UK-based Lithe Audio has announced its entry into the U.S. residential and commercial markets with a line of all-in-one ceiling, surface, and garden speakers.
What makes most Lithe Audio speakers and systems distinct is that they incorporate an integrated amplifier, wireless input and output connectivity, and speaker components in one device.
Each speaker or system requires only a power source for installation. This makes it easier for installers (integrators) to provide wireless audio streaming in single rooms, distributed systems, and outdoors and also the assembly of wireless surround-sound home theater systems.
Lithe Audio’s in-ceiling speakers feature woven glass fiber woofer cones, titanium tweeters, and Class D amplifiers pre-tuned for in-ceiling use, while Alexa and Google Assistant (aka OK Google) support provide convenient voice control.
Tip: For its Wi-Fi speakers, Lithe Audio provides access to a setup, control, and streaming music app.
Core Models
The Lithe Audio Bluetooth 5.0 Ceiling Speaker offers a single-room solution for streaming music in kitchens, bathrooms, and hotel rooms.
The Wi-Fi Multiroom Ceiling Speaker adds built-in support for AirPlay 2 and Chromecast to create distributed audio systems in the home. The speaker is available with software drivers for integration into Control4 and FIBARO control systems, with support for additional manufacturers coming soon.
Pro Series Wi-Fi Multi-Room Ceiling Speaker
At the top of Lithe Audio’s ceiling speaker line is the Pro Series Wi-Fi Multi-Room Ceiling Speaker for residential installations.
This speaker includes support for:
- Full high-resolution audio at 192 kHz/24 bits
- Two Ethernet ports – one for a hard-wired network connection and one for daisy-chaining another speaker.
- An optional PoE++ Bolt-On module adds PoE capabilities that deliver up to 70W to each speaker.
- An optional WiSA Bolt-On allows integrators to easily incorporate the speaker into wireless Dolby 5.1, Dolby 7.1, and Dolby Atmos surround-sound home theater systems.
Find out more about WISA technology in our reference article.
Tip: For extra bass, Lithe Audio offers a 70W Wi-Fi Multi-Room Micro Subwoofer. The subwoofer is small enough to fit on a bookcase, under a bed, or behind a couch.
Lithe Audio IO1 Speaker
For rooms or areas where high-end audio quality is desired, but can’t accommodate a traditional ceiling speaker, Lithe Audio is introducing the IO1 speaker. It offers the same technology as the company’s Wi-Fi Multi-Room Ceiling Speaker but can be installed vertically or horizontally on walls, flush-mount in corners, mounted on a yard stake, and more. These options can accommodate most indoor or outdoor spaces.
Tip: The IO1 will be introduced at CEDIA Expo 2022 and is planned for release in the first quarter of 2023 (images, additional info, and pricing forthcoming).
Bluetooth Garden Speaker
Another solution that might work for you is Lithe Audio’s Bluetooth Garden Speaker. This speaker is IP56 rated and its rock design allows it to blend with backyard landscaping.
Passive Speakers
In addition to wireless/powered speaker solutions, Lithe Audio offers passive ceiling and garden speakers that require external amplification.
Availability and Pricing
With the exception of the I01, all the speakers discussed in this article should be currently available to U.S. customers dependent on any stocking issues. However, pricing varies depending on what add-on capabilities and system options (singles, pairs, etc…) are purchased. Also, any installation cost is extra.
Here are links to the official product pages for the following Lithe Audio Speakers:
Lithe Audio is represented in the U.S. market by The BIG Corp, a global, full-service consumer electronics sales rep firm and consulting agency.
Lithe Audio’s solutions will be making their official U.S. debut at CEDIA Expo 2022 — from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 in Dallas, Texas.
Related reading: Focal Introduces Flagship 1000 Series In-wall / In-ceiling Speakers
