Best In-Wall Center Channel Speaker

We are back with a very interesting sound gadget this time. Have you heard of In-wall center channel speakers? In-wall center channel speakers are basically speakers that are installed inside the wall and these types of speakers do not take away much space and can chill inside your wall with ease. 

The installation is as easy as it sounds. A center channel speaker delivers a distinct dialog and sound anchor. Independently modify volume: The volume level of a center channel speaker can be altered regardless of the other speakers in the system, thereby giving greater freedom to balance the system’s overall sound. In the “Best In-Wall Center Channel Speaker article”, we are going to introduce you to interesting in-wall center channel speakers as well as everything you need to know about it. 

Now let’s have a quick look at the top 5 best in-wall center channel speakers quickly,

Feature
Polk Audio RC85i
Klipsch R-5650-W II In-Wall Speaker
Monoprice 3-Way Carbon Fiber
Bose Virtually Invisible 891
Leviton AEI65 Architectural Edition powered by JBL
Frequency Response
30 Hz- 20 kHz
52 Hz- 23 kHz ± 3 dB
56Hz ~ 20kHz, -3dB
38 Hz- 20 kHz
Sensitivity
90 dB
93 dB@ 2.83 V/1m
89 dB
88 dB
Mounting
In-Wall
In-Wall
In-Wall
In-Wall
In-Wall
Impedance
8 ohms
8 ohms
8 ohms
4-8 ohms
8 ohms
Speaker Configuration
2-Way
2 way
3- Way
2-Way
2-way
Active or Passive
Passive
Passive
-
Passive
Passive
Recommended Amp
20- 100 W RMS
100 W
-
10 W- 100 W
100 W
High Frequency Drivers
HF: 1×1”/ 2.54 cm Soft-Dome Tweeter MF:
HF: 1” (2.54cm) Titanium dome compression driver mated to 4” (15.24cm) square 90° x 60° Tractrix® Horn
4.5″ x 3.1″ (115 x 80 mm) ribbon tweeter
2 x 1″ / 25.4 mm Dome Tweeter
1″ Titanium-Laminate Tweeter
Low Frequency Drive
1×8”/ 20.32 cm Polypropylene Cone
6.5” (16.51cm) Cerametallic™ cone woofer
6.5″ carbon fiber woofer
1 x 7″ / 178 mm Woofer
6.5″ Titanium-Laminate
Dimension
10.16 x 15.31 x 3.43″ / 25.8 x 38.9 x 8.7 cm
14.3″ H (36.32cm) x 9.3″ W (23.62cm)
20.83 cm x 48.768 cm x 9.15 cm
11.4 x 7.75 x 3.55″ / 29.2 x 19.7 x 90.4 cm
11″ x 8.5″ x 3.87″ / 27.94 cm x 21.59 cm x 9.83 cm
Cutout Depth
3.0″ / 7.5 cm
13″ H (33.02cm) x 8″ W (20.32cm)
6.69″ x 17.72″ (17 cm x 75 cm)
-
Cutout Size
8.6 x 12.8″ / 21.9 x 32.4 cm
11.6 x 7.9″ / 29.5 x 20.1 cm
7.13 in x 9.69 in/181.1 mm x 246.1 mm
Feature
Polk Audio RC85i
Frequency Response
30 Hz- 20 kHz
Sensitivity
90 dB
Mounting
In-Wall
Impedance
8 ohms
Speaker Configuration
2-Way
Active or Passive
Passive
Recommended Amp
20- 100 W RMS
High Frequency Drivers
HF: 1×1”/ 2.54 cm Soft-Dome Tweeter MF:
Low Frequency Drive
1×8”/ 20.32 cm Polypropylene Cone
Dimension
10.16 x 15.31 x 3.43″ / 25.8 x 38.9 x 8.7 cm
Cutout Depth
3.0″ / 7.5 cm
Cutout Size
8.6 x 12.8″ / 21.9 x 32.4 cm
Feature
Klipsch R-5650-W II In-Wall Speaker
Frequency Response
52 Hz- 23 kHz ± 3 dB
Sensitivity
93 dB@ 2.83 V/1m
Mounting
In-Wall
Impedance
8 ohms
Speaker Configuration
2 way
Active or Passive
Passive
Recommended Amp
100 W
High Frequency Drivers
HF: 1” (2.54cm) Titanium dome compression driver mated to 4” (15.24cm) square 90° x 60° Tractrix® Horn
Low Frequency Drive
6.5” (16.51cm) Cerametallic™ cone woofer
Dimension
14.3″ H (36.32cm) x 9.3″ W (23.62cm)
Cutout Depth
13″ H (33.02cm) x 8″ W (20.32cm)
Cutout Size
Feature
Monoprice 3-Way Carbon Fiber
Frequency Response
56Hz ~ 20kHz, -3dB
Sensitivity
89 dB
Mounting
In-Wall
Impedance
8 ohms
Speaker Configuration
3- Way
Active or Passive
-
Recommended Amp
-
High Frequency Drivers
4.5″ x 3.1″ (115 x 80 mm) ribbon tweeter
Low Frequency Drive
6.5″ carbon fiber woofer
Dimension
20.83 cm x 48.768 cm x 9.15 cm
Cutout Depth
6.69″ x 17.72″ (17 cm x 75 cm)
Cutout Size
Feature
Bose Virtually Invisible 891
Frequency Response
Sensitivity
Mounting
In-Wall
Impedance
4-8 ohms
Speaker Configuration
2-Way
Active or Passive
Passive
Recommended Amp
10 W- 100 W
High Frequency Drivers
2 x 1″ / 25.4 mm Dome Tweeter
Low Frequency Drive
1 x 7″ / 178 mm Woofer
Dimension
11.4 x 7.75 x 3.55″ / 29.2 x 19.7 x 90.4 cm
Cutout Depth
-
Cutout Size
11.6 x 7.9″ / 29.5 x 20.1 cm
Feature
Leviton AEI65 Architectural Edition powered by JBL
Frequency Response
38 Hz- 20 kHz
Sensitivity
88 dB
Mounting
In-Wall
Impedance
8 ohms
Speaker Configuration
2-way
Active or Passive
Passive
Recommended Amp
100 W
High Frequency Drivers
1″ Titanium-Laminate Tweeter
Low Frequency Drive
6.5″ Titanium-Laminate
Dimension
11″ x 8.5″ x 3.87″ / 27.94 cm x 21.59 cm x 9.83 cm
Cutout Depth
Cutout Size
7.13 in x 9.69 in/181.1 mm x 246.1 mm

