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Klipsch Reference R 40M Review
Klipsch Reference R 40M - Image 1

Main Features

  • 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter
  • 4" Woofer
  • 71-21k Hz Frequency Response
  • 91 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 8ohms
  • Weight:7.00 lbs / kg
  • Dimensions(HxWxD): 11-3/4"x5-13/16"x8-7/16" /
MSRP: $200 (list price)
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Klipsch Reference R 40M Review
Klipsch Reference R 40M Klipsch Reference R...
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Klipsch Reference R 40M is a 2-way Passive Bookshelf speaker by Klipsch. It was released in April 2022. It features a 1" Tractrix Horn Tweeter and 1 x 4" Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 71-21k Hz and a sensitivity of 91 dB.

Klipsch's Reference (R) Series of Loudspeakers

Reference R 40M is a member of Klipsch's Reference (R) series of Passive speakers. The Reference (R) range is Klipsch's affordable core line, using the brand's signature Tractrix horn-loaded tweeters. Below you can see the main specs of these speakers.

See all 6 Klipsch Reference (R) models compared »

Klipsch Reference (R) Series Speakers
Model Frequency SensitivityImpedance Woofer
Klipsch Reference R 800F
Compare
34-21000k Hz 98 dB8Ω 2 x 8"
Klipsch Reference R 40SA
Compare
-k Hz 8Ω 1 x 4"
Klipsch Reference R 605FA
Compare
38-21000k Hz 96 dB8Ω 2 x 6.5"
Klipsch Reference R 600F
Compare
38-21000k Hz 96 dB8Ω 2 x 6.5"
Klipsch Reference R 40M
71-21000k Hz 91 dB8Ω 1 x 4"
Klipsch Reference R 50M
Compare
58-21000k Hz 92 dB8Ω 1 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.

Frequency Response of the Klipsch Reference R 40M Speaker

Klipsch Reference R 40M has a Frequency response range of 71-21k Hz at ±3dB. With a minimum frequency of 71 Hz, it is hard to expect a strong bass response from Reference R 40M so depending on your use case, using a subwoofer will significantly help to widen the response range.

Visit our Powered Subwoofers section to find out more about the available subwoofer options.

Here we have a comparison of how Reference R 40M'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 Reference R 40M
Min
Average
Max
High Frequency
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R 40M
Min
Average
Max

Impedance and Sensitivity

Klipsch Reference R 40M's nominal impedance level is 8 ohms and has a sensitivity of 91 dB.

Sensitivity
Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R 40M
Min
Average
Max

8 Ohms is pretty much the standard nominal impedance amongst stereo speakers and amplifiers so Klipsch Reference R 40M is not considered a difficult to drive speaker from nominal Impedance perspective.

Sensitivity

91dB of the Klipsch Reference R 40M is considered a high sensitivity compared to average stereo speaker which makes Reference R 40M 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 Reference R 40M will be a good choice.

Check the amplifiers that are in a similar price range to the Klipsch Reference R 40M:

  • Integrated Amps under 300 USD
  • Integrated Amps under 500 USD
  • Integrated Amps under 750 USD
  • All Integrated Amplifiers

Input Type

Reference R 40M features Binding post type connectors. Bi-amping and Bi-wiring are not possible.

Klipsch Reference R 40M External Dimensions and Weight

Klipsch Reference R 40M has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) .

Weight
All Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R 40M
Min
Average
Max

Available colors

Klipsch Reference R 40M is available in Black.

Wall Mounting

Reference R 40M doesn't sport any built-in mounting bracket, so you need an external structure to mount it on walls.

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Klipsch Reference R 40M.

  • 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.
  • 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.

Warranty

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

Klipsch Reference R 40M Alternatives in Passive Bookshelf Speakers
Model Type Sensitivity Impedance Frequency
Klipsch Reference R 600F
Compare
2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 38-21k Hz
Klipsch Reference R 800F
Compare
2-way 98 dB 8 ohms 34-21k Hz
Klipsch Reference R 50M
Compare
2-way 92 dB 8 ohms 58-21k Hz
Klipsch Reference R 605FA
Compare
2-way 96 dB 8 ohms 38-21k Hz
Klipsch Reference R 40SA
Compare
2-way 8 ohms
Frequently Asked Questions about Klipsch Reference R 40M
What is the Speaker Sensitivity of Klipsch Reference R 40M
is the Klipsch Reference R 40M an easy to drive speaker?

Klipsch Reference R 40M Detailed Specifications

General
BrandKlipsch
Full Model NameKlipsch Reference R 40M
Speaker Type2-way Bookshelf
Sensitivity91 dB
Impedance8 ohms
Frequency Response71-21k Hz
Release DateApril 2022
DRIVERS
Woofer Size4-inch
Woofer Composition
Tweeter Size1-inch
Tweeter TypeTractrix Horn

CONNECTIONS
Connector TypeBinding post
PHYSICAL SPECS
Heightmm ( 11-3/4-inch)
Widthmm ( 5-13/16-inch)
Depthmm ( 8-7/16-inch)
Heightmm ( 11-3/4-inch)
Weightkg ( 7.00 lbs)
Enclosure
FinishMDF/Wood-grain vinyl
Available ColorsBlack
Moisture ResistanceNo
OTHER
Handheld RemoteNo
Parts Warranty5 Years
Labor Warranty5 Years
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