Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

Manufacturer details

  • Ways: 2
  • Speakers: 1 x Medium-Bass 13M20 Duocell Diaphragm IC, 1 x DOM25 Kaladex® Adjustable Tweeter
  • Cross over point: 3700 Hz
  • Frequency response: 73 – 22000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: 86.5 dB 1W/1m
  • Nominal impedance: 8 Ω
  • Minimal impedance: 7.2 Ω
  • Nominal power: 30 W
  • Peak power: 240 W
  • Dimensions: 22 x 22 x 9.5 cm
  • Weight: 1.5 kg
The Archipel 13 ICD is a loudspeaker that fits in the ceiling or in a wall. It's equipped with a coaxial loudspeaker that consists of a DOM25 tweeter with Kaladex membrane and a 13M20 IC 13cm bass/midrange driver.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • Coaxial driver design is a core element, used even in their more affordable models, enhancing spatial coherence and minimizing diffraction, a design choice they heavily promote for its acoustic benefits.
  • Cabasse often incorporates DSP technology for room correction (ARCS) and sound signature adjustments (DEAP), enabling their speakers to adapt to different listening environments.
  • While known for hifi audio, they also offer integrated streaming options, exemplified by their StreamControl app, compatible with various music services and DLNA playback.
  • Their signature design is spherical enclosures, minimizing cabinet-induced diffraction and enabling wide sound dispersion, and they are found throughout their product lines, from the entry level to reference models.

Jersey MC170

  • Positioning: The entry-level floorstanding speaker in the Cabasse lineup.
  • Description: Offers a rich and dynamic sound with its coaxial midrange-tweeter, providing a wide and stable soundstage. Compared to the Java MC40, it is more affordable and suitable for those seeking a balanced sound in medium-sized rooms.

Java MC40

  • Positioning: A mid-range floorstanding speaker offering high-fidelity sound at a competitive price.
  • Description: Stands out with its SCS technology and BC10 coaxial unit, delivering precise and realistic sound. It provides a more immersive experience than the Jersey MC170.

Bora

  • Positioning: A high-performance bookshelf speaker designed for audiophiles seeking compact yet powerful sound.
  • Description: Features a BC13 coaxial midrange-tweeter and a 21 cm Duocell woofer, offering analytical precision and dynamic capability. It surpasses the Antigua MC170 in sound depth.

Murano Alto

  • Positioning: A high-end floorstanding speaker, representing the pinnacle of Cabasse's lineup.
  • Description: Excels with its 3-way triaxial TC23 and BC13 drivers, delivering exceptional soundstage and tonal balance.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
11
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
134
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
51
Founding Year
1950

Our take on the brand

Cabasse, a French hifi brand with roots dating back to 1742 in musical instrument making, is renowned for its unique coaxial speaker design where all sound waves emanate from a single point. Their flagship product, La Sphère, features a distinctive four-way coaxial drive unit array, while their patented HELD technology uses multiband dynamic signal processing to enhance bass dynamics without distortion.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

I think there are four pillars, but they’re all intertwined. The first is the 75 years of acoustics and R&D. We were one of the first companies to create the coaxial driver itself. Today, a lot of companies use coaxial or geo concentric designs, but we were one of the first in 1958 to develop it. You’ll find this in 90% of our lineup. The second is the connectivity aspect. More than 10 years ago, we were acquired by a company whose specialty was connectivity (UPNP, DLNA, and other connectivity protocols). The CEO saw Cabasse as an amazing brand, and he recognized that the audio market was shifting; similar to how Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio in the mid-market in the early 2000s. The same shift started happening in the high-end hi-fi industry, but very few companies had the expertise. So he purchased Cabasse, and now we have acoustics, coaxial driver design, high-excursion woofer technology, and robust connectivity; plus DSP and active filtering. These are things we’ve been doing for a while. And I’d also say the design makes us stand out.

What's your approach to customer support?

Now that we’re basically our own distributor in the U.S., we work directly with dealers. We offer warranties on drivers; ranging from 3 to 5 years, or lifetime depending on the product. We just launched a new product in Munich, and it comes with a lifetime driver warranty. If a customer buys a product and a driver fails, the dealer comes to us and says, “Hey, can you help my client?” Then we either get in touch with the customer directly, if the dealer agrees, or the dealer takes care of it. Not every dealer has the ability to repair, especially since many of our products are heavily electronics-based. In some cases, we’ll just replace the entire unit. We also have a policy where, within a certain period, if the electronics fail, we’ll replace the unit for free. Generally, it’s 3 to 5 years for drivers, and 2 years for electronics.

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

We actually have a playlist on Qobuz with all of our demo tracks. Off the top of my head, for precision and showcasing microdetails, I really like the track called “Soft Landing” by Hadouk Trio. It’s a very clean and amazingly recorded track. I also like “Magnetic Lies” by Malia to show the low end and precision. and fact that our woofer technology provides a lot of dispersion without distortion. The coil never leaves the magnetic field, so you get a lot of excursion. Plus, our DSP helps a lot. We want people to experience that at a given price and speaker size; they have a lot to play with.

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
Alexandre Paul
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
M&K Sound
IC95
799
799
/
2
Reviews

The new compact IC95 integrated loudspeaker system is based on the well proven proprietary 6,5-inch mid-woofer, also used in Miller & Kreisel studio monitor system MPS1620P and in-wall system IW95. The mid-woofer in IC95 is a long time accepted key component in the Miller & Kreisel signature sound history, now appearing as the key component for the smallest and most compact format ever – to provide the real Miller & Kreisel sound. IC95 present a new developed axial mounted 1” soft fabric dome tweeter, designed with swivel function to angle and optimize the on-axis response to the listening positions.

