Chat
Contact us
Close contact box
Connect ID #
792 895 387 4
Connect ID #
792 895 387 4
Don't wait on hold. We'll call you back when it's your turn to talk with the next available .
Please enter your name  
Please enter your phone number  
Please enter a message  

Calls may be recorded for training and quality control purposes.

We are located in Virginia USA.

Thank you. We will be calling you .
We're sorry. We have encountered a problem.

Polk Audio 255C-RT In-wall center channel speaker

Item # 107255CRT

Swivel-mounted tweeters let you aim the sound toward your listening position, for a better listening experience.

Swivel-mounted tweeters let you aim the sound toward your listening position, for a better listening experience.

15 questions - 32 answers

Item # 107255CRT

In stock
$199.00 each

Other options

About the Polk Audio 255C-RT

A center channel that's heard but not seen

Polk's 255C-RT installs practically out of sight under your wall-mounted TV. You can enjoy powerful home theater sound without the clutter of a bulky center channel speaker in the front of your room.

A center channel that's heard but not seen

Polk's 255C-RT installs practically out of sight under your wall-mounted TV. You can enjoy powerful home theater sound without the clutter of a bulky center channel speaker in the front of your room.

Leaves a big impression on your ears, not on your eyes

This in-wall center channel speaker is built to perform. Potent drivers work with the PowerPort® bass technology to deliver punchy lows. Polk's silk tweeter conveys every breath of dialogue. And it's swivel mounted so you can aim the sound toward your listening position, for better performance. All of this from a center channel speaker that's out of sight, in more ways than one.

Plays well with others

The Polk 255C-RT matches well with Polk's floor-standing and bookshelf speakers, and it can join in harmony with other members of the "Vanishing" RT speaker family. That means you can put together a system of custom-installed and more traditional "box" speakers to suit your specific room and tastes.

Got wire?

Most speakers don't include any. Learn more about in-wall wiring at the Crutchfield Learning Center.
Shop our selection of in-wall speaker wire.

Product highlights:

  • frequency response 50-25,000 Hz (-3dB)
  • 1" swivel-mount silk/polymer dome tweeter
  • dual 5-1/4" Dynamic Balance® woofers
  • handles up to 150 watts
  • sensitivity 90 dB
  • 8-ohm impedance
  • PowerPort® technology for punchier bass
  • tweeter level switch for custom sound
  • paintable Sheer-Grille™ for stealth installation
  • cutout: 13-1/8"W x 7-5/8"H
  • mounting depth: 3-3/8"
  • warranty: lifetime
  • MFR # AW2550-A

What's in the box:

  • In-wall center-channel loudspeaker
  • White metal grille
  • Mounting template
  • Owner's Manual
  • Sheer-Grille Painting instructions
  • Online Registration Card
  • Polk Audio product brochure

Customer reviews for Polk Audio 255C-RT

Loading reviews...

Average review:

5.0 out of 5 stars
93 reviews

Thanks for submitting your review

Filter by rating

Customer photos

Customer provided image, click to load a larger version.
Customer provided image, click to load a larger version.

Sort reviews

Sort by:
Items per page:
View page:

Verified customer (What's this?)
Verified employee review (What's this?)

Reviewed on Samsung.com

This review was collected as part of a promotion

Pros:

Cons:

Crutchfield response
Customer provided image, click to load a larger version.
<< >>

More details on the Polk Audio 255C-RT

Stacey B.

Features & specs

Features
Quantity in Package Single
Tweeter Soft-Dome
Aimable Tweeter No
Woofer Composition Polymer Composite
Woofer Surround Rubber
Connector Type Spring post
Bi-Amp Inputs No
Built-in Back-box No
Moisture Resistance
Indoor (Moisture-resistant) No
Outdoor (Partial Exposure) No
Outdoor (Full Exposure) No
Specs
Tweeter Size 1
Midrange Size N/A
Woofer Size 5.25
Speaker Shape Rectangle
Cutout Width 13.0625
Cutout Height 7.5625
Mounting Depth 3.8125
Power Range (Watts) 10-150
Sensitivity 90 dB
Impedance (Ohms) 8
Frequency Response 50-25kHz
Parts Warranty Lifetime
Labor Warranty Lifetime
The Polk Audio 255C-RT replaces these items:

Product Research

Features

Dynamic Balance Technology: Laser imaging technology allows Polk Audio engineers to see the entire vibrating surface of a driver and tweeter; they can actually see the resonance develop on the speaker cones-resonance that is the root cause of loudspeaker distortion. Being able to see the resonance develop, they then determine the Dynamic Balance of high-tech materials, geometry and construction that together effectively tune out the offending resonance. Exclusive Dynamic Balance Composite Material Technology delivers sound that is effortlessly clean and clear, even at lifelike volume levels.

