Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Klipsch is a well-known speaker company, especially at the affordable end, making great value speakers that are reasonably affordable
- The R-40M looks nice, much nicer than its price point would suggest, appearing like speakers that cost $1,000 or more
- The horn tweeter design is distinctive, offering a brighter sound that some people may prefer and contributing to the feeling of using a big speaker when listening nearfield
Product Considerations
- The frequency response of 71 Hz to 21 kHz is potentially the worst compared to other speakers in the review
- The rear port design can make the bass too boomy, affecting overall audio clarity
- Klipsch R40M lacked clarity when compared to the DALI speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Triangle speakers offer better value, being made and designed in France for the same price (in the US), with a bigger tweeter, and better frequency response
- The DALI Spectre One had better audio clarity than the Klipsch R40M
- The Klipsch R40M sounded like a bigger speaker and offered better nearfield listening than the AUK Audio ES10
Takeaway: The Klipsch R-40M is a good entry-level bookshelf speaker option with a nice design and distinctive sound. It is a great choice for those upgrading from basic audio setups and looking for a good value speaker.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
R-40M
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Klipsch has a long-standing design philosophy centered around horn-loaded drivers, which contributes to their products' high sensitivity and wide dynamic range.
- The brand's products often feature a distinctive aesthetic blend of retro styling with modern, high-quality materials, making them a unique addition to any listening space.
- Klipsch speakers are celebrated for their ability to deliver high volume levels, and have very unique character that audiophiles with certain tastes can really appreciate.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Reference Series
- Position: Entry-level home audio speakers for general-purpose listening.
- Description: Uses proprietary Tractrix horn-loaded technology with aluminum tweeters for clear, detailed sound. Compared to the higher-end Reference Premiere series, it offers less refined materials and slightly lower sensitivity, making it a cost-effective choice for casual listeners or smaller spaces.
The Fives
- Position: Compact powered speakers for versatile applications in modern home setups.
- Description: Include integrated amplification and Bluetooth connectivity, making them an all-in-one solution for music, TV, and PC audio. While the Reference and Reference Premiere require separate components, The Fives provide plug-and-play convenience with premium audio performance.
Reference Premiere Series
- Position: Mid-range home theater and hi-fi speakers for enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance.
- Description: Featuring titanium tweeters and Cerametallic woofers, provides better sound resolution and reduced distortion than the standard Reference series. Includes Dolby Atmos-capable models, distinguishing it as a more immersive option for home theater setups.
Heritage Series
- Position: Premium, handcrafted speakers designed for audiophiles with a focus on vintage-inspired aesthetics.
- Description: Includes iconic models like the Klipschorn and Cornwall, offering exceptional efficiency and dynamic range through fully horn-loaded designs. Unlike the Reference Premiere, the Heritage series delivers a warmer, more natural sound signature.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
276
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
13
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
46
Founding Year
1946
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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Used
Klipsch
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Klipsch
RP-600M II
649
649
/
14
Reviews
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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Product Strengths
- Larger horn tweeter and a new Cerametallic woofer, compared to its predecessor
- Upgraded binding posts and crossover plate elevate to Reference Premiere status
- Larger diameter voice coils and aluminum shorting rings on the woofers give the speaker better linearity throughout the bass, decrease distortion while upping power handling resulting in improved speed and accuracy
- Better detail retrieval, more articulate bass, and vastly improved soundstage width and imaging, compared to the RP-600M
- The binding posts are the same that are found on costlier Heritage speakers
Product Considerations
- Finish options did not receive an upgrade over the outgoing model, leaving customers with the same ebony or walnut wraps
- The tweeter may be too bright for some listeners who are sensitive to a more aggressive top end
- Rated sensitivity is 94.5dB, which is a decrease compared to the original's reported sensitivity of 96
- Needs a bit of space behind them and to the sides, or at least positioning on open shelves, if the powerful output from that port isn't to muddy the sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the older RP-600M, the new sounds far more linear
- The new is very easy to listen to for long periods of time, and while it still has a presence, a speed and transparency to the artist or instrument—at least with respect to the midrange—it is not as forward sounding as past designs
- The new proved to be surprisingly flat, but best of all, not the least bit fatiguing
- There was very little difference in tone with respect to the mids between the new and a costlier Revel bookshelf
- These two are actually pretty neck and neck
- As for the Wharfedale Evo 4.1, the Evo is better constructed, not to mention nicer looking
