Bookshelf Speakers — Klipsch RP-500M II

Klipsch released the RP-500M II as the Mark II update of its RP-500M stand-mount, part of the Reference Premiere series from which the company passes technology down to its Reference models. It is offered in ebony vinyl and walnut vinyl finishes, each with a satin-painted baffle. Klipsch Group is headquartered in Indianapolis and belongs to Voxx International.

Key specs that matter

The layout is passive two-way with reflex loading. Its woofer is a 5.25 inch Cerametallic cone fitted with Faraday rings, and the tweeter is a 1 inch vented titanium LTS unit set in an expanded Tractrix horn with a hybrid cross-section. Crossover frequency is 1,530 Hz. Klipsch rates frequency response at 50 Hz to 25 kHz within 3 dB and in-room sensitivity at 92 dB for 2.83 V at 1 m. Impedance is 8 ohms nominal, and power handling is 75 W continuous with 300 W peak. The cabinet stands 34.4 cm high, 17.3 cm wide and 27.0 cm deep, and each speaker weighs 5.95 kg.

Engineering and use context

For the second generation the 90 x 90 degree horn was enlarged and made from a silicone composite, with a phase plug and a compression-molded silicone face intended to smooth the response. The tweeter housing is vented to reduce standing waves behind the titanium diaphragm. Cerametallic cones, a hallmark of the Reference Premiere line, are stiff and light, and the redesigned woofer adds aluminium shorting rings to lower distortion and raise power handling, along with a new motor structure for better transient control. The MDF cabinet is internally braced. Its rear-firing port uses Tractrix geometry with flared inner ends that reduce air turbulence and port noise, so leave some room behind the cabinet. A new input panel carries audiophile-grade internal wire and a single set of aluminium binding posts. Cork pads replace rubber bumpers for grip on a stand or shelf, the scratch-resistant finish protects the vinyl, and a flexible grille attaches magnetically.

Pairing

The efficient RP-500M II, an undemanding load, can be driven by modest stereo amplifiers and AV receivers, with the continuous power rating as the practical ceiling. In a home cinema the speaker fits front or surround positions alongside other Reference Premiere II models, while a subwoofer covers the range below its bass limit.

Alternatives

Within the same Reference Premiere II family, the Klipsch RP-600M II is the bigger bookshelf model, with a 6.5 inch Cerametallic woofer, 94.5 dB sensitivity and bi-wire terminals.