Bose EdgeMax EM180 – In-Ceiling Loudspeaker (White)

Product Overview

The Bose EdgeMax EM180 is a commercial-grade in-ceiling loudspeaker designed for edge-of-ceiling installation with a wider 180-degree horizontal dispersion pattern, making it suitable for larger rooms or configurations requiring a single speaker to cover an extended listening area. Like the EM90, it mounts at the ceiling perimeter rather than the center, addressing installation challenges common in conference rooms, boardrooms, and commercial meeting spaces with obstructed or architecturally sensitive ceilings. The EM180's broader dispersion makes it appropriate for long, narrow rooms or spaces where coverage from one end is preferred. Available from Creation Networks, the EM180 is a premium ceiling audio solution for professional AV integrators.

Product Description

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The EdgeMax EM180 uses a 180-degree horizontal dispersion pattern from its ceiling-edge mounting position, which allows it to project audio across the full width of a room from a single location. This is particularly valuable in rectangular conference rooms, long corridors, or training rooms where even coverage is needed from a position that keeps the center ceiling clear for lighting and HVAC. Its coaxial driver configuration maintains coherent, time-aligned audio reproduction across the frequency range.

The EM180 includes a transformer for 70V/100V distributed audio as well as a low-impedance direct connection option. Installation is flush to the ceiling edge, with the grille sitting close to the surface to minimize visual impact. A plenum-rated back-can is available separately for compliance with commercial building codes in plenum air-handling ceiling spaces. The EM180 is compatible with Bose ControlSpace DSP processors and PowerMatch amplifiers for managed, system-level deployments.

The EM180 differs from the EM90 primarily in its dispersion angle: where the EM90 covers 90 degrees, the EM180 covers 180 degrees horizontally. This makes the EM180 a better fit for rooms where coverage from a corner or single end-wall position is needed, while the EM90 is better suited for perimeter mounting on long walls facing the table center.

Key Features

• 180-Degree Horizontal Dispersion — Broader coverage pattern from a single edge-mount position, suitable for larger or corner-mounted deployments.
• Edge-of-Ceiling Installation — Mounts at the ceiling perimeter, keeping the center ceiling clear for HVAC, lighting, and structural elements.
• Coaxial Driver Configuration — Time-aligned LF and HF drivers on the same axis for coherent audio across the listening area.
• 70V/100V Transformer Included — Ready for distributed audio system integration with standard commercial amplifiers.
• Low-Impedance Direct Drive — Alternative connection for zone amplifier or power amplifier direct configurations.
• Plenum Back-Can Compatible — Meets commercial code requirements for plenum ceiling installations when used with the optional back-can accessory.
• Low-Profile White Grille — Flush finish integrates with white commercial ceiling tile and drywall surfaces.
• Bose ControlSpace Compatible — Integrates with ControlSpace DSP for full system alignment, EQ, and level management.

Typical Applications

• Boardroom ceiling audio
• Conference room distributed audio
• Commercial meeting space sound systems
• Government space audio installations
• Training room and multi-purpose room audio
• House of worship side and overflow zone audio
• Auditorium lobby and pre-function spaces

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the EM180 and the EM90?

The primary difference is dispersion angle. The EM90 covers 90 degrees horizontally and is suited for perimeter mounting along the long walls of a room. The EM180 covers 180 degrees and is better suited for corner mounting or end-wall positions where a wider arc of coverage is needed from a single speaker.

Can the EM180 operate in a 70V distributed audio system?

Yes. The EM180 includes an internal transformer with 70V and 100V taps. It can also be connected directly as an 8-ohm load for low-impedance amplifier setups.

Is a back-can required for the EM180?

A back-can is required when installing in plenum air-handling ceiling spaces as required by commercial building codes. The Bose back-can accessory is designed for the EM180 and sold separately.

What DSP or amplifier is recommended with the EM180?

Bose recommends the ControlSpace EX or ESP series DSPs combined with PowerMatch amplifiers for managed system deployments. Third-party commercial amplifiers with DSP are also compatible.

How many EM180s are needed for a conference room?

Typically one EM180 per corner position or one per end of a rectangular room, depending on dimensions and ceiling height. A Bose coverage simulation or on-site assessment is recommended for rooms larger than approximately 8 x 10 m.

What warranty does the EM180 carry?

The Bose EdgeMax EM180 is covered by Bose Professional's limited warranty. Contact Creation Networks for warranty and support details.