You could rephrase the question this way: When should speakers be hung on the wall and when not? The first answer, of course, is whenever ceiling-mounted speakers are out of the question. This is because ceiling speakers usually need suspended ceilings. And, of course, there is a big difference between music splashing down on the audience's heads from above, and music coming straight into their ears from the side.
1. ELA wall-mounted loudspeakers produce high sound quality when placed in the right position
Sometimes it's good for the soul to sit and listen to music – and do nothing else. Or, at least nothing much else. Enjoy a drink or a snack. If you have a space...
that you wish to fill with high-quality music,
in which you know exactly where the audience is sitting,
… you should consider flush-installed in-wall speakers instead of ceiling speakers. When the wall speakers are hung at ear level, they offer a more direct sound field and sweet spots for particularly good sound imaging. This gives you more of the feeling that the band is live on stage right in front of you.
2. ELA wall speakers are more versatile for satisfying more discerning standards
Wall speakers tend to come in many different sizes and power levels. They can also often be pivoted and/or tilted. This is important for flexibility, because not every type of speaker will sound (equally) good in every area. Smaller speakers may be appropriate for a small retail space, but will sound weak or faint in retail spaces with lots of customers and shelving. In certain spaces, a tilt is important. Space dimensions, content and materials affect the sound. Sound can bounce off exposed walls, large furniture, and bare floors. Carpets, on the other hand, absorb sound. You should also take a good look at the ceiling when it comes to wall speakers: Vaulted ceilings create a more open atmosphere, while narrower, lower-ceilinged rooms create an intimate feel.
3. Wall speakers can be retrofitted with a relatively small budget
Flush-installed in-wall speakers and ceiling speakers are always more invasive than speakers that are surface mounted on the wall and ceiling. Wall loudspeakers can be a relatively quick and uncomplicated solution, especially when rooms are intended for other uses than originally planned over time.