Daniel J SaitPowered by Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast broadcast technology, the new Lithe Audio ceiling speaker delivers synchronised wireless audio to an unlimited number of in-range compatible Auracast receivers, with amplification built in.
Lithe Audio, the UK specialist in all-in-one ceiling speakers, has announced the launch of its most advanced ceiling speaker to date: the 8in Bluetooth Auracast Ceiling Speaker (BT8). Built on the next-generation Bluetooth 5.4 LE Audio standard and incorporating Auracast broadcast technology, the speaker represents a major step forward for residential, commercial and assisted living audio installations.
With an integrated Class D amplifier, no external amplification is required, making the Lithe Audio Auracast speaker an installation-friendly, high-performance all-in-one ceiling speaker.
What is Auracast and Why Does It Matter?
Auracast is a Bluetooth broadcast audio standard developed by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG). Unlike traditional Bluetooth, which pairs one device to one receiver, Auracast enables a single audio source to broadcast simultaneously to an unlimited number of in-range compatible Auracast receivers.
Key advantages of Auracast technology include:
- One-to-many broadcasting: Stream audio from a single source to an unlimited number of in-range compatible Auracast receivers simultaneously, without relying on traditional network infrastructure.
- Superior audio quality and lower latency: LE Audio’s LC3 codec delivers richer, cleaner sound compared to traditional Bluetooth at lower data rates, while reduced audio delay helps ensure synchronised sound across receivers.
- Scalable wireless audio: Broadcast audio across compatible devices without the complexity of traditional multi-zone infrastructure.
- Hearing aid compatibility: Auracast-enabled devices can stream directly to compatible hearing aids, offering a modern alternative or complement to legacy assistive listening systems.
- Future-facing standard: As Auracast becomes more widely adopted, compatibility with smartphones, tablets and consumer audio devices is expected to continue to expand.
A Complete Audio Solution in a Single Unit
The new Lithe Audio speaker combines the performance of a traditional multi-component system into a single, discreetly designed ceiling speaker. Its integrated Class D amplifier and Bluetooth 5.4 module eliminate the need for an external amplifier, reducing both installation time and system complexity while delivering high-quality audio.
Key features include:
- Bluetooth 5.4 with LE Audio and Auracast for broadcast audio to an unlimited number of in-range compatible Auracast receivers
- Wireless speaker grouping via Master Transmitter/Receiver mode for synchronised audio zones
- Lithe Audio Setup App for intuitive speaker naming, EQ adjustment, volume limits and system configuration
- Flexible inputs, with Bluetooth streaming plus 3.5mm line-in for TVs, media players and AV sources
- IP44 rating for bathroom, kitchen and commercial environments
- Magnetic, paintable grille for a seamless architectural finish designed to blend into the interior
Applications Across Residential and Commercial Settings
Residential Spaces: For homeowners and integrators, the 8in Bluetooth Auracast Ceiling Speaker delivers powerful, room-filling audio with greater bass, depth and presence thanks to its larger 8in driver. Ideal for open-plan kitchens, living areas and larger spaces, it also makes multi-speaker zones easier to deploy without the usual cable infrastructure or dedicated amplifier rooms.
Auracast also supports more inclusive listening at home, allowing compatible hearing aids or listening devices to tap into TV sound, music or shared audio. The speaker grouping feature allows additional speakers to be added and synchronised, making it straightforward to grow a system room by room.
Public Spaces: In transport hubs, gyms, libraries, conference centres and other public venues, the speaker can deliver high-quality broadcast audio across large areas. Auracast’s ability to serve an unlimited number of in-range compatible Auracast receivers means a single installation can simultaneously serve both fixed speakers and personal listening devices, enabling visitors to tune in via their own Auracast-compatible earbuds or hearing aids.
This can offer a modern alternative or complement to legacy induction loop or FM transmission systems.
Shops & Restaurants: For retail and hospitality operators, the speaker is designed to deliver both ambience and practicality. Background music, promotional audio or live announcements can be broadcast across a venue from a single smartphone or media player, with no AV rack required.
The clean, architecturally discreet ceiling-mounted design keeps the aesthetic intact, while app-based EQ and volume controls allow staff to fine-tune the audio experience for different times of day or areas of the venue. For multi-unit operators, identical configurations can also be deployed across multiple sites.
Assisted Living & Healthcare Environments: The speaker’s Auracast capability represents a potentially significant development for accessibility in care homes, sheltered housing and healthcare settings. By broadcasting audio directly to compatible hearing aids, the BT8 enables residents with hearing impairments to receive clear, personalised audio, offering a modern alternative or complement to legacy assistive listening infrastructure.
Whether delivering important announcements, entertainment or activity audio, the BT8 is designed to help more residents participate, supporting dignity, independence and wellbeing.
Amit Ravat, Co-founder, Lithe Audio, says, “Since day one, Lithe Audio has been focused on making high-quality installed audio simpler, smarter and more accessible. Auracast is a genuine step-change for our industry because it removes so much of the complexity traditionally associated with multi-speaker and assistive listening systems.
“With the BT8, we’ve brought amplification, Bluetooth streaming and Auracast broadcast audio together in one discreet ceiling speaker, giving installers, homeowners and commercial specifiers a more flexible way to deliver audio across modern spaces. For us, this is not just another speaker launch — it is a glimpse of where installed audio is heading.”
The Lithe Audio 8in Bluetooth Auracast Ceiling Speaker (BT8) is available now through Lithe Audio’s authorised global distributor network.
