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Klipsch RP-280F Review
Klipsch RP-280F - Image 1

Main Features

  • 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter
  • 2 x 8" Cerametallic Woofer
  • 32-25k Hz Frequency Response
  • 98 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 8ohms
  • Power Range: up to 150 watts
  • Weight: 62.50 lbs / 28.41 kg
  • Dimensions(HxWxD): 43-1/16"x10-9/16"x17-3/8" / 1094.0 x 269.0 x 442.0mm
MSRP: $599 (list price)
Check price atAmazon›

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Klipsch RP-280F Review
Klipsch RP-280F Klipsch RP-280F
Check price atAmazon›

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F is a 2-way Passive Bass Reflex Floor-standing speaker by Klipsch. It was released in 2015. It features a 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter and 2 x 8" Cerametallic Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 32-25k Hz and a sensitivity of 98 dB. Klipsch RP-280F has an MSRP of 1198$ per pair but can often be found around 698$ per pair.

Room Size Suitability

The size of the room where you plan to use the Klipsch RP-280F is a crucial factor in your decision. We have assessed its suitability for various room sizes based on its dimensions and maximum power output:

Listening Environment* Suitability
Near-fieldBad
Small RoomPoor
Mid-size RoomGood
Large RoomGood
Very Large RoomPoor

(* Approximate Room sizes: Small < 100sq. ft / 9 m2, Mid-size: 100-220 sq. ft / 9-20 m2, Large 220-400 sq. ft / 20-36 m2, Very Large: > 400 sq. ft / 36 m2. Average Floor Height: 9" / 2.7m. Typical room sizes differ from country to country, and the actual listening experience changes depending on floor height, room shape, surface materials, listening position, speaker locations, etc.)

Klipsch's Reference Premiere (RP) Series of Loudspeakers

RP-280F is a member of Klipsch's Reference Premiere (RP) series of Passive speakers. Reference Premiere (RP) is Klipsch's step-up range, with hybrid Tractrix horns and larger spun-copper woofers than the Reference line. Below you can see the main specs of these speakers.

See all 10 Klipsch Reference Premiere (RP) models compared »

Klipsch Reference Premiere (RP) Series Speakers
Model Frequency SensitivityImpedance Woofer
Klipsch RP-500M
Compare
48-25k Hz 93 dB8Ω 1 x 5.25"
Klipsch RP-400M
Compare
52-25k Hz 93 dB8Ω 1 x 4"
Klipsch RP-600M
Compare
45-25k Hz 96 dB8Ω 1 x 6.5"
Klipsch RP-6000F
Compare
34-25k Hz 97 dB8Ω 2 x 6.5"
Klipsch RP-8000F
Compare
32-25k Hz 98 dB8Ω 2 x 8"
Klipsch RP-280F
32-25k Hz 98 dB8Ω 2 x 8"
Klipsch RP-160M
Compare
45-25k Hz 95 dB8Ω 1 x 6.5"
Klipsch RP-5000F
Compare
35-25k Hz 96 dB8Ω 2 x 5.25"
Klipsch RP-8060FA
Compare
32-25k Hz 98 dB8Ω 2 x 8"
Klipsch RP-450C
Compare
58-25k Hz 97 dB8Ω 4 x 5.25"
Klipsch Reference Premiere (RP) Series Speakers
Klipsch Reference Premiere (RP) Series Speakers


**This post contains affiliate links, and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through our links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frequency Response of the Klipsch RP-280F Speaker

Klipsch RP-280F has a Frequency response range of 32-25k Hz and Power Range of up to 150 watts. With a minimum frequency of 32 Hz, RP-280F delivers deep bass that will likely satisfy most listeners, especially those who enjoy music. However, movie enthusiasts and music fans who prefer a full range of sound may still benefit from adding a subwoofer.

Here we have a comparison of how RP-280F's Low frequency value compares with the average, max and min Low frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Floor-standing Speakers
Klipsch RP-280F
Min
Average
Median
Thinking about a subwoofer for the Klipsch RP-280F?
  • Work out the crossover setting — it follows from this speaker's 32 Hz low end
  • Powered subwoofers under $1,500 — a similar price range to these speakers
  • Every powered subwoofer we cover, whatever the budget

Among the speakers in our database with a max MSRP price of 1500$ (Pair), these are the 2 Passive Floor-standing speakers that have the deeper bass levels than the Klipsch RP-280F's 32Hz:

  • KLH Concord with Low Frequency of 28 Hz (Compare w/ RP-280F)
  • SVS Prime Tower with Low Frequency of 30 Hz (Compare w/ RP-280F)

Crossover frequency of the Klipsch RP-280F?

The crossover frequency of the RP-280F is set to 1750 Hz. This is the threshold frequency where the higher frequency signals over this level are sent to the tweeter and the lower-frequency signals are sent to the woofer by the crossover component.

Klipsch RP-280F driver frequency bands32-1.8kWoofer 8"1.8k-25kTweeter 1"20501002005001k2k5k10k20k40kHz, log scale

Impedance and Sensitivity

Klipsch RP-280F's nominal impedance level is 8 ohms and has a sensitivity of 98 dB.

Sensitivity
Floor-standing Speakers
Klipsch RP-280F
Min
Average
Median

8 Ohms is pretty much the standard nominal impedance amongst stereo speakers and amplifiers so Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F is not considered a difficult to drive speaker from nominal Impedance perspective.

Sensitivity

98dB of the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F is considered a high sensitivity compared to average stereo speaker which makes RP-280F an easy to drive from Sensitivity perspective. If you are planning to power your speaker with a Tube amp which are generally very low power, the Klipsch RP-280F will be a good choice. Work out how loud the Klipsch RP-280F plays in your room →

What amplifier does the Klipsch RP-280F need?

At normal listening levels in a medium room, about 1.2–60 W per channel into 8 ohms. Set your own conditions and we will rank every amplifier we cover.

We check power, impedance safety and current delivery — not just watts.

Prefer to browse? Integrated amplifiers under $1,500, or every amplifier we cover.

Input Type

RP-280F has Binding post type connectors and lets bi-amping/bi-wiring. Bi-wiring can enhance the overall transparency of your loudspeakers by using separate speaker wires for the low and high-frequency drivers from a single amplifier. Bi-amping, on the other hand, involves using separate amplifiers for the high and low-frequency drivers, potentially resulting in a greater dynamic range and reduced distortion.

Work out what gauge speaker cable this run needs →

Klipsch RP-280F Back View
Klipsch RP-280F Back View

Klipsch RP-280F External Dimensions and Weight

Klipsch RP-280F has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 43-1/16 x 10-9/16 x 17-3/8inch (1094.0 x 269.0 x 442.0mm ).

Base Surface Area
Base surface area of a loudspeaker may become a determining factor when the space in your room or desk is limited. The base area of Klipsch RP-280F is approximately 1189.0cm2 / 184.3inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of Klipsch RP-280F, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Klipsch RP-280F Real Life Body Size Comparison
Klipsch RP-280F Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the Klipsch RP-280F virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a media center to get a better idea about the size.

Klipsch RP-280F placed next to a Media Stand
Klipsch RP-280F Floor-standing Speaker next to a Media Stand

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →  ·  Work out where they should sit in the room →

Weight

The Klipsch RP-280F weighs 28.41kg / 62.5lbs per piece. Here is a comparison of how RP-280F's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Floor-standing Speakers
Klipsch RP-280F
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Floor-standing Speakers under $1500
Klipsch RP-280F
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

Klipsch RP-280F has a Bass Reflex type cabinet and a MDF/Wood-grain vinyl finish. Bass Reflex type loudspeakers (aka Ported, Vented or Reflex Port) have enclosures that uses a port, hole or vent cut into the cabinet. Ported designs are generally more efficient than the Sealed designs.

Speaker Feet

Klipsch RP-280F comes with the parts below which you can use to secure your loudspeaker on the surface that you are putting on:

  • 4 Spike feet
  • 6 Rubber feet

It is always recommended to use some kind of feet under all types of speakers. Besides limiting the movement of the speakers, it also compensates for non-flat surfaces and limits the contact surface area of the speaker. Rubber based feet also help isolating the vibrations within certain frequency ranges.

Port Position

Klipsch RP-280F is a rear-firing port speaker so you have to make sure you leave enough space between the back of the speaker and wall or bookshelf so that it has room to breathe.

Available colors

Klipsch RP-280F is available in Walnut and Black.

Does the Klipsch RP-280F come with a Grille?

RP-280F comes with magnetic grilles in black color choices. The purpose of the grille is to protect the delicate driver elements from external impacts while still allowing the sound to pass as clearly as possible. Since the included grille of the RP-280F is magnetic type, it is very easy to put it on and off.

Klipsch RP-280F  with Grille
Klipsch RP-280F with Grille

What's in the Box of Klipsch RP-280F?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of RP-280F:
  • Floorstanding loudspeaker (Ebony)
  • Speaker base
  • Detachable magnetic grille
  • Four 1-inch #6 Wood screws
  • 4 Spike feet
  • 6 Rubber feet
  • User Manual
  • Warranty Information
  • Important Safety Instructions

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F.

