Jean-michel
What better way to complete your Dolby Atmos setup.
Comment from November 13, 2022 — Experience from October 24, 2022
The Elipson IC6ST is the only stereo model in the Architect IN series, designed for ceiling integration. This in-wall speaker is equipped with two adjustable tweeters and a coaxial mid-bass driver, enabling stereo sound reproduction from a single emission point. It continues the tradition of acoustic expertise developed by Elipson since 1938, with technical features tailored to modern residential and professional installations.
The IC6ST stands out thanks to its coaxial dual-tweeter configuration, a technical approach worth noting. At the center of the speaker, a 165-millimeter paper cone driver handles low and mid frequencies. This traditional cone, combined with a rubber surround, perpetuates Elipson’s longstanding preference for natural materials since its beginnings under Joseph Léon’s leadership.
What makes this model unique are its two 19-millimeter silk dome tweeters, positioned on either side of the main transducer. These elements can swivel a generous 35 to 40 degrees in all directions, allowing precise orientation of the sound field toward the listening area. This mobility turns a constraint—the ceiling installation—into an advantage, enabling fine-tuned adjustment of high-frequency directivity.
The crossover frequency set at 2,200 Hz ensures a seamless transition between the mid-bass and treble ranges. This value, slightly higher than on conventional models, takes into account the speaker’s elevated position and optimizes vertical sound dispersion.
The IC6ST showcases Elipson’s expertise in adapting its technologies to the demands of in-wall installation. With an overall diameter of 246 millimeters and a depth of 102 millimeters, the speaker fits standard technical spaces while requiring only a 200-millimeter circular cutout. This relative compactness conceals a sophisticated acoustic design, where every cubic centimeter contributes to sonic balance.
The supplied magnetic grille can be painted, allowing for seamless visual integration with its surroundings. This attention to visual discretion does not overlook technical requirements: the grille is acoustically transparent, carefully designed to minimize diffraction and preserve the integrity of the sound.
Its modest weight of 1.65 kilograms makes handling during installation easy, while also reflecting robust construction. The nominal impedance of 8 ohms ensures broad compatibility with most amplifiers on the market, whether traditional hi-fi electronics or multichannel home theater processors.
With a sensitivity of 83 dB for 1 watt at 1 meter, the IC6ST falls into a category that requires generous amplification. This figure, modest by today’s standards, is explained by the inherent constraints of in-wall installation and the desire to prioritize linearity over sheer output. The 100-watt power handling allows for comfortable sound levels in home environments, while maintaining a welcome safety margin.
The frequency response, ranging from 65 Hz to 20 kHz, offers respectable bass extension for an in-wall speaker. This performance allows for pure stereo use for background music, though a subwoofer is still recommended for demanding hi-fi applications or home theater setups where deep bass is essential for full immersion.
The stereo nature of the IC6ST opens up original usage possibilities. In small spaces where installing two separate speakers is problematic, it offers an elegant solution that preserves channel separation. This unique feature in the Architect IN range also makes it a relevant choice for Dolby Atmos configurations, where it can deliver height channels with greater spatial coherence than traditional mono solutions.
The IC6ST is the only stereo model in the range, featuring two adjustable tweeters that enable stereo sound from a single speaker. The other models in the series are traditional mono speakers that require installation in pairs to achieve a stereo effect.
The tweeters are manually oriented by gently swiveling them toward the main listening area. Their 35 to 40-degree range in all directions offers great flexibility without the need for special tools. Usually, a simple adjustment by ear is enough to optimize directivity.
The IC6ST is perfectly suited for Atmos configurations as a ceiling speaker. Its stereo nature even provides an advantage in terms of spatialization for height effects, especially in setups where the number of ceiling speakers must be limited.
The speaker can be installed in any hollow ceiling with at least 105 millimeters of mounting depth. Plasterboard ceilings (BA13), suspended false ceilings, and wooden structures are all suitable, provided the 200-millimeter circular cutout is respected.
For background music, the 65 Hz extension may be sufficient. However, for critical hi-fi listening or home theater use, adding a subwoofer will provide the necessary low-end support, especially for special effects and bass instruments.
The supplied white grille accepts most acrylic or alkyd paints after light sanding and the application of a primer. This customization allows the speaker to blend perfectly with the ceiling color.
Although the IC6ST already delivers a stereo signal, using two units is possible to cover larger spaces. In this case, spacing the speakers 2 to 4 meters apart, depending on ceiling height and listening area, ensures even coverage without interference.
Jean-michel
What better way to complete your Dolby Atmos setup.
Comment from November 13, 2022 — Experience from October 24, 2022