KEF Ci160QL 6.5 Inch Rectangular In-Ceiling Speaker

Premium KEF Sound in a Rectangular In-Ceiling Format

The KEF Ci160QL is a passive 6.5" rectangular in-ceiling speaker designed for whole-home audio, stereo zones, media rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, and other spaces where a rectangular architectural format better matches the ceiling layout.

Its Uni-Q driver places the 0.75" aluminum tweeter at the acoustic center of the 6.5" woofer to help provide broad, consistent coverage across the listening area.

Key Specifications

• Speaker type: Passive rectangular in-ceiling architectural speaker
• LF driver: 160 mm (6.5") Uni-Q
• HF driver: 19 mm (0.75") aluminum dome tweeter with Tangerine Waveguide
• Nominal impedance: 8 Ω
• Sensitivity: 89 dB (2.83 V / 1 m)
• Frequency response: 38 Hz–34 kHz (±6 dB, open-backed)
• Crossover frequency: 3.0 kHz
• Recommended amplifier power: 10–125 W
• Recommended high-pass filter: 45 Hz
• Nominal coverage: 125°
• Maximum SPL: 105 dB
• Certification: IP64

Who Should Choose the Ci160QL?

Choose the Ci160QL when you want KEF's Uni-Q dispersion in a rectangular ceiling speaker rather than a traditional round design. It is particularly useful where speaker shape needs to align visually with rectangular lighting, vents, or other architectural elements.

For conventional stereo playback, use two matching speakers. Larger rooms or distributed-audio systems may require additional speakers depending on ceiling height, placement, and listening goals.

Passive Speaker and Amplifier Requirements

The Ci160QL is completely passive. It does not include a built-in amplifier, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, streaming, or app control.

KEF recommends 10–125 W of amplifier power and specifies an 8-ohm nominal impedance. Connect it to a compatible amplifier or AV receiver using appropriate in-wall rated speaker wire.

The 10–125 W figure is KEF's recommended amplifier range, not an RMS or peak power-handling specification.

Uni-Q With 125-Degree Coverage

The Ci160QL combines a 6.5" Uni-Q woofer with a 0.75" aluminum tweeter positioned at its acoustic center. KEF's Tangerine Waveguide further helps control high-frequency dispersion.

KEF specifies approximately 125° nominal coverage, helping the speaker distribute sound across a broad listening area without relying on a narrow sweet spot.

Frequency Response and System Setup

KEF specifies an open-backed frequency response of 38 Hz–34 kHz at ±6 dB and recommends a 45 Hz high-pass filter.

A subwoofer is optional for general music and whole-home audio, but it can provide deeper and more controlled low-frequency output for home theater or higher-output listening.

Installation Dimensions

• External dimensions: 303 × 223 × 97.5 mm (11.93" × 8.78" × 3.84")
• Cutout: 270 × 190 mm (10.63" × 7.48")
• Mounting depth: 91 mm (3.58")
• Net weight: 2.05 kg (4.51 lb)

Confirm joist spacing, electrical wiring, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and available ceiling depth before cutting the rectangular opening.

Optional Rough-In Frame and Rear Enclosure

KEF lists the RIF160L rough-in frame and RNC160L rear enclosure as optional accessories for the Ci160QL. Both are sold separately.

KEF specifies approximately 25 liters as the ideal rear volume and 15 liters as the minimum rear volume.

IP64 Environmental Protection

The Ci160QL is IP64 certified and uses weather-resistant components with UV-protected finishes. IP64 provides protection against dust and splashing water but does not make the speaker waterproof or suitable for immersion.

Ultra-Thin Bezel and Paintable Magnetic Grille

KEF's Ultra-Thin Bezel keeps the visible edge narrow, while the magnetic grille can be painted to better match the surrounding ceiling finish.

What's Included?

• 1 KEF Ci160QL in-ceiling speaker
• Paintable magnetic grille
• Integrated mounting system
• Product documentation

The amplifier or AV receiver, speaker wire, RIF160L rough-in frame, RNC160L rear enclosure, and other installation materials are sold separately.

Complete Your Audio System

• In-Wall & In-Ceiling Speakers
• Amplifiers
• Speaker Wire

Need Help Planning Your Speaker Layout?

Send Bear Security Shop your room dimensions, ceiling height, amplifier model, and planned speaker quantity. We can help check coverage, amplifier compatibility, cutout requirements, and whether the Ci160QL is the right fit.

Is the KEF Ci160QL powered or passive?

It is passive and requires an external amplifier or AV receiver plus speaker wire.

What amplifier power does KEF recommend?

KEF recommends 10–125 W of amplifier power. This is an amplifier recommendation, not an RMS or peak power-handling rating.

What is the impedance?

The Ci160QL has an 8-ohm nominal impedance.

What is the frequency response?

KEF specifies 38 Hz–34 kHz at ±6 dB open-backed.

How wide is the coverage?

KEF specifies approximately 125° nominal coverage.

What high-pass filter does KEF recommend?

KEF recommends a 45 Hz high-pass filter.

What cutout size is required?

The Ci160QL requires a rectangular opening approximately 10.63" × 7.48".

How much mounting depth is required?

KEF specifies approximately 3.58" of mounting depth.

Is the Ci160QL weather resistant?

Yes. It is IP64 certified and uses weather-resistant, UV-protected materials. It should not be described as waterproof.

Is a rough-in frame available?

Yes. KEF lists the RIF160L rough-in frame as an optional accessory. It is sold separately.

Is a rear enclosure available?

Yes. KEF lists the RNC160L rear enclosure as an optional accessory. It is sold separately.

What rear volume does KEF recommend?

KEF specifies approximately 25 liters as ideal rear volume and 15 liters as the minimum.

What should I confirm before ordering?

Confirm your amplifier supports 8-ohm speakers, the 10.63" × 7.48" cutout fits the ceiling location, approximately 3.58" of mounting depth is available, and your speaker-wire route is ready.