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
X-261
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Description: In-wall, in-ceiling speaker
- Frequency response: 80 – 22k Hz
- Max SPL @ 1m: 120 dB
- Amplification needed: 1 channel
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 57.0 x 31.0 x 9.5 cm / 22.4 x 12.2 x 3.7 in
- Weight: 11.3 kg / 24.9 lbs
- Finish: Matte black
Description
Steinway Lyngdorf commits to a new level of support for the Digital Cinema Initiative (DCI) with a collection of speakers designed for the ultimate Hollywood cinema and large format screening rooms. The X speakers are made specifically for both private and commercial projects that demand the highest possible performance. Designed for dedicated in-wall use, the X speakers are based on the already high-performing In-Wall Series but offer a more powerful level of performance.
Steinway Lyngdorf commits to a new level of support for the Digital Cinema Initiative (DCI) with a collection of speakers designed for the ultimate Hollywood cinema and large format screening rooms. The X speakers are made specifically for both private and commercial projects that demand the highest possible performance. Designed for dedicated in-wall use, the X speakers are based on the already high-performing In-Wall Series but offer a more powerful level of performance. The Xtreme versions The Steinway & Sons X-261 speaker is the extreme version of the successful IW-26V speaker, redesigned and utilizing the more powerful air motion transformer (AMT) from the flagship Model D speaker. This gives the speaker an additional 4dB more peak output, for a total of 120dB with 93.5 dB sensitivity. The speaker is optimal as surround speaker in larger rooms.
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:
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Steinway Sons Model A
- Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
- Description: Features a straightforward digital design that offers clear sound reproduction ideal for small rooms and tight budgets. Compared to the more advanced products in the lineup, provides basic functionality without the extended processing capabilities seen in Models B, C, LS Concert, and D.
Steinway Sons Model B
- Positioning: Mid-tier option blending balanced costs with reliable performance.
- Description: Incorporates enhanced circuitry and improved soundstage technology that deliver a richer listening experience for medium-sized setups. When compared to Model A and the higher-end options, adds better digital control and expanded frequency response.
Steinway Sons Model C MK II
- Positioning: Mid-high product offering refined performance for dedicated enthusiasts.
- Description: Introduces an upgraded digital-to-analog conversion system and advanced processing that yield a more detailed and dynamic sound. Relative to Models A and B, its extended dynamic range and sound staging approach those seen in the top-tier LS Concert and Model D.
Steinway Sons LS Concert
- Positioning: High-end solution aimed at larger spaces and professional settings.
- Description: Offers cutting-edge audio processing and exceptional build quality that create an expansive sound field and precise imaging suitable for larger rooms and demanding setups. In contrast with the lower-tier systems, its enhanced connectivity and advanced digital performance set it apart, yet it is less feature-saturated than the flagship Model D.
Steinway Sons Model D
- Positioning: Flagship model representing the pinnacle of technology and performance.
- Description: Integrates groundbreaking digital circuitry and audio processing innovations to deliver ultra-precise sound reproduction with an exceptionally wide soundstage for professional-grade applications. While Model D outstrips the others in technological sophistication and connectivity, it is positioned at the highest price level, making it the top choice for users with premium budgets and the most demanding functionality needs.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
2
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
378
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
34
Founding Year
2007
Our take on the brand
Steinway Lyngdorf is unique for its fully digital amplification technology and RoomPerfect system, which processes signals entirely in the digital domain and automatically adapts sound to any room's acoustics without requiring acoustic treatment. Their systems are built as closed ecosystems with components that must work together, featuring distinctive dipole speakers that emit sound from both front and back to mimic how Steinway pianos interact with a room.
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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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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.
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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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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.
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
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.
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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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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.
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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.
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