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.
All
IC-V31 3.8 In-Ceiling
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Speaker type: 2-way, rear side open
- Tweeter: 3/4-inch soft dome
- Woofer: 3.8-inch polypropylene cone
- Crossover frequency: 3,000 Hz
- Frequency response: 76 to 20,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 87 db at 2.83 v/1m
- Recommended amplifier power: 30 to 100 Watts
- Nominal/peak power handling: 50/80 Watts
- Nominal impedance: 6 Ohm
- Finish: Black baffle/White grille
- Grille: Metal magnetic / Paintable
- Dimensions (diameter): 4.25 in / 108 mm
- Cut-out (diameter): 4.00 in / 102 mm
- Mounting depth: 4.05 in / 103 mm
Description
We understand the importance of having audio to enhance a living space, with minimal aesthetic intrusion. The easily installed Vertex Series I speakers utilize the same components throughout the series to ensure a perfect sonic match across the line. Keeping with our philosophy of delivering great sound, Vertex series I speakers will compliment any environment.
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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:
- ELAC speakers often incorporate concentric tweeter/midrange drivers, promoting a more coherent and focused soundstage.
- The brand is recognized for blending high-performance audio with accessible pricing, disrupting the market by providing elevated products at competitive price points.
- ELAC emphasizes the importance of a seamless frequency response by carefully managing the transition between the drivers.
- The company designs its speaker cabinets with a focus on minimizing resonances, often incorporating internal bracing and specific cabinet shapes to limit unwanted vibrations.
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Select product comparisons
ELAC Debut 2.0 DB62
- Positioning: The entry-level bookshelf speaker in the Debut 2.0 series.
- Description: Offers a great balance of performance and affordability, featuring a custom-designed 1-inch soft-dome tweeter for improved clarity. Compared to other models, its aramid fiber woofer provides enhanced low-frequency response, making it suitable for small to medium-sized rooms without breaking the bank.
ELAC Debut Reference DBR62
- Positioning: A step up from the Debut 2.0 series, offering enhanced audio performance and aesthetics.
- Description: Features a new waveguide and open grill design for better high-frequency response. Stands out with its full perimeter bracing and cast chassis woofer, offering superior cabinet stability and reduced coloration compared to the DB62.
ELAC Carina BS243.4
- Positioning: Part of the premium Carina series, known for its advanced driver technology.
- Description: Features a JET tweeter, delivering high-definition sound with minimal distortion. Its compound curvature aluminum woofer ensures smooth transitions and superior bass dynamics, setting it apart from the Debut series.
ELAC UniFi Reference UBR62
- Positioning: A high-end model in the UniFi Reference series, offering a true 3-way speaker design.
- Description: Features a concentric driver with an extended wide-surround tweeter for seamless integration. Its compound curvature woofer and dual flared slot port provide enhanced bass dynamics.
ELAC Vela VBS404.2
- Positioning: The groundbreaking flagship model in the Vela series, combining advanced technology with luxurious design.
- Description: Features the remarkable JET 6 tweeter, offering an expansive frequency range and exceptional clarity. Its aluminum sandwich woofer minimizes resonances, providing a clear and accurate sound that surpasses the UniFi series.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
132
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
32
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
94
Founding Year
1926
Our take on the brand
ELAC is a hifi brand known for its unique connectivity options in powered speakers, including HDMI ARC at accessible price points, and its proprietary JET tweeter technology that uses a folded ribbon design. The brand's speakers, from bookshelf to floor-standing models, consistently deliver high performance through their crystal membrane drivers and JET tweeters, making them a reliable choice for value-conscious audiophiles.
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ELAC
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What if you spend more?
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.
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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.
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Focal
300 ICA6
599
599
/
2
Reviews
Inheriting Focal innovations and adapting to Dolby Atmosâ technology, the 300 ICA6 in-wall speaker offers pure hi-fi sound and sound immersion in 3 Dimensions. Its 35°-tilted driver allows precise adjustment to the listening position, while adapting to the acoustics of your room. The "shower effect" is a thing of the past, and the sound is evenly distributed, perfect for a home cinema installation.
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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Product Strengths
- Crystal clear highs are provided due to the aluminum magnesium inverted dome tweeter
- It's versatile, aimable, and allows directional audio optimization
- Easy installation with a convenient two-piece quick install bracket system
- The flax woofer is rigid and improves excursion, providing a good price-to-performance ratio
- Offers both square and circular paintable magnetic grills
Product Considerations
- Requires a mounting depth of at least five and three-quarter inches
- An amplifier with at least 25 to 130 watts is recommended
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal 100 series—the 300 Series has a more enveloping soundstage
- Vs Focal 100 series—the 300 Series offers more ambiance, with crisp articulation of vocals
- Vs Focal 100 series—installation is superior
Takeaway: The Focal 300 Series provides optimized audio and easy installation with a sleek design. It's versatile for home theater or distributed audio, making it a great choice for anyone looking for quality sound.
