Lithe Audio Adds Ethernet distribution to PoE speaker Bolt-On platform

Lithe Audio has expanded the capabilities of its patented PoE Bolt-On platform with the addition of combined power and network distribution over a single cable, a move aimed squarely at simplifying infrastructure requirements for custom installers.

Designed for the company’s PRO Series ceiling speakers, the upgraded module enables both power delivery and Ethernet networking through one PoE++ cable, reducing the need for separate cabling runs in residential and commercial audio projects.

The original PoE Bolt-On delivered PoE++ input with power pass-through allowed Lithe Audio PRO Series ceiling speakers to be powered via a single CAT cable, eliminating the need for a local mains feed at the speaker position.

The enhanced module introduces an important upgrade to the design by now adding an Ethernet network output alongside the PoE++ input. In practice, this means a single PoE++ cable can simultaneously power the speaker and deliver a live network connection, reducing what was previously a two-cable run (power and network) to one.

Applications include single-room residential systems, whole-home audio, apartment developments, hospitality venues, retail environments and commercial spaces where conventional high-voltage cabling may be impractical or cost-prohibitive.

The module conforms to the IEEE 802.3bt PoE++ Type 3 standard, delivering up to 60W per device over standard CAT5e or CAT6 cabling across distances of up to 100 metres. The compact 80mm by 80mm module clips directly onto compatible PRO Series speakers and incorporates onboard PoE-to-DC conversion, eliminating the need for external power hardware.

The revision retains support for individually addressable speakers over IP, with systems capable of supporting up to 10 speakers. By integrating amplification and networking directly into the speaker ecosystem, the need for separate amplifiers is removed.

Lithe Audio says the modular approach remains central to the platform’s design philosophy. Rather than embedding PoE functionality into every PRO Series speaker as standard, the company has opted for an add-on architecture that allows installers to specify PoE capability only where required.

According to Wesley Siu, co-founder of Lithe Audio, the system was developed to provide greater deployment flexibility while keeping the broader speaker range cost-effective.

“The PoE Bolt-On was created to give installers the freedom to upgrade PRO Series speakers with PoE capability whenever their project demands it,” he said. “Rather than building PoE into every speaker and increasing cost for installations that don’t need it, we developed a modular approach that keeps the platform cost-effective while still offering full PoE deployment at any time.”

He added that the integrated PoE-to-DC conversion and new Ethernet output significantly streamline installation.

The enhanced PoE Bolt-On module is available now through Lithe Audio’s UK trade distribution network.