Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • 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.

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-50PM

reviews

[{"title":"Klipsch R-50PM Review","link":"https://www.hifipicks.com/en/reviews/klipsch-r-50pm-56465","source":"HifiPicks","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

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.

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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Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Triangle
AIO Twin
799
799
/
10
Reviews

The AIO TWIN speakers are packed with technologies and TRIANGLE know-how. Versatile and in a sleek design, they are a state-of-the-art product. With all the features and performances of a modern Hi-Fi system, they offer a rich, precise, and detailed sound.With Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily stream your music in high-resolution (24 bits / 192 KHz) from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. They also feature a Phono input, compatible with most turntables available on the market.You will appreciate their minimalist design and wide range of finishes: Graphite Black, Frosted White, Linen Grey, Abyssal Blue and Brown Maple.

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Wide range of connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0 aptX, Wi-Fi, RCA/Phono input, optical input, and USB input.
  • Enthusiastic and capable sound quality suitable for various music genres, with a mature sense of composure.
  • Elegant and refined design with unique arrow-extended feet and premium grill, available in multiple color finishes.
  • The included Triangle AIO app is well-designed, bug-free, and provides easy streaming from providers like Spotify, Qobuz, Tidal, and Deezer, as well as basic EQ adjustments.
  • Includes a built-in moving magnet phono stage for playing records directly.

Product Considerations

  • The quality of the built-in phono stage isn't the best compared to streaming or other inputs
  • The remote control is plastic and doesn't feel as premium as the speaker itself
  • The included speaker cable is basic
  • WiFi connectivity can have a delay when turning the speaker off and back on
  • The bright LED indicating the source can be distracting for some users, though it can be dimmed or turned off

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the KEF LSX II, the AIO Twin is at half the price
  • Triangle is more balanced, neutral, and composed than the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2, while the Argon Audio Forte A5 MK2 is more V-shaped

Takeaway: The AIO is a versatile and good-sounding all-in-one speaker system that combines modern features with a stylish design, making it a great choice for those who want simplicity and convenience. The speaker's ability to handle various input sources, from streaming to vinyl playback, ensures that users can enjoy all of their music with ease.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
ADAM Audio
A7V
799
799
/
7
Reviews
ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a powerful, smooth and detailed sound with flexible voicing options
  • High frequency reproduction balances accuracy without being harsh
  • Ability to resolve fine details
  • Excellent build quality, back panel controls, and layout
  • Room correction presets can be saved via the partnered Sonarworks Sound ID software

Product Considerations

  • Non-stepped volume controls travel a little too easily
  • On/off switch and input sensitivity controls are located on the cabinet rear panel
  • Network router and ethernet cables required for computer control

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The A7V has a more premium sound and can be tweaked further thanks to the free A-Control software, but the ADAM Audio T7V is hard to beat due to its price-to-performance ratio
  • For users coming from a set of KRK Systems Rokit 8 speakers, the A7V will be a massive improvement

Takeaway: The ADAM Audio A7V is a great-sounding monitor with multiple voicings, software integration and excellent build quality. These monitors offer a detailed audio performance, allowing users to make well informed mixing decisions.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Triangle
BR03 Connect
750
750
/
7
Reviews
Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Sounds fantastic, delivering clarity and balance across various music genres
  • Easy to power, sounding amazing even with less expensive amplifiers
  • Good-looking design, with attractive color options
  • The addition of a USB-B input is a welcome feature for audiophiles listening on digital devices
  • Equipped with a wide array of connectivity options, including Bluetooth, HDMI ARC, USB, optical, coaxial, RCA, and phono input

Product Considerations

  • The remote control tone control settings can be confusing without a visual gauge
  • Requires some space to breathe and perform at its best—not ideal for tiny rooms or placement right against walls
  • Some reviewers have found that the upper frequencies are slightly accentuated
  • HDMI implementation may have glitches on older TVs
  • The phono amplifier is considered only 'ok' by some reviewers, not good enough for daily use

Takeaway: The Triangle Borea BR03 Connect offers great sound and many ways to connect devices, providing a modern and flexible listening experience. It's a solid choice for anyone wanting a simple system that sounds great without the need for lots of separate equipment.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Triangle is a French speaker manufacturer known for its bright, lively sound and distinctive tweeter designs that use horn-loaded tweeters to enhance high-frequency detail.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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.
Check Amazon
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Q Acoustics
M20
499
/
Released
2021
Designed to deliver stunning wireless high-resolution stereo sound, the flexible M20 HD audio system is the most powerful and immersive way to enjoy music, movies and gaming sound anywhere in the home.
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Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Effortlessly detailed and balanced sound
  • Excellent stereo imaging and dynamics
  • High-quality Bluetooth streaming
  • Simple setup and control
  • Multiple connection options, including subwoofer output, digital input for TV, and analog inputs

