YAMAHA NS-IC800 8-Inch In-Ceiling Speaker or YAMAHA NS-IW660 3-Way In-Wall Speaker? Which YAMAHA Model to Buy
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This guide compares the yamaha ns ic800 140 watt 8 inch vs ns iw660 3 way in wall speaker. Both models share an 8 Ohm impedance rating, ensuring compatibility with most standard amplifiers. The primary difference lies in their design and placement. The NS-IC800 is a two-way in-ceiling speaker with an 8-inch woofer, while the NS-IW660 is a three-way in-wall unit with a smaller 6.5-inch driver. You need to decide which form factor fits your room.
Key differences
| Aspect | Yamaha NS-IC800 8-Inch In-Ceiling Speaker Pair | Yamaha NS-IW660 3-Way In-Wall Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| Speaker Type | In-Ceiling | In-Wall |
| Configuration | 2-Way | 3-Way |
| Woofer Size | 8-Inch | 6.5-Inch |
| Midrange Driver | Not listed | 1-5/8" Aluminum dome |
| Tweeter Type | Dome | 1" Titanium dome |
| Dimensions | 11 x 11 x 4.3 inches | 11.4 x 8.9 x 3.1 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Yamaha NS-IC800 8-Inch In-Ceiling Speaker Pair if
- You want a larger 8-inch woofer for deeper bass response
- You are installing speakers in a ceiling cavity
- You prefer a simpler two-way driver configuration
Choose Yamaha NS-IW660 3-Way In-Wall Speaker if
- You need a dedicated midrange driver for clearer vocals
- You are mounting speakers in a wall stud bay
- You prefer a titanium dome tweeter for detailed highs
Verdict: Choose the NS-IC800 if you prioritize bass output and have ceiling space for an 8-inch driver. Select the NS-IW660 if you value three-way accuracy with a dedicated midrange and need to fit the speaker into a wall. Both offer reliable 8 Ohm performance for standard home theater setups.
NS-IC800 vs NS-IW660 Comparison
installation type
Your choice depends on where you plan to mount the speakers. The Yamaha NS-IC800 is designed specifically for in-ceiling installation. It features a white finish and measures 11 inches in width and height, with a depth of 4.3 inches. This model is sold as a pair. The Yamaha NS-IW660 is built for in-wall mounting. It has a black finish and measures 11.4 inches wide by 8.9 inches high, with a shallower depth of 3.1 inches. It is also available as a pair. You must select the model that matches your wall or ceiling cutout requirements.
woofer size
The bass response and driver size differ between these two models. The NS-IC800 features an 8-inch woofer. This larger cone can move more air, which typically provides deeper bass extension and higher output levels in the low frequencies. The NS-IW660 uses a 6.5-inch Kevlar cone woofer. While still capable of solid bass, the smaller driver may not match the low-frequency impact of the larger 8-inch unit in the NS-IC800. If you prioritize deep bass in your room, the larger driver size of the ceiling speaker offers a distinct advantage.
configuration
The internal crossover design affects how frequencies are handled. The NS-IC800 is a 2-way speaker system. It uses a dome tweeter and a single woofer, with a crossover frequency set at 3.50 kHz. This is a standard configuration for many ceiling speakers. The NS-IW660 is a 3-way system. It includes a separate 1-5/8-inch aluminum dome mid-range driver in addition to the woofer and tweeter. This three-driver setup allows for more detailed reproduction of mid-range frequencies, which are crucial for vocals and instruments, potentially offering clearer sound in that range.
power handling
Amplifier matching is important for safe and effective operation. The NS-IC800 has a maximum power handling of 140 watts and a nominal power handling of 50 watts. This indicates it can handle higher power inputs without damage. The NS-IW660 data does not explicitly list maximum or nominal wattage ratings. However, it does specify an 8-ohm impedance, same as the NS-IC800. Without explicit wattage data for the NS-IW660, you cannot directly compare their power limits. You should assume the NS-IC800 has clearly defined power limits for amplifier pairing.
frequency range
The audible range each speaker covers varies. The NS-IC800 lists a maximum frequency response of 28 kHz. This covers the upper limit of human hearing. The NS-IW660 specifies a frequency range from 50 Hz to 28 kHz. This confirms it reaches the same high-frequency limit. However, the NS-IW660 data also provides a low-frequency limit of 50 Hz. The NS-IC800 data does not list its low-frequency limit. The explicit 50 Hz low-end rating for the NS-IW660 gives you more information about its bass performance compared to the ceiling model.
