The best in-ceiling speakers combine great sound with sleek integrated designs that can, at times, make them almost invisible both indoors and out. The Sonos Architectural Speakers by Sonance however, takes things to the next level by connecting directly with the Sonos ecosystem. This allows these speakers to work in conjunction with audio apps and with whole-home audio through AirPlay 2 streaming technology. We have gathered all of the best in-ceiling speakers to help you choose the perfect speaker for your budget and needs.
Best Overall: Sonos Architectural Speakers by Sonance
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The Sonos Architectural in-ceiling speakers offer room-filling, high-quality audio, in a small, out of sight package. These frameless, flush mount speakers house a powerful 6.5" woofer, paired with a 1" ceramic dome tweeter capable of outputting up to 150 watts of audio goodness.
Deep integration with the Sonos ecosystem allows the Architectural speakers to work with various apps and audio protocols. Perhaps the most significant benefit comes in the form of AirPlay 2 compatibility. That uses Apple's audio technology to match playback with any connected speaker, enabling true whole-home audio.
Although it requires an additional purchase, the Sonos Architectural speakers sound can also be finely tuned for their surroundings, thanks to Trueplay tuning. The Sonos amp enables this functionality, which uses the acoustics and positioning within a room to determine optimal sound performance.
The Architectural line of speakers offers high-end sound with Sonos integration. Trueplay tuning adjusts sound based on your room.
Best Value: Pyle PDIC1661RD
Pyle's PDIC1661RD offers entry-level sound at a price to match. Inside the package are a 6.5-inch woofer and a 1/2 inch tweeter, which is plenty for installations that are good for occasional, ambient listening.
These no-frills speakers come with an easy to install spring-loaded clip installation, making them great for quick replacements. Wiring is also convenient thanks to the speaker's push-in terminals, making the complete process virtually tool-free.
Pyle's speaker set is an easy to install solution that won't break the bank. These basic speakers are great for ambient listening.
Best for Outdoors: Polk Audio RC80i
Not all in-ceiling speaker installations are in living rooms or home theaters. Polk Audio's RC80i speakers are available for those looking for true whole home placement. A powerful 8-inch woofer rests underneath its grill, along with a swivel-mounted tweeter, enabling the ability to direct sound to the perfect location.
Featuring a rubber-sealed driver and rust-resistant components, this speaker can withstand damp areas such as bathrooms or covered locations outside. While it is water-resistant and not waterproof, Polk provides a little extra insurance for your investment, as it offers a lengthy five-year limited warranty.
The RC80i features water resistance and a five-year warranty, making them a great fit for those who want their tunes everywhere.
Best Bluetooth Speaker: Pyle PDICBT852RD
The Pyle PDICBT852RD is an in-ceiling speaker pair that offers playback from more than just your connected amp or receiver. Bluetooth capability allows these speakers to work with phones, tablets, computers, and more with just a few taps, as long as you are within 40 feet of them.
These speakers use a spring-loaded installation method, allowing them to be set up in a matter of minutes as they snap into place after inserting them into the desired spot. To top things off, these versatile speakers come with both round and rectangular stain resistant grills. This allows them to act as a set-it-and-forget-it solution that will keep their visual appeal for years to come.
Pyle's PDICBT852RD speaker pair has Bluetooth making it easy to play audio directly from phones, tablets, computers, and more.
Best Design: Bose Virtually Invisible 891
As its name suggests, the Bose Virtually Invisible 891 is a speaker that aims to disappear into its surroundings. While it may not be completely invisible, this speaker has an ultra-thin bezel and a paintable grill making it pretty much as close as you can get.
Of course, Bose is best known for its sound quality, and the 891 does not disappoint. Inside of this beauty is a large 7-inch woofer along with two 1 inch tweeters, perfect for acting as a surround sound system for movie nights, or just for jamming to the latest tunes.
Bose Virtually Invisible II speakers couple premium sound with a clean, customizable design that can match almost any decor.
Best Drop Tile Speaker: Pure Resonance Audio VCA8
The Pure Resonance Audio VCA8 is a purpose-built speaker that provides easy installation and a cleanly integrated design. These speakers are made to fit in place of traditional drop tile ceilings. This appearance allows them to fit in just the right spot, all while providing sound in just the right place above your room.
Perfect for the basement home theater, the Pure Resonance Audio VCA8 can be set into place with a drop, just like a ceiling tile, forgoing the mess of cutting and keeping down the installation time. The large panel design also allows for big sound as it features a dual cone driver, with high sensitivity that is customizable by a dial located on the rear of the unit.
The VCA8 features a unique design that fits right-in with drop tile ceilings. Simply set them in place for great sound.
Listen up
The best in-ceiling speakers are a great way to provide rich sound in locations that may not have the floor or table space. These speakers also help with keeping the focus of your home on your decor, blending in with your ceilings and walls, and keeping ugly cords and bulky speakers out of sight.
Despite their high price, we love the Sonos Architectural Speakers by Sonance for their deep integration with Sonos making them essentially future proof. Once connected, these speakers can work with audio protocols such as Apple's AirPlay 2, enabling whole-home playback. Adding in a Sonos Amp adds Trueplay tuning, ensuring that these speakers sound their best for their environment.
