The three Ecler IC in-ceiling loudspeakers differ in driver size, power and coverage. This article compares the IC3, IC6i and IC8i using the manufacturer's specifications and suggests how to choose by ceiling height and intended use.
In-ceiling loudspeakers are a familiar choice for background music and paging because they sit neatly in the ceiling, take up no space and give even coverage. Ecler's IC range comes in several sizes and works on both 70/100 V lines and 8 ohm low impedance. Choosing the right size from the start gives a system that sounds even, does not need to be turned up loud and does not require extra amplifiers.
Quick comparison of the three models
- IC3: 3-inch driver, 1-way, 10 W RMS, sensitivity 86 dB (1 W/1 m), frequency range 110 Hz–20 kHz, 100 V power taps: 6 / 3 / 1.5 W. Outer diameter 105 mm, cut-out 90 mm, shaped like a recessed downlight.
- IC6i: 6.5-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter, 2-way, 40 W RMS, sensitivity 93 dB, frequency range 75 Hz–20 kHz, coverage angle 163°, 100 V taps: 2.5 / 5 / 7.5 / 15 W.
- IC8i: 8-inch woofer and 1-inch dome tweeter, 2-way, 60 W RMS, sensitivity 94 dB, frequency range 65 Hz–20 kHz, coverage angle 152°, 100 V taps: 5 / 7.5 / 15 / 30 W.
When to choose the IC3
The IC3 suits places that need a truly discreet loudspeaker playing only light background music or announcements: corridors, restrooms, spa treatment rooms, reception desks, low ceilings. Because the driver is small and the low-frequency range starts at 110 Hz, the IC3 is not meant for areas that need music with impact. In return, the cut-out is only 90 mm, so it is easy to line up in the same row as recessed downlights.
When to choose the IC6i
The IC6i is the balanced model for most restaurants, cafés, shops and offices with ceilings of about 2.7–3.5 m. It is a 2-way loudspeaker, so vocals and speech are clearer than with a 1-way loudspeaker, and the 93 dB sensitivity helps reach the required listening level with a low power tap. The wide 163° coverage angle allows wider loudspeaker spacing while the sound stays even.
Photo: the Kulinarna Kamienica food and dining complex (Poznań, Poland), a project that uses Ecler IC6i in-ceiling loudspeakers. Photo credit: Ecler.
When to choose the IC8i
The IC8i is used when the ceiling is higher, the space is large or the music needs fuller bass: hotel lobbies, large restaurants, showrooms, multi-purpose rooms. Its maximum continuous sound level of 112 dB and its 30 W tap at 100 V give far more headroom than the IC6i (109 dB, highest tap 15 W).
Three shared features worth noting
- The IC6i and IC8i have a frameless magnetic grille that can be removed and painted to match the ceiling colour; the logo is also removable.
- The polypropylene woofer withstands heat and humidity, suiting hot and humid climates.
- Built-in transformer: the same loudspeaker can be used on a 70/100 V line or at 8 ohm.
Photo: the restaurant at Hotel Bonito Ibiza (Spain), a multi-zone audio project that uses IC6i in-ceiling loudspeakers. Photo credit: Ecler.
Layout suggestions
As a rule of thumb in background music design, the spacing between in-ceiling loudspeakers should be roughly 1.5 to 2 times the distance from the ceiling to the listener's ears. The higher the ceiling, the further apart the loudspeakers can be placed, but the higher the power tap they need. Choose a power tap that is just sufficient, then add up the total to choose the amplifier, leaving about 20% headroom.
Liza Trading is the Ecler distributor in Vietnam. Dealers and contractors can send their floor plan for advice on loudspeaker model and quantity, and for support with equipment bills of quantities.
