Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Aerial 7LCR
- Positioning: A dedicated speaker for on-wall or in-wall setups.
- Description: Features a design optimized for installation with a focused driver arrangement that suits small to medium rooms needing discrete placement. Compared to the floor-standing models like the 5T and 6T, offers a practical option for those on tighter budgets or with space constraints, though it may not match the full-range performance of the 7T and 20T V2.
Aerial 5T
- Positioning: An entry-level floor-standing speaker designed for balanced performance.
- Description: Uses a straightforward driver configuration that delivers clear sound and works well in small to moderate rooms. Relative to the enhanced designs of the 6T and 7T, offers a simpler setup that meets essential functionality while keeping costs lower.
Aerial 6T
- Positioning: A mid-range floor-standing speaker that emphasizes refined midrange clarity.
- Description: Incorporates a dedicated midrange driver that improves tonal balance and provides more detailed playback suited for mid-sized spaces. In contrast to the 5T's basic approach, offers a step up in performance while not reaching the broader dynamic range seen in the 7T or the flagship 20T V2.
Aerial 7T
- Positioning: A full-range floor-standing speaker designed for wider dynamic coverage.
- Description: Integrates advanced drivers that extend bass response and overall detail, making it suitable for larger rooms. Compared to the 6T's focused design, delivers a broader dynamic range and nears the performance level of the flagship 20T V2 while remaining more accessible.
Aerial 20T V2
- Positioning: A flagship floor-standing speaker aimed at the high-end market.
- Description: Features state-of-the-art driver technology and cabinet design that achieve a highly detailed and expansive sound stage, ideal for large rooms and critical listening. Compared to the more budget-friendly 7T, 6T, or 5T models, offers superior performance and functionality.
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7LCR
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Manufacturer's notes
Looking for a truly high performance 3-way surround speaker that looks quietly elegant in any room? The Aerial 7LCR is the answer. From the makers of the classic SR3, the 7LCR is the next step. It mounts gracefully either vertically or horizontally, either on-wall or in-wall. Optional angle mount and ceiling mount brackets are available. The 7LCR takes surround performance to a new level.
Looking for a truly high performance 3-way surround speaker that looks quietly elegant in any room? The Aerial 7LCR is the answer. From the makers of the classic SR3, the 7LCR is the next step. It mounts gracefully either vertically or horizontally, either on-wall or in-wall. Optional angle mount and ceiling mount brackets are available. The 7LCR takes surround performance to a new level.
The Aerial Acoustics Model 7LCR is a high performance 3-way loudspeaker designed specifically for on-wall or in-wall use. With dimensions of 38 x 8 x 4.8" deep and simple 2-point mounting using brackets supplied, vertical or horizontal installation is easy either on or in a wall. Most importantly, the 7LCR provides the same balance, natural tonality, delicate resolution, sensitivity, wide dynamics, and high output as larger Aerial floor standing models, sacrificing only the lowest octave. Serious high performance is finally possible on-wall or in-wall.
The all-new 7LCR design, with its rotatable thick aluminum center plate, allows the tweeter and midrange drivers to be properly aligned for either vertical or horizontal use. Dual rear switches optimize the response for different mounting positions, including behind screens, and for use in any system.
The Model 7LCR reflects the design of the new Aerial 5T, 6T and 7T models. The curved shape is created by bonding multiple layers of wood toget...
The Aerial Acoustics Model 7LCR is a high performance 3-way loudspeaker designed specifically for on-wall or in-wall use. With dimensions of 38 x 8 x 4.8" deep and simple 2-point mounting using brackets supplied, vertical or horizontal installation is easy either on or in a wall. Most importantly, the 7LCR provides the same balance, natural tonality, delicate resolution, sensitivity, wide dynamics, and high output as larger Aerial floor standing models, sacrificing only the lowest octave. Serious high performance is finally possible on-wall or in-wall.
The all-new 7LCR design, with its rotatable thick aluminum center plate, allows the tweeter and midrange drivers to be properly aligned for either vertical or horizontal use. Dual rear switches optimize the response for different mounting positions, including behind screens, and for use in any system.
The Model 7LCR reflects the design of the new Aerial 5T, 6T and 7T models. The curved shape is created by bonding multiple layers of wood toget...