Product Considerations

  • No HDMI ARC for seamless control with TV remote
  • No dedicated app for adjusting settings
  • Bass output may be lacking for some listeners, potentially requiring a subwoofer
  • Grilles are non-removable
  • Speakers power down after 20 minutes at rest, requiring manual Bluetooth pairing each time

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Ruark Audio MR1 Mk2, the Q Acoustics M20 sounds fuller, louder and less compressed

Takeaway: The Q Acoustics M20 HD speakers offer detailed, balanced sound and are easy to set up with various devices. They're a versatile audio solution for upgrading sound, whether for music, movies, or gaming.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sonos
Era 100
230
/
Released
2023
Featuring next-gen acoustics and new levels of connectivity, Era 100 transforms any room with the finely tuned stereo sound and rich bass your music deserves.
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Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers stereo sound, unlike the Sonos One, due to angled tweeters
  • Has a larger woofer, resulting in deeper bass
  • Features Bluetooth connectivity, in addition to Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2, offering more flexibility
  • Easy to set up and use with the Sonos app, which integrates many music sources
  • Includes Trueplay room tuning, now available for Android users, which optimizes the speaker's sound based on its placement in the room, and adjustable EQ

Product Considerations

  • The Apple HomePod 2 provides more natural warmth of human voices
  • A separate adapter is needed for a wired connection, and it's not included in the box
  • Lacks Google Assistant support
  • Android users may find the Quick Tuning feature is not as capable as the iOS version
  • Isn't designed for outdoor use

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Era 100 has better sound quality with cleaner bass and can playback stereo content without downmixing to mono, compared to Sonos One/One SL
  • Era 100 is more affordable and compact but lacks Dolby Atmos support, compared to Sonos Era 300
  • Era 100 is cheaper but doesn't have a built-in battery for portability, compared to Sonos Move 2

Takeaway: The Sonos Era 100 is a versatile wireless speaker with great sound, enhanced bass, and easy integration with streaming services. It's a solid choice for anyone seeking a compact, all-in-one speaker that delivers both convenience and quality audio for an immersive listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sonos pioneered multi-room wireless audio with their proprietary SonosNet mesh network, which ensures synchronized streaming across multiple speakers without relying on traditional Wi-Fi. Their products feature Trueplay technology that automatically tunes speakers to room acoustics, while supporting multiple voice assistants and streaming services across their platform-agnostic ecosystem.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Kanto
ORA
282
/
Released
2023
Creator. Gamer. Musician. ORA bridges the gap between computer speakers and studio monitors giving you studio-grade, audiophile-approved sound without dominating your space. ORA has modern inputs like USB-C to get the best sound from your PC or Mac, Bluetooth 5.0 to pair with your phone or smart home device, and RCA for your analog gear. Sporting a crossover that automatically sends bass to a connected subwoofer, you get flawless low-end integration freeing up the 3” woofers and ¾” silk dome tweeters to focus on what they do best. ORA is the perfect blend of reference-quality sound and modern features at a compact size to fit on your desktop.
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Kanto Audio stands out in the hifi speaker market with its vibrant color options and unique bamboo finishes, departing from the typical black and grey designs seen across the industry. Their speakers, like the YU series, are known for excellent stereo imaging and surprisingly full sound from compact sizes, while the REN model is the first to include HDMI ARC for TV audio, effectively competing with soundbars.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive sound quality with balanced and detailed audio, creating a wider soundstage than expected for their size
  • Compact size is ideal for smaller desks
  • Can be paired with a subwoofer for deeper bass
  • Clean and understated design blends well into desktop environments
  • Can work well with CRT televisions due to magnetic shielding, preventing buzzing
  • Versatile connectivity options including USB-C, Bluetooth 5.0, and RCA inputs

Product Considerations

  • Lacks deep bass without a subwoofer
  • Some reviewers noted a slightly scooped or recessed midrange
  • No aux (3.5mm) headphone jack is included
  • No USB-C or RCA cables are included in the box, requiring users to source their own

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The ORA holds its own against the Fluance AS61s, a larger speaker with larger drivers and cabinet, with comparable in-room sound
  • The ORA sound better than the M1 MacBook Pro speakers, with better bass performance and a stronger midrange
  • The ORA sound better overall, cleaner, and more detailed than the Kanto YU2 and YU4, similar to—but possibly cleaner than—the YU6
  • The Kanto TUK is in a different sound class, with more depth and clarity, so the ORA wouldn't be considered an upgrade
  • The Kanto Aura sounds more distinct and textured than the Audioengine speakers
  • The ORA has more prominent bass than the Audioengine A2 Plus

Takeaway: The Kanto ORA speakers offer a great balance of sound quality, size, and connectivity, making them a good upgrade for a desk. They are worth it if you want great sound in a compact design.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Kanto Audio stands out in the hifi speaker market with its vibrant color options and unique bamboo finishes, departing from the typical black and grey designs seen across the industry. Their speakers, like the YU series, are known for excellent stereo imaging and surprisingly full sound from compact sizes, while the REN model is the first to include HDMI ARC for TV audio, effectively competing with soundbars.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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