Choose the Right Yamaha Speaker for You
You want deep bass in a ceiling mount
The NS-IC800 features an 8-inch woofer, which moves more air than the NS-IW660's 6.5-inch driver. This larger cone size helps produce lower frequencies more effectively. With a maximum power handling of 140 watts, it can handle higher volume levels. The 2-way configuration directs high frequencies through a dome tweeter. This setup is ideal if you prioritize low-end response in your ceiling installation.
You prefer detailed midrange and high frequencies
The NS-IW660 uses a 3-way design with a dedicated 1-5/8-inch aluminum dome midrange driver. This separation allows for clearer vocal reproduction and distinct instrument separation. The 1-inch titanium dome tweeter extends the high-frequency response. If you listen to acoustic music or voice-heavy content, this three-driver arrangement provides a more layered and precise soundstage compared to the 2-way NS-IC800.
You need a compact in-wall speaker
The NS-IW660 is designed for in-wall mounting with a shallower depth of 3.1 inches. The NS-IC800 requires a deeper cutout at 4.3 inches. If your wall cavity is shallow, the NS-IW660 fits more easily. Its 11.4-inch width and 8.9-inch height also offer a different footprint. This model is the practical choice when space constraints limit your installation options.
The products compared
Yamaha NS-IC800 8-Inch In-Ceiling Speaker Pair
Best for: ceiling installations needing high power
- Speaker Type
- In-Ceiling Speakers
- Woofer Size
- 8-Inch
- Configuration
- 2-Way
- Power Handling
- 140W / 50W
- Impedance
- 8 Ohm
- Tweeter Type
- Dome
View on Amazon: Yamaha NS-IC800 8-Inch In-Ceiling Speaker Pair Affiliate link
The Yamaha NS-IC800 is an 8-inch in-ceiling speaker with a 2-way configuration. It handles 140 watts maximum power and 50 watts nominal. The 8-ohm impedance ensures compatibility with most receivers. A dome tweeter and 3.5 kHz crossover frequency define its sound profile. This model suits you if you need high-output audio for a ceiling installation.
Pros
- 8-inch woofer for deep bass response
- 140W maximum power handling
- 8-ohm impedance for wide receiver compatibility
- Dome tweeter for clear highs
Cons
- 2-way configuration lacks a dedicated midrange driver
- In-ceiling design requires ceiling mounting
- No included mounting hardware listed in specs
Good fit if
- You need high power handling for large rooms
- You prefer 8-inch drivers for stronger bass
- You are installing speakers in a ceiling
Skip if
- You require in-wall mounting instead
- You need a 3-way speaker for better midrange clarity
- You want a smaller 6.5-inch footprint
Verdict: Yamaha 8-Inch In-Ceiling Speaker delivers robust power and bass for ceiling installations. It fits you if you prioritize output and depth over compact in-wall designs.
Yamaha NS-IW660 3-Way In-Wall Speaker
Best for: clean in-wall audio installations
- Speaker Type
- In-wall
- Configuration
- 3-way
- Impedance
- 8 ohms
- Tweeter Type
- 1" titanium dome
- Dimensions
- 3.1 × 11.4 × 8.9 inches
- Weight
- 4.4 pounds
View on Amazon: Yamaha NS-IW660 3-Way In-Wall Speaker Affiliate link
The Yamaha NS-IW660 is a 3-way in-wall speaker designed for custom installations. It uses a 6.5-inch Kevlar woofer, a 1.625-inch aluminum dome midrange, and a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter. The frequency range extends from 50Hz to 28kHz. With an 8-ohm impedance and high-level frequency control, it offers precise tuning. This model suits listeners who want integrated audio without visible equipment.
