These audio options are designed to be put in immediately right into a wall’s construction, offering a discreet and aesthetically pleasing technique of sound copy. For instance, take into account a house theater setup the place conventional freestanding audio system would occupy invaluable flooring house and probably detract from the room’s visible design. In-wall fashions provide an alternate, delivering audio efficiency with out the bodily footprint.
The enchantment of those hid loudspeakers lies of their capability to supply high-quality sound whereas seamlessly integrating right into a room’s decor. This integration improves the visible concord of dwelling areas, dwelling theaters, and business installations. Traditionally, the pursuit of improved sound copy has often clashed with inside design preferences. These options handle this battle, providing each sonic constancy and visible discretion.
The next dialogue will discover the options, efficiency standards, and set up issues related to deciding on applicable fashions. Elements similar to driver configuration, frequency response, energy dealing with, and impedance might be examined. Moreover, the method of putting in these audio system, together with wall preparation and wiring issues, might be addressed to make sure optimum efficiency and longevity.
1. Acoustic Efficiency
Acoustic efficiency constitutes a main determinant in evaluating in-wall audio options. Its traits considerably affect the constancy, readability, and general high quality of the reproduced sound, immediately affecting the consumer expertise. Correct evaluation of those elements is paramount in figuring out fashions that meet particular audio necessities.
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Frequency Response
Frequency response delineates the vary of tones a speaker can precisely reproduce, usually expressed in Hertz (Hz). A wider frequency response signifies the speaker’s capability to deal with each low-end bass frequencies and high-end treble tones. Within the context of in-wall fashions, a flattened frequency response curve is fascinating, signifying minimal distortion throughout the audible spectrum. Deviation from a flat response ends in coloration of the sound, impacting sonic accuracy. For example, a speaker with a poor low-frequency response will lack depth in bass copy, whereas a compromised high-frequency response will sound muffled or boring. Fashions with a rigorously calibrated response are essential for crucial listening functions.
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Sound Dispersion
Sound dispersion, often known as off-axis response, refers to how uniformly sound is projected all through the listening space. Extensive dispersion ensures that listeners positioned away from the speaker’s direct axis nonetheless expertise balanced and correct sound. Poor dispersion can create “candy spots” the place the audio is perfect, whereas different areas undergo from diminished quantity or tonal imbalances. In-wall audio system, because of their fastened place, profit considerably from vast dispersion traits. Fashions that includes adjustable tweeters or specialised waveguide designs goal to enhance dispersion, compensating for inherent limitations related to wall mounting.
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Energy Dealing with
Energy dealing with defines the utmost quantity of energy, measured in watts, {that a} speaker can safely deal with with out injury or distortion. Exceeding a speaker’s energy dealing with capabilities can result in speaker failure or a compromised audio sign exhibiting clipping and distortion. Matching the speaker’s energy dealing with to the amplifier’s output is crucial for optimum efficiency and longevity. Excessive-performance in-wall audio system usually characteristic strong parts and improved thermal administration to tolerate larger energy ranges, permitting for larger dynamic vary and louder playback volumes with out distortion.
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Whole Harmonic Distortion (THD)
Whole Harmonic Distortion (THD) quantifies the quantity of distortion launched by the speaker throughout sound copy. THD is expressed as a proportion, with decrease percentages indicating larger constancy. Distortion arises from non-linearities within the speaker’s parts, introducing undesirable harmonics into the unique sign. In-wall audio system with low THD scores provide a cleaner and extra correct copy of the audio sign. Excessive-end fashions make use of superior supplies and design methods to reduce distortion, guaranteeing pristine sound high quality. Acceptable THD ranges fluctuate relying on the applying, with crucial listening eventualities demanding considerably decrease distortion than informal listening environments.
Contemplating these elements of acoustic performancefrequency response, sound dispersion, energy dealing with, and complete harmonic distortionis important when selecting in-wall speaker programs. The interaction between these elements defines the listening expertise. Figuring out fashions that exhibit favorable traits throughout all classes ensures an optimized and immersive audio surroundings.