Manufacturer Specs
- Frequency Response: 60 Hz – 25 kHz +/- 2 dB
- Sensitivity: 87 dB at 2.83 Vrms and 1.0 meter on axis
- Impedance: 4 ohms nominal, 3 ohms minimum, low reactance
- Power Requirements: 25 to 300 watts (8 ohm rating) recommended
- Woofers: 2 x 6.7″ long-stroke design with aluminum cones, large voice coils, large magnets and cast frames
- Midrange: 5″ cast frame design with strong acceleration-factor dual magnets and special Papyrus cone
- Tweeter: 1″ woven soft ring dome with dual magnets, non-resonant chamber, machined aluminum face plate
- Crossover: 600 Hz and 3.5 kHz
- Controls: 2 x 3-position rotary switches for fine midrange and tweeter adjustment and boundary compensation
- Dimensions: 38.0 x 8.0 x 4.8″ deep including grille (965 x 204 x 122)
- Weight: 35 pounds each. 46 pounds packed
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Average Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used Products
18
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Brand Popularity
288
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Top 50 Brand
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Products
7
Founded
1991
Our take on the brand
Aerial Acoustics creates speakers with cabinets made from multiple layers of pressure-bonded MDF and uses custom drivers with unique materials like papyrus-blend cones for their distinctive sound. Their speakers are particularly noted for their ability to "disappear" into the soundstage, creating a holographic listening experience that's rare among dynamic speakers.
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Aerial Acoustics
What if you spend a bit more?
Cinergy 300
6500
6500
/
2
Reviews
Monitor
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Huge soundstage that expands beyond the confines of the room
- Incredible flexibility regarding placement and orientation, including in-wall, on-wall, and floor-standing options
- Speakers reveal a level of detail that few other systems can match
- THX Ultra certified and built to achieve true cinema reference volume levels
Product Considerations
- System should be installed by a professional
- The HFT drivers that make the sound so revealing could appear a little bright if not correctly tuned
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Monitor Audio Cinergy comes dangerously close to dethroning Perlisten in terms of movie sound
Takeaway: The Cinergy series is a fantastic option for home cinema fans, giving the best possible sound quality with a design tailored to home theater needs. A well-planned and executed Cinergy system can rival many commercial cinemas, offering a truly immersive sound experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Visit our
Cinergy 300
page
Product Page
Phantom S-280
7000
7000
/
1
Reviews
Dali
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Immersive sound quality
- Can handle a lot of dynamics
- Impressive shallow installation depth (approximately 10cm) despite its size
- Solid construction using high-quality aluminum, steel, and MDF to counteract resonances
- Easy to install with clamps and a supplied Allen key
Product Considerations
- Standard white covers may need repainting to match specific wall colors
- Some users may desire a little deeper bass for movies
Takeaway: The DALI Phantom 280S offers immersive sound and dynamic performance while being relatively easy to install within a wall. Its solid construction and good finish make it a worthwhile consideration for a home theater or high-end audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Visit our
Phantom S-280
page
Product Page
1000 IWLCR Utopia
7999
7999
/
1
Reviews
Focal
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- True audiophile performance with pinpoint imaging and a huge soundstage from an in-wall footprint rivaling free standing speakers
- Reference-grade materials such as inverted beryllium dome tweeter and W Cone sandwich drivers
- Utopia models feature a slick, modular, expandable design to fit a variety of installations
- LFE signals can be sent to the IWLCR Utopia when used in conjunction with the IWSUB-Utopia
Product Considerations
- Dog ears are finicky and may have issues when installing multiple sheetrock layers near max thickness rating
- Connection plates adhering to the joints and ends of the grilles don't always sit completely flat
- An equally capable processor with advanced EQ and amplifier stable into low impedance loads is required to maximize performance potential
- IWSUB Utopia models lack a vibration damping suspension system
Takeaway: The Focal Utopia offers audiophile-grade sound with flexible installation, making it a great choice for those who want top-notch performance without taking up floor space. With its advanced features and high-quality components, it delivers an immersive audio experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Visit our
1000 IWLCR Utopia
page
Product Page
Flag M
7766
7766
/
2
Reviews
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Fonica
FLAG COLLECTION FLAG M FLAG M speakers guarantee excellent acoustic performance in medium-large rooms. The isodynamic technology allows to obtain a very uniform sound diffusion in the listening room. In the active digital version, equipped with remote control and digital inputs, the speakers become a complete audio system and you just need to connect a music source to enjoy your music.
