videophile

In-wall speakers vs. satellites

Well, after arguing, reasoning, and finally begging, my wife has agreed to let me put in a 5.1 system in our bedroom. The only problem is that the speakers (with the possible exception of the sub) have to be either small satellites or in-wall units. So I need some advice on the merits of the two different styles. The biggest question I have is: which type of speaker will give me the most bang for the buck? Are you paying a lot extra to be able to hide a speaker in a wall or do they offer about the same quality/price ratio that other speakers have?

I've got about $1500-$2000 to spend for the six speakers and would naturally like the best sounding system I can get, given the limitations. I was thinking about looking at NHT, B&W, and Paradigm. Are there any other brands or speakers that I should be looking at?

Alon Goldberg

Re: In-wall speakers vs. satellites

For satellite speakers I would audition:

- Monitor Audio Radius Series (R90 x 4, R180 Centre, R360 sub)
- B&W Mini Theatre (M-1 x 5, AS-1 subwoofer)

I haven't auditionned any in-walls, so I can't compare...

Philip Hamm

Re: In-wall speakers vs. satellites

I have Proficient Audio in-walls in my house and they're very nice, I recommend the brand. The only trouble with in-walls, particularly for the rears, is running the cables. If you can get the cables in the walls cleanly, there's nothing that looks as slick as in-wall. And they'll sound at least as good as tiny sattelites, I would guess better.

Philip Hamm
Moderator Emeritus

RomanSohor

Re: In-wall speakers vs. satellites

I would say the sound quality on in-walls can be better, but most likely you will pay A LOT more for the priveledge.

Roman Sohor, CTS