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
CI Elite E80-A v2
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Design: 2-driver, 2-way in-ceiling, 30°-Angled Guided Soundfield System, Advanced SHOCK-MOUNT™ System, Ultra-Rigid CARBON-X™ Baffle
- Crossover: 3rd-order electro-acoustic at 2.0 kHz
- High Frequency Driver: 1" (2.5cm) Aluminum Magnesium Ceramic (AL-MAC™) Tweeter with Exclusive Perforated Phase-Aligning (PPA™) Tweeter Lens
- Frequency Response On-Axis: ±3 dB from 60 Hz - 22 kHz
- Frequency Response 30° Off-Axis: ±3 dB from 60 Hz - 18 kHz
- Mid/Bass Frequency Driver: 8" (20.3cm) Aluminum Magnesium (AL-MAG™) Cones
- Sensitivity Room/Anechoic: 94 dB / 90 dB
- Low Frequency Extension: 39 Hz
- Suitable Amplifier Power Range: 15-160 W
- Maximum Input Power: 100 W
- Impedance: Compatible with 8 ohms
- Cut-out Dimensions: 11-7/16" (29.1cm) dia.
- Minimum Mounting Depth: 5-3/4" (14.6cm)
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 12-5/8" x 6-3/8" (32.0cm x 15.5cm)
- Weight: 9.0 lbs (4.1kg)
- Finishes: White, paintable grille, black speaker
Description
The Custom Installer's Performance-Oriented Solution. The CI Elite series is Made in Canada and has all the technology advantages of our CI PRO Series, but we didn't stop there. It's packed full of features that make a difference, and it doesn't get much sweeter than this when looking for the ultimate sound performance.
The Custom Installer’s Performance-Oriented Solution.The CI Elite series is Made in Canada and has all the technology advantages of our CI PRO Series, but we didn’t stop there. It’s packed full of features that make a difference, and it doesn’t get much sweeter than this when looking for the ultimate sound performance.
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:
- Paradigm designs and manufactures their own drivers, including the rare and expensive Beryllium drivers used in their higher-end Persona and Founder series, allowing for precise control over performance characteristics.
- They utilize Perforated Phase-Aligning (PPA) lenses over tweeters and midrange drivers, a visually distinctive technology they claim smooths and widens dispersion while protecting the drivers.
- Paradigm is known for integrating Anthem Room Correction (ARC) technology from their sister company, Anthem Electronics, to optimize bass performance and room integration of their subwoofers.
- They focus on delivering high dynamic range, enabling their speakers to play loudly and cleanly without compression or distortion, even at mass-market price points.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Monitor SE 8000F
- Positioning: The entry-level floorstanding speaker in Paradigm's lineup, offering high performance at an affordable price.
- Description: Features a 5-driver, 3-way bass reflex design that delivers robust bass and clear highs, with dynamic sound and excellent imaging. Compared to higher-end models like the Premier 800F, it offers great value for those with budget constraints, making it ideal for medium-sized rooms where affordability and quality are key.
Premier 800F
- Positioning: The mid-range floorstanding speaker in Paradigm's lineup, balancing performance and value.
- Description: Features clear midrange and well-integrated bass, using Active Ridge Technology (ART) for reduced distortion. While it offers superior sound quality compared to the Monitor SE 8000F, it remains more accessible than the Founder 120H.
Founder 120H
- Positioning: The high-end floorstanding speaker in Paradigm's lineup, designed for audiophiles seeking advanced technology and superior sound.
- Description: Features a hybrid design with active bass and a built-in amplifier, providing deep, controlled bass and precise sound. Its advanced technologies, such as the AL-MAC high-frequency driver, offer a more refined audio experience than the Premier 800F.
Persona 9H
- Positioning: The flagship model in Paradigm's lineup, representing the pinnacle of their speaker technology and design.
- Description: Features Truextent Beryllium drivers for exceptional clarity and Anthem Room Correction for precise audio tuning. It surpasses all other models in the lineup, including the Founder 120H, in terms of technological sophistication and soundstage.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
319
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
14
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
90
Founding Year
1982
Our take on the brand
Paradigm is a Canadian hifi speaker brand that designs and builds their products locally, using advanced materials like beryllium in their drivers and their proprietary PPA lens technology for better sound dispersion. Their speakers are favored by audiophiles seeking high-end sound at relatively lower prices, and they integrate Anthem Room Correction technology to optimize performance in modern open-concept homes with challenging acoustics.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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From our interview with
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Used
Paradigm
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Focal
300 IWLCR 6
1199
1199
/
4
Reviews
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
- Tool-less design with the Easy Quick Install (EQI) system allows for quick and easy installation
- Flax cone drivers offer light, stiff cones with good natural damping
- The design allows for both horizontal and vertical installation by rotating the high-frequency/mid-range pod
- Delivers impressive dynamics, a clean, neutral balance, and articulate dialogue handling
- Easy to drive with an amplifier
Product Considerations
- The Easy Quick Install (EQI) system may not work in all situations due to space constraints behind the wall
- The open-back design can make the speaker's balance dependent on the installation environment, potentially requiring EQ adjustments
- Adding the included black acoustic cloth to the grille darkens the overall color shade, which is not ideal for color matching applications
- If a clamp breaks on the tool-less design, it is not easily replaceable
- Requires more horizontal spacing than speakers with traditional dogears, requiring installers to be more careful about between-stud placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Kanta No. 2: The Kanta No. 2 has a weightier midrange, superlative upper frequencies, more depth, wider soundstage, and improved imaging, though the 300IWLCR6's sound quality is satisfying
- Vs PSB W-LCR: The PSB exhibits a very slight nasal characteristic, which is not noticed on the Focal LCRs
- Vs Martin Logan Axis: The Martin Logan Axis has impressive imaging and upper-end frequency output due to its folded ribbon tweeter, which is very different from the Focals' inverted dome aluminum and magnesium tweeter
Takeaway: The Focal 300IWLCR6 in-wall loudspeaker is easy to install and delivers great sound for music and movies, especially when paired with a good subwoofer. The speaker can be easily installed, and it can fit into various home theater setups.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Focal
1000 ICLCR5
2499
2499
/
3
Reviews
The 1000 ICLCR5 loudspeaker is the home cinema solution totally integrated into the ceiling for the ultimate sound experience. It combines Focal's best technologies and features a sophisticated design with an adjustable turntable for perfect targeting of the listening point. The Home Cinema experience is without compromise.
