Definitive Technology UIW RLS II Reference In-Wall Speaker

Definitive Technology UIW RLS II Reference In-Wall Speaker

The Definitive Technology UIW RLS II is a Reference Line Source in-wall loudspeaker, sold individually, engineered to deliver the performance of a full-size freestanding speaker from a flush-mounted installation. Unlike open-back in-wall designs whose sound depends on the wall cavity behind them, the RLS II is a completely enclosed loudspeaker: its drivers are mounted in a sealed, non-resonant Medite enclosure that forms part of the product. That integrated cabinet is the core of the design, giving consistent bass and midrange performance in every installation, whether the speaker serves as a left, centre or right channel, or as surrounds in a high-performance home theatre.

Key features

• Sealed Medite enclosure: Non-resonant integrated cabinet for consistent, installation-independent performance.
• Twin 6.5-inch bass and mid drivers: Cast-basket drivers arranged as a line source around the tweeter for natural midrange.
• Twin 6.5-inch bass radiators: Pressure-driven radiators that extend low-frequency output from the sealed enclosure.
• 1-inch pure aluminium dome tweeter: Positioned between the mid drivers for smooth, detailed high frequencies.
• 22 Hz to 30 kHz frequency response: Full-range specification unusual for an in-wall speaker.
• 92 dB efficiency: High sensitivity with recommended amplification from 10 to 350 watts.
• Vertical or horizontal mounting: Works as left, centre, right or surround, including a horizontally mounted centre channel.
• Paintable grille and flange: Flush finish that can be painted to match the room, with cut-out template and paint mask supplied.

Why the enclosure matters

Most in-wall speakers use the wall itself as their cabinet, so studs, insulation and cavity depth change the result from room to room. The RLS II removes that variable. Its sealed Medite box defines the air volume the drivers work against, which keeps bass tight and midrange uncoloured and makes performance predictable before the wall is closed. Rotating dogleg clamps secure the speaker firmly in new or existing construction, avoiding the vibration and buzz that loose mountings can introduce. The required cut-out is 7 inches wide by 28.5 inches high with 3.875 inches of depth, and the outer flange measures 8.125 by 29.75 inches.

System roles and amplification

With 92 dB efficiency and compatibility with 8 ohm amplifier outputs, the RLS II reaches high output levels without demanding extreme power, yet its 10 to 350 watt recommended range also accommodates substantial amplification for large rooms. The manufacturer suggests a 40 Hz crossover setting when the speaker is used with a subwoofer in an AV receiver system, although its rated extension allows full-range use in smaller rooms or stereo pairs. Because each unit is identical and can mount vertically or horizontally, matched front stages of three speakers behind or around a screen keep dialogue and effects tonally consistent across the front of the room.

Installation considerations

The speaker weighs 17 lbs (7.7 kg) and connects through one pair of gold-plated, spring-loaded posts accepting bare wire, pins or banana plugs. Professional installation is worthwhile: stud positions, cut-out accuracy and cable routing all affect the final result, and the enclosure depth must be confirmed against the wall construction before cutting. Once fitted, only the paintable grille remains visible, so the room keeps a clean architectural finish while the system retains full-range capability.

For dedicated theatres and living spaces where visible speakers are not acceptable but performance still matters, the UIW RLS II remains a reference point for what an enclosed in-wall loudspeaker can do.