What is the Best IP Paging Speaker

How to Select the Right Speaker

IP Paging Speakers
IP Paging Speakers

There are several types of IP paging speakers available. There are ceiling, wall, hallway, and horn-type speakers. Paging speakers are selected based on the sound level, dispersal of sound, indoor and outdoor type, and mounting requirements.

This article describes the best speaker for each application.

IP Paging System Overview

 A network-attached paging system is a communication system that enables the broadcast of messages to a large group of people in a particular location or across multiple locations. The system consists of a central server or controller that is connected to a local area network (LAN) and one or more paging devices, such as speakers or intercoms.

IP Paging and Intercom Systems
IP Paging and Intercom Systems

TalkMaster Focus is the control and management software for paging and intercom communications. It runs on your Windows computer and allows you to make pages or to communicate to intercoms on your network.  This software suite is designed to manage intercom and public address operations over IP networks. This paging system is very flexible. Each speaker can be a SIP endpoint, and the system can be managed by 3rd party software.

The paging system can be used to broadcast important messages, announcements, or emergency alerts in real time. For example, in a hospital, a network-attached paging system can be used to alert medical staff in specific areas of the hospital about an emergency, such as a patient in critical condition. In a school, the system can be used to broadcast announcements or emergency alerts to all classrooms or specific groups of people.

The central server or controller of the paging system manages the distribution of messages and alerts to the paging devices based on pre-defined rules and criteria, such as specific locations, groups of people, or priority levels. The system can be programmed to send messages automatically or manually, depending on the situation.

Overall, a network-attached paging system is a reliable and efficient way to communicate important information to a large group of people in a specific location or across multiple locations. It can be customized to meet the unique needs of different organizations and can be integrated with other communication systems to provide a comprehensive emergency management and communication solution.

There are a variety of speakers to choose from. The choice depends on the sound level required, the dispersal of sound, and the physical environment. To learn more about the sound levels needed, please read our article What is the Right Sound Level for Your Paging Speakers?

Powered Wall Speakers for Paging

The Spkr-IP SYS1 wall speaker uses PoE for power and is easy to install. This cost-effective wall speaker is ideal for business or institutional settings to provide clear audio PA, general announcements, and mass notifications.

Sound level and frequency response: The 8″ Wall, vandal-resistant wall speaker has a frequency response of 65 Hz – 17 kHz. It has a sound level rating of 92dB SPL at 1 watt and 1 meter.

Size and Type: 8-inch, 8 ohms, maximum of 15-watt rating. Maximum SPL 103 dB SPL, 5 Watts 1 Meter

Sound Dispersion: 90 degrees angle

Where to use: This is best used indoors in rooms that are less than 40 x 40 ft

Powered IP Speaker
Powered IP Speaker

Powered Two-Direction Speaker

The Spkr-11-VCP bidirectional speaker is used in hallways and can be mounted on the wall or ceiling. It provides sound in two directions.

Sound Level and frequency response: Maximum SPL 98 dB SPL at 1 Watt 1 Meter with frequency Response 130 Hz – 9 kHz

Size and type: Dual 4-ohm Speakers 4” Square, Moisture Resistant. It has a Power Rating of 10-watts each: magnet type and BeFe Ceramic, Weight 4.8 oz.

Sound Dispersion of 130 degrees. Frequency Response 130 Hz – 9 kHz. The hallway length for optimum coverage is 40 – 110 feet.

Where to use: This is best used indoors in less than 100 ft long hallways.  

Powered Ceiling Speaker

The SPKR-IP System 12 is a drop-ceiling tile IP speaker with a built-in amplifier.

Sound Level and frequency response: Maximum SPL 99 dB SPL at 1 Watt 1 Meter with a frequency response of 65 Hz – 17 kHz

Size and type: 2 ft. x 2 ft. Speaker. A complete loudspeaker assembly with an 8” frame, perforated steel baffle, and integral back box.

Sound Dispersion of 100° included angle.

Where to use: This is best used indoors in rooms with a drop ceiling. Multiple speakers should be used to ensure adequate sound levels throughout the room.

Outdoor Horn Speaker

The IP-HORN-PoEKIT is a weatherproof powered horn that provides a high sound level. This is a small re-entrant horn with a powerful and efficient compression driver.

Sound Level and frequency response: Provides 107dB at 1 Watt at 1 M and 116dB at 8-Watts. It has a frequency response of 500 -7000 Hz (±6 dB)

Size and type: This is a weather and corrosion-resistant speaker with stainless fasteners. The plating on the driver meets the 96-hour salt spray test. It includes a network-attached amplifier powered over PoE (indoor unit).

Sound Dispersion of 100° included angle.

Where to use: This is best used where you require a high sound level, especially in outdoor environments. It can be used on boats and in salt environments. It can also be used as a microphone.

Horn Speaker

Summary of Paging Speakers

You can select several different speakers for an IP paging system. The IP-type speakers include Power over Ethernet, making them easy to install. Indoors you can select wall speaker, hallway speakers and ceiling speakers. The horns are best for outdoor environments.


If you would like help selecting the best IP paging system or IP intercom system, please contact us at 1-800-431-1658 in the USA or 914-944-3425 everywhere else, or use our contact form.