For starters, you can look into these specifications of Top 5 In-Wall Center Speakers. Before jumping into the best in-wall center speakers we would like to give you some idea about any queries you have in mind. 

In-Wall Center Channel Speaker Vs. In-Ceiling Center Channel Speaker:

The difference between in-wall and in-ceiling center speakers is in the positioning of the speakers. In-ceiling and in-wall speakers are both great choices if you are looking to improve your surround sound system. 

The placement of In-ceiling speakers is in the center of the ceiling and In-wall speakers generally go under the TV and of course, are mounted inside the wall. In-ceiling center channel speakers are affordable and compact while In-wall center channel speakers are larger in size, more powerful, and cost more than an in-ceiling speaker. 

Placement and Flexibility: 

In-ceiling speakers are generally donut-shaped speakers designed to nestle into your ceiling. Ceilings are excellent locations for speakers since they are out of sight and give an additional level of sound. In-ceiling speakers are downward-firing and come in pairs or sets.

In-wall speakers are rectangular speakers mounted within your walls. They can be used as left and right speaker channels, front, and back speakers, or for center channel sound. In-wall speakers are broader than in-ceiling speakers The most common is 8 inches. They fire horizontally, rather than vertically, like in-ceiling speakers, allowing sound to flow across the space. 

Difference of Costing:

In-ceiling speakers are quite reasonable, costing approximately $40-50 for a decent quality speaker. Some in-ceiling speakers you’ll find on Amazon: Pyle PDIC60, Klipsch CDT-5650-C 

Single in-wall speakers sell for $40-150+, which is higher than in-ceiling speakers.

Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of in-wall and in-ceiling center channel speakers:

In-Wall Speaker pros

  1. More powerful and higher sound quality
  2. Wider Sound Stage
  3. Placement into any wall doesn’t change the audio quality

In-Wall Speaker Cons

  1. Expensive than in-ceiling speakers

In-Ceiling Speaker Pros

  1. Attractive design
  2. Multidimensional sound production
  3. Compact

In-Ceiling Speaker Cons

  1. Narrow soundstage

Why is Center Channel Speaker the Most Important Part of In-Wall Speaker?

The in-wall center channel speaker is like any other setup. The only distinction is that in-wall speakers are positioned inside walls. However, they are put in walls to decrease cable clutter and make a space clearer. 

Located directly across from your eye-level position, the in-wall center channel speaker is a crucial component of every home theater system. It supplies around 70% of the dialogue content in a movie. So center channel speakers are important for your surround sound system. Left and right speakers can’t substitute the center channel, therefore you’ll missing out on important video/audio material.

If you are looking for center speakers, look out for, Best Center Channel Speaker Under $500

Center channel speakers are often two-way or three-way speakers. The number of driver types, rather than the number of drivers inside one cabinet, determine whether a speaker is classified as two-way or three-way. A two-way speaker, for example, might have only two woofers controlling separate frequencies or two woofers controlling the same frequencies plus one tweeter controlling high frequencies (2600Hz+ or 3500Hz+).

To know more about in-wall subwoofers, Read: Best in-wall subwoofer

So, the importance lies in the placement because it gives you a clear perception of sound. The dynamics of the audio are more felt if it’s a center channel configuration. 

Learn How to Get the Most Out of Your Center Channel Speaker

The Best 6 In-wall Center Channel Speaker:

Earlier we have mentioned in a segment about the top 5 in-wall center channel speakers. Now we are going to do an in-depth analysis about the best 6 in-wall center channel speakers

Diving into the details and analysis about the best in-wall center channel speakers,

Polk Audio 255C-RT:

Best Choice for In-wall Speaker

The Polk Audio 225C-RT is a wonderful in-wall center channel speaker with outstanding quality and audio features in all aspects (i.e., music, vocals, gaming, etc.). The size of the product is rather incredible since it is only 5.25 inches in size. 255C-RT is part of Polk’s prestigious Vanishing Series and uses Polk’s dynamic balancing technology from the RT series. The tweeter’s vibrating surfaces were studied at a microscopic level to observe the resonances generated when the cones moved. All high-end distortion is greatly influenced by resonances. 

Specifications: 

  • Frequency Response: 50-25,000 Hz
  • Impedance: 8 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 90 dB
  • 1″ swivel-mount silk/polymer dome tweeter
  • dual 5-1/4″ Dynamic Balance® woofers
  • Power Handling: 150 W
  • Cutout Dimension: 13-1/8″W x 7-5/8″H
  • Mounting depth: 3-3/8″

Best For, 

The highs, mids, and lows of Polk Audio 255C-RT sound fantastic. Installation is very simple, and we appreciate the placement of the grill is by magnets rather than pressure fitting as in their previous version. Magnets enable simple removal if necessary.

Given the speaker’s amazing features, the cost is set at a fairly reasonable level. It has to be the best in-wall center channel speaker. It’s also adjustable, so you may direct the sound toward your listening position for improved performance. The center channel configuration lets you enjoy the full out of your speakers without obstructing the aesthetics of your home or studio. 

The compact form of the Polk 255c-RT makes it almost vanish into the wall. The device has an advanced dynamic balancing design that excels at producing balanced audio quality in all areas.

Installation:

The Polk Audio 255C-RT must be placed as close as possible to the ear level for maximum sound output. If placement restrictions require your speaker to be mounted less than 2 feet away from side walls, the proximity of the surface can lead to a response bump of 50 to 200 Hz. This can produce a booming sound.

Secure, vibrationless efficiency is achieved by simply turning the revolutionary Rotating Cam system.

