Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere HiFi speakers offer impressive sound performance and sleek design at a relatively affordable price. Constructed from high-quality MDF, these speakers feature a Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter and copper-spun woofers, providing clear highs and rich bass. However, they are somewhat heavy and require frequent cleaning due to their black finish.

The audio performance is outstanding, with crisp highs and detailed mids. The speakers handle loud volumes well, making them suitable for medium-sized rooms. They feature a 5.25-inch Cerametallic woofer and LTS titanium diaphragm tweeter, reducing distortion and enhancing sound clarity. However, they may need a subwoofer for deeper bass in larger rooms.

Technical specifications include a frequency response of 45Hz to 25kHz, 92 dB sensitivity, and 75W continuous power handling. Connectivity is basic, with gold-plated binding posts for speaker wire connections, but lacks modern wireless options. Setup is straightforward, although wall-mounting hardware is not included.

Compared to competitors like the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 and KEF Q350, the Klipsch offers a more dynamic sound but can be fatiguing for some listeners. Despite a higher price, the build quality and audio performance justify the investment, making them a great choice for serious audiophiles.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Klipsch RP-500M II or Klipsch Reference R-26FA or Klipsch R-50PM.

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the experience of hearing your favorite music on a quality set of HiFi speakers. Today, we’re looking at the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere, a model that promises to bring stellar sound performance without breaking the bank. This compact yet powerful speaker has garnered attention for its sleek design and impressive audio qualities. But does it really live up to the hype?

Whether you’re an audiophile or just someone who loves good music, finding the right speaker can be a game changer. The Klipsch RP-500M II aims to deliver crisp highs and deep lows, all while being easy to set up and use. But before you rush out to buy it, let’s take a closer look at what makes this speaker tick. We’ll explore its design, sound performance, technical specs, and more to see if it’s the right fit for your audio needs. So, grab your favorite playlist and let’s get started!

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Design and Build Quality

The Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere has a design that truly stands out in a crowded field of Hifi speakers. At first glance, you notice its sleek and modern aesthetics. The cabinet has a clean, minimalistic look, and the black finish adds a touch of elegance to any room. It’s not just about looks, though; the build quality is equally impressive. Constructed with high-quality MDF, the cabinet feels solid and durable. You can tell that Klipsch put thought into making these speakers not only look good but also last long. The corners are nicely rounded, which gives it a more polished appearance.

One standout feature is the Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter. This isn't just a fancy term; it actually enhances sound dispersion and minimizes distortion, ensuring you get the most out of your music or movies. Plus, the copper-spun woofers are not just eye candy. They’re designed to deliver deep, rich bass without taking up massive amounts of space. However, all that quality comes with a bit of a downside. The speakers are a bit on the heavy side. If you're planning to place them on a shelf, make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold them. Also, while the black finish looks great, it can attract fingerprints and dust, so you might find yourself wiping them down more often than you'd like. Overall, the design and build quality of these speakers are top-notch. They manage to blend style with substance in a way that's hard to find. If you're looking for a speaker that not only sounds good but also enhances the look of your living space, Klipsch has done a great job here.

Audio Performance

The audio performance of the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere is where these speakers truly shine. They pack a punch with their crisp highs and rich mids. The clarity is impressive, making it feel like the artist is performing right in your living room. Thanks to the Tractrix horn technology, the treble is sharp without being harsh on the ears, giving you a detailed and immersive listening experience.

The 5.25-inch Cerametallic woofer does wonders for the midrange and bass. It delivers a deep, punchy bass that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. However, if you're a bass head who loves earth-shattering lows, you might still want to add a subwoofer for the full effect. The midrange is well-defined, allowing vocals and instruments to stand out distinctly.

One noteworthy feature is the LTS (Linear Travel Suspension) titanium diaphragm tweeter, which helps in reducing distortion for a cleaner sound. This makes a significant difference, especially when listening to genres that rely heavily on intricate details, like classical or jazz. You might be wondering if these speakers can handle loud volumes without losing quality. The answer is a resounding yes. They maintain their integrity even when cranked up, which is great for parties or movie nights. On the downside, if you have a large room, you might find their power somewhat lacking. They're better suited for medium-sized rooms where they can truly showcase their capabilities without getting lost in the space. In summary, the audio performance of these speakers is top-notch for their size and price range. They excel in delivering a balanced sound profile with clear highs, rich mids, and satisfying bass. While they might not replace a full surround system for a massive home theater, they certainly hold their own in most living rooms.

