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Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M Review
Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M

Main Features

  • 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter
  • 5.25" Cerametallic Woofer
  • 48-25k Hz Frequency Response
  • 93 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 8ohms
  • Power Range:up to 75watts
  • Weight:11.88 lbs
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 13.5" x 6.8" x 9.4"
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Klipsch RP-500M Review

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M is a 2-way Passive Bass Reflex Bookshelf speaker by Klipsch. It features a 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter and 1 x 5.25" Cerametallic Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 48-25k Hz and a sensitivity of 93 dB. Klipsch RP-500M has an MSRP of 579$ per pair.

What size of room is the Klipsch RP-500M speaker good for?

The size of the room that you are planning to use the Klipsch RP-500M is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated its suitability to various size of environments considering its size and max power parameters:

Listening Environment Suitability
Near-fieldGood
Small RoomGood
Mid-size RoomAverage
Large RoomPoor
Very Large RoomNo way
Klipsch later replaced RP-500M with RP-500M II. Follow the link to read our in-depth comparison of these speakers:
Compare Klipsch RP-500M vs Klipsch RP-500M II

What are the speakers in Klipsch's Reference Premiere (RP) Series?

RP-500M is a member of Klipsch's Reference Premiere (RP) series of Passive speakers. Below you can see the main specs of these speakers.

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


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

What is the Frequency Response of the Klipsch RP-500M speaker?

Klipsch RP-500M has a Frequency response range of 48-25k Hz at ±3dB and Power Range of up to 75 watts. At a minimum frequency of 48 Hz, RP-500M will provide an average bass depth so depending on your use case, you may consider supplementing your system with a subwoofer.

To focus on the subwoofers that are in a similar price range with Klipsch RP-500M, check the Powered Subwoofers under $750. Alternatively, find the Full list of Powered Subwoofers regardless from the price.
Here we have a comparison of how RP-500M's Low and High frequency values compared with the average, max and min Low and High frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch RP-500M
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch RP-500M
Min
Average
Max

Among the speakers in our database with a max MSRP price of 750$ (Pair), these are the 5 Passive Bookshelf speakers that have the deeper bass levels than the Klipsch RP-500M's 48Hz:

  • Monitor Audio Bronze 100 with Low Frequency of 37 Hz (Compare w/ RP-500M)
  • Polk XT20 with Low Frequency of 38 Hz (Compare w/ RP-500M)
  • Monitor Audio Bronze 50 with Low Frequency of 40 Hz (Compare w/ RP-500M)
  • Emotiva Airmotiv B2+ with Low Frequency of 40 Hz (Compare w/ RP-500M)
  • Cambridge SX-60 with Low Frequency of 41 Hz (Compare w/ RP-500M)


Klipsch RP-500M Tweeter
Klipsch RP-500M's Tractrix Horn Tweeter

What is the Crossover frequency of Klipsch RP-500M?

Crossover frequency of the RP-500M is set to 1500Hz. 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.

What is the Impedance and Sensitivity of the Klipsch RP-500M? Is it an easy to drive speaker?

Klipsch RP-500M's nominal impedance level is 8 ohms and has a sensitivity of 93 dB.

Sensitivity
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch RP-500M
Min
Average
Max

8 Ohms is pretty much the standard nominal impedance amongst stereo speakers and amplifiers so Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M is not considered a difficult to drive speaker from nominal Impedance perspective.

Sensitivity

93dB of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M is considered a high sensitivity compared to average stereo speaker which makes RP-500M 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-500M will be a good choice.

Check our Integrated Amplifiers page to find an amplifier to pair with the Klipsch RP-500M.

Input Type

RP-500M features Single binding posts type connectors. Bi-amping and Bi-wiring is not possible.
Klipsch RP-500M Back View
Klipsch RP-500M Back View

Klipsch RP-500M External Dimensions and Weight

Klipsch RP-500M has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 13.5 x 6.8 x 9.4inch (343.0 x 173.0 x 241.0mm ).

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-500M is approximately 416.9cm2 / 64.6inch2.

To have a better perspective on the real life size of Klipsch RP-500M, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Klipsch RP-500M Real Life Body Size Comparison
Klipsch RP-500M Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Here we place the Klipsch RP-500M virtually next to a standard width amplifier and turntable on a BDI Octave Media Cabinet to get a better idea about the size.