Pros:

  • Easy Installation
  • The sound quality is fabulous
  • Sturdy and aesthetic build quality
  • Lifetime warranty of the product

Cons:

  • To some customers, it’s a bit bigger in size and you’ll need to buy some extra price

652W Silver Ticket

Best Budget In-Wall Center Channel Speaker

If you’re on tight budget restrictions, the 652W Silver Ticket in-wall speaker is going to be the best bet you can make. Although this speaker is cheaper in price, it is not cheap in quality. The 652W Silver Ticket has terrific sound-producing features and will work well in your stereo system and home theater systems. It will make your surround sound arrangements better. 

Specifications:

  • Speaker type: 2-Way Speaker
  •  1 x 6.5 inches Driver
  •  1 x 1-inch Tweeter
  • Impedance: 8 ohms
  • Frequency Response: 60 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Speaker Size: 12 inches x 8.6 inches
  • Mounting Depth: 3.5 inches
  • Power Handling: 40W – 80W
  • Sensitivity: 88 +/- 2 dB
  • Recommended Amplification: 80W @ 8 Ohms

Best For

Silver Ticket’s 652W in-wall speaker is the perfect choice for a pleasant movie or audio experience. We suggest you pair this speaker with a subwoofer, especially if you are a lover of action-jammed movies and want to reach those lower frequencies. You can look on Amazon for OSD Trimless In-Wall Subwoofer to pair it up with your Silver Ticket 652W. Like the previous model from Silver Ticket, the tweeter includes a 15-degree swivel for your area but also incorporates a tweeter volume control for the ultimate audio adjustment.

The overall sound is rich and has a fantastic natural depth to it, however, it is not loud. The impedance is not as low as some of the expensive in-wall speakers, but with this product, we are pleasantly surprised.  

Installation:

You could mount your 652W Silver Ticket vertically, it is also allowing to be mounted on the left, right, or rear end. However, 652W is particularly intended for central channel position in a 5.1 stereo setup as manufactured by the Silver Ticket in-wall speaker series. You may pair these speakers with the
82W Silver Ticket Speaker
 for improved bass experience and greater power.

652W in-wall center channel speaker is the ideal choice for building a home theater system as well as for providing a fantastic sound transmission.

Pros

  1. Woofer and Tweeter Set Up is Dedicated
  2. Affordable 
  3. Best in quality
  4. Less distortion due to Rubber Edge Technology

Cons

  1. Not very loud as a speaker

Klipsch R 5502-W II

Eye Catching In-Wall Speaker for perfect Home Theatre Setup

Klipsch R 5502-W II is one of the best in-wall center channel speakers out there given the price point it comes with. The Klipsch R-5502-W II in-wall speaker is one of the audio devices of the Klipsch architectural line, which comprises a variety of in-wall and in-ceiling speakers in diverse sizes and forms. Clear speech is sufficient to dazzle your emotions, and the amount of detail you get in your favorite music and movies just confirms that it was a smart idea to get this speaker. 

Specifications:

  • Frequency Response: 46 Hz – 20 kHz ± 3dB
  • Sensitivity: 92dB @ 2.83V / 1m
  • Impedance: 8 ohms 
  • Power Handling: 75 W RMS/ 300 W Peak
  • High Frequency Drive: 1” (2.54cm) Titanium diaphragm compression driver
  • Low Frequency Drive: Dual 5.25” (13.34cm) Cerametallic™ cone woofers
  • Dimension: 17.75″ H (45.09cm) x 8″ W (20.32cm)
  • Cutout Dimension: 16.5″ H (41.91cm) x 6.5″ W (16.51cm)
  • Mounting Depth: 3.5″ (8.89cm)

Best for

As a high-end in-wall center channel speaker, Klipsch R 5520-W II offers an eye-catching design with high-quality equipment and sound production. It’s a perfect in-wall system if you are willing to set up your own home theatre system. 

Its two 5 1/4” speaker drivers offer an outstanding low-end response, so you can receive a lot of bass without feeling the need for a subwoofer.

This is an excellent speaker with a wide range of applications. If you want to design your own home theater, the KLIPSCH R-5502-W in-wall center channel speaker is what you need. Go for the KLIPSCH R-5502-W to enhance your cinematic movie experiences with comfort. Klipsch R 5520-W II is a versatile speaker with a slimline design and shows minimum hidden cords. 

Installation:

The R-5502-W II includes a cardboard stencil that allows you to draw the correct speaker measurement before cutting. Klipsch provides a written manual with every speaker. For some of you who don’t know Klipsch also has a YouTube channel, and you’ll find a video manual as well. You’ll also get a magnetic paint shield which will allow you to paint around the speaker even if it is already mounted.

You can watch the video of a setup from Klipsch’s official YouTube,

The speaker casing has dog legs that slip into position when the screws are tightened for drywall installation. As a result, there is no need to drill holes for screw installation.

Pros:

  • Crisp sound quality
  • Detachable Magnetic Grills
  • Easy mounting
  • Slim and sleek design

Cons:

  • The only disadvantage is that the price is quite expensive. Although the service it gives is complimentary with the price. But it’s not suitable for all.

Monoprice Caliber 106816

Monoprice Caliber 106816 is lower end pair of in-wall speakers that are freshly manufactured for Monoprice’s caliber range. They are a well-built 3-way class duo. Monoprice used high-quality materials to create this speaker unit. The Monoprice Caliber 106816 easily integrates into any sound system configuration to improve audio quality and provide better sound quality.

Specifications:

  • Power Handling: 100 W – 200 W
  • Impedance: 8 ohms
  • 3- way speaker
  • 8” Kevlar Woofer
  • 4” Mid-Range Speaker
  • 1” Titanium Silk Tweeter
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz – 20,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: 90 dB ± 2 dB
  • Dimensions: 12.756 x 8.740 x 3.583 in.

Best for, 

Even when played separately, the Monoprice Caliber 106816 in-wall center channel speaker has a powerful punch, covering the whole frequency range and delivering excellent sound with little to no distortion. 

Dedicated drivers efficiently handle the lows, midranges, and highs, while the tweeter keeps the sound clear, sharp, and incredibly powerful. If the music sounds excessively bright, use the built-in high-frequency regulator to fine-tune the mix.

The crossover switch can be adjusted. They can handle a maximum power of 200 watts per pair. 

Installation:

The installation procedure is quite simple, with many customers stating that it took them as little as 30 minutes to complete. To sustain the speakers’ total weight of 17.6 pounds, you’ll need a mounting depth of at least 3.6 inches and a solid anchoring point.

To make the installation process even easier, Monoprice includes an installation handbook, cutting template, paint mask, grille removal tool, and grill putty. Use the proper gauge of connecting cables.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Attractive Design
  • Distortion less bass

Cons:

  • Bulky and heavy unit

Micca M-8S 

Sleek In-Wall Center Channel Speaker

The Micca M-8S in-wall speaker delivers a wide spectrum of powerful sound, from ambient and background to high-impact for movies and home theater. You may adjust the sound in your room by using a rotating tweeter. The Micca M-8S’s elegant appearance makes it an attractive pair of speakers that can be easily integrated into your own personal 7 channel home theatre system to provide clear tone enjoyable melodies throughout the day.

Specifications:

  • Sensitivity: 90 dB
  • Power Handling: 100 W
  • Crossover- 12dB
  • Woofer: Pivoting 1- inches silk dome
  • Tweeter: 8- inches Poly-Mica Woofer
  • Dimension: 10.0- inches (W) x 14.1- inches (H)
  • Cutout Dimension: 8.7- inches (W) x 12.7- inches (H)
  • Mounting Depth: 3.4 inches

Best For 

Each speaker is exceptionally well built and comprised of carefully picked components; when combined, they create a very versatile combination. They can handle a pretty wide frequency response and deliver anything from ambient background audio to high-intensity multi-channel home theater system requirements.

Installation:

Micca M-8S is simple to install thanks to built-in mounting tabs, and it even comes with a template for marking the wall before cutting through drywall. They are offered in a variety of styles to fit a variety of tastes. You might need an amplifier wire, which you can find on Amazon. You can buy SoundBox Connected 0 Gauge Amp Kit Amplifier  on Amazon. 