2. Set up Complexity
The correlation between set up complexity and the number of in-wall speaker programs is critical. Set up necessities immediately affect the practicality and general worth proposition of a selected mannequin. Even programs with distinctive acoustic efficiency could also be deemed unsuitable if the set up course of calls for specialised abilities, in depth structural modifications, or extreme time funding. The convenience or issue of putting in in-wall audio system impacts each the preliminary setup price and the potential for long-term upkeep or future upgrades.
Take into account a situation the place a client selects an in-wall speaker with distinctive specs, however the set up necessitates operating new electrical wiring throughout the wall cavity or modifying present stud configurations. Such necessities might necessitate hiring a certified electrician or contractor, including considerably to the general venture price. Conversely, a mannequin designed with a simplified mounting mechanism and using present wiring infrastructure might show to be a more cost effective and user-friendly answer, regardless of probably having barely decrease acoustic efficiency on paper. The presence of strong mounting {hardware}, clear and complete set up manuals, and readily accessible buyer help channels are all contributing elements to a diminished set up complexity.
In conclusion, the analysis of in-wall audio system should prolong past purely acoustic issues to embody an intensive evaluation of set up necessities. Advanced installations not solely enhance preliminary prices but additionally current challenges for future upkeep or system modifications. Prioritizing fashions with simplified set up procedures and complete help assets results in a extra passable and sustainable integration of in-wall audio programs into the supposed surroundings. The interaction of sound high quality, set up simplicity, and long-term maintainability defines the optimum choice standards.
3. Driver Know-how
Driver know-how types the nucleus of loudspeaker efficiency, exerting a pivotal affect on the sound high quality, constancy, and general worth of in-wall speaker programs. The supplies, design, and engineering of those parts basically dictate the speaker’s capability to precisely reproduce audio indicators throughout the frequency spectrum. Number of superior driver applied sciences is, subsequently, a main issue when discerning between accessible fashions. The precise drivers employed immediately correlate with the subjective listening expertise and the attainment of high-fidelity sound copy.
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Tweeter Materials and Design
The tweeter, answerable for reproducing high-frequency sounds, usually employs supplies like silk, aluminum, or titanium. Silk dome tweeters usually present a smoother, hotter sound, very best for prolonged listening classes. Aluminum or titanium tweeters, conversely, have a tendency to supply larger readability and element, excelling in revealing delicate nuances in music and movie soundtracks. The design, together with the form and dimension of the dome, and the presence of options like waveguide know-how, additional shapes the tweeter’s dispersion traits, impacting the soundstage and imaging. Within the context of in-wall options, a well-designed tweeter is crucial for offsetting the potential for compromised dispersion inherent in wall-mounted configurations.
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Woofer Materials and Building
The woofer, tasked with reproducing low-frequency and mid-range sounds, makes use of supplies similar to polypropylene, Kevlar, or carbon fiber. Polypropylene woofers provide a stability of efficiency and cost-effectiveness, offering satisfactory stiffness and damping. Kevlar and carbon fiber woofers exhibit superior rigidity and decrease mass, leading to improved transient response and diminished distortion. The development of the woofer, together with the cone form, encompass materials, and voice coil design, additional contributes to its efficiency traits. Inflexible woofer cones paired with optimized voice coil designs are sometimes present in fashions striving for correct bass copy and detailed mid-range readability throughout the constrained house of in-wall installations.
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Crossover Community Design
The crossover community features because the site visitors controller, directing particular frequency ranges to the suitable drivers (tweeter and woofer). A well-designed crossover ensures a seamless transition between these drivers, stopping frequency overlap or cancellation. The standard of the crossover parts, together with capacitors and inductors, considerably impacts the general sound high quality. Increased-end parts with tighter tolerances result in improved linearity and diminished distortion. Crossover design is especially crucial in multi-driver in-wall programs, the place the right stability of frequencies is crucial for making a cohesive and pure soundstage.
