Speakers In My Ceiling

[craigyb85]

I want to install just one speaker in the ceiling of either my bathroom or kitchen - I haven't decided which yet. I want to feed it directly from my TV or Surround Sound system thingy. I would have thought it would be quite simple - just plugging in a pair of speaker cables. But most of the ceiling speakers I've seen, say things about 100v lines and terminal blocks and all sorts! I'm worried I'm gonna end up electrocuting myself! Does anyone have any knowledge on this or any suggestions?

[Ray the DJ]

You can buy simple speakers from any audio specialist or Maplin's in the UK (or Radio Shack in the USA) Only one speaker would mean you would lose the stereo effect. You have to use speakers for right and left to appreciate a good sound. If your TV or sound system has 'audio out' sockets, buy leads with the correct type plugs. Connect each lead to your speakers and that will do it. For a proper stereo sound the polarity of the speakers is important, so make sure the connections to both speakers are identical. Also keep the leads to each speaker the same length.

[craigyb85]

Thanks, Ray. I'm not bothered about stereo sound or fantastic quality. It's mainly for background music or something to dance to while I'm in the shower (instead of my singing!) I've obviously just been looking at the wrong speakers - all of which talk about that 100v line thing. Others say they're 8ohm. I think those might be the ones I need. Thanks again.

[Tweed]

The speakers you have been looking at are for the likes of department stores where the speaker is situated far away from the source. A normal 8 ohm passive (not powered) speaker would be sufficient for domestic use.

[Upforit]

My advice, you seem uncertain, it is electriciry, pay somebody to do the job. Don't put yourself at risk. An ordinary hi-fi speaker system can carry 100 volts to the speakers and can cause harm.