Klipsch RP-500C II Reference Premiere Center Channel Speaker

87%

Sound Clarity

Bass Performance

Build Quality

Ease of Setup

Design & Aesthetics

Value for Money

Connectivity & Compatibility

Size & Portability

Customer Support

Long-Term Durability

Sound Balance

Room Size Suitability

Installation Flexibility

Overview

The Klipsch RP-500C II Reference Premiere Center Channel Speaker is a standout option for home theater setups. As part of Klipsch’s renowned Reference Premiere series, this speaker is designed to elevate the sound experience by delivering precise and clear dialogue. With cutting-edge acoustic technologies and a sleek design, it enhances the overall audio quality of any home theater. The compact size makes it ideal for a variety of room sizes, while its premium materials offer both aesthetic and functional benefits. This center channel speaker ensures that every word and sound comes through with exceptional clarity.

Features & Benefits

The Klipsch RP-500C II boasts several features that contribute to its impressive performance. A key highlight is the larger 90° x 90° Tractrix horn, which focuses sound for a clearer and more accurate listening experience. The 1-inch Linear Travel Suspension titanium diaphragm tweeter reduces distortion, ensuring high-fidelity sound. The inclusion of Cerametallic woofers enhances bass accuracy, while the Tractrix ports optimize airflow, providing cleaner bass response. The removable grille offers a customizable look, making it a perfect match for any home theater decor.

Best For

This center channel speaker is best suited for home theater enthusiasts who demand top-tier sound quality. Its clarity and dynamic performance make it ideal for those who prioritize clear dialogue and immersive audio. The compact design of the speaker allows it to fit into medium to large-sized rooms, providing powerful sound without overwhelming the space. Those looking for a high-end, aesthetically pleasing speaker that integrates seamlessly with modern décor will appreciate the sleek finish and build quality of this product.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the Klipsch RP-500C II for its ability to deliver crisp and clear dialogue, even in complex soundscapes. Many note its deep bass response, which is impressive for a speaker of its size. The overall sound quality is highly regarded, with several customers highlighting how it enhances the home theater experience. However, some users have mentioned that while the bass is excellent, it can sometimes feel slightly overpowering in smaller rooms. The build quality and aesthetic appeal of this speaker are also frequently cited as major pluses.

#Center-Channel Speakers

#Speakers

#Home Audio

#Electronics

Pros

This center channel speaker offers clear and crisp dialogue, making it ideal for home theater setups.
The compact design allows it to fit well in medium to large rooms without overwhelming the space.
It delivers impressive bass response for its size, providing a fuller audio experience than expected.
The premium build quality and attractive finish make it an excellent choice for modern home décor.
Its larger Tractrix horn improves sound focus, providing clear and dynamic sound even at lower volumes.
Users appreciate the speaker's minimal distortion thanks to the Linear Travel Suspension titanium tweeter.

Cons

Some users found that the bass lacks depth without pairing the speaker with a subwoofer.
The speaker's weight makes it harder to mount or move around, especially in smaller spaces.
It does not offer wireless connectivity, which could be limiting for some modern home setups.
A few buyers felt that the speaker’s performance could be less optimal in very large rooms.
The lack of water resistance makes it unsuitable for outdoor or humid environments.
Its price may be too high for those looking for a more budget-friendly option for home theater systems.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback worldwide, across multiple platforms and languages, the Klipsch RP-500C II Reference Premiere Center Channel Speaker has received solid reviews. Spam, bot, and exaggerated reviews were filtered out, ensuring that the scores reflect authentic and high-quality customer experiences. Both strengths and pain points are considered in these ratings, providing a balanced view of the product's performance across various usage contexts and regions.

Sound Clarity

94%

Users consistently praise the speaker's exceptional clarity in dialogue and vocals. Many buyers mention how it enhances movie-watching and voice-heavy content, making it easier to catch every word. The crisp audio makes this speaker a great addition to any home theater setup.

A few users felt that the speaker's focus on clarity slightly sacrificed overall sound depth. Some reported that the higher frequencies can sound slightly sharp when playing music or complex soundscapes, especially in larger rooms.

Bass Performance

88%

Many customers appreciate the solid bass this compact speaker delivers, considering its size. The deep, punchy bass significantly improves movie soundtracks and action scenes. Users noted that the bass complements the clear mid-range frequencies, making the overall audio experience more immersive.

Despite its solid bass, some users found it lacking in punch during intense action scenes. In larger setups, a subwoofer might still be needed to fully satisfy bass-heavy audio demands, especially for those who are seeking room-shaking low-end performance.