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.
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Totem
KIN IC82
850
850
/
1
Reviews
The IC82 is Totem’s premium 8” in-ceiling speaker in the KIN Architectural IC series.
Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
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Product Strengths
- High-quality construction with mhex cone material and aluminum tweeter
- A low volume intelligibility switch boosts vocal clarity and bass at lower volumes
- A cast aluminum frame basket allows for a larger spider and suspension system, enabling the speaker to handle more power
- Wide dispersion (75 degrees) provides a good soundstage for every seat
- Weather-resistant materials (impermeable drivers, stainless steel hardware/grills) make it suitable for use in humid environments
- Custom-fit back boxes create a sealed enclosure, reducing sound transmission and protecting the driver
- Pre-construction bracket provides even pressure on the drywall for better support
Product Considerations
- The low volume intelligibility switch should be off when playing at reference levels
- 12 gauge is the max gauge for the binding posts
Takeaway: The KIN IC 82 is a high-quality in-ceiling speaker with unique features and durable construction, making it a great choice for a home theater or other applications. The speaker's ability to deliver clear sound and withstand various environmental conditions adds to its value.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Totem Acoustic is known for its unique approach to speaker design, using crossoverless woofers for more natural sound reproduction and producing an immersive soundstage despite compact speaker sizes. The Canadian-made speakers feature distinctive materials like borosilicate damping in their cabinets and CNC-machined driver components, appealing to audiophiles who prefer a unique voicing over neutral-sounding speakers.
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KEF
Ci200RR-THX
999
999
/
2
Reviews
With a 38mm(1.5inch) tweeter voice coil coupled to a vented aluminium dome with tangerine waveguide, and a woofer with absolutely massive magnet and Z-flex surround, the KEF Ci200RR-THX is an in-ceiling LCR capable of delivering a magical musical theatre experience even in the largest of rooms.
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.
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Product Strengths
- Delivers cinema-quality sound for home Atmos or DTS:X systems
- Has crisp highs, mid tones, and vocal reproduction
- Is terrific for multi-zone or MusicCast audio options
Product Considerations
- May require a subwoofer for deep bass tones
- Sound levels drop significantly when walking too far to the side of the speakers
Takeaway: The KEF Ci200RR-THX in-ceiling speakers offer excellent sound replication across various frequencies and can play loud without distortion. They would be a great addition to a Dolby Atmos home theater.
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.
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What competes at this price?
KEF
Ci160TR
349
/
Released
Boasting the latest incarnation of our formidable 4.5in. mid/bass T Series driver and powerful 1in. tweeter, the ultra-slim Ci-T Series speakers open up new possibilities for enjoying KEF's uncompromised sound quality where space above the ceiling is at a premium.
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The KEF Ci160TR is a great solution for those looking for ultra-slim flush ceiling speakers for shallow ceiling voids
- The slim and compact design does not compromise on sound quality
- The grilles can be painted
- It makes life easy if you have a very limited space in which to install the speakers since they require a mounting depth of just 36mm
Product Considerations
- It needs accompanying speakers or a subwoofer to deliver the bass
- It requires bass from elsewhere, such as a subwoofer
- It has a recessed mid and upper bass, eventually settling on 150Hz as providing a good balance
- It doesn't claim anything much in the way of bass performance
Takeaway: The Ci160TR is a great speaker if you need something that fits in a small space but still sounds good. It is especially useful when paired with other speakers to help with the bass.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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Polk
VT60
189
/
Released
Enables flush installation and is acoustically inert to promote uniform sound coverage in large rooms. The speaker can also be painted to match your existing décor.
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Timber matched to the RTi and TSi range
- Improved bass over the RC80i
- Moisture resistance allows installation in any room, including kitchens and bathrooms
Product Considerations
- Branding text is a little intrusive when the grille is removed
- Lacks brightness
- Needs to be paired with an amplifier to function
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Polk RC80i: VT60 has broader timber matching support and wider frequency response range, giving it more bass
Takeaway: The VT60 ceiling speaker is a versatile and affordable option that improves upon previous models with enhanced bass and timber matching. Its moisture resistance makes it a great choice for any room in the house.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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