Takeaway: The RP-600M II is a refined speaker with better components, improved sound, and better bass response and imaging. It's a speaker that would be great for someone who likes to listen to a variety of music genres and wants a good-sounding speaker that can last a long time.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Product Page
Product Page
Klipsch
The Sevens
999
999
/
8
Reviews
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Delivers warm, powerful, and detailed sound with potent dynamics, especially for film and TV
- Features a gorgeous, retro-modern design with solid build quality and premium materials
- Provides excellent imaging and a broad, immersive soundstage
- Offers versatility as both TV speakers and a hifi system replacement—suited for both music and movies
- Offers lots of connection options, including HDMI ARC, optical input, USB, and a built-in phono preamp
Product Considerations
- Lacks built-in Wi-Fi or Ethernet streaming, relying on Bluetooth for wireless connectivity
- The indicator lights for source and volume are located on top of the primary speaker and are hard to see when seated
- The horn-loaded tweeters can sometimes skew towards sharpness, especially with stringed and choral recordings
- Remote response can be slow
- The Klipsch Connect app can be a bit frustrating to use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF LSX II and SVS Prime Wireless Pro: The Sevens offer more cinematic spectacle, while KEF and SVS offer more clarity and precision for music
- Vs Klipsch The Fives: The Sevens offer a grander physical scale and potentially a more cinematic experience
Takeaway: The Klipsch 'The Sevens' are a stylish and versatile set of powered speakers that provide rich and detailed sound, making them a great choice for those who want a simple, powerful audio system for both music and movies. They are especially suitable for people who appreciate a retro aesthetic and don't mind the lack of built-in Wi-Fi.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Product Page
Product Page
Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
899
/
22
Reviews
Wharfedale’s new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN.
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
- Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
- Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
- Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
- Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price
Product Considerations
- Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
- Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
- Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
- Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
- The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level
Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Product Page
Product Page
Q Acoustics
5020
899
899
/
18
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
- Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
- Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
- Taut and agile bass performance
- Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
- Connectivity options such as binding posts
Product Considerations
- Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
- Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
- Bass response is somewhat subdued
- Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
- Grilles muddle the sound
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Klipsch
RP-500M II
499
/
Released
2022
A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area for crisper, clearer sound. The phase plug and compression molded silicone face ensure smooth frequency response.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional sound clarity, with crisp highs, rich mids, and controlled bass
- Robust build quality with a sleek and modern design available in three finishes
- Wide soundstage and excellent imaging
- Straightforward setup with clearly marked binding posts
- Supports bi-wiring and bi-amping capabilities
Product Considerations
- The bass might not be deep enough for some listeners, potentially requiring a subwoofer
- Lacks wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
- The black finish may attract fingerprints and dust
- A peak around 10-15kHz might cause synth music to sound strained at times
- The horn-loaded tweeter can be a bit fatiguing if sensitive to bright, vivid high frequencies
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- RP-500M II is a marked improvement over the original RP-500M in terms of midrange detail
- The Klipsch RP-500M II is preferred over the RP-600M II
- The Klipsch offers a more dynamic and lively sound signature than the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
- The Klipsch excels in delivering high-energy performances compared to the KEF Q350
- The Klipsch pulls ahead in pure, unadulterated sound quality if one doesn't mind the need for an external amp, compared to the Audioengine A5+
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-500M II speakers offer impressive sound and a stylish design, making them a great choice for upgrading a listening experience. These speakers will make one's favorite music sound even better, with their clear highs and rich bass.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Product Page
Product Page
Klipsch
R-51PM
499
/
Released
2022
The R-51PM powered speakers use a highly efficient, powerful yet minimalist design that engulfs listeners in their favorite movies and music. With a built-in amplifier, a multitude of inputs and Bluetooth ® connectivity, the R-51PM is the most versatile stereo speaker system on the planet.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very versatile due to its multiple inputs including USB, optical, phono, AUX, and Bluetooth
- Impressive and satisfying bass response for its size, enhanced by a dynamic bass EQ feature