Technical Specifications

Let's talk specs, folks! Here are the technical nitty-gritty details of the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere.

Speaker Type: The RP-500M II is a bookshelf speaker, designed to deliver audiophile-grade sound in a compact, space-saving form.

Frequency Response: This bad boy covers a 45Hz to 25kHz range, meaning you'll get deep bass and crisp highs. It's like having a full orchestra in your living room.

Sensitivity: At 92 dB, these speakers are pretty efficient. You won't need a monster amp to get them singing loud and clear.

Power Handling: They can handle 75W continuous power and 300W peak power. Whether you're blasting rock or chilling with classical, they’ve got you covered.

Impedance: The 8 ohms nominal impedance is fairly standard, making it compatible with most amplifiers out there.

Drivers:

• 1” Titanium LTS Vented Tweeter: Provides clear, detailed high frequencies.
• 5.25” Spun Copper Cerametallic Woofer: Handles the mids and lows like a champ. The woofer's material helps in reducing distortion and increasing efficiency.

Crossover Frequency: The crossover is set at 1500Hz, ensuring a smooth transition between the tweeter and the woofer, giving you a balanced sound profile.

Enclosure Type: These speakers have a bass-reflex design via the rear-firing Tractrix port. This design helps in enhancing the low-frequency response. 

Dimensions: Measuring 13.5” x 7.95” x 10.24”, these speakers are compact yet pack a punch. 

Weight: Each speaker weighs 12 lbs, which is a good balance between sturdiness and portability. Construction Materials: The baffle is made from MDF with a brushed polymer veneer, giving it a stylish yet durable finish.

Binding Posts: High-quality dual binding posts allow for bi-amping or bi-wiring, offering flexibility in your setup. While these specs are impressive, one minor downside is that the rear-firing port means you’ll need to place them a bit away from walls to avoid boomy bass. But all in all, these technical details ensure the RP-500M II is a powerhouse in a small package.

Connectivity Options

Now, let’s talk about connectivity options. The Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere keeps things pretty straightforward here. It's got a pair of binding posts at the back for speaker wire connections. These are the gold-plated, five-way type, which means they can handle banana plugs, spade connectors, or bare wire. That gives you some flexibility in how you want to hook them up.

But here's where things might feel a bit old-school. There's no fancy digital input, no Bluetooth, and definitely no Wi-Fi connectivity. While some modern speakers offer all-in-one solutions with integrated amplifiers and wireless streaming, the RP-500M II sticks to the basics. This might be a bummer if you're looking for all the bells and whistles in one package.

On the flip side, sticking to the basics means you get to pair these speakers with the amplifier or receiver of your choice. Want a tube amp for that warm, rich sound? Go for it. Prefer a high-end solid-state amp? That works too. This flexibility can be a real plus for those who are picky about their audio setup. However, if you're hoping for a plug-and-play, no-extra-gear-needed situation, you'll have to keep looking.

To sum up, the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere offers reliable, quality connections that cater to the audiophile who appreciates customization. But if you’re after modern conveniences like wireless streaming, you might find these a bit lacking.

Ease of Setup

Setting up the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere is pretty straightforward, even if you're not a tech wizard. Right out of the box, these speakers are ready to go with minimal hassle. Don't you love it when things just work? First off, these bad boys come with clearly marked binding posts. This makes connecting your speaker wire a total breeze. If you’re new to this, binding posts are those little connectors on the back of the speaker that you attach your wires to. Look for the red and black color coding – it's hard to mess up. Connecting them to your amp or receiver is just as simple. The impedance and sensitivity ratings are pretty standard, so they should play nice with most home audio setups. Just plug them in, and you’re good to go. No special tools needed here, folks!

Now, the speakers themselves aren’t too heavy, which means you can easily move them around to find that sweet spot in your room. However, a little care needs to be taken so they don't get knocked over easily if placed on stands, especially if you have pets or small kids running around. One minor gripe: they don’t come with any wall-mounting hardware. If you’re planning to hang these up, you’ll need to buy brackets separately. But honestly, these are best enjoyed on a solid shelf or stand to really let those frequencies sing. Overall, setting up the Klipsch RP-500M II is a piece of cake. Grab your wires, find a cozy spot for them, and you’ll be basking in high-fidelity sound in no time.