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.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Uses Focal's flagship Beryllium tweeter and 'W' cones also found in the Utopia range
- Wall speakers feature adjustable drivers to angle the sound towards the listening position
- Ceiling speakers have Focal's patented 'Easy Quick Install' system for tool-free installation
- Can be integrated with up to 6 subwoofers using only one channel of amplification, to suit the room size
- Magnetic, ready-to-paint speaker grilles allow for visual integration
Product Considerations
- In-wall speakers are less than 10cm deep, which may affect performance for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Form factor is the same as Focal 300 Series, making upgrades easier
Takeaway: The Focal 1000 Series offers advanced technology and flexible design for creating a high-quality, customizable home audio system. Its discreet design and ease of installation make it a great option for those seeking a blend of performance and aesthetics.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
M&K Sound
IW150A
1599
1599
/
2
Reviews
The IW150A. Targeted primarily as a Dolby Atmos-friendly in-ceiling model, it can also be used for other in-wall cinema or multi-room music applications. Its single 15-degree angle-fixed tweeter makes the IW150A ideal for effects-based sound in multi-speaker setups. The debut of the new 150 member means that, along with the IW28S subwoofer, there is within the 150 Series a complete in-wall/ in-ceiling seamless solution for reference-grade home cinemas. The Versatile use of the IW150A makes it fit in any position. Turn it – UP, SIDE or DOWN your choice.
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
- Retains the neutrality, realism, and musicality associated with the M&K Sound design in a discreet enclosure
- The front three IW150 models perfectly match each other in terms of tonality and are utterly transparent
- Capable of a pleasingly open sound that fills the room with wonderful detail and clarity
- The transient response of these speakers is incredible, viscerally delivering the scares as the soundtrack suddenly goes from relative silence to very loud
Product Considerations
- Slightly lacking at the low-end, designed to be used with a subwoofer
- Placement can be non-trivial and orientation moreso because of the multi-woofer/tweeter design, resulting in a weird dispersion that will sound different depending on which side of the speaker one is on
- Putting them in the wall might change its sonic integrity
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- IW150 is an in-wall version of the M&K Sound S150
Takeaway: The IW150 delivers the detail, clarity, and transience of a professional studio monitor from a discreet, in-wall enclosure. If one is looking for in-wall speakers that vanish into their decor, then these are worth an audition.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
PSB
C-LCR
1199
1199
/
1
Reviews
Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Creates a soundstage that sits low in the room, almost ear level
- Has a superb midrange with the weight and punch of a true high-end speaker
- Reproduces vocals and instrumentation with an organic quality
- Reduces sound transmission into neighboring rooms due to the integrated enclosure
Product Considerations
- The enclosure could cause installation issues if there's plumbing or venting in the speaker locations
- The speaker grilles have a slightly thicker profile with no sloping transition into the ceiling
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Martin Logan: PSBs have a more substantial midrange due to the enclosure
- Vs Triad: Very similar in design as both have a back box
Takeaway: The PSB C-LCR is an impressive in-ceiling speaker that sounds like a high-end stand-mount monitor and images spectacularly—creating an almost ear-level soundstage. Consider PSB's CustomSound lineup for a concealed installed speaker system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
M&K Sound
IC95
799
/
Released
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.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Focal
300 ICA6
599
/
Released
2022
Inheriting Focal innovations and adapting to Dolby Atmos 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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Totem
KIN IC82
850
/
Released
The IC82 is Totem's premium 8" in-ceiling speaker in the KIN Architectural IC series. The refinement of the IC82 expresses Totem's mission is to develop loudspeakers capable of producing an involving performance that is true to the artist's intention. They energize the area in manner that faithfully recreates the intimate moment and space of the original recording, yet disappear into the environment.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
Ci200RR-THX
999
/
Released
For the most versatile range in custom installed Extreme Home Theatre, the formidable Ci-R Series has a good portion of acoustic capabilities that derived from KEF's flagship The Reference, together with all the technological innovations that are developed for in-wall and in-ceiling use, making high fidelity sound more accessible for home theatres in different sizes.
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
- 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.
Product Page
Product Page
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Axiom
M2 (In-wall)
698
/
Released
The M2 in-wall is ideal for customers who want hi-fidelity sound that doesn't take up any floor space. The new M2 in-wall provides the kind of transparent, neutral, wide-range sound you expect from Axiom in an almost-invisible enclosure. The M2 in-wall speaker preserves the sonic signature of its bookshelf equivalent, the M2, and adds a slim profile - just 5/8ths of an inch with the grille on, which is a perfect complement to today's modern low-profile plasma and LCD TV screens.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
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