- Warm, smooth, and full midrange, which contributes to a satisfying listening experience
- Wide and spacious soundstage, characteristic of horn-designed speakers
- Can serve as a soundbar replacement, offering better sound quality and more flexibility than many soundbars
Product Considerations
- Imaging is not as pinpoint as some other speakers, potentially due to the horn design
- Bluetooth mode might have a slight hissing background noise
- May lack deep bass extension in some listening environments, though this can be addressed with a subwoofer
- The digital section may not be the sweetest, and performs better when driven from the analogue inputs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Klipsch RP600M, the R-51PM is less bright, smoother, and has more tonal accuracy, especially in high frequencies and bass
- Compared to the JBL 305 Mark II, the R-51PM has better tonality, is more open sounding, and has a larger soundstage, plus more features and versatility
- Compared to the Adam Audio T5V, the R-51PM is less fatiguing and more enjoyable for music listening and movies, while the T5V is more accurate for studio mixing and mastering
Takeaway: The Klipsch R-51PM is a versatile and great-sounding speaker system that offers a lot of value, especially for those who want a simple setup that sounds great for multiple uses. It is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a compact system with a full, warm sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Product Page
Product Page
Klipsch
R-50M
399
/
Released
2022
The R-50M Bookshelf Speakers feature 5.25" woofers and an all new 90° x 90° Tractrix® Horn. An updated horn design, including increased outer horn dimensions, delivers more power and emotion to your music and movies.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good detail, air, and separation in the treble, being easy to listen to
- Versatile, pairing well with a wide variety of amplifiers
- Large soundstage for its size, creating a sense of space
Product Considerations
- Lacks deep bass extension, limiting its use for certain music genres and applications
- May require a subwoofer to achieve a fuller sound, especially for home theater or music listening
- Bass performance may sound sloppy at high volumes (above 90dB)
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Kanto YU Passive: R-50M has better treble quality and refinement, more natural-sounding midrange, and fuller bass
- Vs Emotiva B1+: Emotiva is better for a V-curve sound, but Klipsch is better for a more linear sound with an open, clear top end
- Vs Pro-Ject Speaker Box 5: R-50M offers a better sound overall
- Vs Heco Aurora 300: Heco is warmer and tonally richer, while Klipsch is more open, airy, and clarity-focused with a mostly neutral sound
Takeaway: The Klipsch R-50M is a versatile speaker that sounds lively and dynamic, with a pleasing and detailed sound. They are a good option for those looking for a speaker with a big soundstage and smooth midrange, especially when paired with a subwoofer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Product Page
Product Page
Klipsch
R-40PM
499
/
Released
2023
The R-40PM powered speakers connect via Bluetooth ® for music streaming, phono (with ground screw terminal) for turntables, plus digital and analog for everything in between. And because Klipsch engineers built in a customized amplifier, you get perfectly tuned sound experiences – no audio/video receiver (AVR) required.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clear and vibrant highs
- Neutral and full-bodied mid-range
- Solid and attractive design
- Good value
- Fulfilling low frequency response
Product Considerations
- No Wi-Fi
- Slow remote response
- The R-40PM's appearance might be a matter of taste due to the mid-century or retro look
- Be aware of the depth of the R-40PMs, because they extend out a couple of inches further than expected
- Lacks an HDMI ARC connection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs R-41PM: The horn radiator molding now extends to the speaker's perimeter (casting aside the R-41PM's screw-in module), and the deep cabinet adds to the sense of authority
- Vs R-41PM: The new speakers now use spun copper crystal polymer cones
- Vs R-41PM: 28% deeper than its ancestor
- Vs The Sevens: The dynamic bass EQ deployed is a more subtle and appealing use of the tech when compared to its rather invasive application on the higher-priced The Sevens
Takeaway: The Klipsch R-40PM is a great package with genuinely fine musical chops, offering price-fitting performance with sonic color and vitality. The filled-out midrange and proportionate bass inspire lengthy listening sessions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Product Page
Product Page
Klipsch
R-50PM
499
/
Released
2023
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers powerful and detailed sound in a compact package
- Features a sleek and minimalist design that complements modern decor
- Has a built-in phono preamp, allowing direct connection to a turntable
- Offers versatile connectivity options including Bluetooth, RCA, USB, and optical inputs
Product Considerations
- Bass response may not satisfy bass enthusiasts looking for depth and rumble
- Some users have reported that the speakers are quite expensive compared to other bookshelf speakers in the market
- Lacks a built-in battery, limiting their portability
- The speakers do not come with a remote control, making it necessary to manually adjust the volume or switch inputs
Takeaway: The Klipsch R-50PM delivers powerful and detailed sound in a compact package, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize volume and an immersive sound experience. With versatile connectivity options and a sleek design, these speakers are suitable for various audio sources and modern decor.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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