  • Speaker Cable and Connectors
    • Speaker Cables with Banana Plugs: If you know the lenght of the cable you need, this is the easier option to connect your speakers with your amp.
    • Speaker Cables without Connectors: If you are not sure about the lenght or need longer than standard cables with plugs, choose this option.
    • Banana Connectors and Plugs: If you chose the cables without connectors option or already have some cable around, pick the banana plugs separately.
  • Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators are our favorite isolators but you may find more affordable options too.
  • Acoustic Panels and Treatments: Your room is as important as your stereo equipment so acoustic treatments goes a long way in improving the overall performance.

Official Product Page

Official manufacturer's product page for the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F speaker can be found below:
Official Product Page for Klipsch RP-280F

Warranty

5 Years of parts warranty and 5 Years of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F Alternatives in Passive Floor-standing Speakers
Model Type Sensitivity Impedance Frequency
Klipsch R-820F
Compare
2-way 97 dB 8 ohms 35-21k Hz
Klipsch RP-8000F
Compare
2-way 98 dB 8 ohms 32-25k Hz
Klipsch RP-6000F
Compare
2-way 97 dB 8 ohms 34-25k Hz
Klipsch RP-8000F II
Compare
2-way 98 dB 8 ohms 32-25k Hz
Klipsch R-620F
Compare
2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 38-21k Hz
Klipsch R-625FA
Compare
2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 38-21k Hz
Emotiva Airmotiv T2+
Compare
3-way 91 dB 4 ohms 35 Hz – 28 kHz
Polk S60
Compare
2-way 90 dB 8 ohms 26-40k Hz
Frequently Asked Questions about Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F

What amplifier do you need for the Klipsch RP-280F?

Klipsch rates the Klipsch RP-280F for up to 150 watts of amplifier power. It is an 8-ohm speaker, the usual nominal load, so almost any amplifier or receiver can drive it.

Is the Klipsch RP-280F easy to drive?

The Klipsch RP-280F has a sensitivity of 98 dB. That is high: it goes loud on modest power, so it suits low-powered amplifiers, including valve/tube designs.

Does the Klipsch RP-280F need a subwoofer?

The Klipsch RP-280F reaches down to 32Hz (full range 32-25k Hz). That is genuinely deep bass - a subwoofer is optional unless you want home-theatre effects below that.

What drivers does the Klipsch RP-280F use?

The Klipsch RP-280F is a 2-way design using a 1" Tractrix Horn tweeter and 2 x 8" Cerametallic woofers.

Is the Klipsch RP-280F sealed or ported?

The Klipsch RP-280F uses a Ported enclosure. A ported design uses a tuned vent to get more low-end output from the same driver, but it wants some breathing room behind it.

Can the Klipsch RP-280F be bi-wired or bi-amped?

Yes. The Klipsch RP-280F has two sets of terminals, so it can be bi-wired or bi-amped: bi-wiring runs separate cable to the treble and bass sections, bi-amping gives each its own amplifier channel. It uses Binding post terminals.

Can the Klipsch RP-280F be wall mounted?

The Klipsch RP-280F does not include a wall-mount bracket or keyhole, so it is designed to sit on a stand, shelf or the floor.

Does the Klipsch RP-280F come with grilles?

Yes. The Klipsch RP-280F comes with removable grilles (black).

How big and heavy is the Klipsch RP-280F?

The Klipsch RP-280F weighs 28.41kg / 62.5lbs each and measures 43-1/16 x 10-9/16 x 17-3/8inch (HxWxD).

How much does the Klipsch RP-280F cost?

The Klipsch RP-280F has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $1,198 per pair.


Klipsch RP-280F Detailed Specifications

General
BrandKlipsch
Full Model NameKlipsch Reference Premiere RP-280F
Speaker Type2-way Floor-standing
Power Rangeup to 150 watts
Sensitivity98 dB
Impedance8 ohms
Frequency Response32-25k Hz
Release Date2015
DRIVERS
Woofer Size8-inch
Woofer CompositionCerametallic
Woofer SurroundRubber
Tweeter Size1-inch
Tweeter TypeTractrix Horn
Crossover freq1750 Hz
Port Positionrear

CONNECTIONS
Connector TypeBinding post
Biamp InputsYes
Port Positionrear
PHYSICAL SPECS
Height1094.0mm ( 43-1/16-inch)
Width269.0mm ( 10-9/16-inch)
Depth442.0mm ( 17-3/8-inch)
Height1094.0mm ( 43-1/16-inch)
Weight28.41 kg (62.5 lbs)
EnclosureBass Reflex
FinishMDF/Wood-grain vinyl
Available ColorsWalnut, Black
Mounting BracketNo
GrilleYes
Moisture ResistanceNo
OTHER
Handheld RemoteNo
Parts Warranty5 Years
Labor Warranty5 Years
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