Installing your own in-wall, in-ceiling, or on-wall speakers can give you a good-looking, great-sounding audio system. This guide includes detailed information to help you install in-wall, in-ceiling, or on-wall speakers. If you plan to install speakers in a new or finished home where you'll need to run in-wall wire, read our article on wiring your home. It'll give you information on planning your wire route, the tools you'll need, and how to install in-wall wiring.

Some people don't feel comfortable with certain aspects of the in-wall or in-ceiling speaker installation process. If you'd prefer not to do it yourself, call our A/V Designers at 1-800-555-9407 and we'll set you up with a certified professional installer in your area. (Installer service available for single-room installations only.)

Before you get started

Make sure that you have a thorough understanding of local building and fire codes. Also, make sure you know what's behind the wall or ceiling into which you plan to install your speakers. Finally, read and follow the safety guidelines below, as well as those in the owner's manual.

Safety tips

• When working on a ladder:
  • Place your ladder in a stable position close to where you're working. Don't reach.
  • Always have one hand on the ladder.
  • Face the ladder when ascending or descending.
  • Don't carry heavy items up the ladder that could cause you to lose your balance and fall.
• When working in the attic:
  • If it's not a finished attic, be careful to walk only on ceiling joists.
  • These areas are often poorly ventilated. Stay hydrated and use a fan to circulate air if you can. Make sure someone knows that you're up there, and take breaks when you need to.
• Make sure the area behind your wall is clear before cutting.
• Turn off the power in areas you'll be drilling to avoid electric shock.
• If there might be live power lines behind the wall around your pilot hole, wrap the exploratory wire with electrical tape.
• Unplug your receiver before connecting your speakers.

Can you install the speakers yourself?

Take a look at the chart below. What kind of installation do you want to do? Do you feel confident about the skills and tools involved?

See the chart above to determine which tools you'll need to install your own speakers. You may also want a partner's help with certain parts of the installation.