Build Quality

91%

Buyers frequently highlight the speaker's premium construction, appreciating its sturdy and durable build. The material choice and attention to detail in design contribute to a modern, high-end look. It feels solid and well-crafted, fitting seamlessly into most home theater systems.

A few customers expressed concerns about the weight and size of the speaker, mentioning that it could be a bit bulky for smaller setups. The weight can make wall mounting or adjusting placements a bit challenging for some users, especially in tight spaces.

Ease of Setup

85%

Setup is fairly straightforward, with users noting that the speaker's user-friendly design makes it easy to integrate into most home theater systems. The mounting options and clear instructions make it a breeze to position the speaker for optimal sound performance.

Some reviewers mentioned that the lack of mounting hardware included in the box made the setup process less convenient. Additionally, users noted that the speaker's size might require some adjustment in placement for optimal sound projection, especially in smaller spaces.

Design & Aesthetics

90%

The sleek modern design and removable grille received positive feedback. It blends well with contemporary home decor, and its low-profile design allows it to sit discreetly under a TV without taking up too much space. Users loved the option to hide the grille for a cleaner look.

A small number of users felt that the color options were limited, with the ebony finish not fitting all room aesthetics. While the speaker is stylish, some wished for more variety in finishes to better match their home theater setups.

Value for Money

92%

Users find this center channel speaker to offer excellent value for the price. The combination of top-notch sound quality, design, and performance makes it a great investment for anyone looking to improve their home theater experience without breaking the bank. Its durability adds to its long-term value.

A few buyers mentioned that while it’s a good investment, the speaker’s price point is higher compared to some other options in the market. For those on a tight budget, this could feel like a significant upfront cost, even though its performance justifies it.

Connectivity & Compatibility

86%

The speaker is equipped with standard single binding posts, making it compatible with most home theater receivers and amplifiers. Users appreciated the ease with which the speaker could be connected to their existing setup, with minimal hassle.

Some users mentioned that the lack of wireless connectivity made integration with certain modern systems less convenient. Those with newer, wireless-oriented setups felt the need for additional adapters or cables, which added some complexity.

Size & Portability

82%

18%

The compact size of the speaker makes it versatile, fitting comfortably into a variety of setups without being too bulky. Users appreciated that it can be placed on a tabletop or mounted easily without dominating the space.

However, the size can be a downside for users with extremely tight space limitations. Some customers found it a little too large for certain environments, and fitting it into a compact home theater or TV unit required some adjustment.

Customer Support

78%

22%

Many users reported positive experiences with Klipsch’s customer support team, praising their responsive and knowledgeable service. Customers were able to resolve issues quickly and efficiently when they needed assistance with setup or product concerns.

Some buyers noted delayed response times when seeking help. A few expressed frustration with the lack of immediate solutions for specific product issues, suggesting that customer service could improve in terms of speed and clarity.

Long-Term Durability

89%

Several users reported that the speaker has proven to be highly durable over time, maintaining its performance even with regular use. The sturdy build quality ensures that it can withstand daily wear and tear while continuing to provide consistent audio performance.

While durability is generally positive, a few users expressed concerns about potential wear on the grille and finish over time. In areas with higher humidity or extreme conditions, the finish might start to show signs of wear after extended periods.

Sound Balance

87%

Users highlighted the well-rounded sound profile that strikes a good balance between treble, midrange, and bass. It performs well across various types of media, including movies, music, and video games, making it a versatile choice for different listening preferences.

A small number of reviewers felt that the balance was slightly skewed towards midrange frequencies, causing some audio to feel less dynamic. For audiophiles seeking an ultra-detailed sound signature, the balance might not be perfect.

Room Size Suitability

83%

Many users mentioned that the speaker performs exceptionally well in medium to large-sized rooms, filling the space with clear and detailed sound. It is capable of providing immersive audio without the need for additional speakers, making it a great choice for a wide variety of setups.

However, some users felt that in very large rooms, the speaker could struggle to provide the same level of immersion without additional audio components. The sound might not carry as effectively in spacious environments without complementary subwoofers or speakers.

Installation Flexibility

80%

20%

Users appreciate the flexibility in installation, as it can be easily placed on a tabletop or mounted on a wall. The removable grille adds to the speaker's customizable design, allowing users to choose the setup that works best for their space.

A few users mentioned that the mounting options were limited by the speaker’s weight and size, which could make wall installation tricky. Some also found it challenging to find the perfect placement for optimal sound performance, especially in unconventional room layouts.

Suitable for:

The Klipsch RP-500C II Reference Premiere Center Channel Speaker is ideal for home theater enthusiasts looking to enhance their viewing experience with clear dialogue and dynamic sound. It is a great choice for those who need a compact, high-performance speaker that can deliver strong bass and articulate vocals, especially in medium to large rooms. If you are looking to create a more immersive sound environment without overwhelming your space, this speaker's premium build and detailed audio make it a standout option. It's also a good fit for those with modern décor, as its sleek design integrates well with contemporary home setups.