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Magnet Construction and Motor System
The magnet construction and motor system are the engine that drives the speaker cone. Stronger magnets and optimized motor designs end in larger management over cone motion, resulting in improved transient response, diminished distortion, and elevated energy dealing with. Supplies similar to neodymium are sometimes utilized in high-performance drivers because of their superior magnetic energy. The effectivity of the motor system additionally impacts the speaker’s sensitivity, figuring out how a lot energy is required to realize a given sound stage. In in-wall audio system, environment friendly motor programs are significantly fascinating, as they permit for larger flexibility in amplifier choice and might enhance general system effectivity.
The development and integration of those driver applied sciences have enabled the creation of in-wall programs able to delivering more and more subtle and refined audio experiences. The efficient implementation of those element options just isn’t merely a sum of technical specs however, quite, a holistic method towards attaining acoustic constancy, sonic precision, and general enhancement of the listening enjoyment. The strategic convergence of refined materials choice, superior design paradigms, and complex engineering constructs contributes to the belief of exemplary efficiency traits in top-tier in-wall speaker options.
4. Materials High quality
Materials high quality considerably impacts the efficiency, longevity, and aesthetic integration of in-wall speaker programs. Superior supplies contribute to enhanced acoustic traits, structural integrity, and resistance to environmental degradation. The number of applicable supplies is subsequently paramount in realizing the potential of in-wall audio options.
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Enclosure Supplies and Dampening
The composition of the speaker enclosure critically impacts acoustic resonance and structural stability. Excessive-density fiberboard (HDF) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) are generally used supplies because of their inherent rigidity and damping properties. Insufficient enclosure supplies can introduce undesirable vibrations, leading to coloration of the sound. Inner bracing and dampening supplies, similar to acoustic foam or bitumen pads, are sometimes employed to additional reduce resonance. For example, a speaker put in in a wall with skinny drywall might profit from a cupboard constructed with thicker MDF and in depth inside dampening to mitigate vibrations transmitted by means of the wall construction. The number of high-quality enclosure supplies ensures a cleaner, extra correct sound copy.
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Grille Composition and Acoustic Transparency
The speaker grille serves a protecting perform whereas ideally sustaining acoustic transparency. Supplies similar to acoustically clear material or perforated steel are usually used. Cheap grilles might introduce undesirable diffraction or reflection of sound waves, impacting the general frequency response and imaging. For instance, a dense, woven cloth grille can attenuate high-frequency sounds, leading to a muffled sound. Premium in-wall audio system usually characteristic meticulously designed grilles with optimized perforation patterns or specialised supplies that reduce acoustic interference. The grille’s materials and design ought to strike a stability between safety and sonic neutrality.
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Wiring and Connector High quality
Inner wiring and exterior connectors affect sign transmission integrity and long-term reliability. Oxygen-free copper (OFC) wiring is often utilized because of its superior conductivity and resistance to corrosion. Low-quality wiring can introduce sign loss or distortion, degrading audio efficiency. Connectors ought to be strong and supply a safe connection to forestall sign interruptions. Gold-plated connectors are sometimes employed because of their corrosion resistance and low contact resistance. For instance, corrosion on a speaker terminal can enhance resistance and scale back the facility delivered to the speaker. The utilization of high-quality wiring and connectors ensures optimum sign switch and long-term efficiency stability.
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Driver Supplies and Sturdiness
The supplies utilized in speaker drivers immediately influence their acoustic efficiency and longevity. Excessive-quality supplies, similar to Kevlar, carbon fiber, or beryllium, are sometimes employed in woofers and tweeters to boost rigidity, scale back mass, and enhance damping. Cheap supplies could also be susceptible to degradation over time, leading to adjustments in sound high quality. The encompass materials, which connects the cone to the speaker basket, should be sturdy and immune to environmental elements similar to humidity and temperature fluctuations. For example, a deteriorated encompass can compromise the speaker’s capability to breed low frequencies precisely. The number of strong and secure supplies in driver building ensures constant efficiency and prolonged lifespan.
