I wouldn't want them for my main speakers but find them more than acceptable for my HT setup. I listened to several models before deciding on the rather expensive B&W Signature 7NT. These in vertical bi-wire / bi-amp mode with tube gear is surprising to all who hear them.
In-Wall Speakers
In the immortal words of Lyle Gorch, "Why not?"
I believe that the general consensus is that in-wall speakers are not audiophile quality and are more of a lifestyle, mid-fi type product. However, as far as I can tell there's no reason why an audiophile quality in-wall speaker cannot be produced. In fact, there are reasons why in-wall speaker could actually be superior to traditional speaker at the same price point. First, an in-wall speaker does not need an expensive furniture grade enclosure. More money could be spent on the drivers and crossover components. Also since only one side of the speaker box is exposed to the listening area then cabinet noise (a not frequently discussed, but serious problem) should be greatly reduced. Second, the designer of the in-wall speaker has a known acoustic enivorment and should be better able to optimize the speakers radiation pattern and tonal balance to that environment.
I recognize that as a group audiophiles are a conservative group that tends to stick to tried and true technology, but if someone was to offer an audiophile quality in-wall speaker, would you be interested?
When I use the phrase in-wall I also mean to include on-wall speakers such as those offered by Thiel and Magnepan.
I believe that the general consensus is that in-wall speakers are not audiophile quality and are more of a lifestyle, mid-fi type product. However, as far as I can tell there's no reason why an audiophile quality in-wall speaker cannot be produced. In fact, there are reasons why in-wall speaker could actually be superior to traditional speaker at the same price point. First, an in-wall speaker does not need an expensive furniture grade enclosure. More money could be spent on the drivers and crossover components. Also since only one side of the speaker box is exposed to the listening area then cabinet noise (a not frequently discussed, but serious problem) should be greatly reduced. Second, the designer of the in-wall speaker has a known acoustic enivorment and should be better able to optimize the speakers radiation pattern and tonal balance to that environment.
I recognize that as a group audiophiles are a conservative group that tends to stick to tried and true technology, but if someone was to offer an audiophile quality in-wall speaker, would you be interested?
When I use the phrase in-wall I also mean to include on-wall speakers such as those offered by Thiel and Magnepan.