Klipsch RP-500M placed next to an amplifier and turntable
Klipsch RP-500M Speaker next to an amplifier and turntable

Weight

The Klipsch RP-500M weighs 5.40kg / 11.9lbs (per piece). Here is a comparison of how RP-500M's weight compared with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch RP-500M
Min
Average
Max
Weight
Bookshelf Speakers under $750
Klipsch RP-500M
Min
Average
Max

How does the Klipsch RP-500M compare to the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M?

One of the natural alternative to the Klipsch RP-500M is the RP-600M which is located one step higher in Klipsch's Passive Bookshelf selection.

Here is a scaled size comparison of these two speakers to give you an idea how their external dimensions compare:

Klipsch RP-500M vs Klipsch RP-600M Size Comparison - Front View
Comparison image of Klipsch RP-500M and Klipsch RP-600M Size and External Dimensions

Check the Detailed Comparison of Klipsch RP-500M vs RP-600M for more details.

Cabinet type and Materials

Klipsch RP-500M has a Bass Reflex type cabinet and 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-500M comes with 8 Self-adhesive rubber feet which you can use to secure your loudspeaker on the surface that you are putting on.

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-500M 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-500M is available in Ebony, Walnut and Piano Black.

Wall Mounting

RP-500M has Keyhole mounting bracket that makes it possible to mount on walls and similar surfaces easily.

Does the Klipsch RP-500M come with a Grille?

RP-500M 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 pass as clearly as possible. Since the included grille of the RP-500M magnetic type, it is very easy to put it on and off.

What's in the Box of Klipsch RP-500M?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of RP-500M:
  • 2 Bookshelf loudspeakers
  • 2 Grilles (installed)
  • 8 Self-adhesive rubber feet
  • User Manual
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information
  • User's Manual

    For more information about how to setup, use and maintain the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M, use the direct link below to download the official manual document:
    Download User Manual for Klipsch RP-500M

    Official Brochure

    Here is a link to download the official brochure for the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M speaker:
    Official Brochure for Klipsch RP-500M

    Official Product Page

    Official manufacturer's product page for the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M speaker can be found below:
    Official Product Page for Klipsch RP-500M

    Warranty

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

    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M Alternatives in Passive Bookshelf Speakers
    Model Type Sensitivity Impedance Frequency
    Klipsch R-51M
    Compare
    2-way 93 dB 8 ohms 62-21k Hz
    B&W 606
    Compare
    2-way 88 dB 8 ohms 52-28k Hz
    ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
    Compare
    2-way 87 dB 6 ohms 44-35k Hz
    B&W 606 S2
    Compare
    2-way 88 dB 8 ohms 52-28k Hz
    Wharfedale EVO4.1
    Compare
    2-way 87 dB 8 ohms 64-22k Hz
    Klipsch RP-400M
    Compare
    2-way 93 dB 8 ohms 52-25k Hz
    Klipsch RP-600M
    Compare
    2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 45-25k Hz
    KEF Q150
    Compare
    2-way 86 dB 8 ohms 51-28k Hz
    Polk ES20
    Compare
    2-way 86 dB 8 ohms 41-40k Hz
    Emotiva Airmotiv B2+
    Compare
    2-way 86 dB 4 ohms 40-28k Hz
    Frequently Asked Questions about Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M
    What is the External Dimensions of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M
    What is the Speaker Sensitivity of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M
    is the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M an easy to drive speaker?


    Klipsch RP-500M Detailed Specifications

    General
    BrandKlipsch
    Full Model NameKlipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M
    Speaker Type2-way Bookshelf
    Power Rangeup to 75 watts
    Sensitivity93 dB
    Impedance8 ohms
    Frequency Response48-25k Hz
    DRIVERS
    Woofer Size5.25-inch
    Woofer CompositionCerametallic
    Woofer SurroundRubber
    Tweeter Size1-inch
    Tweeter TypeTractrix Horn
    Crossover freq1500Hz
    Port Positionrear

    CONNECTIONS
    Connector TypeSingle binding posts
    Biamp InputsNo
    Port Positionrear
    PHYSICAL SPECS
    Height343.0mm ( 13.5-inch)
    Width173.0mm ( 6.8-inch)
    Depth241.0mm ( 9.4-inch)
    Height343.0mm ( 13.5-inch)
    Weight5.40kg ( 11.88 lbs)
    EnclosureBass Reflex
    FinishMDF/Wood-grain vinyl
    Available ColorsEbony, Walnut, Piano Black
    Mounting BracketKeyhole
    Recommended Stand Height28-30
    GrilleYes
    Moisture ResistanceNo
    OTHER
    Handheld RemoteNo
    Parts Warranty5 Years
    Labor Warranty5 Years
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