The mixture impact of using high-quality supplies throughout all elements of in-wall speaker design culminates in enhanced sonic efficiency, elevated product longevity, and improved integration with the encircling surroundings. Materials choice transcends mere aesthetics, influencing the acoustic output, structural integrity, and long-term reliability of the speaker system.
5. Design Integration
Design integration constitutes a crucial side within the choice and implementation of in-wall speaker programs. Its significance stems from the necessity to harmonize acoustic efficiency with the aesthetic necessities of a given house. Efficient integration ensures that the audio system enhances quite than detracts from the visible design, leading to a cohesive and purposeful surroundings.
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Aesthetic Concealment and Visibility
In-wall audio system inherently provide a level of visible discretion, however the extent of concealment varies. Some fashions are designed with paintable grilles, enabling seamless shade matching with the encircling wall floor. Others characteristic trimless designs, minimizing the seen body across the speaker. Conversely, sure installations might profit from fashions with a extra pronounced aesthetic, serving as a deliberate design aspect. For example, a house theater might incorporate audio system with brushed steel accents to enrich different digital parts. The selection between concealment and visibility ought to align with the general design intent of the house.
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Grille Design and Materials
The design and materials of the speaker grille considerably affect its visible influence. Acoustically clear cloth grilles provide a delicate, textured look, mixing simply with varied wall finishes. Perforated steel grilles present a extra modern look, usually present in trendy architectural settings. The grille design shouldn’t solely complement the speaker’s aesthetic but additionally reduce acoustic interference. Intricate grille patterns can generally introduce undesirable diffraction, affecting the speaker’s frequency response. The number of grille design entails balancing visible enchantment with acoustic efficiency issues.
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Speaker Placement and Room Acoustics
Speaker placement impacts each the visible and acoustic properties of a room. Strategic placement can reduce visible litter whereas optimizing sound dispersion and imaging. In-wall audio system ought to be positioned to keep away from obstructions that would impede sound propagation. Room acoustics additionally play an important function. Laborious surfaces, similar to naked partitions or tile flooring, may cause extreme reflections, resulting in poor sound high quality. Integrating acoustic remedy, similar to wall panels or diffusers, can enhance room acoustics and improve the general listening expertise. Speaker placement and room acoustics ought to be thought of holistically to realize each visible concord and optimum audio efficiency.
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Integration with Sensible House Methods
Trendy design more and more incorporates good dwelling know-how. In-wall audio system may be seamlessly built-in with good dwelling programs, permitting for centralized management of audio playback, quantity, and equalization. Some fashions provide built-in voice management capabilities, enabling hands-free operation. Integration with good dwelling platforms enhances consumer comfort and permits for automated audio eventualities. For example, audio system may be programmed to routinely modify quantity ranges primarily based on time of day or occupancy. The compatibility of in-wall audio system with good dwelling ecosystems is a crucial think about modern design issues.
Finally, the efficient integration of in-wall audio system entails a holistic method that considers aesthetic preferences, acoustic necessities, and technological capabilities. The choice course of ought to prioritize fashions that not solely ship distinctive audio efficiency but additionally seamlessly mix into the design context of the house. The profitable synthesis of those parts ends in a harmonious and purposeful surroundings that enhances each the visible and auditory expertise.
6. Worth Proposition
The worth proposition, within the context of in-wall audio system, represents the stability between worth, efficiency, options, and general high quality provided to the patron. It’s a multi-faceted analysis that determines whether or not a product’s advantages justify its price and whether or not it meets the patron’s particular wants and expectations. Analyzing the worth proposition allows knowledgeable buying selections and ensures that the chosen audio answer delivers optimum satisfaction.
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Efficiency vs. Worth Ratio
This aspect examines the acoustic efficiency achieved for a given worth level. It assesses whether or not the sound high quality, frequency response, and energy dealing with capabilities align with the price of the speaker. For instance, a higher-priced mannequin might provide superior sound readability, wider frequency response, and larger energy dealing with, justifying its premium. Conversely, a extra inexpensive choice may present satisfactory efficiency for informal listening, representing a greater worth for budget-conscious customers. The efficiency vs. worth ratio guides the patron in figuring out the optimum stability between acoustic capabilities and affordability.
