Lithe Audio launches WiSA certified in-ceiling speakers for Dolby Atmos applications

Lithe Audio has launched its first WiSA Certified Pro Series Wi-Fi ceiling speakers, designed for custom installation and Dolby Atmos applications. The designers claim the Pro Series will make it easier for installers to meet the challenges offered by new builds, renovations or retrofits. Distribution is via Invision UK.

The Pro Series retail from £600 for a pair. Each speaker has a 2x30W RMS class D amplifier, with the option to power the speaker via the PoE module, or connecting to an existing lighting circuit or conventional plug point. The driver array comprises a 6.5-inch woven cone woofer, and a 19mm titanium tweeter.

Models offer AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Spotify Connect wireless connectivity, and voice control via Google and Amazon Alexa. The Pro Series has drivers for compatibility with home automation platforms Control4, Fibaro and Loxone.

The Lithe Audio Pro Series utilise the latest chip sets for PoE++ and take advantage of growing WiSA compatibility for Dolby Atmos home cinema systems. With no need to run speaker cables, just the provision of power, WiSA technology means the Dolby Atmos audio experience can be brought to a wider range of rooms.

The WiSA platform transmits 24bits at 48kHz/96kHz, with near zero latency (less than 1/10th the latency of a Bluetooth device) eliminating any potential lip-syncing issues. All the speakers in a WiSA system are certified to be synchronised within 1/1,000,000 of a second even when using all eight channels. The system automatically recognises audio configurations from 2.0 to 7.1 and 5.1.2 for ease of set up.

The speakers support dual band Wi-Fi. When powered directly from network cabling infrastructure via PoE++, the Pro Series uses the latest standard (IEEE 802.3bt) to deliver up 60W to each speaker via an PoE injector, which is sold separately.

In addition to Ethernet connectivity, there’s also an optical input.

All models can be updated with firmware and software additions over the network via the Lithe Audio app, delivered directly to the on-board memory of each speaker.

Amit Ravat, Co-Founder and Director of Lithe Audio said: “We have been building this product for two-years basing our approach on what has been successful with our other speakers and listening hard to the wants and needs of the custom installation community, which included bringing the wireless operability of WiSA technology into the fold. It’s our most high performance and feature rich creation yet.”

The Wi-Fi Pro series sell for £600 a pair, or £770 with PoE++ module. The WiSA bolt-on is £100. For more, visit Lithe Audio.