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
Ci160CRds
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 91dB (2.83V/1m)
- Crossover Frequencies: 3.2kHz
- Frequency Response: 50Hz - 20kHz (±6dB) open backed
- Drive Units: LF: Dual voice coil 160mm, HF: 2 x 19mm (0.75in.)
- Recommended Amplifier Power: 10 - 80W
- Product External Dimension: Diameter: 234.6mm (9.24in.), Depth: 93mm (3.66in.)
- Cut-Out Dimensions: Diameter: 196mm (7.71in.)
- Mounting Thickness: Ceiling Thickness Maximum: 36mm (1.42 in.), Minimum: 6mm (0.24 in.)
- Mounting Depth From Surface: 86mm (3.36in.)
- Net Weight: 1.80kg (4.0lbs.)
Description
The Ci160CRds thin-bezel in-ceiling speaker is a high-fidelity flush-mount dual stereo speaker that is ideal for locations with room for only one speaker.
Release Timeline
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:
- KEF's designs prioritize a "Single Apparent Source" through coaxial driver technology, aiming for a coherent soundstage where frequencies appear to originate from a single point, enhancing realism and spatial accuracy.
- The brand incorporates "Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)" into its drivers, utilizing a maze-like structure to absorb unwanted sound waves from the rear of the driver, resulting in cleaner and more defined output.
- They offer a wide range of streaming and connectivity options, with their powered loudspeakers responding to the proprietary KEF Connect app, which delivers multiple streaming services and facilitates setup and customization.
- KEF frequently collaborates with renowned industrial designers to create visually striking products that seamlessly blend into modern living spaces, balancing aesthetic appeal with acoustic performance.
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Select product comparisons
T Series
- Positioning: The ultra-slim speaker line, designed to complement modern flat-screen TVs with a minimal footprint.
- Description: While delivering a sleek aesthetic, the flat diaphragm driver maintains rigidity and minimizes resonance, providing clean and accurate sound. However, compared to other KEF lines like the Q or R Series, it may offer less depth in bass response due to its slim design.
Q Series
- Positioning: The entry-level range offers versatile speakers suitable for both stereo and home theater setups.
- Description: Features Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivering detailed and natural sound. While it provides excellent value, it lacks some of the advanced damping and driver technologies found in the higher-end R and Reference Series, which offer more refined sound reproduction.
R Series
- Positioning: Bridges the gap between the entry-level Q Series and the high-end Reference Series, incorporating technologies from the latter to enhance performance.
- Description: Equipped with Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivers precise and immersive sound. Unlike the Q Series, it includes Shadow Flare technology to reduce cabinet diffraction, resulting in clearer high frequencies.
The Reference
- Positioning: As KEF's high-end line, sets the benchmark for audiophile-grade sound reproduction.
- Description: Incorporating Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and a 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, offers exceptional clarity and detail. It also features advanced cabinet construction and flexible port technology for cleaner bass compared to the R Series. However, it doesn't achieve the Single Apparent Source configuration found in the Blade Series, which provides even more precise imaging.
Blade Series
- Positioning: Represents KEF's innovative approach to speaker design, featuring the world's first Single Apparent Source loudspeakers.
- Description: With Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivers coherent and precise sound. Its unique cabinet design minimizes resonances and diffraction, surpassing the traditional enclosures of The Reference Series.
MUON
- Positioning: Stands as KEF's flagship speaker, combining cutting-edge acoustic engineering with avant-garde industrial design.
- Description: Crafted from super-formed aluminum, the rigid structure minimizes vibrations, delivering ultra-wide bandwidth and immersive sound. While it shares the Uni-Q driver array with other KEF models, its exclusive design and limited production make it a collector's item.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
574
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
1
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
95
Founding Year
1961
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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Used
KEF
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What if you spend more?
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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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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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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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.
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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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.
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.
Product Page
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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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