In-Ceiling Vs. Bookshelf Speakers (1 Viewer)

[Dan.F]

Hi,

I’m new to HTF and I’m not sure whether this post belongs in “Basics” or “Speakers”, so I tried “Speakers”.

I’m a 2-channel stereo audio guy, who’s building a house that is pre-wired for 6.1 surround sound. I feel that the most attention and $ should go into the speakers, and would like (for aesthetic purposes) speakers that are placed in the ceiling, however I don’t want to sacrifice good quality. I’m also not an audiophile by any means.

I’ve been told that because of the materials behind the drywall, good in-ceiling speakers are expensive in order to compensate for their environment. My questions are:

·Is this true?
·If so, would I be better off hanging bookshelf speakers from the ceiling? My viewing/listening area is open to the kitchen; therefore I have no back wall.
·What are your recommendations for a good speaker system? My budget is about $1,000 for speakers (including subwoofer).

Thanks for the help,
Dan

 

[Joseph Sabato]

If your wall behind the TV is clear, and you want build ins, I would go for in-wall speakers for the front channels for imaging reasons. My brother in law's 5.1 system is all in the ceiling and leaves a lot to be desired in my opinion, with the fronts really being the major issue. The wall behind his RPTV is clear so I really do not understand why his installer put them where he did.

With any in wall system, you will have a fair amount of coloration once you get above a moderate volume ( from the wall resonating). S&V magazine ran a test of in walls from ~ $100.00 to $400.00 each and they all had that same limitation once you got above moderate volumes.

I think you would be better off with some small, unobtrusive bookshelf type speakers mounted up high and aimed down at the listening area with a sub to carry the bass for sound quality. Get 6, ~$100 bookshelves ( Paradigm Atoms, Polk RT series...lots of choices here) plus a Hsu Research VTF-2 for around $500.00 and you will have sound that will be better than anything you can get in to the walls for that price. Good Luck with your installation.