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
- Rich, lifelike sound for Dolby Atmos soundtracks
- Can serve as full surround speakers when mounted to a wall
- Plays music nicely
- Delivers immersive Dolby Atmos experiences with precision
- Reproduces clear vocals and rich midrange in Dolby Atmos mode, and sounds even more transparent when toggled into Surround mode
Product Considerations
- Reflecting sound off a ceiling does not always work perfectly, especially with music
- Needs a subwoofer to bring thumping bass to hip hop and rock music
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The RP-8060FA has larger woofers that give more range
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-500SA speakers are versatile and produce high-quality sound, making them great for both Dolby Atmos movies and music. They are a solid choice for adding speaker-top or wall-mounted speakers for Dolby Atmos.
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
RP-500SA II
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
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Tweeter: 1" LTS Titanium Diaphragm
- Woofer: 5.25" Cerametallic
- Horn Design: 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix
Description
Delivering an immersive sound experience, the RP-500SA II Dolby Atmos ® surround sound speakers can switch from an up-firing immersive speaker for Dolby Atmos Technology, a height speaker, or a rear surround with ease.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
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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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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Used
Klipsch
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Klipsch
RP-502S II
799
799
/
1
Reviews
Horn loading maximizes efficiently and increases detail while focusing high frequencies towards the listening area. Proprietary Tractrix® geometry provides the most efficient transfer of high frequency waves into the listening area. The phase plug and compressed molded silicon face ensure smooth frequency response. When combined, the cleanest, most natural sound possible is created. The second generation increases horn size for a larger soundstage and enhanced directivity.
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
- The new grill design is tapered, giving it a more athletic stance and better presence in the room
- The grill design frames the Klipsch logo, emphasizing the brand
- Quarter 20 threading on the bottom provides alternative mounting options
- Flush-mounted terminals will not stick out when mounted on a wall
- The updated padding is form-fitted to the speakers and provides better protection during shipping
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-502S Gen 2 has an updated design, including a redesigned grill and flush-mounted terminals, that is more aesthetically pleasing. The improved packaging should help ensure it arrives safely.
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-40SA
599
599
/
1
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
- Designed to elevate home audio experience with theater-quality sound featuring Dolby Atmos support
- Sleek, minimalist design with a sturdy build and high-quality vinyl finish
- Delivers dynamic and immersive audio with clear highs thanks to the aluminum tweeters, well-defined mids, and punchy lows
- Ease of setup is a strong point, even for those who aren't tech-savvy, the process is straightforward, and the instructions are simple
- Offers premium sound quality without completely emptying your wallet
- Binding posts are the main connection method, offering limited connectivity options
Product Considerations
- Weight can make wall-mounting tricky
- Some users might find the high frequencies a bit too sharp, especially at higher volumes, and may require an equalizer adjustment
- To take full advantage of the Dolby Atmos features, a compatible AV receiver and content that supports Atmos are needed
- Speaker cables are not included
Takeaway: The Klipsch R-40SA speakers are a great addition to any home theater setup, combining sleek design, solid build quality, and robust sound performance. With Dolby Atmos compatibility and ease of setup, these speakers are a worthy contender for upgrading a home audio experience.