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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The IC95 is built with high-quality materials, including rigid push-button speaker terminals
  • Sound field height, envelopment, and directionality are improved
  • Speaker localization tends to disappear in the sound field

Product Considerations

  • The cutout template included is slightly larger than the Revel c263, which may require some ceiling modification

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The IC95 improves sound field height, envelopment, and directionality over the Revel c263

Takeaway: The MK Sound IC95 is a phenomenal in-ceiling speaker that will give a lot for the money and is especially good as Atmos speakers. The improvements in sound quality are substantial and make it a worthwhile upgrade.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Axiom
M2 (In-wall)
698
698
/
1
Reviews
Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The M2v2 is the least colored speaker in the group
  • The M2v2 is impressively involving and delivers music well
  • The M2v2 is the cheapest speaker of the group
  • The M2v2 is neutral and musical

Product Considerations

  • Fit and finish is adequate, but nothing impressed the reviewer
  • The finish is a faux-woodgrain that does not look like real wood, though real wood veneers are offered at a premium

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • While the Paradigm may have sounded lusher with the string trio, the Axiom lacked any of the other speakers' tonal caveats
  • While the Aperion may have delivered rock music with more punch, the Axiom lacked any of the other speakers' tonal caveats

Takeaway: The M2v2 is a great choice because it delivers music well and is the least colored speaker of the group, which makes it good at playing any type of music. It should be considered a classic.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Axiom Audio manufactures its own drivers and features unique design elements like rear-firing drivers with DSP processing, die-cast metal faceplates that act as heatsinks, and Vortex ports to reduce air turbulence. Their speakers, including the LFR1100 and M100 v4, are known for uncommon features at their price points, such as seven drivers per speaker for greater linearity and the ability to reach exceptionally low frequencies of 15Hz in their subwoofers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Magnat
Interior IC 82
124
/
Released
The IC 82 is the larger of two strong-sounding built-in ceiling loudspeakers in the Interior series. As with all models in the series, the bass/mid-range cone has been manufactured from a carbon-glass-fibre mix – which guarantees extremely high stability and a very clear and dynamic sound. The two built-in coaxial tweeters make two circuit versions possible – sound directed over a wide area or at specific points. A sophisticated fastening system allows the loudspeaker to be quickly installed with extreme ease.
Check Amazon
Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Sound quality receives positive feedback
  • Impressive design
  • Impressive size
  • Bass quality is appreciated
  • Usability is mentioned favorably

Product Considerations

  • There are mixed opinions about the price

Takeaway: The Magnat Interior IC 82 appears to be a well-regarded speaker with a good design and size. It is worth considering if one needs a speaker with good sound and bass.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Magnat stands out for its pioneering hybrid amplifier technology, particularly with the RV series combining tube preamps and solid-state power stages for precise, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Polk
RC60I
199
/
Released
Want music around the house without the bulk of free-standing speakers? How about dynamic overhead sound effects in your home theater? Polk Audio's RC60i in-ceiling speakers do an awesome job in either application. These popular speakers feature an aimable tweeter so you can direct sound towards you. They also come with a lifetime warranty, so you'll enjoy great sound for years to come.

Check Amazon
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Low cost makes them an easy choice for in-wall/in-ceiling speakers
  • Swivel tweeter design allows them to be used in small to large rooms
  • Easy to install
  • Can be used in bathrooms or saunas
  • Large dispersion design makes them an easy choice for in-wall/in-ceiling speakers

Product Considerations

  • Pairing with a sub is recommended for those seeking super deep rumble
  • Reported to not perform as well with staging and precision as bookshelf or floorstanding speakers for surround sound audio or stereo fronts

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • RC60i is voiced to match with the RTi series from Polk

Takeaway: The Polk Audio RC60i speakers are a good option for in-wall/in-ceiling use because they are low cost, easy to install, and have a swivel tweeter that works in different sized rooms. Their infinite baffle tuning enhances the bass response.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
Ci200QL
499
/
Released
The exceptionally stylish Ci200QL rectangular loudspeaker's narrow rim allows for flawless integration into your wall or ceiling. The wide dispersion of KEF's amazing Uni-Q driver gives your room more sound coverage with fewer speakers.
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KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
Ci160.2CL
274
/
Released
In-wall speaker features KEF's patented Uni-Q driver array that allows sound to disperse more evenly throughout the room. The extremely shallow mounting depth allows you to install the Ci160.2CL where other speakers in its class won't fit.
Check Amazon
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent coverage at moderate listening levels
  • Excellent highs
  • Installation was smooth and simple
  • Metal grille easily snaps in place via hidden magnets
  • The sonic character blends into the room and conversation

Product Considerations

  • Mids and lows left a little to be desired, and the bottom end was adequate
  • A subwoofer may be needed when turning the volume up
  • Bass seemed to be lacking in larger rooms
  • Backboxes are not included
  • Back of speakers are open

Takeaway: The Ci160QR speakers provide excellent coverage and are easy to install, making them suitable for whole-house audio applications where ambient sound is desired. They blend well into the room and provide an enjoyable listening experience at moderate levels.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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