Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

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.

Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading.

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
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement

Latest Products

Edifier S880DB MKII Wireless Speakers Pair Lifestyle

New Products

Edifier’s S880DB MKII wireless speakers support LDAC with Bluetooth 5.3 for hi-res streaming instead of aptX HD or AirPlay.

Technics SL-40CBT Bluetooth Turntable in Gray with Wireless Speakers Technics SL-40CBT Bluetooth Turntable in Gray with Wireless Speakers

New Products

At $899, the Technics SL-40CBT Bluetooth Direct Drive Turntable features aptX Adaptive, built-in MM phono stage and three finishes.

Monitor Audio Creator W1L Large In-wall Speakers Lifestyle without grilles Monitor Audio Creator W1L Large In-wall Speakers Lifestyle without grilles

In-Wall Speakers

Large-format Monitor Audio Creator Series W1L, W2L, W3L in-wall speakers and Mount Boxes offer reference-quality sound that hides in plain sight.

Audio Pro A10MKII-W and A15MKII-W Wireless Speakers Audio Pro A10MKII-W and A15MKII-W Wireless Speakers

New Products

Discover Audio Pro W-Generation WiFi multiroom speakers with improved sound, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and WiiM-powered app control.

Goldmund Telos 670 Integrated Stereo Amplifier Angle Goldmund Telos 670 Integrated Stereo Amplifier Angle

Integrated Amps & Stereo Receivers

Goldmund Telos 670, Eidos Streamer/SACD and Rhea Passive speakers offer Swiss-engineered precision audio with a $200K+ price that could shock even the Alps.

Magnetar UDP800MKII and UDP900MKII Blu-ray Disc Players Front Magnetar UDP800MKII and UDP900MKII Blu-ray Disc Players Front

Blu-ray, DVD & 4K Media Players

Magnetar’s blu-ray disc players prove physical media isn’t dead with 4K UHD, hi-res audio, Roon Ready, and reference build quality that will take a...

Gift Ideas?

Ultra High-end Audio and Video 2025 Gift Guide

Floorstanding Speakers

Ultra luxury hi-fi loudspeakers, audiophile components, and a movie player you have to hear (and see) to believe.

You May Also Like

New Products

Competitively priced little gray wireless earbuds aim to standout with their ergonomics and sound quality.

News

Nothing and KEF have announced a bold audio partnership, blending cutting-edge design with high-fidelity sound. Could this UK collaboration redefine wireless audio and challenge...

Floorstanding Speakers

KEF's seven new R Meta Series loudspeakers incorporate some very interesting technology that will elevate your listening experience.

News

At Audio Advice Live 2025, hear Focal's $150K+ home theater, $69K wireless speakers and its full line of headphones. Prepare to drool.

New Products

KEF XIO Soundbar brings Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and hi-res streaming to a sleek 5.1.2 system with premium design, VECO bass tech, and wide connectivity.

New Products

Nothing challenges the Apple AirPod Max with the new Headphone 1 with Sound by KEF.

Articles

2025 “innovation”? Forget tech — it’s pastel colors and retro vibes. Why? Because Hi-Fi might finally be getting smart about style, and appealing to...

Bookshelf Speakers

KEF speaker prices are going up on May 5 due to tariffs. From LS50 to Blade, no model is safe. Get yours before the...

Advertisement

ecoustics is a hi-fi and music magazine offering product reviews, podcasts, news and advice for aspiring audiophiles, home theater enthusiasts and headphone hipsters. Read more

Copyright © 1999-2024 ecoustics | Disclaimer: We may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.



SVS Bluesound PSB Speakers NAD Cambridge Audio Q Acoustics Denon Marantz Focal Naim Audio RSL Speakers