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
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Focal
Theva Surround
649
649
/
6
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Sweet and detailed audio performance with clear instrumental separation and expansive dimensionality
- Warm and full-bodied bass and midrange
- Clear yet 'mellow' treble, creating a pleasing sound signature
- Accurate sound that doesn't do much to color the recording, so listeners get a balanced presentation of the source content
- Good level of dynamic range for reasonably sized bookshelf speakers, and they can get louder than expected for their size/price class
Product Considerations
- The laid-back sound may occasionally obscure some definition
- The speakers run on the cooler side of things, never becoming too indulgent in any aspect and instead providing a sound that is accurate and slightly pulled back, but never muted or lifeless
- Asymmetry of the phase coherence of their vertical lobe can be a slight problem for anyone listening under the tweeter axis
- Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Vestia No. 1: Theva offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but is not as immediately striking in detail or treble extension
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3: Theva is more compact and easier to place, but doesn't look as premium
- Vs Polk Legend Series L100: Theva has a more laid-back sound profile, making it a better listen in most cases, while the L100 presents a more precise center image
Takeaway: The Theva No. 1 is a great speaker for enjoying detailed and smooth sound without harshness. It's a good option for different types of content, from music to movies, and is especially suited for smaller spaces.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Product Page
Product Page
Dali
Alteco C-1
600
600
/
3
Reviews
The DALI ALTECO C-1 is a true multipurpose speaker. It adds Atmos, DTS-X and Auro-3D height information to an existing surround setup, and is a discreet on-wall solution for a stereo installation.Dual Sound ModeThe dual sound mode offers flexible placement. Select 'UP' for soft, downward sound dispersion or 'DOWN' for close listening.Wood Fibre ConesOur low-loss drivers combine low-mass paper cones with wood fibre for an uneven surface that eliminates resonance and reveals every detail.Up-FiringWhen placed on top of front or rear speakers, the angular design is perfect for transmitting Dolby Atmos, DTS-X or Auro-3D surround sound height information.Soft Dome TweeterThe ultra lightweight, weaved fabric dome tweeter offers best-in-class resolution with extended frequency response, wide dispersion and low colouration.
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Designed to deliver delicate Atmos sounds and add height to the surround sound experience
- Brilliantly built and seem built to last
- Does an outstanding job in reproducing a cinematic feel
- They are full-bodied and an easy and engaging listen
- Can be used discreetly on your living room wall while providing an exceptional stereo listening experience when paired with a subwoofer
Product Considerations
- With the vinyl wrap, it looks a little bit like Ikea furniture, so it may not be the best option for a classy looking system
- Speaker terminals use a push fit spring clamp system for very thin wire, which can be annoying
- When used on top of floor standers, they do not sound as good as when wall-mounted
- Dolby Atmos content availability may be lacking
Takeaway: The Alteco C1 is a well-built speaker that adds a cinematic feel to a home theatre experience. It is a versatile speaker that can be used in different ways and is a good value for the price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
KEF
Q4 Meta
499
/
Released
2024
The slender and sleek Q4 Meta is a highly versatile on-wall speaker that can be used as left, centre, and right (LCR) speaker, or as a surround speaker. Featuring a 5.25" 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT™, the HiFi speaker delivers an expansive, immersive soundscape without taking up valuable floor space.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The reviewer liked the Q4 so much that they bought two more
- The reviewer was impressed with the Q4s
- Rated down to 42 Hertz in-room response, the port provides a fuller bodied sound
- It can be used as a LCR (left, center, right) speaker, making it versatile for different channels
- The driver is very much the same as in the KEF R11s as well, promising timbre matching will be no problem
Product Considerations
- The reviewer wishes the port was underneath, so it was more hidden when hanging it vertically
- The reviewer wishes KEF would make a custom grill to match the R11s
Takeaway: The Q4 sounds really good and is impressive as a center channel, performing bigger than it looks. Its ability to be mounted and act as different channels allows it to be a very versatile piece of equipment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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Polk
Reserve R900
385
/
Released
2021
Add R900 height modules to access an IMAX-enhanced world of multidimensional sound. Its unique design means that it can sit atop other Reserve Series speakers or be mounted to the wall, unlocking the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capabilities of the Reserve Series.
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers dynamic and immersive sound at a budget-friendly price
- Shares advanced drivers with Polk's flagship Legend series
- Impressive build quality for the price
- Crisp, near full-range performance
Product Considerations
- Revealing sound can be slightly bright with some sources
- Speaker cabinets lack the lavish construction and wood-veneer finishes found in the Legend series
Takeaway: The Reserve series brings the advanced tech of Polk's high-end Legend series to a more affordable price point, offering great sound and build quality. This makes it a worthwhile option for listeners seeking a premium experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
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Heco
Ambient Line 11 F
349
/
Released
Schon das kleinste Modell der Ambient-Baureihe bietet alle typischen Heco-Qualitäten. Mit Fluktus-Hochtöner und einem Tiefmitteltöner mit Kraftpapier hat sie klanglich alle Gene der Familie und mit gerade mal 30 cm Gehäusehöhe verwandelt sie schnell und unauffällig jeden Raum in eine akustische Oase.