Fonica International uses isodynamic technology in their speakers, which involves a thin Mylar membrane vibrating with neodymium magnets to create an ultra-slim design without internal resonance issues. Their handcrafted speakers are known for creating a large, dynamic soundstage with excellent sound diffusion, and they offer customization options to match various aesthetic preferences.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very slim, making them convenient to place in a room
- With no acoustic enclosure, they are free from colouration caused by internal resonances
- High and mid frequencies are clean, detailed, yet not fatiguing
- They can handle a variety of music genres, including Western Classical, Modern Pop, Hard Rock, Jazz, and Vocal based Music
- They create a large picturesque sound stage with placement of musicians across the stage
Product Considerations
- The aesthetic may not be for everyone
- Care is required when handling the speakers, especially with regard to children and animals
- The lower frequencies may take some time getting adjusted to, compared to the coloration of cabinet speakers
- The instruction manual is not so helpful, due to literal translation
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Traditional Box Speakers–the Flag Ms offer a non-traditional approach to high-end quality listening
- Vs Traditional Box Speakers–the Flag Ms at the price point may be a worthy option when considering traditional box speaker competition
Takeaway: The Fonica International Flag M loudspeakers offer a unique listening experience with a sleek design and impressive soundstage. For those looking for a different approach to high-end audio, the Flag Ms are worth a listen.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fonica International uses isodynamic technology in their speakers, which involves a thin Mylar membrane vibrating with neodymium magnets to create an ultra-slim design without internal resonance issues. Their handcrafted speakers are known for creating a large, dynamic soundstage with excellent sound diffusion, and they offer customization options to match various aesthetic preferences.
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Flag M
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Double Impact Full Tower In-Wall
3570
/
Released
Tekton
Tekton Design is known for its patented tweeter array technology, which uses multiple tweeters in a concentric arrangement to act as a midrange driver, delivering high-impact sound with exceptional clarity. The brand's speakers, which are particularly well-suited for tube amplifiers due to their high efficiency, deliver high-end performance at significantly lower prices through their direct-to-consumer sales model.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Tonally rich and natural sounding
- Amazing detail that rivals the best electrostatics in terms of the pure level of detail and resolution
- They create an incredibly large, deep soundstage that will fill the room and place within that soundstage images as clear and precise as any speaker
- They handle pretty much every other aspect of what a speaker should do in an exemplary fashion
- Very easy to drive
Product Considerations
- These proved to be the most time consuming speakers to position that one has ever had in one's rooms
- Toe-in angle was critical, distance from the wall behind them was super critical, and all totally room dependent
- These are very directional speakers
- The bass response has to be looked at in conjunction with the room one is using them in
- They also require a relatively long 100 hour "break-in" period before they really start to loosen up a little and really shine
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Tekton Lore, they do everything better than the Lores
Takeaway: The Double Impact is a stunning achievement in speaker design that offers an immersive and detailed listening experience. If one appreciates natural sound, exceptional detail, and a wide soundstage, these speakers are definitely worth considering for an audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Tekton Design is known for its patented tweeter array technology, which uses multiple tweeters in a concentric arrangement to act as a midrange driver, delivering high-impact sound with exceptional clarity. The brand's speakers, which are particularly well-suited for tube amplifiers due to their high efficiency, deliver high-end performance at significantly lower prices through their direct-to-consumer sales model.
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Double Impact Full Tower In-Wall
Page
Product Page
IW500
4999
/
Released
2024
M&K Sound
The first THX® Certified Dominus in-wall loudspeaker for very large home cinemas with both vertical and horizontal installation flexibility. M&K Sound has combined a high-performance one-inch soft dome tweeter with a precision-crafted aluminum waveguide to ensure accurate and focused vertical and horizontal dispersion characteristics. The design marks the first time M&K Sound has developed a horn-loaded loudspeaker which guarantees real and natural delivery, whether placed vertically or horizontally.
M&K Sound invented the world's first subwoofer in 1973 and is widely used in Hollywood studios for mixing and mastering film soundtracks. Their push-pull subwoofer design cancels out harmonic distortion, and their speakers deliver professional studio monitor neutrality, making them a top choice for high-end audio production.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- THX Certified Dominus means it is optimized for room volumes of up to 6,500 cubic feet
- Can be used as a left, center, or right speaker and is the most powerful reference loudspeaker produced to date by M&K Sound
- Can be mounted either vertically or horizontally as a center channel
- Designed for use in high-end home theaters or hifi systems, it boasts an 80 Hz – 20 kHz (+/-1.5 dB) frequency response and a maximum SPL of greater than 117 dB
- Combines a high-performance one-inch soft dome tweeter with a precision-crafted aluminum waveguide to ensure accurate and focused vertical and horizontal dispersion
Product Considerations
- Should ideally be paired with one or more subwoofers, such as M&K Sound's THX Certified Dominus X15+ subwoofer
- Requires an amplifier with 100-500 watts of power
Takeaway: The IW500 is designed for large home theater installations, bringing sonic precision, neutrality, and articulation. Its THX Dominus certification ensures high performance and makes it a great choice for those looking for unrivaled audio in large environments.