What's in the Box

In the box, you get everything you need to get started without any unnecessary extras. First, you'll find two Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere speakers, which are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in pristine condition. Alongside the speakers, there are:

• Magnetic Grilles - Easily attachable and detachable, these grilles help protect the drivers while offering the flexibility to showcase the speakers' sleek design.
• Rubber Feet - These feet are provided to place on the bottom of the speakers to prevent movement and protect your furniture.
• User Manual - This is a comprehensive guide that walks you through the setup and provides basic troubleshooting tips.
• Warranty Information - Included is the warranty card that details the warranty period and instructions on how to activate it.

One thing you might notice is the absence of speaker cables. It’s a bit of a bummer since you’ll need to purchase those separately if you don't already have some. However, this is pretty standard in the speaker industry, so it’s not a huge surprise. Overall, the contents are straightforward and practical, making sure you have all the essentials to get your listening experience up and running quickly.

Comparison with Competitors

In the busy market of HiFi speakers, the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere directly competes with some heavy hitters. Let's see how it stacks up. Compared to the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2, the Klipsch offers a more dynamic and lively sound signature, thanks to its horn-loaded tweeter. The ELACs, on the other hand, are known for their neutral and balanced sound, making them ideal for audiophiles who prefer accuracy over excitement. However, some might find the ELACs to lack the punch and excitement that the Klipsch provides. Then there's the KEF Q350.

The KEF speakers are praised for their Uni-Q driver array, which provides a coherent and detailed soundstage. If you’re into rich, warm sound, KEF might be your go-to. But the Klipsch excels in delivering high-energy performances, especially in rock and electronic genres. It’s a bit like choosing between a smooth jazz club and a rock concert. Another contender is the Audioengine A5+. While these are powered speakers, they come at a similar price point. The Audioengines excel in convenience because of their built-in amplification and Bluetooth connectivity. But if you’re looking for pure, unadulterated sound quality and don’t mind the need for an external amp, the Klipsch pulls ahead. One downside to the Klipsch RP-500M II is that its horn-loaded tweeter can be a bit fatiguing if you’re sensitive to bright, vivid high frequencies. This is something to consider if you plan to listen for long periods. In summary, while each competitor has its strengths, the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere holds its own with a dynamic and engaging sound that’s hard to beat in its price range. Whether it’s the right fit for you depends on your personal taste and listening habits.

Video by: Erin's Audio Corner

Value for Money

Let's talk money. The Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere is not the cheapest option out there, but you get what you pay for. This speaker is a premium product with a price tag that reflects its quality. But is it worth it? If you're on a budget, you might hesitate. However, consider the longevity and performance you're getting. The sturdy build quality and top-notch components mean this speaker can stand the test of time. Think of it as an investment in your audio experience. On the flip side, the price might be a bit steep if you're just dipping your toes into the world of HiFi audio.

There are certainly more affordable options that still deliver decent sound. Yet, if you're looking for exceptional audio performance and a design that complements your living space, this speaker won't disappoint. To sum it up, while the initial cost might raise an eyebrow, the long-term satisfaction and audio bliss make it a worthwhile purchase for those serious about sound. Is it a steal? Maybe not, but it’s definitely a solid investment.

Conclusion

In summary, the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio experience. Its blend of impressive design and robust build quality ensures that it not only looks good but stands the test of time. The audio performance is top-notch, with clear highs, detailed mids, and punchy bass that make your favorite tunes come alive. However, no product is without its flaws. Some listeners might find that the bass, while powerful, can be a bit overwhelming in smaller rooms. Additionally, the price point might be a bit steep for those on a tighter budget. Why might you choose these speakers? They offer exceptional sound quality and build that make them a worthy investment for serious audiophiles.

The connectivity options and ease of setup are just cherries on top, ensuring you can get them up and running with minimal fuss. But, if you're someone who prefers a more neutral sound signature or needs a more budget-friendly option, there might be other models worth considering. Overall, the Klipsch RP-500M II Reference Premiere delivers a fantastic listening experience that will please most users and is a great addition to any living room or home studio.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications