Paradigm
PARADIGM CI Elite E80-A v2
Best in-wall speaker for audiophiles seeking premium, seamless home audio.
Experience premium custom installation sound with the PARADIGM CI Elite E80-IW v2 in-wall speaker. Crafted in Canada, this speaker delivers exceptional audio performance for discerning listeners. It features an X-PAL™ tweeter with PPA™ Lens and RED™ Technology for clear, smooth highs, and an 8" X-PAL™ bass/midrange driver with ART™ surround for accurate lows. The die-cast aluminum chassis ensures durability and heat dissipation, while the oversized voice coil handles high power. Installation is made simple and secure with aluminum clamps and a bezel-free micro-perf grille for a seamless aesthetic.
$749.99
More CI Elite Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
151
/ 6550
#151 in Speakers
Price vs Category Average
-49%
Below average
Design
22
/ -driver, -way in-wall
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking distortion-free, high-impact bass performance
- Home theater owners needing precise sound direction from ceiling speakers
- Design-conscious homeowners wanting invisible, high-end audio integration
Who should skip it
- Budget-focused buyers looking for cost-effective architectural audio solutions
- Installers working with shallow ceiling cavities or limited plenum space
- Users without access to high-current, dedicated external amplification
Performance breakdown
High-Frequency Clarity
The PPA lens technology delivers exceptionally crisp and detailed treble response.
Bass Precision
ART surround technology allows for deep, controlled lows without unwanted distortion.
Build Integrity
Die-cast aluminum construction provides a rigid, resonance-free housing for premium sound.
Installation Ease
Secure aluminum clamps make mounting straightforward for professional or DIY setups.
Aesthetic Integration
Bezel-free micro-perf grille offers a clean, near-invisible look in any wall.
Power Handling
Oversized voice coil manages high-wattage input with impressive thermal stability.
Key Specs
Design
2-driver, 2-way in-wall
Frequency Response On-Axis
±3 dB from 57 Hz - 22 kHz
Sensitivity (Room)
92 dB
Impedance
Compatible with 8 ohms
Maximum Input Power
120 W
Drivers
1" tweeter, 8" bass/midrange
Overall Dimensions
12.625" H x 9.25" W x 4" D
Weight
3.9 kg (8.6 lbs)
Features
- Premium custom installation performance
- Smooth highs with PPA™ Lens tweeter
- Enhanced driver excursion with ART™ surround
- Durable die-cast aluminum construction
- Simplified and secure installation
- Seamless aesthetic with bezel-free grille
- High power handling capability
What customers say
The Paradigm CI Elite E80-A v2 is highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality, often rivaling traditional bookshelf speakers. Its defining strength is the robust, articulate bass provided by the 8-inch driver, avoiding the thin sound common in ceiling units. The angled baffle design is a major advantage, allowing precise aiming of sound toward the listening area, which significantly enhances imaging and soundstage depth in home theaters. Installers value the secure mounting and sleek magnetic grilles that blend seamlessly into the decor. While positioned in the premium category, customers agree the superior performance fully justifies the investment for high-end custom audio installations.
Know before you buy
Yes, this speaker is passive and does not have a built-in amplifier. You will need to connect it to an external receiver or power amplifier to drive the audio.
This model is specifically designed as an in-wall speaker. While it can technically be mounted in a ceiling, the orientation and dispersion characteristics are optimized for wall placement.
The bezel-free, micro-perf grille sits nearly flush with your wall, creating a clean, minimalist aesthetic that blends into your decor. It is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible once installed.
The E80-A v2 is rated for a maximum input power of 120 watts. Its oversized voice coil and die-cast aluminum chassis are built to handle high power levels reliably without compromising sound quality.
With a frequency response down to 57 Hz, this speaker handles mid-bass quite well for music and dialogue. However, for a true cinematic experience with deep, impactful low-end frequencies, adding a dedicated subwoofer is recommended.
The speaker features aluminum mounting clamps that make the installation process straightforward and secure. While it is designed for ease of use, ensure you have the proper wall-cutting tools and wiring ready before beginning.
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