ArtSound MDC401 (pack of 2)

A compact design, simple installation, and honest sound: the MDC401 embodies the philosophy behind ArtSound’s Basic range. This round in-ceiling model favors efficiency over ostentation. Behind its discreet metal grille lies a two-way coaxial system capable of sound coverage for rooms up to 40 m², without cluttering either your visual space or your budget.

A compact and coherent coaxial system

The MDC401 is based on a coaxial architecture where the 13 mm polycarbonate tweeter is positioned at the center of the 10 cm woofer. This configuration lets the sound waves emanate from a single point, improving the coherence of the reproduction—particularly appreciable when listening from different spots around the room.

The woofer uses a carbon-reinforced polypropylene cone, a material that offers a good balance of lightness and rigidity. The frequency response extends from 90 Hz to 20 kHz: deep bass is not on the menu, but the midrange and treble are handled with ease for background music or TV sound reinforcement.

Dimensions designed for easy integration

With an outer diameter of 165 mm and a depth of only 70 mm, the MDC401 slips into most suspended ceilings without requiring any special modifications. The 135 mm circular cutout matches common standards, and the modest weight of 750 grams per speaker makes mounting easier.

The ABS chassis provides good resistance to mechanical stress while keeping the weight reasonable. The metal grille protecting the drivers can be painted to blend in with the ceiling: a coat of acrylic paint is enough to make the speaker disappear into its surroundings.

Connections and amplification

The 8 Ω impedance and 86 dB sensitivity allow the MDC401 to be paired with most hi-fi or home cinema amplifiers on the market. ArtSound recommends power between 10 and 85 watts per channel. A small 2×20 W stereo amp will be suitable for moderate listening in a bedroom or office, while a more powerful setup will be preferable for a living room or commercial space.

Connection is via spring terminals, compatible with standard speaker cable from 1.5 to 2.5 mm². No active electronics are built in: the speaker is entirely passive, which simplifies installation since you only need to run a cable from the amplifier.

Versatile installation

The stated coverage of 40 m² corresponds to typical background music use. In practice, the effective area depends on ceiling height, room acoustics, and desired listening level. For higher-volume listening or open spaces, installing several pairs will ensure more even coverage without pushing each speaker to its limits.

The round shape and discreet profile of the MDC401 make it suitable for a variety of environments: living room, bedroom, office, hallway, as well as shops, medical practices, or waiting rooms. For damp rooms such as bathrooms, it’s better to choose the waterproof models in the range (MDC6 or MDC64).

Technical specifications

Acoustic performance

• Frequency range: 90 Hz - 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 86 dB
• Impedance: 8 Ω
• Recommended amplifier power: 10 - 85 W

System configuration

• Type: 2-way coaxial system
• Woofer: 10 cm carbon polypropylene
• Tweeter: 13 mm polycarbonate

Dimensions and installation

• Dimensions: Ø 165 x 70 mm (diameter x depth)
• Cutout diameter: Ø 135 mm
• Weight per unit: 0.75 kg
• Shape: round

Construction and materials

• Composition: ABS / metal grille
• Quality: good

General information

• Coverage area: less than 40 m²