Lithe Audio’s WiSA-based Wireless Cinema Hub allows integrators to install a home theatre system quickly and efficiently in virtually any space.

The WiSA standard (Wireless Speaker and Audio), is a technology designed to simplify the setup of high-quality, multi-channel audio systems. It can support up to eight channels of uncompressed 24-bit/96kHz audio, and offer low latency of around 5.2 milliseconds, which helps maintain audio-video sync.

It’s also interoperable. WiSA-certified products from different brands can work seamlessly together. This includes products from big hitters, like LG, Bang & Olufsen, and Harman.

Here, Lithe Audio have used it as a bedrock for an entire home cinema system.

The UK-based electronics specialist has effectively thrown the home cinema rulebook out of the window, creating an AVR-free package that can be installed and expanded with ease.

For AV professionals, this means no need to pull cables or compromise on hardware.

‘Wireless technology is only getting better,” Amit Ravat, Director, Lithe Audio, told us. “We see it as the future. We’re a problem solver for many of the projects out there, or a lower cost option to a cinema setup.”

But does it sound any good? Inside CI travelled to Lithe Audio’s Salfords base, to put the system through its paces.

Lithe Audio WiSA-based Wireless Cinema Hub: Features and installation

Lithe Audio has carved a name for itself with novel Bluetooth and WiSA-enabled architectural speakers, so a home cinema package seems a logical development.

The 5.1.2 system comprises the Cinema Hub, six WiSA iO1 on-wall speakers, two WiSA-enabled PRO Ceiling speakers and the Lithe Audio Cinema Subwoofer. Speakers are paired to the Hub using either a Pairing button on the enclosure, or via software on the accompanying setup app.

The Hub is compatible with Dolby Atmos, Dolby True HD and Dolby Digital+. While the system favours Dolby out of the box, it can also support DTS:X. Those requiring the DTS codec need to pay the DTS licence, which is an additional, optional cost. The team at Lithe Audio will upload it on request.

The WiSA iO1 is an all-weather active speaker that can be used both inside and out. It’s waterproof, with an IP-66 rating. 

While the iO1 can be used outdoors, it’s stylish enough for domestic duties, with sculptured edges that lend it a contemporary, high-tech appearance. Power output is 2x50W.

The WiSA-enabled subwoofer has a low-profile design that enables it to slide out of view, perhaps beneath a sofa. Dual ported, it packs a potent 8-inch driver. Onboard amplification is 150W. Multiple subs can be used together if required.

Setup is uncomplicated. Using the Lithe Audio config app, installers can utilise Automatic Room Correction, to suit the size, shape, and acoustic properties of the listening space.

It's possible to fix volume for a specific input; adjust lip sync adjustment, and tweak bass management for specific speakers. Installers can also set speaker distances manually or even EQ right across the spectrum.

Speakers can be assigned to any given channel. Content playback comes via individual player apps.

The supplied remote control can also be used with an on-screen display, which is clean and intuitive. This OSD offers access to Source setup, Signal Mixing, Speaker and Network Setup, EQ and System Settings.

One appealing aspect of the Lithe Audio proposition is its scalability. Multiple speakers can be assigned individual channel duties. For this audition two speakers were assigned to the centre, with double stacked iO1 speakers positioned left and right.

This also opens up the door to easy whole home audio. Simply put the enclosure where required and assign it a channel.

The multi-purpose iO1 speaker comes with six mounting options. These include corner and eaves mounting, as well as a pendant mount, the latter ideal when dealing with a vaulted ceiling, or simply placing audio above the hot tub.

There are also ground spikes, which enable speakers to surround a pool area. Versatility is the name of the game.

Reassuringly compact, the Cinema Hub has three HDMI inputs, plus one HDMI eARC connection, an Aux line input, and two optical digital audio inputs. There’s also Ethernet, to support Wi-Fi, and a USB service port. A single aerial is provided for wireless connectivity.

All digital, all wireless, there’s no space allocated to traditional speaker binding posts. The connected feature set is comprehensive, with Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, and Spotify onboard. Overall build quality is high.

Lithe Audio WiSA-based Wireless Cinema Hub: Performance

In full flight, the system sounds dynamic and involving. Configured for 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos, there’s plenty of sonic excitement. The space ambush, which occurs early on in the Jennifer Lopez sci-fi actioner Atlas (Netflix) sees every channel utilised, with explosions and rockets flying in from every corner.

The Home Cinema subwoofer delivers LFE with considerable effect. It may be low profile, but there’s no questioning its ability to slam large. Dialogue is crisp and clear, even when the soundstage is fully occupied.

The beauty of the Lithe Audio Wireless Home Cinema Hub concept is that it brings immersive audio to almost any space. This isn’t just for media rooms. Integrators can offer it as a 3D audio solution in a kitchen diner, or apartments where traditional multichannel systems are a challenge to install.

The brand is positioning this package as a step up from a high-end soundbar, fulfilling a media room need before graduating to a dedicated theatre room. That seems exactly right. It’s a lot of fun with movies and music, and would sound great with sports too.

The key to the soundfield’s integrity is the low latency of the WiSA standard. Objects move around the soundstage seamlessly. It’s a very polished performance.

Lithe Audio WiSA-based Wireless Cinema Hub: Verdict

Lithe Audio is clearly ahead of the curve with this WiSA cinema solution. It’s simplicity should prove irresistible when there’s a requirement to deliver surround into non-conventional spaces. Consequently, it comes highly recommended. 

The Lithe Audio Home Cinema system is available now, in various configurations, including 3.1, 5.1, 7.1, and 5.1.2 Atmos. Prices start from £1,284. More details can be found here.

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