Klipsch RP-500M II Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Klipsch RP-500M II bookshelf speakers aim to deliver a high-fidelity audio experience in a sleek design. They are praised for their robust build quality, exceptional sound clarity, and modern aesthetic. However, some users may find the price steep and the bass not deep enough for their liking.

The speakers feature a durable MDF cabinet with a brushed polymer veneer baffle, available in three finishes. The Tractrix horn tweeter and copper-spun woofer enhance sound direction and clarity. Though not the most compact, their design is high-end but may require more shelf space.

Sound performance is impressive, offering clear highs, balanced mids, and controlled bass. The soundstage is wide, and the speakers handle volume and dynamics well. However, they may not satisfy bass enthusiasts or hardcore electronic music fans.

Connectivity is straightforward with traditional binding posts, bi-wiring, and bi-amping capabilities, but lacks wireless options. The setup is easy, though the absence of speaker cables is a minor inconvenience.

Overall, the Klipsch RP-500M II offers a strong combination of design, build quality, and sound performance, making them a solid choice for those seeking an upgrade in their audio setup, despite a few minor drawbacks.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Klipsch R-12SW or Klipsch R-121SW or Klipsch R-15M.

Introduction

Meet the latest in high-fidelity audio experience—the Klipsch RP-500M II. This sleek bookshelf speaker promises powerful sound in a compact design. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or just diving into the world of high-quality audio, this speaker aims to deliver an immersive listening experience.

Why are so many people raving about this speaker? It could be the robust build quality or the exceptional sound clarity. Or maybe it's the modern yet timeless design that fits into any room seamlessly. Whatever the reason, it's clear that this speaker has captured many hearts and ears.

Of course, no product is perfect. Some users might find its price point a bit steep, while others might think the bass doesn't go as deep as they'd like. But hey, what product doesn't have a few quirks?

In this review, we'll dive into the design, sound performance, and more so you can decide if the Klipsch RP-500M II is worth adding to your audio setup.

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Design and Build Quality

The Klipsch RP-500M II speakers boast a sleek design that’s sure to catch your eye. They come in a choice of three finishes: Ebony, Walnut, and Piano Black. These finishes not only look stylish but also blend seamlessly with most room decors.

Build quality is top-notch, as you'd expect from Klipsch. The cabinets are made from MDF with a brushed polymer veneer baffle, making them both durable and aesthetically pleasing. They feel solid and sturdy, giving you that sense of reliability.

One of the distinctive features is the iconic Tractrix horn in the tweeter design. This horn-loaded technology isn’t just for show—it helps to direct the sound towards the listener, reducing unwanted reflections and improving clarity. The copper-spun woofer adds a touch of elegance and stands out in any setup. However, while the speakers look premium, they aren’t the most compact. At 12.86 inches tall and 7.95 inches wide, they may require a bit more space on your shelf or stand. If you’ve got a smaller living room, this could be something to consider. Overall, the design and build quality of these speakers scream high-end. But if you're tight on space, you might need to do a bit of rearranging.

Sound Performance

Alright, let's talk about the sound performance of these speakers. This is where the magic happens, and man, do they deliver. The audio clarity is just phenomenal. You get to hear every tiny detail in your music, from the subtle highs to the punchy lows. It's like having a private concert in your living room.

Highs, Mids, and Lows

First up, the high frequencies. They're crisp and clear, without being overly sharp. You won't experience that ear-piercing sensation you get with some other speakers. The mids are warm and well-balanced, making vocals and instruments sound natural and lifelike. When it comes to the low frequencies, these speakers pack a punch. The bass is deep and powerful, yet it doesn't muddy up the sound. It's tight and controlled.

Soundstage and Imaging

Now, let's discuss the soundstage. It's wide and spacious, which is fantastic for those who love to feel enveloped by their music. You can easily pinpoint where each instrument is coming from, thanks to the excellent imaging. It almost feels like the band is right there in front of you.

Volume and Dynamics

These speakers also shine when it comes to volume and dynamics. They can get pretty loud, filling even large rooms with ease. But it's not just about loudness; they handle dynamic changes very well. Whether you're listening to a soft acoustic track or a booming orchestral piece, the transition between quiet and loud is smooth and natural.

Potential Downsides

However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. If you're a bass junkie who craves that earth-shaking thump, you might find them a bit lacking in that department. They do bass well, but they don't hit those ultra-low frequencies that some people love. Also, while they perform brilliantly with most music genres, they might not be the best choice for hardcore electronic music fans.

