The KEF Ci200.2CR is the largest of the round in-ceiling models in KEF's Ci-C Series, the range KEF positions as an ideal introduction to custom installation speakers. It is a high-performance shallow-mount design intended for flush in-ceiling installation, built around a 200mm (8in.) Uni-Q driver array and finished with KEF's Ultra-Thin Bezel and magnetic grille so that it sits almost unnoticed in the ceiling. The Ci200.2CR is sold singly.
Uni-Q Driver Array
At the centre of the Ci200.2CR is KEF's proprietary Uni-Q technology. The 16mm aluminium dome tweeter is mounted in the acoustic centre of the 200mm bass/midrange cone, so that the tweeter and woofer behave as a single point source. Because the high and low frequencies originate from the same point, the acoustic lobing problems common to other speaker designs are virtually eliminated, and sound disperses widely and evenly throughout the room. KEF describes this as a 'sit anywhere' driver array: fewer speakers are needed to deliver smooth coverage across a wide listening area.
The tweeter is fitted with KEF's Tangerine Waveguide. As well as protecting the driver, the waveguide further enhances high-frequency dispersion, giving the Ci200.2CR a nominal coverage of 115 degrees. The crossover between woofer and tweeter is set at 2.4kHz, and the covered crossover circuit adds structural rigidity to the assembly while protecting the electrical components from damage.
Ultra-Thin Bezel and Magnetic Grille
To keep the installed speaker as discreet as possible, the ABS bezel has been engineered to be as thin as possible while retaining the structural rigidity it needs, with a paintable bezel of no more than 5mm in width. The exceptionally flat grille attaches with a powerful magnetic circuit for security and ease of installation, includes a paint shield, and can be painted along with the bezel to match any decor.
Weather Resistance
The Ci200.2CR is constructed using weather-resistant components. A proprietary plating and powder-coating process protects the speaker from moisture and UV light, and the bezel and grille are treated with a UV-protective coating. The speaker is IP64 certified, having passed official IEC testing to ensure that splashing water has no harmful effect on the assembly components. This makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor venues, and KEF specifies it for background, foreground and announcement applications in locations such as hotel rooms, corridors and school hallways.
Installation
The shallow mounting depth of 97.2mm from the ceiling surface allows the Ci200.2CR to be installed in ceilings with limited void space. KEF's 200mm round in-ceiling speakers use the same diameter opening, so the 240mm cut-out is shared with the Ci200QR and Ci200ER, which simplifies installation and makes it easy to select or upgrade components across the range. An optional RIF200R rough-in frame is available for new-build installations, and the optional RNC200R rear enclosure can be fitted where a sealed back is required. Without the rear enclosure the speaker delivers a frequency response of 45Hz to 20kHz (+/-6dB) as an open-backed design, with a nominal impedance of 8 Ohms and a sensitivity of 90dB, so it is an easy load for a wide range of amplifiers rated between 10W and 125W.