamlessly combines excellent connectivity, a sleek design, user-friendly functionality, and impressive sound quality.
The WiiM Amp is also a strong choice for those who aren't already locked into a specific ecosystem like Sonos. It offers a versatile and feature-rich experience at a competitive price that feels hard to believe in comparison. However, keep in mind that although the WiiM Amp can drive up to four ceiling speakers, for optimal performance, they should all be rated at 8 ohms. If your speakers have a lower impedance, you will be limited to only two.
More: WiiM Amp Review: The All-In-One Solution For You?
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Option 3 - Bluesound Powernode
The Bluesound Powernode is a great option if you're looking for an alternative to the Sonos Amp. Refreshed for 2021, the Powernode offers a clean, rich performance and is the perfect choice for powering your premium stereo speakers. It offers higher-quality audio performance when compared to the Sonos Amp, but doesn't deliver the same connectivity options. If you're an audiophile looking to dip into wireless streaming, the Powernode could be for you.
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Verdict
Depending on what you're looking to achieve, there are lots of different ceiling speakers that could be right for you. The most important part of picking a speaker is making sure it's going to be the correct speaker for the application in order to optimise your setup, as this will ensure you get the most for your money. If you're still not sure what's best for you and your project, please feel free to get in touch with us. We also offer a free floor plan service and will be pleased to help with any other queries surrounding ceiling speakers. Feel free to contact us on 08006771100 or info@smarthomesounds.co.uk.