Pros:

  • Budget-Friendly
  • Woofer and Tweeter setup is dedicated
  • Easy Installation

Cons:

  • Grills are hard to remove

MartinLogan ML65i

Best All-Rounder In-Wall Speaker

MartinLogan ML65i is an audiophile-grade in-wall center channel speaker. These speakers are made with premium quality parts and produce exceptionally good audio. The MartinLogan Installer ML65i is the smallest of three in-wall speakers in the MartinLogan Installer series.

Specifications:

    • Frequency Response: 70 Hz – 20 kHz
    • Sensitivity: 89 dB
    • Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
    • Recommended Amp Power: 20 W – 120 W
  • Crossover Frequency: 2500 Hz
  • High-Frequency Driver: ¾ – inches titanium dome
  • Low-Frequency Driver: 6.5 inches Mineral-filled polypropylene cone
  • Dimension: 11.5 inches x 8.3 inches x 3.3 inches
  • Cutout Dimension: 10.125 inches x 7.125 inches
  • Projection from Wall Surface: 0.2 inches
  • Depth Behind Wall- Surface: 3.1 inches

Best For

The mid-range and high-end detail and clarity are excellent. It’s extremely thrilling to watch movies or play games with ML65i producing the audio.

If you are an audiophile, despite its price you would love the sound quality. The boomy texture of the sound and the punch it gives is just incomparable to an in-wall center channel speaker.

Installation: 

While the MartinLogan ML65i may be utilized for audio or entertainment sound systems, home theater setups are where these in-wall speakers shine the most.

MartinLogan provides an installation manual as well as possible scenarios for various room sizes and speaker placements. The speaker grille entirely covers the speaker base, leaving nothing but the grille exposed. The ML65i grille is only 5 mm away from the wall, giving it a low-profile, clean look. The speaker grille could be painted to match your wall or décor.

Pros:

  • Clean and Crisp Sound Production
  • Grills can be customized
  • Mid-range and High range shows exceptional clarity

Cons:

  • Bit overpriced for people with budget

You can also check out, Best Wall Mount Speaker

Final Verdict: 

If you are planning to buy an in-wall center channel speaker you should always keep in mind the speaker-to-wall compatibility. Do you want to position your in-wall speaker just below your LED/LCD Tv? Well, you are in the right place. We bring to you the Best In-Wall Center Channel Speaker that will guide you towards your desired in-wall speaker. 

Our Pick: Polk Audio 255C-RT

Always consider the pricing, size of your room, and the installation process while buying an in-wall center channel speaker to get the most out of your sound system. And if you find it complicated to install your in-wall speaker, always go for professional aid. Hope you have got your answers in this journey of discovering the best in-wall speakers out in the market.

FAQ

If you have any more questions, take this FAQ as a parting gift from us. We wish you all the best with your purchase! This FAQ will solve some of those burning questions that are on your mind.

What is the possible cost for in-wall speaker installation?

If you are going to seek professional aid regarding in-wall speaker installation it can cost around $770 to $1,8940. Because it will include shaping and cutting the wall outlet for the speakers to drilling holes and wiring them properly. But the minimum costing starts from $157 – $300 (approximately) if you need assistance for a particular setup. 

How can I install in-wall speakers?

You can learn the installation on your own following some basic tips. 

  • For this first, you have to know the configuration of your room and the setup to determine the right position. 
  • You must keep in mind that it has to be placed at ear level so consider that while determining the configuration. 
  • Measure the space and mark the cutout where you’ll fit your speaker.
  • And then you’ll be able to fit your speaker in that cutout. 
  • After installing your speakers, you have to put the speaker cables into the wall. The speaker’s cords will be concealed inside the wall to avoid obstructing its look.
  • Once you have successfully installed the speaker and run the wires through your walls and they are secured to their place. The installation process is done

Watch a video to clear your perception,

What things to consider while buying In-Wall Speaker?

Things to consider are- the size of the wall, size of your speaker, desired location, wiring facilities. The most important thing to consider is the need for an additional subwoofer or amplifier.