Heco is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique Fluktus tweeter design that combines multiple horns in a single structure for even sound dispersion across frequencies. Their speakers use German-made wool fibers in Kraft paper cones and feature a distinctive polished resin cabinet design in their Aurora series, blending vintage-inspired technologies with modern advancements while remaining easy to drive with modest amplifiers.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Designed to be mounted on a wall, saving space
- Simple mounting system and easy speaker wire attachment
- All models use the same speaker components, allowing for mixing and matching within a home theater setup
- Features the Fluctus tweeter for even response across all frequencies and open, effortless sound
- Uses a Kraft paper cone for mid-range and woofer components, made from renewable forests and wool fibers
Product Considerations
- The Ambient 11F does not go as low in the bass as the larger Ambient models
Takeaway: The HEIKO Ambient Series offers great sound without taking up floor space and can be easily integrated into a home theater system or used in various other applications. The consistent speaker components and design make them a versatile and visually appealing choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Heco is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique Fluktus tweeter design that combines multiple horns in a single structure for even sound dispersion across frequencies. Their speakers use German-made wool fibers in Kraft paper cones and feature a distinctive polished resin cabinet design in their Aurora series, blending vintage-inspired technologies with modern advancements while remaining easy to drive with modest amplifiers.
Product Page
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Monitor
Silver AMS 7G
404
/
Released
2021
The Silver AMS 7G with Dolby Atmos® puts you right inside the film or the song, creating a 3D soundscape with unprecedented realism. With specially created content, there's no limit to the detail that's possible.
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent performance, superb build quality, and high value
- The fit and finish are beyond reproach for the price level
- Features new drivers, including a revised C-CAM tweeter and RST II mid/bass drivers, contributing to improved sound quality and lower distortion
- The design language is crisp and clean, with a timeless quality
Product Considerations
- If you prefer curved cabinets, you'll have to look elsewhere
- The surround speakers and height effects speakers are only available in gloss black or satin white, potentially limiting aesthetic choices for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Monitor Audio offers real-wood veneers, while ELAC's Uni-Fi Reference and Bowers & Wilkins' 600 Series only offer fake wood-effect vinyl wraps
- Another speaker series in this price range that looks as good is Wharfedale's Evo4
Takeaway: The Silver Series 7G offers a combination of excellent performance, build quality, and value. They might be worth your time if you are looking for new speakers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Product Page
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Gallo Acoustics
A'diva Habitat
472
/
Released
2021
HABITAT introduces some much needed style into the utilitarian outdoor speaker category, the all-stainless steel, IP66 rated Habitat range is derived from the timeless 4" and 5" spherical forms of our classic Micro and A'Diva speakers.
Gallo Acoustics is known for its spherical speaker design that eliminates resonance and internal diffraction, along with their patented S2 fill technology that statically charges to enhance low frequencies from small speakers. Their speakers use a proprietary flat speaker cone and unique CDT3 tweeter with 300-degree dispersion, while their modular design and viscoelastic speaker bases set them apart from traditional speaker manufacturers.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very clear, very crisp sound
- Special filling inside called branded K2 helps produce a fuller, deeper sound from such a tiny speaker
- Seamless metal casing
- Can use banana plugs to connect speaker cable, or push naked speaker wire into the connections and tighten
Product Considerations
- Frequency response ranges from 76Hz down to about 20kHz
- Comes with a little o-ring for placing on a shelf, ensuring the speaker sits and won't roll away
Takeaway: The A'diva speakers are easy to set up and install into a home system, and the sound quality is good and fantastic. The speakers give a very clear, very crisp sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Gallo Acoustics is known for its spherical speaker design that eliminates resonance and internal diffraction, along with their patented S2 fill technology that statically charges to enhance low frequencies from small speakers. Their speakers use a proprietary flat speaker cone and unique CDT3 tweeter with 300-degree dispersion, while their modular design and viscoelastic speaker bases set them apart from traditional speaker manufacturers.
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