Wall speakers are speakers which have been designed to mount into a wall. These speakers can be very convenient for people who do not want to devote floor space to standing floor speakers, and they can also be utilized to create a low-profile sound system which delivers very high quality. In a home theater, for example, wall speakers can be used to make a surround sound experience. Many electronics stores stock or can order wall speakers for their customers, along with specialized subwoofers for increased range.
These speakers use the cavities within the wall as a speaker cabinet. They are installed by cutting into the wall to create a space for the speaker mount, and running wiring through the wall to connect the speakers to the amplifier. Many wall speakers are adjustable so that they can be pointed in particular directions, an important feature when the goal is to create a space with surround sound.
Some people are capable of installing wall speakers on their own; a bit of wiring experience is needed, along with knowledge about speaker placement and construction skills. Other people may prefer to leave installation in the hands of professionals. In either case, high grade speaker wire is needed for safety and the best sound quality, and people should be very certain about the placement of their speakers, as wall speakers cannot be picked up and moved like standing speakers.
When selecting wall speakers, people should consider their needs and their existing sound system. It is important to get wall speakers with a wattage rating which matches the amplifier, for example, to prevent blowout. If speakers are going to be installed in a room like the bathroom, they should be moisture-resistant so that they are not damaged by steam, while a small room may require a stereo input speaker, as there may not be enough space to put in two speakers and balance them properly.
The sensitivity rating of the speakers is also an important consideration. Sensitivity rating is expressed in decibels, and it relates to energy efficiency. The higher the rating, the less energy the speakers need to generate sound. High-rated speakers can be used with a low-wattage amp to produce sound at a higher volume, while low-rated speakers will require a high powered amp. The frequency response range should be considered as well, with wider ranges conveying more subtle tones for the full enjoyment of complex musical pieces.