In a nutshell, these speakers offer a super impressive sound performance for most music lovers. Just keep those minor caveats in mind.

Connectivity Options

The connectivity options on these speakers are quite straightforward, keeping things simple but effective. They come with traditional binding posts, which might seem a bit old-school to some, but they are incredibly reliable. Plus, you can't really go wrong with them when setting up your speaker wires. Bi-wiring and bi-amping capability is also available. If you've got the setup to support it, this can really enhance your sound quality by separating the high and low frequencies. Pretty neat, right? One thing to note is the lack of wireless connectivity.

If you’re looking for Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities, you might be a bit disappointed. These speakers are wired all the way, which means you'll need to connect them to an amplifier or a receiver with speaker cable. While this wired setup ensures a more stable and high-quality audio signal, it can be a bit of a hassle if you're trying to minimize cable clutter. But hey, sometimes the old ways are the best ways, especially if you’re after top-notch sound. In summary:

• Traditional binding posts for connecting speaker wires.
• Supports bi-wiring and bi-amping.
• No wireless connectivity options.

So, if you don’t mind sticking to wires, the connectivity options should suit your needs just fine.

What's in the Box

Alright, so you've just got your new speakers and you're ready to dive in. Let's talk about what's inside the box. First off, you’ll find the main attraction: the pair of speakers, securely packed to avoid any transit damage. They look pretty sleek right out of the box. Klipsch has included magnetic speaker grills that are super easy to attach and detach. These grills not only protect your drivers but also give you a choice between a modern, exposed look or a more discreet facade. You'll also find a user manual that actually makes sense. It’s clear, concise, and guides you through the initial setup without feeling like you’re reading a novel. No need to worry if you’re not a tech guru; the manual has got your back. What might surprise you is the absence of speaker cables. Yeah, that’s right, you’ll need to grab your own. It's a bit of a bummer, but then again, it lets you choose the quality and length of the cables that suit your setup. Here's a quick rundown:

• Pair of speakers - The stars of the show, and they're looking sharp.
• Magnetic speaker grills - Easy to use, and they give you styling options.
• User manual - Clear instructions to get you started.
• No speaker cables - You'll need to buy these separately.

The packaging itself is solid, with plenty of foam padding to ensure everything arrives in top condition. It's pretty straightforward but does the job well. In a nutshell, the box includes exactly what you need to get started, minus the cables. So, make sure to order those along with your speakers to avoid any setup delays.

Ease of Setup

Setting up the Klipsch RP-500M II is a breeze. No need for an engineering degree here! First off, the speakers come with straightforward instructions that get you up and running in no time. You’ll find that connecting these speakers to your existing setup is as simple as plugging them into your receiver or amplifier. They use standard speaker wire connections, so you don’t need any fancy cables or adapters. If you've done this before, you know what a relief that can be. Positioning the speakers doesn't require a lot of fuss either.

Thanks to their compact size, you can easily place them on a bookshelf, stand, or even mount them on the wall. Some people worry about exact placement for optimal sound quality, but these speakers are pretty forgiving. Sure, there might be some tinkering involved to find the perfect spot, but that's just part of the fun, right? However, let's be transparent here. If you're new to the HiFi scene, the lack of wireless or app-based setup options might seem a bit outdated. In a world where everything seems to be going wireless, sticking to wired connections might feel like a step back. Yet, the trade-off is reliability and potentially better sound quality. In short, whether you're a seasoned audiophile or just dipping your toes into the HiFi waters, you won't find the setup process overwhelming. It's straightforward, reliable, and you'll be enjoying your favorite tunes in no time.

Compatibility

The Klipsch RP-500M II boasts significant compatibility with a variety of audio systems and setups. Whether you're integrating these speakers into a home theater system or pairing them with a stereo receiver, they offer flexibility and ease of use.

Amplifier compatibility is a key consideration. The RP-500M II works well with both solid-state and tube amplifiers, providing a versatile option for various user preferences. These speakers have a nominal impedance of 8 ohms, making them compatible with most modern amplifiers. However, to truly unlock their potential, pairing them with an amplifier that delivers around 75 to 100 watts per channel would be ideal.

