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

Main Features

  • 1" Hybrid Tractrix Horn Tweeter
  • 5.25" Cerametallic cone Woofer
  • 50-25k Hz Frequency Response
  • 92 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 8ohms
  • Power Range: up to 75watts
  • Weight:13.10 lbs / 6.00 kg
  • Dimensions(HxWxD): 13-9/16"x6-7/8"x10-5/8" / 345.0 x 175.0 x 270.0mm
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Klipsch RP-500M II Review
Klipsch RP-500M II Klipsch RP-500M II
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Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II is a 2-way Passive Bass Reflex Bookshelf speaker by Klipsch. It features a 1" Hybrid Tractrix Horn Tweeter and 1 x 5.25" Cerametallic cone Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 50-25k Hz and a sensitivity of 92 dB. Klipsch RP-500M II has an MSRP of 599$ per pair.

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

The size of the room in which you are planning to use the Klipsch RP-500M II is an important decision factor. Here we have evaluated its suitability to various sizes 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

(* 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 RP-500M II Speaker Structure
Klipsch RP-500M II Speaker Structure

Klipsch replaced the older RP-500M with this model. Follow the link to read our detailed comparison of these models:
Compare Klipsch RP-500M II vs Klipsch RP-500M

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

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

Klipsch Reference Premiere (RP) II Series Speakers
Model Frequency SensitivityImpedance Woofer
Klipsch RP-8000F II
Compare
32-25k Hz 98 dB8Ω 2 x 8"
Klipsch RP-600M II
Compare
44-25k Hz 94.5 dB8Ω 1 x 6.5"
Klipsch RP-504C II
Compare
50-25k Hz 96 dB8Ω 4 x 5.25"
Klipsch RP-500M II
50-25k Hz 92 dB8Ω 1 x 5.25"
Klipsch RP-8060FA II
Compare
35-25k Hz 98 dB8Ω 2 x 8"
Klipsch RP-6000F II
Compare
38-25k Hz 96 dB8Ω 2 x 6.5"
Klipsch RP-404C II
Compare
87-25k Hz 94 dB8Ω 4 x 4"
Klipsch RP-5000F II
Compare
35-25k Hz 95 dB8Ω 2 x 5.25"
Klipsch RP-500C II
Compare
60-25k Hz 96 dB8Ω 2 x 5.25"


**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 II speaker?

Klipsch RP-500M II has a Frequency response range of 50-25k Hz at ±3dB and Power Range of up to 75 watts. At a minimum frequency of 50 Hz, RP-500M II 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 II, check out the Powered Subwoofers under $750. Alternatively, find the Full list of Powered Subwoofers regardless of the price.
Here we have a comparison of how RP-500M II's Low and High frequency values compare with the average, max and min Low and High frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch RP-500M II
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch RP-500M II
Min
Average
Max
Klipsch RP-500M II Woofer
Klipsch RP-500M II's Cerametallic cone Woofer



Klipsch RP-500M II Tweeter
Klipsch RP-500M II's titanium Hybrid Tractrix Horn Tweeter

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

The Crossover frequency of the RP-500M II is set to 1530 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.

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

Klipsch RP-500M II's nominal impedance level is 8 ohms and has a sensitivity of 92 dB.

Sensitivity
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch RP-500M II
Min
Average
Max

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

Sensitivity

92dB of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II is considered a high sensitivity compared to average stereo speaker which makes RP-500M II 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 II will be a good choice.

Check the amplifiers that are in a similar price range to the Klipsch RP-500M II:

  • Integrated Amps under 500 USD
  • Integrated Amps under 750 USD
  • Integrated Amps under 1000 USD
  • All Integrated Amplifiers

Input Type

RP-500M II features Binding post type connectors. Bi-amping and Bi-wiring are not possible.
Klipsch RP-500M II Back View
Klipsch RP-500M II Back View

Klipsch RP-500M II External Dimensions and Weight

Klipsch RP-500M II has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 13-9/16 x 6-7/8 x 10-5/8inch (345.0 x 175.0 x 270.0mm ).

