Wall Vs. Ceiling Speakers for Surround Sound

When you're setting up a surround system, you will need to make a few decisions about speaker placement.

When you are setting up your surround system, placement of the speakers will depend on how many speakers you will be installing. While the optimal speaker locations are determined by the room setup and the number of speakers, you will have to decide if you will be mounting your speakers in your walls or in your ceiling.

Speaker Shape

In general, wall-mounted speakers are rectangular and ceiling-mounted speakers are circular, but you may install a circular speaker in a wall or a rectangular speaker in a ceiling if you choose. Most speakers have grills that can be painted so they are less noticeable.

Obstructions

Before installing either in-wall or in-ceiling speakers, you will need to check for obstructions that can include studs and pipes. With in-ceiling speakers, you may also run into difficulties with insulation in the ceiling.

Speaker Placement and Noise

The loudest speaker in your setup will be your subwoofer, which as a standalone speaker will not be mounted in either your wall or ceiling. However in-wall speakers and in-ceiling speakers can still be noisy. If you live in an apartment or other dwelling with shared walls, you may wish to avoid installing in-wall speakers if you wish to stay on good terms with your neighbors.

References

• Crutchfield: In-Wall and In-Ceiling Speakers How To Choose
• Best Buy: Surround Sound New Dimensions in Audio
• Wireless Experts: Speaker Manual