ArtSound HPSQ525 (pack of 2)

A frame barely one millimeter thick, a grille that attaches magnetically, and a tweeter that can be aimed at the listening area: the HPSQ525 embodies the philosophy of the Happi range, whose name – “oxygen” in Finnish – evokes lightness and discretion. This 2-way on-wall speaker, designed by Belgian manufacturer ArtSound, naturally finds its place in living areas such as the kitchen or bathroom, including in humid environments.

A square format designed for architectural integration

The HPSQ525 adopts a square 170 × 170 mm silhouette that integrates harmoniously with the geometric lines of contemporary interiors. With a mounting depth of 80 mm and a cutout of 148 × 148 mm, it fits into most standard partition walls and suspended ceilings. Its low weight – one kilogram per speaker – also makes installation easier.

The ABS frame houses an aluminum grille with a smooth, satin surface. This finish allows for several coats of paint so the speaker blends into the surrounding décor, whether it’s a white wall, a colored shade, or a textured finish. The magnetic mounting system lets you remove the grille without tools, making access to the drivers and cleaning easier.

Simplified installation thanks to the patented screw system

ArtSound has developed a proprietary mounting mechanism that reduces installation time. Once the cutout is made, the speaker is held in place by clamping tabs operated by screws accessible from the front. No rear access is required, a notable advantage during renovation work or when installing in an existing ceiling.

Connection is via spring terminals compatible with standard speaker cable gauges. The 8 Ω impedance ensures compatibility with the vast majority of hi-fi amplifiers and custom installation amps, whether stereo or multiroom.

Two-way coaxial acoustic configuration

The HPSQ525 is based on a 2-way coaxial architecture: the tweeter is placed at the center of the woofer so that both sound sources radiate from the same point. This layout promotes phase coherence and even sound quality, regardless of the listener’s position in the room.

The 13.3 cm (5.25-inch) woofer uses an aluminum cone combined with a rubber surround. This rigid, lightweight material allows for a fast response on transients while resisting ambient humidity. The 1.9 cm (0.75-inch) dome tweeter also uses aluminum and benefits from a neodymium magnet for high sensitivity. Its pivoting mount allows you to direct the high frequencies toward the main listening area, a useful function when the speaker is installed high up or off-axis from the listener.

The frequency response extends from 60 Hz to 20 kHz, a range sufficient to reproduce most musical content without systematically resorting to a subwoofer. For deeper bass lovers or in large open spaces, adding a subwoofer remains an option.

Moisture resistance for wet rooms and covered terraces

Speakers in the Happi series benefit from a water-repellent treatment on their components and grille. The HPSQ525 therefore tolerates splashes and steam-laden air such as you find in a bathroom or near a cooking area. This protection also makes it suitable for covered terraces and pool houses, provided it remains sheltered from direct rainfall. It is not certified for prolonged exposure to rain or immersion.

ArtSound emphasizes that this moisture resistance does not alter the sound signature: the crossover and aluminum drivers avoid the muffled or nasal tone sometimes heard with entry-level waterproof speakers.

Power handling and coverage area

With a sensitivity of 88 dB (1 W/1 m), the HPSQ525 delivers a comfortable sound level for a living room or kitchen with a modest-power amplifier. The recommended amplification range is from 10 to 100 watts, leaving substantial flexibility depending on the existing equipment.

ArtSound estimates optimal coverage for rooms of 30 to 40 m², roughly corresponding to a fitted kitchen, a spacious bedroom, or a generously sized bathroom. In a larger or very open space, installing a second pair of speakers will provide more even coverage.

Matching components and complementary accessories

The HPSQ525 pairs easily with the brand’s built-in or connected amplifiers. The ART3.1BT receiver-amplifier, compact and designed for ceiling integration, offers 2 × 15 W of power and receives signals via Bluetooth, FM/DAB, or an auxiliary input. For a more comprehensive system with access to streaming services (Spotify, Deezer, Qobuz, Tidal), the Smart Hyde amplifier provides 2 × 50 W and compatibility with AirPlay, DLNA, and Wi‑Fi.

On the accessories side, ArtSound offers the MDF KITSQ4 kit, a prefabricated back box that optimizes the air volume behind the speaker and reduces unwanted resonances in lightweight partition walls. A replacement grille is also available if the original finish becomes damaged or if you want a second grille painted in a different color.

Technical specifications

Acoustic performance

• Frequency response: 60 Hz - 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: 88 dB
• Impedance: 8 Ω
• Coverage: under 50 m²
• Configuration: 2-way coaxial

Speakers

• Woofer: 13.3 cm (5.25”) aluminum cone with rubber surround
• Tweeter: 1.9 cm (0.75”) pivoting aluminum dome with neodymium magnet

Power

• Recommended amplifier power: 10 - 100 W

Dimensions and installation

• External dimensions (H x W x D): 170 x 170 x 80 mm
• Cutout dimensions (H x W): 148 x 148 mm
• Unit weight: 1 kg
• Shape: square

Construction

• Materials: ABS, aluminum grille