KEF Introduces A Motorized In-Wall Surround Speaker

The Ci FDT Custom Installation Speaker Automatically Changes Position to Diffuse Surround Sound Effects Evenly Throughout the Room

6-Jul-05

The most exciting home theater experience relies on an audio systemís ability to completely surround the audience with realistic sound effects. The engineers at KEF made this the core design concept behind the new Ci FDT Motorized Rear/Dipole Surround Loudspeaker, the latest addition to the companyís Ci Series of custom installation products. This in-wall loudspeaker lies flush within the wall when not in use, and features a motorized, flat-panel, high frequency driver that automatically extends outward to evenly deliver surround effects throughout the entire room. The Ci FDTís combination of unobtrusive installation and audio engineering creates an immersive film experience. ìIn-wall surround speakers are the perfect solution for many dÈcor-conscious homeowners because they virtually disappear within any interior style, but often thereís a sacrifice in accuracy due to their static position,î said Alec Chanin, President of KEF America. ìWhile the Ci FDT resembles other in-wall speakers at first glance, when activated, it becomes clear that this speakerís look and sound is unlike any other on the market. Because our proprietary flat-panel driver fully extends from the wall, it is able to envelope the entire audience with uniform surround sound effects. This results in a deep and stable soundstage that heightens the movieís realism for each listener, and makes the home theaterís performance truly breathtaking.î The Ci FDT represents KEFís success in advancing the application of surround sound, combining precision with the aesthetic versatility of an in-wall speaker. The Ci FDTís high-frequency driver uses KEFís proprietary, flat-panel array, which produces clear and robust sound using a design slim enough to maintain full mobility between its active and inactive positions. When the audio system is turned on, the high-frequency driver automatically moves to stand perpendicular to the wall.? Its natural-dipole design further broadens the sound dispersion achieved by this position, filling the room with surround effects, including seats outside of the typical ìsweet spot.î Balancing the high-frequency driverís performance is a 5-inch bass/midrange cone. When the system is turned off, the flat-panel driver automatically returns to its flush-to-the-wall position. As the newest addition to KEFís Custom Installation series, the Ci FDT is built for seamless integration, not only within a home but also within an installerís palette of audio/video tools. In addition to its flush-to-wall mounting, the speakerís neutral-colored bezel and grill can be painted to match its surroundings. The speaker has also undergone rigorous testing at every stage of manufacture to ensure reliable performance with the variety of high-end sources, components, and systems favored by custom installers. The Ci FDT will be available to KEF dealers in mid September. MSRP is $499.99 each.

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