KEF Ci130CR In-Ceiling Speaker (Single)

The KEF Ci130.2CR is a high-performance shallow-mount in-ceiling speaker from KEF's Ci Series of architectural speakers. Designed for flush-mount ceiling installations, it uses KEF's proprietary Uni-Q driver array — placing a 16mm aluminium dome tweeter at the acoustic centre of the 130mm bass/midrange cone — to create a single point source that delivers smooth, consistent sound across a wide listening area. Within the Ci range, the Ci130.2CR sits as the compact round-baffle model, sharing its 130mm driver platform with the Ci130.2CS (square baffle) and Ci130QR (standard round), while the larger Ci160 and Ci200 models offer increased bass extension for bigger rooms.

Uni-Q Driver Array and Tangerine Waveguide

The Ci130.2CR's Uni-Q configuration places the high-frequency tweeter concentrically within the throat of the low-frequency woofer. Because both drive units radiate from the same point, the acoustic lobing problems common to conventional two-way designs are virtually eliminated, allowing fewer speakers to cover a given space with even dispersion. The Tangerine Waveguide — a veined structure surrounding the tweeter dome — further enhances high-frequency dispersion to 140 degrees, ensuring consistent tonal balance whether you are directly beneath the speaker or off to one side.

Construction and Installation

The speaker is built on a UV-protected ABS baffle with an Ultra-Thin Bezel (UTB) of less than 5mm, designed to sit as flush as possible against the ceiling for a discreet, modern appearance. The magnetic grille attaches without visible fixings and can be painted to match any ceiling finish. A covered crossover circuit adds structural rigidity to the assembly while protecting the electrical components from dust and debris during and after installation. All KEF 130mm in-ceiling speakers use a universal cut-out diameter of 158mm, making it straightforward to swap or upgrade models without modifying the ceiling opening. The shallow mounting depth of just 78mm allows installation in tight ceiling voids where deeper speakers would not fit.

Weather Resistance and Versatility

The Ci130.2CR is IP64 certified, meaning it has passed official IEC testing to ensure that splashing water has no harmful effects on the speaker's assembly components. Combined with its weather-resistant construction and UV-protective coating, this makes the speaker suitable for indoor and outdoor venues such as hotel rooms, corridors, and school hallways. An optional rear enclosure is available for installations where back-box isolation is required.