ᐅ Installing Sonos Ceiling Speakers in a Concrete Ceiling?

Created on: 28 Jun 2020 22:00
I
imsi123
Hello, I want to install a Sonos 5.1 system in our new build using a Sonos Amp (already available), an existing subwoofer, two Sonos One speakers (available) for the front, and two Sonos One as ceiling speakers (rear) above the couch (freestanding in the room). However, I’m not very happy with the look of having two network outlets, two power sockets, and the two ceiling mounts in the concrete ceiling.

So now I am considering installing the passive Sonos Architectural ceiling speakers. The concrete ceiling is 20 cm (8 inches) thick plus plaster. I don’t think it will be possible to cut a hole 13 cm (5 inches) deep and 21 cm (8 inches) wide into the ceiling to fully recess the speaker. Are there any mounting frames available that would allow the speakers to stick out a bit? Or any other ideas on how this could be done? Or different speakers?

Kind regards,
Ben
I
imsi123
30 Jun 2020 09:56
We used to have a top-notch Nubert 5.1 system. But with four kids, our TV habits changed, and we simply don't have as much time for it anymore. Additionally, the rear speakers were in the way because of the new couch. So we switched to the Sonos system. At the same time, the AV receiver, DVD player, and CD player were all removed… the living room is now clean and tidy. However, that doesn't mean it has to stay that way forever. Since the couch in the new living room is positioned in the middle of the room, you can’t just run cables to every corner. That’s our problem.
I’ve sent Sonos an email directly about the AMP. We’ll see if they get back to me.
Tolentino30 Jun 2020 10:04
Nida35a schrieb:

Passive speakers sound better

I don’t fully agree with that statement.

There are good reasons to choose active speakers—but only if you do it properly (which tends to be a bit more expensive).
At the same time, there are also many affordable passive speakers that sound better than the Play 1, so I would argue that as well.

@imsi123: Does that mean you have already experienced the new setup? Didn’t you feel any longing for the old one? I understand that personal preferences and requirements vary, but I couldn’t do it. This will definitely be a topic of discussion with my wife once the house is built...
However, my recommended locations A and B can easily be installed during the shell construction phase. I understand that option A might be rejected by your wife, but what about B? You would probably put something there anyway. Otherwise, I would rather build an enclosure for the speakers into the wall there than install them in the ceiling.
Nida35a30 Jun 2020 10:12
Then don’t spend your money on more Sonos products; you won’t achieve the sound quality of the Nubert 5.1 system and will always be left dissatisfied.
Nida35a30 Jun 2020 10:28
@Tolentino
The test included passive speakers, and they sounded better than Sonos. Active speakers from other brands don’t integrate into the system.
@imsi123
There are reference systems, 5.1 and 5.0, from Nubert in very small sizes, both active and passive.
We removed the subwoofer because it was too large and bulky,
and with four kids, the speakers need to be mounted high and securely fastened anyway.
When our children were little, the satellite speakers were placed in the four corners about 20cm (8 inches) below the ceiling.
The calibration system also adjusts specifically for your listening position in the middle of the room.
Best regards, Nida
I
imsi123
30 Jun 2020 10:30
New positions a and b won’t work. The only option would be behind the sofa (limited space and where would the cables come from?) or on the ceiling, as that causes the least disturbance.
No more money will be spent on another amplifier or ARC. At most, for a Sonos One. How else could you place it in the bathroom or who knows where?
Tolentino30 Jun 2020 10:39
Nida35a schrieb:

@Tolentino
In the test, passive speakers were used and they sounded better than Sonos; active speakers from third-party brands don’t integrate into the system.

Oh, you were referring to the test. I thought you meant it in general.
But with a Sonos Port, you can also connect third-party active speakers (or passive ones with an AV receiver).

@imsi123
Okay, with so many limitations and since you say you don’t watch that much home cinema anymore, I would skip the permanent installation of the rear speakers altogether. Get stands for them that you only set up when you want to watch a movie. Then one speaker can also be placed in front of the glass wall or whatever it is (to the right behind the sofa); that would actually be a better position for the surround right speaker. In daily use, the Ones are just placed somewhere else (e.g., terrace and kitchen). By the way, why do you still need the amplifier if you’ve done away with all the passive speakers and only use the Ones?