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In-Wall Speakers

KEF Adds Two THX Certified In-wall Speakers to its Ci-R Series

KEF’s Extreme Home Theatre Range adds two slightly more affordable in-wall LCR models with THX Ultra Certification.

KEF Ci3160RLM-THX In-wall Speakers Lifestyle living room

Architectural (in-wall/in-ceiling) loudspeakers were already gaining popularity before the pandemic, but all of that changed when tens of millions of families were forced to work and learn from home. With movie theaters, stadiums, and live music venues shuttered for over a year in some parts of North America, consumers started to rethink their long-term home entertainment goals and part of that included a significant surge in demand for these types of loudspeakers.

The CI loudspeaker category has become a key focus for high-end brands like Monitor Audio, MartinLogan, Focal, Dynaudio, DALI and KEF.

Why? It’s an easier sell because you don’t have to see them and that includes cables and often components that are installed in racks.

Outdoor and marine loudspeakers have also become a focus for brands like Focal and KEF as wealthier consumers tend to invest in multi-room systems and boats.

For those with really deep pockets, KEF’s Extreme Ci-Reference Series is designed to deliver the best possible sound quality and installation experience for consumers looking for a high-end in-wall solution.

KEF’s Extreme Home Theater Category offers up three speaker series, the Ci-Reference, Ci-Q, and Ci-R.

KEF Ci-R Series

In this article, we discuss the newly announced models in the Ci-R series; the Ci5160RLM-THX and Ci3160RLM-THX.

KEF Ci3160RLM-THX In-wall Speaker
KEF Ci3160RLM-THX

The Ci-R Series builds on the acoustic capabilities derived from KEF’s flagship Reference bookshelf and floorstanding speakers, combined with additional technological innovations developed for in-wall and in-ceiling use.

KEF Ci5160RLM-THX In-wall Speaker
KEF Ci5160RLM-THX

THX Certification

Just as with all speakers in the KEF’s Extreme Home Theater category, the Ci5160RLM and Ci3160RLM are THX Certified, in this case with Ultra certification. THX Ultra Certification means that the speaker is optimized for rooms up to 3,000 cubic feet and a 12-foot viewing distance from the screen. 

THX Certified Performance Classes
THX Certification Process

Three additional things that THX tests for when evaluating speakers include:

  • Axial Frequency Response – This is the ability to reproduce audio accurately. THX confirms the axial frequency response is balanced and flat.
  • Output vs Distortion:– This tests whether the speaker can produce the high volume necessary to achieve the THX Reference Level without creating audible distortion or artifacts.
  • Vertical and Horizontal Dispersion: – THX tests off-axis response to make sure it is smooth with no audible comb filtering, making every seat in the room the sweet spot.

Ci5160RLM-THX and Ci3160RLM-THX Core Features

Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT): This removes 99% of high-frequency distortion for pure, natural sound.

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12th generation Uni-Q (with MAT) driver array: This supports precise acoustic accuracy.

Aluminum Bass Drivers: Four (Ci5160RLM-THX) or Two (Ci3160RLM-THX)  hybrid aluminum bass drivers for tight, deep, controlled bass

Discreet Design: This provides easy blending into the room

Finish: Available in Aluminium Silver

Paintable Magnetic Metal Grille: This provides additional installation flexibility for any interior. Optional black cloth grille also available

KEF Ci15160RLM and
Ci13160RLM THX In-wall Speakers

Comparison

Ci5160RLM-THXCi3160RLM-THX
MSRP (each)$2,999.99$1,999.99
SeriesCi-R Ci-R 
THX CertificationUltraUltra
Speaker Configuration 3-way3-way
Nominal Impedance4 ohms4 ohms
Sensitivity (2.83V/1m)89dB89dB
Frequency Response (±6dB) open-backed40Hz to 28kHz43Hz – 28kHz
Frequency Range (-10dB)32Hz – 45kHz33Hz – 45kHz
Nominal Coverage (degrees)150°150°
Max SPL (dB)110dB110dB
Crossover Frequency640Hz, 2.6kHz640Hz, 2.6kHz
Low-Frequency Driver4 x 160mm (6.5in.)2 x 160mm (6.5in.)
Mid-Frequency Driver (Uni-Q)1 x 160mm (6.5in.) 1 x 160mm (6.5in.) 
High-Frequency Driver (vented aluminum dome with MAT)1 x 25mm (1in.) 1 x 25mm (1in.) 
Recommended Amplifier Power50 – 350W50 – 350W
Recommended High-Pass filter35 – 80Hz35 – 80Hz
External Dimensions (HWD)1070 x 230 x 105.7 mm (42.13 x 9.06 x 4.16 in.)680 x 230 x 105.7mm(26.77 x 9.06 x 4.16in.)
Cut-Out Dimensions (HW)1052 x 209 mm (41.42 x 8.23 in.)660 x 209mm (25.98 x 8.23in.)
Net Weight18.7 kg (41.1 lbs.)12 kg (26.4 lbs.)
Mounting Depth From Surface99mm (3.9in.)99mm (3.9in.)
Optional Rough-in-FrameRIF5160LRIF3160L
Ideal Rear Volume (Liters)90L60L
Minimum Rear Volume (Liters)40L30L
Wall Thickness (Maximum)40mm (1.58in.)40mm (1.58in.)
Wall Thickness (Minimum)6mm (0.24in.)6mm (0.24in.)

Pricing and Availability

Available now through KEF Authorized Dealers at the following prices:

  • KEF Ci5160RLM-THX are priced at $2,999.99 each
  • KEF Ci3160RLM-THX are priced at $1,999.99 each
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