Not suitable for:

This speaker may not be the best option for users who are primarily focused on heavy bass or ultra-deep sound, as it lacks the extreme low-end power of larger systems. Those with very large rooms or setups demanding more robust sound projection may find that it doesn't deliver the room-filling bass they expect, often requiring a subwoofer for optimal results. Additionally, if you are looking for a wireless solution, this speaker’s wired connectivity might be a limitation. For those with limited space, the speaker's weight and size could make mounting or placement challenging, especially in smaller rooms.

Specifications

Model: The speaker model is RP-500C II, part of Klipsch's Reference Premiere series.
Type: This is a center channel speaker designed for home theater setups.
Frequency Response: The frequency response range of this speaker is from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Maximum Output Power: The maximum output power of this speaker is 200 watts.
Tweeter: It features a 1-inch Linear Travel Suspension titanium diaphragm tweeter, reducing distortion.
Woofer Size: The speaker has dual 5.25-inch Cerametallic woofers that provide low-distortion bass.
Tractrix Horn: The speaker uses a 90° x 90° Tractrix horn for clearer and more focused sound.
Ports: It is equipped with Tractrix ports for faster air transfer and improved bass response.
Grille: The speaker comes with a removable grille, offering flexibility in aesthetics and performance.
Connectivity: It features single binding posts for simple connection to an AV receiver or amplifier.
Dimensions: The dimensions of the speaker are 10.58″D x 19.34″W x 6.87″H.
Weight: The speaker weighs approximately 18 pounds.
Color: The speaker is available in an ebony color finish, complementing modern décor.
Audio Output Mode: The speaker supports surround audio output mode, ideal for immersive sound systems.
Mounting Type: This is a tabletop speaker, designed for placement on a flat surface.
Special Feature: The speaker is Dolby-enabled, ensuring compatibility with Dolby Atmos systems.
Water Resistance: This speaker does not have water resistance, making it unsuitable for outdoor use.
Speaker Type: It is classified as a monitor speaker, designed for precise sound reproduction.
Build Quality: The speaker features a solid build with high-quality materials for durability and premium aesthetics.

FAQ

The Klipsch RP-500C II is part of the Reference Premiere series, featuring advanced acoustic technologies like a 90° x 90° Tractrix horn, which provides clearer, more focused sound. Its high-performance drivers and titanium diaphragm tweeter also minimize distortion, offering crisp dialogue and powerful bass for home theater setups.

To set up this speaker, simply place it on a stable surface, ideally directly beneath or above your TV, for optimal sound clarity. Connect it to your amplifier or AV receiver via the single binding posts. Ensure that the speaker is positioned for the best sound projection, with the Tractrix horn facing towards your seating area.

This speaker is designed for medium to large rooms. While its compact size makes it easy to place in various setups, its robust performance ensures it fills larger spaces with clear, dynamic sound. It's perfect for home theaters or living rooms where you want immersive sound without a bulky speaker.

While the RP-500C II delivers impressive bass for its size thanks to its Cerametallic woofers and Tractrix ports, pairing it with a subwoofer can enhance low-frequency response, especially for users seeking deep, room-shaking bass. However, it's certainly capable of delivering solid bass on its own for general use.

The RP-500C II is designed for tabletop use and does not come with wall-mounting brackets. However, many users choose to mount it using third-party brackets designed for center channel speakers, ensuring that the speaker is positioned for optimal sound projection.

The RP-500C II features a sturdy build with a premium finish, making it a durable option for long-term use. However, like any audio equipment, it should be placed in a stable environment to prevent accidental damage, as it's not designed for outdoor or rugged use.

The RP-500C II has a maximum output power of 200 watts, which is more than sufficient for most home theater setups. This power ensures that it can handle dynamic movie soundtracks and music without distortion, delivering a clear and loud performance.

Yes, the RP-500C II is Dolby enabled, which makes it compatible with Dolby Atmos systems. Its high-performance design enhances the immersive sound experience, providing clear dialogue and accurate sound reproduction in a surround sound setup.

Thanks to its Linear Travel Suspension titanium diaphragm tweeter, the RP-500C II minimizes distortion even at higher volumes. This means you'll enjoy crisp, clear dialogue and sound without the muddiness that often occurs with lower-quality speakers at higher output levels.

The RP-500C II does not have built-in Bluetooth or wireless functionality. It connects via traditional wired methods, using single binding posts. If you need wireless connectivity, you would need to use an external wireless transmitter or adapter.