  • Silk Dome Tweeter: The Vanishing Series in-wall center-channel loudspeaker employs a 1" Dynamic Balance silk polymer composite dome tweeter for crisp, clear imaging. The high-performance silk dome tweeter in the Vanishing Series in-wall center-channel loudspeaker features a 15° swivel housing, for more direct high frequency control, excellent off-axis imaging and more placement flexibility.
  • Dual Midranges: The Polk Audio Vanishing Series in-wall center-channel loudspeaker employs two 5.25" Dynamic Balance mineral composite polypropylene cone midrange drivers with rubber surrounds for a smooth, consistent frequency response. Each midrange driver features a lightweight, strong composite basket that work in conjunction with Klippel Optimization to keep moving parts in rigid alignment while further damping performance-robbing resonances.

Note: The overall frequency response of the in-wall center-channel loudspeaker is 30Hz to 27kHz, and the -3dB frequency response is 50 to 25kHz.

Klippel Optimized Motor Structures: The Klippel Distortion Analyzer allows Polk engineers to optimize each driver's motor structure, voice coil alignment and suspension to insure smooth, unimpeded movement even at extreme listening levels. This is especially important in the shallow depth area afforded an in-wall built-in loudspeaker.

Reflective Room (Tweeter) Compensation Control: An easily accessible Reflective Room (Tweeter) Compensation switch allows you to make advanced audio tweaks to optimize the sound for any installation. Use the Reflective Room (Tweeter) Compensation switch to digitally compensate for harsh reflective surfaces. It doesn't merely reduce high frequencies; it actually allows you to "notch-out" a specific area of the spectrum (3500-6000Hz) where room acoustics most often interfere with performance.

  • Filter Setting: If your listening room is very reflective, with smooth sheetrock walls, hardwood floors, and non-cushioned furniture, the sound will be overly "bright" and unnatural. Selecting the "Filter" setting compensates for the effect of reflectivity in a hard room. Tweeter attenuation flattens room response, without hindering higher frequency response, for warmer, more realistic sound and more accurate imaging.
  • Normal Setting: If your room is not reflective, with curtains, artwork, lots of cushioned furniture and carpeting, sound will be absorbed by the room, resulting in more realistic reproduction and more accurate imaging. In this case, select the Normal setting.

Wafer-Thin Sheer-Grille: The Polk Audio Vanishing Series in-wall center-channel loudspeaker features Polk's exclusive wafer-thin Sheer-Grille, a magnetically-secured grille that protrudes only 7mm from its surroundings. The Sheer-Grille can be painted to match your décor, making it virtually indistinguishable from its surroundings. The Sheer-Grille has nearly transparent, ultra-small perfs, and are acoustically inert, for dynamic, unimpeded sound and more uniform coverage, even in larger rooms.

Gold-Plated Spring-Loaded Posts: The in-wall center-channel loudspeaker has a gold-plated pair of spring-loaded binding posts that can accept up to 12-gauge wire, single banana plugs, or pin connectors.

Applications: You can use the Polk Audio Vanishing Series in-wall center-channel loudspeaker to complete a system of traditional loudspeakers or in-wall speakers, by adding an inconspicuous center-channel speaker.The Polk Audio Vanishing Series is timbre-matched to Polk Audio's high-performance RTi bookshelf and floor-standing loudspeakers. This allows you to match them to an existing Polk Audio home theater speaker system and enjoy seamless blending from speaker to speaker. Timbre-matched speaker components will insure the same true response throughout your system.

Placement & Mounting Options: The in-wall center-channel loudspeaker is designed to be installed above or below your flat-panel television. Install the in-wall center-channel loudspeaker as close to ear level as possible. If the speaker needs to be installed lower or high than ear level, then aim the tweeter accordingly. The Polk Audio in-wall center-channel loudspeaker utilizes a rotating cam system to ensure a secure, vibration-free installation. The Polk Audio Vanishing Series in-wall center-channel loudspeaker (255c-RT) can be installed in new or existing construction. In existing walls, use the included cardboard template for one-cut, drop-in simplicity. Achieve secure, vibration-free efficiency with a simple turn of Polk's Rotating Cam system (5 rotating cams). Pre-construction brackets (sold separately) are available for new-build or open-wall retro-fitting.

