FAQ: How to Complete a Successful Installation of Proficient® Ceiling Speakers

Ceiling speakers are now the “go-to” speaker choice in new homes, home extensions, renovations and rebuilds. Their popularity has been propelled by electronics and apps advancements that have made them easier-to-use and install. Highly recommended for your customers are Proficient® in-ceiling speakers that blend perfectly into a home’s décor while offering amazing sound quality that permeates throughout the entire home. From whole-home audio to home theater installations, we’ve received rave reviews that our ceiling speakers deliver the performance and aesthetics homeowners request most.

In Part I of this series, we covered the top five frequently asked basic speaker questions. In Part II of this series, we’ve gathered the most frequently asked installation questions to help you complete a successful install!

1. How much space is needed behind the speaker?

Typically, standard depth ceiling speakers measure 3 5/8 inches (three and five-eighths inches). If the depth in the ceiling void is less than that, you will need to explore lower clearance speakers.

2. What type of speaker cable is needed?

The industry standard for speaker cable is 16/2 (16-gauge, 2 core, labeled A). This size is perfectly suited for most installations. Single stereo speakers typically require a 16/4 (16-gauge, 4 core, labeled B) speaker cable. If a speaker requires over 75-feet of cable because it is far away from the amplifier, then a thicker cable may be needed to prevent audio quality from deteriorating over the distance. Weather resistant speaker cables are available for speakers in high moisture or outdoor zones.

3. Is it advised to use pre-construction brackets for ceiling speakers?

Simply put, we suggest it. Pre-construction brackets tell the dry-wall technician to cut a hole for the speaker (just like electrical outlets and fixtures). These brackets are highly recommended as they take the guess work out of finding the speaker location and wire after the drywall goes up. Brackets also provide a stable and secure mount for the speakers.

4. Do ceiling speakers require back boxes?

Some states legally require the installation of back boxes or fire hoods. However, even in places where it’s not required, we strongly recommend them to maintain the integrity of the ceiling, provide soundproofing for rooms above, and for safety and insurance purposes in the unfortunate case of house fire.

5. Can ceiling speakers be used in high humidity rooms like kitchens, bathrooms and saunas?

If they have the right protection, absolutely! Most ceiling speakers will be fine in a kitchen. In other high humidity rooms, we propose that you install Ingress Protected (IP) ceiling speakers. IP speakers provide the protection necessary against dust and moisture, making them a great solution for bathrooms and saunas.

We want to help you succeed with in-ceiling speakers and other great home audio and theatre products. To get started, find a Sales Representative near you today!