KEF Ci160TR Ultra-Thin In-Ceiling Speaker

The KEF Ci160TR is part of KEF's Ci Series of architectural speakers, designed specifically for installations where ceiling depth is severely limited. With a mounting depth of just 36mm, it fits into shallow ceiling voids, suspended ceiling tiles, and marine bulkheads where conventional in-ceiling speakers cannot be accommodated. Despite this ultra-thin profile, it delivers full-range sound from 110 Hz to 24 kHz thanks to KEF's Uni-Q driver array and Tangerine Waveguide technology.

Uni-Q Driver Array

At the heart of the Ci160TR is KEF's patented Uni-Q driver array, which positions the 25mm aluminium dome tweeter at the acoustic centre of the 115mm dual-layer mid/bass driver. This coaxial arrangement ensures that high and low frequencies radiate from the same point in space, producing a more coherent and natural sound than conventional two-way designs where the drivers are physically separated. The result is consistent tonal balance regardless of the listener's position relative to the speaker.

Tangerine Waveguide

The vented tweeter incorporates KEF's Tangerine Waveguide, a precisely engineered diffraction device that controls high-frequency dispersion. This delivers even coverage across a 125-degree listening window, ensuring that the sound quality remains consistent throughout the room rather than being focused into a narrow cone directly below the speaker.

Ultra-Thin Profile

The Ci160TR requires only 36mm of depth behind the ceiling surface, making it one of the shallowest in-ceiling speakers available. It accommodates ceiling thicknesses from 9mm to 26mm and can be installed using either traditional dog-leg tabs or direct screw mounting. The ultra-thin bezel and magnetic grille protrude minimally from the ceiling surface, and the grille can be painted to match the surrounding decor for a near-invisible installation.

Weather Resistance

Manufactured using a proprietary plating and powder-coating process, the Ci160TR carries an IP64 rating for dust and moisture resistance. This makes it suitable for installation in bathrooms, pool areas, covered outdoor spaces, and marine environments where conventional speakers would deteriorate. UV protection is also built in, preventing degradation from prolonged exposure to sunlight in conservatories or outdoor installations.

Installation Accessories

KEF offers optional accessories to simplify installation: the RIF160R rough-in frame allows the speaker position and wiring to be prepared during the construction phase before ceilings are finished, while the RNC160R rear enclosure provides acoustic isolation in shared ceiling voids where sound leakage between rooms needs to be controlled.