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Characteristic Set and Performance
This aspect evaluates the vary of options and functionalities provided by the in-wall speaker. Superior options, similar to adjustable tweeters, acoustic contour switches, or built-in Bluetooth connectivity, can improve consumer expertise and flexibility. Fashions with a complete characteristic set might command the next worth, however the added performance can justify the funding. For instance, an adjustable tweeter permits for optimizing sound dispersion primarily based on room acoustics, offering a extra tailor-made listening expertise. The characteristic set and performance contribute to the general worth by offering added comfort and enhanced efficiency.
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Lengthy-Time period Value of Possession
This aspect considers the bills related to proudly owning and sustaining the in-wall audio system over their lifespan. Elements similar to vitality consumption, potential restore prices, and the lifespan of parts affect the long-term price of possession. Whereas a inexpensive mannequin might have a decrease preliminary price, its inferior construct high quality or larger energy consumption might end in larger bills over time. In distinction, a higher-quality mannequin with sturdy parts and energy-efficient design can provide long-term financial savings, representing a greater worth proposition. The long-term price of possession is a crucial consideration in assessing the general worth.
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Model Fame and Guarantee
Model popularity and guarantee protection present assurance of product high quality and reliability. Established manufacturers with a monitor document of manufacturing high-quality audio merchandise usually provide superior efficiency and sturdiness. A complete guarantee protects towards manufacturing defects and offers recourse in case of malfunction. Customers usually understand the next worth in merchandise from respected manufacturers backed by strong guarantee packages. For example, a speaker from a widely known model with a five-year guarantee indicators confidence within the product’s reliability, influencing the patron’s notion of worth. Model popularity and guarantee function indicators of product high quality and long-term help.
In abstract, the worth proposition for in-wall audio system is a multifaceted evaluation encompassing the efficiency vs. worth ratio, characteristic set, long-term price of possession, and model popularity. Evaluating these elements ensures that the chosen audio answer meets the patron’s particular wants and expectations whereas offering the absolute best return on funding. The target is to establish the mannequin that gives the optimum mixture of efficiency, options, reliability, and affordability, leading to a high-value proposition.
Continuously Requested Questions
The next questions handle widespread inquiries relating to the choice and set up of in-wall audio system. These solutions goal to supply readability and steering for customers contemplating one of these audio answer.
Query 1: What elements decide the “greatest rated” standing of an in-wall speaker?
Evaluations usually take into account acoustic efficiency metrics (frequency response, distortion), construct high quality and supplies, set up ease, design integration, and the ratio of efficiency to price. Subjective listening exams {and professional} opinions usually contribute to the general ranking.
Query 2: Are in-wall audio system appropriate for all wall varieties?
In-wall audio system are appropriate with commonplace drywall building. Nonetheless, set up in stable concrete or brick partitions might require specialised instruments and methods. Prior evaluation of wall composition is essential to make sure correct set up and efficiency.
Query 3: Does putting in in-wall audio system have an effect on the structural integrity of the wall?
Correct set up shouldn’t compromise structural integrity. Nonetheless, reducing giant openings in load-bearing partitions may be problematic. Consulting with a certified contractor or structural engineer is really useful in such instances.
Query 4: Can in-wall audio system be simply relocated after set up?
Relocating in-wall audio system requires patching the present wall opening and reducing a brand new opening on the desired location. This course of necessitates drywall restore and portray, making relocation a comparatively concerned course of.
Query 5: What’s the optimum peak for putting in in-wall audio system?
Optimum set up peak depends upon the supposed use. For common listening, ear-level placement is really useful. In dwelling theater functions, aligning the tweeter with the listener’s ear is usually most popular. Consideration of room dimension and seating association is important.
Query 6: Do in-wall audio system require specialised wiring?