Video review
Our take on the brand
M&K Sound invented the world's first subwoofer in 1973 and is widely used in Hollywood studios for mixing and mastering film soundtracks. Their push-pull subwoofer design cancels out harmonic distortion, and their speakers deliver professional studio monitor neutrality, making them a top choice for high-end audio production.
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IW500
Page
Product Page
Insight Series P4i
2760
/
Released
Wisdom Audio
Compact in size, the Insight Series P4i defies traditional categorization. Sharing the design elements of its larger Insight Series sibling, it is hard to believe the musical and cinematic performance and dynamic quality of this small in-wall loudspeaker. The Insight Series P4i includes a planar magnetic driver – and four robust 3"x5" woofers for low distortion, high-resolution sound, and a superior dynamic range.
Wisdom Audio specializes in planar magnetic drivers and line source speaker technology, which provides consistent sound coverage throughout a room and minimizes sound distortion compared to traditional point source speakers. Their speakers are designed to be integrated into walls or ceilings without compromising sound quality.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Truly outstanding sound quality, delivering a near-electrostatic, audiophile listening experience in a disappearing, in-wall package
- Uses planar magnetic thin-film drivers (PMD) which can be highly detailed with excellent transient response
- PMDs are quite reliable because the spread-out "voice grid" is great at dissipating heat
- PMDs are super-easy for an amplifier to drive, as they are "an almost perfectly resistive load"
Product Considerations
- Horizontal center channel use of the Insight P4i requires stud modifications due to its size
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Insight series squeezes most of the sound quality of the Wisdom Audio Sage Series into a less imposing, less costly package
Takeaway: The Wisdom Audio Insight P4i speakers provide excellent sound quality in an in-wall design, and are a great way to get high-end audio without large, free-standing speakers. They could be worth buying for those who want the best possible sound without compromising on interior design.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Wisdom Audio specializes in planar magnetic drivers and line source speaker technology, which provides consistent sound coverage throughout a room and minimizes sound distortion compared to traditional point source speakers. Their speakers are designed to be integrated into walls or ceilings without compromising sound quality.
Visit
Insight Series P4i
Page
Product Page
Phantom S-180
4000
/
Released
Dali
The DALI PHANTOM S-180 is a full-size in-wall speaker. Combining an 8" wood fibre driver, 10" passive carbon fibre radiator and a rotatable hybrid tweeter module, the PHANTOM S-180 delivers coherent, clean and detailed sound in a cabinet that fits into almost any standard wall.
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers full, rich, and detailed sound with a hybrid tweeter module, an 8" wood fiber driver, and a 10" passive carbon fiber radiator
- Offers a significant level of adjustability and customization to suit individual audio preferences and spatial requirements, and can be installed vertically or horizontally
- Features a slim design and dogleg mounting system for easy installation on any standard wall
- Meticulously designed and crafted with high-quality materials and rigorous testing processes
Product Considerations
- Its high price point might make it less accessible for some customers
- To achieve optimal sound, the speaker should be installed with the tweeter at ear height, which may require additional consideration during installation
- The manufacturing origin of the speaker is not mentioned
Takeaway: The DALI Phantom S-180 is an excellent in-wall speaker that provides great sound and can be adjusted to fit individual needs. It's a worthwhile investment for a top-notch audio experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Visit
Phantom S-180
Page
Product Page
Phantom S-80
3000
/
Released
Dali
The DALI PHANTOM S-80 in-wall speaker delivers a clear and well-defined audio performance. With its combined 8" bass/midrange woofer and rotatable hybrid tweeter module, the PHANTOM S-80 is a flexible speaker with impressive bass response.
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers high-quality audiophile sound.
- Runs cleanly even at extremely high volumes.
- Treble dispersion creates a surprisingly wide sweet spot.
- Provides excellent precision in sound location, even when placed against a wall.
- First class clarity
Product Considerations
- Bass extension is fairly limited without a subwoofer
- Mounting depth is 104mm
- High frequency dispersion can be problematic if used horizontally without rotating the tweeter module
Takeaway: The Dali Phantom S-80 is a superb installation loudspeaker that delivers high-quality sound and runs cleanly at high volumes, perfect for someone looking for great audio in a discreet package. Its clarity and precision make it a worthwhile addition to any audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Visit
Phantom S-80
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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