Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Herdio HCS 818 Passive Ceiling Speakers. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and retain it for future reference. These speakers are designed for flush mounting in ceilings, offering a discreet audio solution for various indoor environments.
What's in the Box
Carefully unpack the contents and ensure all items are present. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your retailer.
- Passive Ceiling Speakers (x2)
- Speaker Wires (x2)
- User Manual (x1)
- Cutout Template (x1)
- Gaskets (x2)

The complete package contents are displayed, featuring two Herdio passive ceiling speakers, two sets of speaker wires, and the instruction manual.
This official video provides a visual guide to unboxing the Herdio 6.5-inch Passive Ceiling Speakers, demonstrating the speaker wiring process, and illustrating the step-by-step installation into a ceiling.
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps for proper installation of your Herdio ceiling speakers:
- Preparation: Choose a suitable location in your ceiling, ensuring there is adequate clearance behind the mounting surface for the speaker depth (4.13 inches / 10.5 cm). Avoid areas with electrical wires, plumbing, or structural beams.
- Create Cutout: Use the provided cutout template to mark the exact opening size on your ceiling. Carefully cut the hole using an appropriate tool.
- Remove Grille: Gently pry off the speaker grille using a thin, flat tool to access the mounting screws and wiring terminals.

The speaker's detachable grille is shown, emphasizing its thin profile and the ease with which it can be removed for installation or maintenance.
- Connect Speaker Wires: Connect the speaker wires from your amplifier to the terminals on the back of the speaker. Ensure the red wire connects to the positive (+) terminal and the black wire connects to the negative (-) terminal. Maintain consistent polarity for all speakers in your system.

This image illustrates the speaker's spring-loaded terminals, clearly marked for positive (red) and negative (black) wire connections, crucial for proper audio signal transmission.
- Mount Speaker: Insert the speaker into the cutout. The mounting clips will automatically engage. Tighten the screws on the front baffle of the speaker to secure the clips firmly against the ceiling.

This image demonstrates the flush-mount design of the Herdio ceiling speakers, showing them seamlessly integrated into a room's ceiling. An inset highlights the installation process.
- Attach Grille: Once the speaker is securely mounted, carefully reattach the magnetic grille to the speaker frame.
Operating Instructions
The Herdio HCS 818 speakers are passive and require an external amplifier or receiver to function. Ensure your amplifier is compatible with 8-ohm speakers and provides sufficient power (up to 160 watts per channel).
- Connect the speaker wires from your amplifier's speaker outputs to the corresponding terminals on the Herdio ceiling speakers.
- Ensure correct polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative) for optimal sound performance.
- Power on your amplifier and select your desired audio source.
- Adjust the volume level on your amplifier to your preference.
Maintenance
To maintain the appearance and performance of your speakers:
- Cleaning: Wipe the speaker grilles and frames with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Grille Removal: The grilles are detachable for cleaning or painting. Carefully pry off the grille using a thin, flat tool if necessary.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your Herdio ceiling speakers, consider the following:
- No Sound:
- Check all speaker wire connections at both the speaker and the amplifier for secure contact and correct polarity.
- Ensure the amplifier is powered on and functioning correctly.
- Verify the audio source is active and properly connected to the amplifier.
- Distorted Sound:
- Reduce the volume level on your amplifier.
- Check for loose speaker wire connections.
- Ensure the amplifier's power output matches the speaker's power handling capabilities.
- Uneven Sound:
- Check wiring for each speaker to ensure consistent polarity.
- Verify speaker placement and ensure no obstructions are blocking sound.
Specifications

A detailed diagram provides the exact measurements for the speaker, including the overall diameter of 9.25 inches (23.5 cm), woofer size of 6.5 inches (16.5 cm), and a mounting depth of 4.13 inches (10.5 cm).
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Herdio |
| Model Number | HCS 818 |
| Speaker Type | 2-Way Passive Ceiling Speaker |
| Speaker Size | 6.5 Inches |
| Woofer Diameter | 6.5 Inches |
| Tweeter Diameter | 1 Inch |
| Maximum Power Output | 160 Watts (per speaker) |
| Frequency Response | 50 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 89 dB |
| Impedance | 8 Ohms |
| Mounting Type | Flush Ceiling Mount |
| Enclosure Material | ABS, PP |
| Color | White |
| Item Dimensions (D x W x H) | 9.25" x 9.25" x 4.13" (23.5cm x 23.5cm x 10.5cm) |
| Item Weight | 3.91 Kilograms (for the pair) |
| Water Resistance | Not Water Resistant |
Warranty and Support
Herdio HCS 818 Passive Ceiling Speakers come with a limited warranty. For warranty claims or technical support, please contact Herdio Direct through your purchase platform or refer to the contact information provided in the original packaging.