Pros
- Three-way configuration with dedicated woofer, midrange, and tweeter
- Titanium dome tweeter for detailed high frequencies
- High-level frequency control allows +3dB to -6dB adjustment
- Kevlar cone woofer for sturdy bass response
Cons
- Ceiling-mounted NS-IC800 has an 8-inch woofer for deeper bass
- Requires in-wall cutout and installation work
- Frequency range starts at 50Hz, limiting sub-bass output
Good fit if
- You want a clean, hidden audio setup
- You need precise high-frequency tuning via frequency control
- You prefer a dedicated midrange driver for clarity
Skip if
- You need deep bass without a subwoofer
- You want a plug-and-play surface speaker
- You prefer a smaller 6-inch driver size
Verdict: Yamaha NS-IW660 3-Way In-Wall Speaker delivers clear, tuned audio for those hiding speakers in walls. It fits listeners prioritizing midrange clarity and high-frequency precision over raw bass impact.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Yamaha NS-IC800 8-Inch In-Ceiling Speaker Pair | Yamaha NS-IW660 3-Way In-Wall Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| Speaker Type | In-Ceiling Speakers | In-wall |
| Woofer Size | 8-Inch | not stated |
| Configuration | 2-Way | 3-way |
| Power Handling | 140W / 50W | not stated |
| Impedance | 8 Ohm | 8 ohms |
| Tweeter Type | Dome | 1" titanium dome |
| Size | 8 Inch | not stated |
| Ways | 2-Way | 3-Way |
| Dimensions | 4.3 × 11 × 11 inches | 3.1 × 11.4 × 8.9 inches |
| Weight | 4.2 pounds | 4.4 pounds |
| Color | White | Black |
| Model | NS-IC800WH | NS-IW660 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Yamaha NS-IC800 as a regular in-wall speaker?
No, the NS-IC800 is designed strictly for in-ceiling installation. Its 8-inch driver and 2-way configuration are optimized for overhead mounting. Using it in a wall cutout may compromise sound quality and fit. The NS-IW660 is the better choice if you need a speaker that fits flush into a wall cavity.
Which speaker has better bass response, the NS-IC800 or NS-IW660?
The NS-IC800 offers stronger bass due to its larger 8-inch woofer. This driver moves more air than the smaller drivers in the NS-IW660. If you prioritize low-frequency depth and output, the ceiling-mounted NS-IC800 is the superior option. The NS-IW660 focuses more on midrange clarity than raw bass impact.
Do both speakers come in pairs or are they sold individually?
Both the NS-IC800 and NS-IW660 are sold as pairs. The NS-IC800 listing specifies a pair configuration, as does the NS-IW660. You receive two units for each model, which is standard for stereo audio setups. This allows you to create a balanced left and right channel setup easily.
What is the difference between a 2-way and 3-way speaker?
A 2-way speaker, like the NS-IC800, uses two drivers to handle sound. A 3-way speaker, like the NS-IW660, uses three drivers. The extra driver in the 3-way design typically improves midrange clarity and high-frequency precision. This makes the NS-IW660 suitable for listeners who value detailed vocal reproduction.
Which speaker is lighter and easier to handle during installation?
The NS-IC800 is slightly lighter at 4.2 pounds per unit. The NS-IW660 weighs 4.4 pounds per unit. The difference is minimal, but the NS-IC800 may be marginally easier to lift into a ceiling cutout. Both units have similar depth profiles, making them comparable in terms of physical handling.
Can the NS-IW660 be painted to match my wall color?
The NS-IW660 comes in a black finish. While you can paint speaker grilles, the frame may not accept paint well. The NS-IC800 features a white finish, which is easier to blend with most ceiling colors. Consider your room decor when choosing between the black wall model and the white ceiling model.
Which speaker is more compact for tight spaces?
The NS-IW660 is more compact in height, measuring 8.9 inches tall. The NS-IC800 is square, measuring 11 inches by 11 inches. If you have a narrow wall cavity, the NS-IW660 fits better. The NS-IC800 requires a larger circular or square cutout due to its wider diameter.