Overall Dimensions (with grille) Width = 14.8125"
Height = 9.3125"
Cutout Dimensions Width = 13.0625"
Height = 7.5625"
Mounting Depth (including drywall) Depth = 3.8125"

Loading accessories...

Customer Q&A

15 questions already asked

Q
How do you adjust the tweeter?
erik  Jan 24, 2022
1 answer
A
We haven't received any answers from other customers. If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer.
kenneth  Feb 03, 2022 (Staff)
Q
Can the Polk 255C-RT be mounted behind drywall or sheetrock?
joel  Jan 25, 2021
3 answers
A
The speaker is intended to be flush mounted on the front side of a wall. A resourceful person could invent a mounting method for the speaker itself as well as a means for mounting the speaker grille which normally is held in place with magnets.
mark  Jan 26, 2021
A
Yes , Remove any insulation that obstructs behind the speaker...
jacob  Jan 26, 2021
A
No,there designed for top mounting
terry  Jan 25, 2021
Q
Can I match this center with Polk T15 100 watt home theater bookshelf speakers that are on the left and right front or is it not a good match?
steven  Apr 09, 2020
2 answers
A
Not sure about compatibility as mine are combined with Polk RC80 in the ceiling. The speaker itself works great for movies. We have it below a 70" TV and only use the center speaker and ceiling for surround (TV muted)
thomas  Apr 09, 2020
A
It's been a while since I built my home theater , but it should be a good match. I have been pleased with all my Polk purchases. I would reach out to a Crutchfield sales guy. They will not lead you in the wrong direction. Good Luck
brandon  Apr 09, 2020
Q
Will this voice match to the RC60i and RC65i?
james  Jan 02, 2020
1 answer
A
I purchased all my Polk surround sound speakers for my basement from Crutchfield and they all sound amazing together. I'm not a tech guy by no means and I hooked up all the side channels, center channel and ceiling speakers my self and together they make a great theater sound like experience. Highly recommend Polk!
derrick  Jan 02, 2020
Q
do i remove the fabric on the grill if need to paint the grill?
michael  Mar 13, 2019
1 answer
A
No. There is no fabric. It's a metallic grill and if you follow the instructions for painting it (not spraying too thick) then the grille itself is painted with no negative effects.
jordan  Mar 13, 2019
Q
New construction home being built, but the home builder won't allow me to run wires, or hang brackets before they finish the home and we take final possession. Can this center channel be installed after the drywall is already finished, with no support bracket behind?
dustin  Jul 08, 2017
3 answers
A
I installed this speaker at my clothing store. It was installed into a wall built from barn wood, so it's much more sturdy than drywall, however, i think it would be OK for install without additional support.
jonathan  Jul 10, 2017
A
Yes, they have templates to cut the dry wall and the speaker holds to the drywall and doesn't need any bracket or internal support. I ran wires before the construction and did cut outs and connected them after. Make sure you have way to run the wires if they are not letting you do prior and your speaker placement is between studs.
jeffrey  Jul 09, 2017
A
Yes it can. It is only mounted from the front. Speaker is awesome. I would defiantly recommend. Stan
stanley  Jul 09, 2017
Q
Can this speaker be installed in ceiling?
eric  May 31, 2017
2 answers
A
You probably could, but it is a center channel and it's designed to throw sounds at couch eating level. They do make round and square surround channel speakers that would be better for ceiling.Enter
jeremy  Jun 01, 2017
A
Yes. In my set up the center speaker is in the ceiling above the TV that is above the fire place. It has a directional tweeter that I turned towards the seating positions. Perfect sound
kevin  May 31, 2017
Q
Will this center speaker voice match the in-wall RC85 series ?
alexandre  Apr 04, 2016
2 answers
A
Sorry, i wouldn't know for sure. I purchased a Boston Acoustics center speaker and it's worked fine with my Polk wall speakers. Great sound all around.
james  Apr 11, 2016
A
Yes. I built a custom media room and did 4 rc85's in side walls and the polk center under the 120" screen....combined w polk self powered 12" sub Good stuff and good price
christopher  Apr 06, 2016
Q
It has been recommended to me to use the Polk Audio MC60 In-ceiling speakers as my L, R, and 2 surround speakers in my 5.1 set up. I am looking at this as a center channel speaker, but concerned if it will voice match the MC series. They are all going into a 9' ceiling, as there is no option for an ear level placement in my new build. Thoughs?