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 II is approximately 472.5cm2 / 73.2inch2.

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

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

Here we place the Klipsch RP-500M II 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 II placed next to an amplifier and turntable
Klipsch RP-500M II Speaker next to an amplifier and turntable

Weight

The Klipsch RP-500M II weighs 6.00kg / 13.2lbs per piece. Here is a comparison of how RP-500M II's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

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

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

One of the natural alternative to the Klipsch RP-500M II is the RP-600M II 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 II vs Klipsch RP-600M II Size Comparison - Front View
Comparison image of Klipsch RP-500M II and Klipsch RP-600M II Size and External Dimensions

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

Cabinet type and Materials

Klipsch RP-500M II 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.

Klipsch RP-500M II  - Side View
Klipsch RP-500M II - Side View

Speaker Feet

Klipsch RP-500M II comes with Cork pads 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 II 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 II is available in Walnut and Black.

Wall Mounting

RP-500M II doesn't sport any built-in mounting bracket, so you need an external structure to mount it on walls.

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

RP-500M II 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-500M II is magnetic type, it is very easy to put it on and off.

Klipsch RP-500M II  with Grille
Klipsch RP-500M II with Grille

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

Here are the items that are included inside the box of RP-500M II:
  • 2 Bookshelf loudspeakers
  • 2 Grilles
  • User Manual
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information
  • Recommended Accessories

    Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II.

    • 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 isolatorsmore 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.
    • Speaker Stands: Stands bring your bookshelf speakers to ideal height (rule of thumb is to have the tweeter level with your ear in your listening position), helps stability and acoustical isolation.

    User's Manual

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

    Official Product Page

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

    Warranty

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

    Klipsch RP-500M II  Lifestyle
    Klipsch RP-500M II Lifestyle

    Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II Alternatives in Passive Bookshelf Speakers
    Model Type Sensitivity Impedance Frequency
    Klipsch R-51M
    Compare
    2-way 93 dB 8 ohms 62-21k Hz
    ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
    Compare
    2-way 87 dB 6 ohms 44-35k Hz
    B&W 606
    Compare
    2-way 88 dB 8 ohms 52-28k Hz
    B&W 606 S2
    Compare
    2-way 88 dB 8 ohms 52-28k Hz
    Klipsch RP-500M
    Compare
    2-way 93 dB 8 ohms 48-25k 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
    KEF Q150
    Compare
    2-way 86 dB 8 ohms 51-28k Hz
    Klipsch RP-600M
    Compare
    2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 45-25k Hz
    Polk ES20
    Compare
    2-way 86 dB 8 ohms 41-40k Hz
    Frequently Asked Questions about Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II
    What is the External Dimensions of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II
    What is the Speaker Sensitivity of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II
    is the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II an easy to drive speaker?



    Klipsch RP-500M II Detailed Specifications

    General
    BrandKlipsch
    Full Model NameKlipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II
    Speaker Type2-way Bookshelf
    Power Rangeup to 75 watts
    Sensitivity92 dB
    Impedance8 ohms
    Frequency Response50-25k Hz
    DRIVERS
    Woofer Size5.25-inch
    Woofer CompositionCerametallic cone
    Woofer SurroundRubber
    Tweeter Size1-inch
    Tweeter TypeHybrid Tractrix Horn
    Crossover freq1530 Hz
    Port Positionrear

    CONNECTIONS
    Connector TypeBinding post
    Biamp InputsNo
    Port Positionrear
    PHYSICAL SPECS
    Height345.0mm ( 13-9/16-inch)
    Width175.0mm ( 6-7/8-inch)
    Depth270.0mm ( 10-5/8-inch)
    Height345.0mm ( 13-9/16-inch)
    Weight6.00kg ( 13.10 lbs)
    EnclosureBass Reflex
    FinishMDF/Wood-grain vinyl
    Available ColorsWalnut, Black
    Recommended Stand Height24-28
    GrilleYes
    Moisture ResistanceNo
    OTHER
    Handheld RemoteNo
    Parts Warranty5 Years
    Labor Warranty5 Years
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