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Contributor I
Jun 27, 2026 8:52 AM UTC
Answered

Play 3 or ceiling speakers for surround sound

I want to set up surround sound with my beam. I am about to install ceiling speakers and own a couple of play 3s. Would it be better to use the ceiling speakers or the play 3s. I haven't decided whether to buy a new AMP or use my existing ZP120 for the ceiling speakers.

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106rallye
106rallyeAnswer
Jun 27, 2026 10:20 AM UTC

Speakers set up at ear height would be best. So for sound, go for the Play 3’s.

The ZP120 will only work for surrounds when it is cable connected to the network - which can lead to connection problems. At least the Amp can make use of the dedicates 5Ghz link with the Beam.

2 replies

106rallye
106rallyeAnswer
Jun 27, 2026 10:20 AM UTC

Speakers set up at ear height would be best. So for sound, go for the Play 3’s.

The ZP120 will only work for surrounds when it is cable connected to the network - which can lead to connection problems. At least the Amp can make use of the dedicates 5Ghz link with the Beam.

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Stanley_4
Grand Maestro
Jun 27, 2026 2:51 PM UTC

Play 3s would be my choice, ceiling speakers are great for background music, poor for surround sound.

For the cost of an Amp you could get some very nice and newer surrounds and use your Play 3s elsewhere. 

The old ZP is likely to be frustrating as a surround amp.

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