In terms of network connectivity, the RP-500M II doesn't come with built-in wireless or Bluetooth capabilities. If you're looking to stream music directly from your phone or a networked server, you'll need to connect an external Bluetooth receiver or network streamer. This might be a slight inconvenience for those who prefer an all-in-one solution, but it's easily solvable with additional equipment.

Home theater integration is seamless. These speakers can handle front, rear, or even surround sound placements effectively. They pair excellently with other Klipsch speakers, especially if you're setting up a complete Klipsch reference premier setup. Matching the tonal characteristics within the same brand ensures a cohesive listening experience. Finally, the RP-500M II can fit into various room sizes. Their compact design makes them suitable for smaller rooms, while their powerful output allows them to fill larger spaces with ease. However, in very large or open rooms, you might need additional speakers or subwoofers to achieve the best sound coverage. In summary, the Klipsch RP-500M II offers broad compatibility with various audio setups, though the lack of built-in wireless connectivity might be a minor drawback for some users.

Price and Value

Let's talk about the price and value of these speakers. Are they worth your hard-earned cash? Well, they come with a price tag that's not exactly cheap, but for good reason. These aren't your average bookshelf speakers. They pack a punch in terms of sound quality and build. Think of them like a reliable sports car: they might cost a bit more upfront, but the performance and longevity make it a worthy investment.

In the world of HiFi speakers, you often get what you pay for. The RP-500M II falls into a mid-range category, offering high-end features without completely breaking the bank. Sure, there are cheaper options out there, but they might skimp on audio fidelity or durability. On the flip side, there are also far pricier models that offer marginal improvements but cost significantly more.

What's really interesting is the value you get relative to the expense. The speakers deliver crystal-clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass, making them versatile for everything from classical music to action-packed movies. This versatility adds to their value, as you won't find yourself needing a specialized speaker for each type of media.

Another point worth mentioning is the overall build quality. These speakers are built to last, which means you won't be shopping for replacements anytime soon. They feature premium materials and a robust design, ensuring they can withstand the test of time.

However, if you're on a tight budget, the initial cost might be a bit of a hurdle. But if you can stretch your budget, you're likely to consider them money well spent. So, in short, they offer excellent value for their price tag, balancing quality and cost effectively.

Video by: Tharbamar

User Experience

User Experience with the Klipsch RP-500M II is quite a ride. Let's break it down and see why.

First Impressions

Upon first listen, many users report being blown away by the crisp highs and rich bass. These speakers don't just fill a room with sound; they immerse you in it. It's like stepping into a live concert, right from your couch.

Daily Use

For those who use them daily, the build quality stands out. The speakers are sturdy and durable, handling regular use without any issues. The design also makes them a stylish addition to any room, so they don't just sound good—they look good, too.

Adjustments and Settings

Some users do mention that getting the optimal sound requires a bit of tweaking. The positioning and calibration might take a few tries to get perfect, but once that sweet spot is found, it's well worth the effort. You might need to adjust the settings based on your room's acoustics, but that's pretty standard with high-quality speakers.

Connectivity

The connectivity options are straightforward, easing the setup for most users. However, a few people have noted that they would appreciate more advanced connectivity features, like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. If you're looking for wireless options, you might need additional equipment, which could be a downside for some.

Customer Support

Interaction with customer support is generally positive. Most users find the service helpful and responsive, which is always a plus. Any issues or queries are usually resolved quickly.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Klipsch RP-500M II delivers a fantastic user experience for those willing to invest a bit of time into setup and adjustments. It's a small price to pay for such an immersive audio experience. Are there areas for improvement? Sure. But the overall performance and build quality make these speakers a solid choice for any music lover.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Klipsch RP-500M II speakers offer a compelling package for those seeking an upgrade in their audio setup. The combination of sleek design, robust build quality, and impressive sound performance makes these speakers a strong contender in the HiFi market. With their wide array of connectivity options and straightforward setup process, they're user-friendly and versatile enough to fit into various audio configurations. However, it's not all perfect. Some users might find the price a bit steep compared to other options available, especially if they're on a tight budget.

Additionally, while the speakers excel in delivering clear and detailed sound, they might not satisfy those who crave deep bass without an additional subwoofer. All in all, if you're searching for high-quality bookshelf speakers that strike a good balance between performance and aesthetics, the Klipsch RP-500M II is worth considering. It’s an investment that promises to enhance your listening experience, providing rich and immersive audio that can elevate any room.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications