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  1. Home
  2. Klipsch Speakers
  3. Passive Center Channel Speakers
  4. Klipsch Reference R-30C
Klipsch R-30C Review
Klipsch R-30C - Front View

Compare To

Main Features

  • 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter
  • 4 x 3.5" spun-copper TCP Woofer
  • 78-21k Hz Frequency Response
  • 96 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 8ohms
  • Power Range: up to 100 watts
  • Weight: 11.20 lbs / 5.08 kg
  • Dimensions(HxWxD): 4-15/16"x26-1/16"x6-13/16" / 126.0 x 662.0 x 174.0mm
MSRP: $499 (list price)
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Klipsch R-30C Review
Klipsch R-30C Klipsch R-30C
Check price atAmazon›

Made by Klipsch · United States · since 1946 · sold through dealers

Klipsch Reference R-30C is a 2-way Passive Ported Center Channel speaker by Klipsch. It was released in 2018. Center channel speaker is an important component of a home theater system set-up as it delivers the listener significant part of the on-screen dialogue from your television. It features a 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter and 4 x 3.5" spun-copper TCP Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 78-21k Hz and a sensitivity of 96 dB. Klipsch R-30C has an MSRP of 499$.

Room Size Suitability

The size of the room where you plan to use the Klipsch R-30C 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-fieldAverage
Small RoomGood
Mid-size RoomAverage
Large RoomPoor
Very Large RoomBad

(* 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 R-30C  Lifestyle
Klipsch R-30C Lifestyle

Klipsch's Reference (R) Center Series of Loudspeakers

R-30C is a member of Klipsch's Reference (R) Center series of Passive speakers. These are the center-channel models in Klipsch's affordable Reference (R) range. Below you can see the main specs of these speakers.

See all 5 Klipsch Reference (R) Center models compared »

Klipsch Reference (R) Center Series Speakers
Model Frequency SensitivityImpedance Woofer
Klipsch R-34C
Compare
82-21k Hz 96 dB8Ω 4 x 3.5"
Klipsch R-30C
78-21k Hz 96 dB8Ω 4 x 3.5"
Klipsch R-52C
Compare
89-21k Hz 95 dB8Ω 2 x 5.25"
Klipsch Reference R-25C
Compare
82-24k Hz 98 dB8Ω 2 x 5.25"
Klipsch R-50C
Compare
90-21k Hz 96 dB8Ω 2 x 5.25"

Frequency Response of the Klipsch R-30C Speaker

Klipsch R-30C has a Frequency response range of 78-21k Hz and Power Range of up to 100 watts.

Here we have a comparison of how R-30C's Low frequency value compares with the average, max and min Low frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Center Channel Speakers
Klipsch R-30C
Min
Average
Median

Klipsch R-30C Tweeter
Klipsch R-30C's LTS (Linear Travel Suspension) titanium diaphragm Tractrix Horn Tweeter

Crossover frequency of the Klipsch R-30C?

The crossover frequency of the R-30C is set to 1650 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 R-30C driver frequency bands78-1.7kWoofer 3.5"1.7k-21kTweeter 1"20501002005001k2k5k10k20k40kHz, log scale

Impedance and Sensitivity

Klipsch R-30C's nominal impedance level is 8 ohms and has a sensitivity of 96 dB.

Sensitivity
Center Channel Speakers
Klipsch R-30C
Min
Average
Median

8 Ohms is pretty much the standard nominal impedance amongst stereo speakers and amplifiers so Klipsch Reference R-30C is not considered a difficult to drive speaker from nominal Impedance perspective.

Sensitivity

96dB of the Klipsch Reference R-30C is considered a high sensitivity compared to average stereo speaker which makes R-30C 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 R-30C will be a good choice. Work out how loud the Klipsch R-30C plays in your room →

What amplifier does the Klipsch R-30C need?

At normal listening levels in a medium room, about 1.9–60 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 $500, or every amplifier we cover.

Input Type

R-30C features Binding post type connectors. Bi-amping and Bi-wiring are not possible.

Work out what gauge speaker cable this run needs →

Klipsch R-30C Back View
Klipsch R-30C Back View

Klipsch R-30C External Dimensions and Weight

Klipsch R-30C has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 4-15/16inch x 26-1/16inch x 6-13/16inch (126.0 x 662.0 x 174.0mm ).

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 R-30C is approximately 1151.9cm2 / 178.5inch2.

To get a better perspective on the real life size of Klipsch R-30C, let's compare it with a standard size Compact Disc which has a diameter of 4.7inch (120mm).

Klipsch R-30C Real Life Body Size Comparison
Klipsch R-30C Speaker Size Compared to a Compact Disc

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The Klipsch R-30C weighs 5.08kg / 11.2lbs per piece. Here is a comparison of how R-30C's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Center Channel Speakers
Klipsch R-30C
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Center Channel Speakers under $500
Klipsch R-30C
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

Klipsch R-30C has a Ported type cabinet and a Textured Wood Grain Vinyl finish.

Klipsch R-30C  - Side View
Klipsch R-30C - Side View

Port Position

Klipsch R-30C 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 R-30C is available in Black, White and Mocha.

Does the Klipsch R-30C come with a Grille?

R-30C comes with magnetic grilles. 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 R-30C is magnetic type, it is very easy to put it on and off.

Klipsch R-30C  with Grille
Klipsch R-30C with Grille

What's in the Box of Klipsch R-30C?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of R-30C:
  • Center-channel loudspeaker
  • Grille
  • 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 R-30C.

  • 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.

User's Manual

For more information about how to setup, use and maintain the Klipsch Reference R-30C, use the direct link below to download the official manual document:
Download User Manual for Klipsch R-30C

Official Brochure

Here is a link to download the official brochure for the Klipsch Reference R-30C speaker:
Official Brochure for Klipsch R-30C

Official Product Page

Official manufacturer's product page for the Klipsch Reference R-30C speaker can be found below:
Official Product Page for Klipsch R-30C

Warranty

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

Klipsch Reference R-30C Alternatives in Passive Center Channel Speakers
Model Type Sensitivity Impedance Frequency
Klipsch R-34C
Compare
2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 82-21k Hz
Klipsch R-50C
Compare
2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 90-21k Hz
Klipsch RP-404C II
Compare
2-way 94 dB 8 ohms 87-25k Hz
Klipsch R-52C
Compare
2-way 95 dB 8 ohms 89-21k Hz
Polk ES35
Compare
2-way 89 dB 8 ohms 66-40k Hz
Klipsch RP-504C II
Compare
2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 50-25k Hz
Klipsch Reference R-25C
Compare
2-way 98 dB 8 ohms 82-24K Hz
Polk XT35
Compare
2-way 87 dB 8 ohms 57-40k Hz
Frequently Asked Questions about Klipsch Reference R-30C

What amplifier do you need for the Klipsch R-30C?

Klipsch rates the Klipsch R-30C for up to 100 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 R-30C easy to drive?

The Klipsch R-30C has a sensitivity of 96 dB. That is high: it goes loud on modest power, so it suits low-powered amplifiers, including valve/tube designs.

Does the Klipsch R-30C need a subwoofer?

The Klipsch R-30C reaches down to 78Hz (full range 78-21k Hz). That leaves the lowest octaves out, so a subwoofer will make a clear difference for films and bass-heavy music.

What drivers does the Klipsch R-30C use?

The Klipsch R-30C is a 2-way design using a 1" Tractrix Horn tweeter and 4 x 3.5" spun-copper TCP woofers.

Is the Klipsch R-30C sealed or ported?

The Klipsch R-30C 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 R-30C be bi-wired or bi-amped?

No. The Klipsch R-30C has a single pair of terminals, so bi-wiring and bi-amping are not possible. It uses Binding post terminals.

Can the Klipsch R-30C be wall mounted?

The Klipsch R-30C 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 R-30C come with grilles?

Yes. The Klipsch R-30C comes with removable grilles.

How big and heavy is the Klipsch R-30C?

The Klipsch R-30C weighs 5.08kg / 11.2lbs each and measures 4-15/16inch x 26-1/16inch x 6-13/16inch (HxWxD).

How much does the Klipsch R-30C cost?

The Klipsch R-30C has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $499 per pair.


Klipsch R-30C Detailed Specifications

General
BrandKlipsch
Full Model NameKlipsch Reference R-30C
Speaker Type2-way Center Channel
Power Rangeup to 100 watts
Sensitivity96 dB
Impedance8 ohms
Frequency Response78-21k Hz
Release Date2018
DRIVERS
Woofer Size3.5-inch
Woofer Compositionspun-copper TCP
Tweeter Size1-inch
Tweeter TypeTractrix Horn
Crossover freq1650 Hz
Port Positionrear

CONNECTIONS
Connector TypeBinding post
Biamp InputsNo
Port Positionrear
PHYSICAL SPECS
Height126.0mm ( 4-15/16-inch)
Width662.0mm ( 26-1/16-inch)
Depth174.0mm ( 6-13/16-inch)
Height126.0mm ( 4-15/16-inch)
Weight5.08 kg (11.2 lbs)
EnclosurePorted
FinishTextured Wood Grain Vinyl
Available ColorsBlack,White,Mocha
Mounting BracketNo
GrilleYes
Moisture ResistanceNo
OTHER
Handheld RemoteNo
Parts Warranty5 Years
Labor Warranty5 Years
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