The Klipsch Designer Series DS-160W In-Wall Speaker brings Klipsch's signature horn-loaded sound to a discreet architectural design built for home theater, distributed audio, and two-channel listening. A 6.5-inch polypropylene woofer handles bass and midrange reproduction, while a 1-inch silk-dome tweeter is mated to a round Tractrix horn for controlled dispersion, detailed high frequencies, and the efficient, dynamic presentation associated with Klipsch loudspeakers.
Designed to deliver strong performance without drawing attention to the speaker itself, the DS-160W installs flush within the wall and is finished with a bezel-free, paintable magnetic grille. Klipsch's patented Sky Hook installation system automatically engages the mounting legs with a preset clamping force, simplifying installation while helping prevent overtightening. With a shallow 3.78-inch mounting depth, the DS-160W provides a flexible solution for whole-home music, discreet stereo systems, and architectural home theaters.
Key Features & Innovations
Klipsch horn-loaded performance — the Klipsch Designer Series DS-160W In-Wall Speaker incorporates the same fundamental Tractrix horn design principles found throughout Klipsch's traditional loudspeaker lineup in a discreet architectural format.
6.5-inch polypropylene woofer — the lightweight, rigid woofer provides controlled bass and midrange reproduction for music, movie soundtracks, television, and distributed-audio applications.
1-inch silk-dome tweeter — the soft-dome high-frequency driver is designed to deliver clear, detailed treble reproduction while maintaining a smooth presentation for music and entertainment.
Round Tractrix horn — the silk-dome tweeter is coupled to Klipsch's horn architecture to improve efficiency and control high-frequency dispersion throughout the listening area.
91dB sensitivity — the DS-160W's efficient design allows it to achieve substantial output without requiring unusually high amplifier power.
50W RMS / 200W peak power handling — provides ample dynamic capability for distributed audio, two-channel listening, and home theater applications.
77Hz–20kHz frequency response — provides useful bandwidth for music and entertainment systems, while integration with a dedicated subwoofer can extend reproduction into the lowest bass frequencies.
Patented Sky Hook installation system — Klipsch's tool-free mounting technology automatically engages the mounting legs when the speaker is inserted into the wall opening.
Preset clamping force — the Sky Hook system applies controlled pressure to the mounting surface, helping provide a secure fit while reducing the possibility of overtightening.
Faster installation — Klipsch states that its Sky Hook system can reduce installation time by up to 75 percent compared with conventional architectural speaker mounting systems.
Infinite-baffle design — the DS-160W is designed to operate within the wall cavity without requiring a conventional freestanding speaker enclosure.
Bezel-free magnetic grille — the powder-coated magnetic steel grille provides a clean, contemporary appearance with minimal visible trim surrounding the speaker.
Paintable white grille — the included grille can be painted to coordinate with the surrounding wall, allowing the finished speaker to visually recede into the room.
Versatile system applications — the DS-160W can be used for distributed and whole-home audio, stereo listening, or as part of a discreet architectural home theater system.
FAQ — Klipsch DS-160W
What is the Klipsch DS-160W designed for?
The DS-160W is a versatile in-wall speaker designed for home theater, distributed and whole-home audio, and two-channel listening. Its architectural format provides Klipsch horn-loaded sound without requiring a conventional speaker cabinet in the room.
What makes the DS-160W different from the Klipsch CS-16W?
The DS-160W is part of Klipsch's Designer Series and uses a 1-inch silk-dome tweeter coupled to a round Tractrix horn, while the Custom Series CS-16W uses a conventional polymer tweeter. The horn-loaded high-frequency design is a key distinction of the Designer Series and brings the DS-160W closer to Klipsch's traditional loudspeaker design philosophy.
What does the Tractrix horn do?
The round Tractrix horn controls the dispersion of the tweeter and improves acoustic efficiency. This helps the DS-160W deliver clear, dynamic high-frequency reproduction throughout its intended listening area while making effective use of amplifier power.
What is the Klipsch Sky Hook installation system?
Klipsch's Sky Hook system automatically engages the speaker's mounting legs when the DS-160W is inserted into the wall cutout. A preset clamping force provides a secure fit while helping prevent overtightening and reducing installation time.
Can the DS-160W be used for home theater?
Yes. The DS-160W is designed for home theater as well as distributed audio and two-channel listening. Depending on the room and system design, it can be incorporated into front-channel, surround, or other architectural speaker positions.
Does the DS-160W need a subwoofer?
A subwoofer is not required for every application, but it is recommended for systems where deeper bass and greater low-frequency impact are desired. The DS-160W has a specified frequency response of 77Hz–20kHz ±3dB, so a properly integrated subwoofer can significantly extend the system's low-frequency performance.
Can the DS-160W grille be painted?
Yes. The included bezel-free magnetic grille is white and paintable, allowing it to be matched more closely to the surrounding wall for a discreet architectural installation.
Why Buy From Us
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Expert advice on architectural speaker placement, amplification, whole-home audio, stereo systems, and home theater design
Professional in-wall speaker installation, system integration, wiring, calibration, and complete AV system optimization
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