Normal speaker wire is appropriate for many in-wall speaker installations. Nonetheless, utilizing thicker gauge wire might enhance sign transmission, particularly over longer distances. Compliance with native electrical codes is obligatory.
In conclusion, deciding on applicable in-wall speaker programs requires cautious consideration of varied elements, together with acoustic efficiency, set up necessities, and long-term upkeep. Addressing these often requested questions ought to present a basis for knowledgeable decision-making.
The next part will delve into particular product suggestions, making an allowance for the aforementioned issues.
Optimizing In-Wall Speaker Efficiency
Reaching optimum audio constancy and design integration with in-wall audio system necessitates meticulous planning and execution. The next suggestions present steering for maximizing the efficiency and aesthetic enchantment of those programs.
Tip 1: Prioritize Acoustic Placement: Speaker location considerably impacts sound dispersion and stereo imaging. Goal for symmetrical placement relative to the listening space, guaranteeing a balanced soundstage. Take into account using acoustic measurement instruments to establish optimum placement factors that reduce reflections and standing waves. For example, putting audio system equidistant from facet partitions can scale back undesirable sonic artifacts.
Tip 2: Optimize Wall Cavity Preparation: The wall cavity acts because the speaker’s enclosure. Make sure the cavity is correctly insulated to reduce resonance and sound transmission to adjoining rooms. Set up sound-dampening supplies throughout the cavity to scale back undesirable vibrations. Seal any gaps or cracks across the speaker cutout to forestall air leaks, which may degrade bass response.
Tip 3: Make use of Excessive-High quality Wiring: Make the most of oxygen-free copper (OFC) speaker wire of an applicable gauge for the size of the run. Thicker gauge wire reduces resistance and ensures optimum sign switch. Use shielded speaker wire in areas susceptible to electromagnetic interference. Securely terminate wire connections with high-quality connectors to forestall sign loss or degradation.
Tip 4: Calibrate the System After Set up: After set up, use a sound stage meter and/or room correction software program to calibrate the system. Regulate particular person speaker ranges and equalization settings to realize a balanced and correct sound signature. Effective-tune crossover frequencies for seamless integration between the in-wall audio system and any subwoofers within the system.
Tip 5: Camouflage with Paintable Grilles: Maximize aesthetic integration by using paintable speaker grilles. Match the grille shade to the encircling wall floor for a seamless look. Use a fine-textured paint appropriate for acoustic materials or perforated steel to keep away from clogging the grille and impeding sound transmission.
Tip 6: Take into account Angled or Aimable Audio system: To compensate for off-axis listening positions or asymmetrical room layouts, think about using in-wall audio system with angled or aimable tweeters. Regulate the tweeter route to focus the sound in the direction of the first listening space, bettering readability and imaging.
Tip 7: Guarantee Safe Mounting: A safe mounting ensures the speaker stays flush with the wall and minimizes vibrations. Use applicable mounting {hardware} and comply with the producer’s directions rigorously. Over-tightening screws can injury the speaker body or wall floor. Commonly examine the mounting {hardware} to make sure it stays safe over time.
By implementing the following pointers, you may optimize the efficiency and aesthetic integration of in-wall audio system, leading to a high-fidelity audio expertise that seamlessly blends with the encircling surroundings.
The ultimate part will summarize the important thing issues and provide a concise conclusion to this exploration of in-wall speaker programs.
Conclusion
This exploration has underscored crucial attributes when evaluating the advantage of an in-wall audio answer. Acoustic efficiency, set up practicality, element materials high quality, design concord, and the quantifiable worth proposition are paramount issues. Prioritizing these options ensures the number of fashions able to delivering each sonic constancy and seamless integration throughout the supposed surroundings.
The knowledgeable client, armed with a complete understanding of those elements, is positioned to make even handed selections that maximize long-term satisfaction. The pursuit of acoustic excellence, coupled with aesthetic sensitivity, stays the guideline within the choice and implementation of in-wall speaker programs.