christopher  Sep 29, 2015
4 answers
A
Thanks for the feedback! Bringing a musician, the sound quality is important! However the vocal articulation and clarity is just as important, as the speaking/dialog can get lost for in some TV/movies due to slight hearing loss from my live performance days. I have been thinking of using the Polk MC80's in another room for streaming music, since the 8" woofer 'should' produce a bit more bass, but still retain the same musical voice matching, throughout the home. This is my first experience with ceiling mounted speakers so I welcome all comments. If there are other choices, feel free to post those too. Thanks!
christopher  Sep 30, 2015
A
I have had no problem with this speaker matching to two other series speakers in the same room. I have always had to tweak the receiver for the center channel speaker even when all the speakers are the same series. Even with auto setup of the speakers, the center channel always seemed to quiet no matter the manufacturer. This speaker should work well for you.
douglas  Sep 30, 2015
A
I think you will be just fine. I also have mc60's in a 9' ceiling with a Yamaha center channel. It all sounds great.
james  Sep 30, 2015
A
I have the same speakers in my vacation home. I have a pioneer elite receiver and 10 foot ceilings. Speakers sound great.
james  Sep 30, 2015
Q
Can i mount these in a vertical position? I am replacing my builder grade speakers that were previously installed and they are mounted vertically.
brian  Jun 20, 2015
3 answers
A
You could. I dont think that this would affect the sound in any noticeable way.
ryan  Jun 21, 2015
A
This is a single, center speaker for a home theater. If you are looking for "speakers" then this is not for you. If you are looking for a single center speaker, it is great. I would, however, mount it horizontal as shown. It will be better balanced and give better dispersion. Remember, it is a mid-frequency speaker made specifically for voice reproduction.
richard  Jun 21, 2015
A
Yes, they can be mounted any way as long as you have enough room between your framing.
douglas  Jun 20, 2015
Q
can I plug these into the speaker jacks in the rear of the tv?
tony  Apr 11, 2015
2 answers
A
No these need to be connected to an amplifier of some sort, typically an AV receiver.
ron  Jun 25, 2018
A
No
joe  Apr 13, 2015
Q
I'm not able to mount in wall, can I mount this in the ceiling directly above tv and still get great sound?
ryan  Nov 17, 2014
4 answers
A
Thanks. Would I need to try and angle the speaker in the ceiling or just place it straight down and aim the tweeter towards the couch? I've got 9 ft ceilings. Also, what speaker craft speaker would you recommend instead of the polk?
ryan  Nov 18, 2014
A
I have done this before, install the center channel in the ceiling, not with Polk Audio, but with speaker craft, and it sounded the same as my Polk Audio that are mounted below my TV.
james  Nov 18, 2014
A
Yes..
timothy  Nov 18, 2014
A
The speaker has got great range and should sound fine as long as the room isn't too large. I'd be more concerned about the sound carrying I n the room above the speaker.
chad e  Nov 18, 2014
Q
would this timber or voice match with polk 65rt in wall speaker ?
jamie  Aug 02, 2014
2 answers
A
I have been watching all types of movies and listening to all types of music and so far I am satisfied with the system they picked out for me, based on what I told them what my needs were. Awesome speakers. Jim
james  Aug 03, 2014
A
Jamie...I purchased this center channel speaker along with 2 265RT's for my front speakers and 2 65RT's for my rear surrounds. It is my understanding that this set-up would be voice matched. I've had this set-up for about a year along with a Polk subwoofer and it sounds awesome!
russell  Aug 02, 2014
SHOW MORESHOW LESS

Loading articles...

Looking for more?

Check out the next model in this lineup.


Adding...
Polk Audio 255c-LS

Polk Audio 255c-LS

In-wall center channel speaker
$299.00 each
Add to cart
Something went wrong. Please for help purchasing this item.

Advanced driver design for even better frequency response

The Polk Audio 255c-LS offers these features:
  • 1" Dynamic Balance® ring radiator tweeter for extended and accurate high-frequency response
  • dual 5-1/4" Dynamic Balance® woofers
  • frequency response 44-29,000 Hz (-3dB)
Compare all details
Compare the sound