If you’re itching for an audio upgrade, the RP-600M II is tough to ignore. It’s got that sharp, modern look, and the detailed sound can really wake up a room. This bookshelf speaker aims to deliver impactful audio without eating up your living space.
- BIGGER TRACTRIX HORN: A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix horn provides crisper, clearer sound.
- LINEAR TRAVEL SUSPENSION (LTS) TITANIUM DIAPHRAGM TWEETER: The exclusive 1” LTS minimizes distortion for enhanced, detailed performance.
- VENTED TWEETER DESIGN: The vented tweeter housing enhances the detail in what you hear.
If clarity and precise imaging matter to you, this pair has a lot going for it—thanks in part to the horn-loaded tweeter and sturdy build. Just know, these speakers don’t hide flaws in bad recordings, and they definitely like a decent amplifier. The bass is surprisingly punchy for their size, but if you want to rattle the windows, you’ll probably want a subwoofer.
Overview: klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Ebony Bookshelf Speakers
The RP-600M II brings some real upgrades over the original: a bigger Tractrix horn and new Cerametallic woofers that help with clarity and detail. For most music genres, that’s a win.
They look pretty sharp, too—furniture-grade finish, magnetic grilles for a clean front if you want it. The sound is dynamic, but the treble can get a bit hot. You might find yourself fiddling with EQ or placement to dial things in.
Strengths:
- Clear, dynamic sound
- Quality build and finish
- Flexible for bi-wiring/bi-amping
Potential Drawbacks:
- Treble can be a bit much for some
- Might need a subwoofer and good placement for best results
Tractrix Horn Advantage
That oversized Tractrix horn is a big part of what makes these speakers stand out. It’s meant to keep things crisp and cut down on distortion, even when you crank the volume. Most folks notice a focused soundstage and sparkling highs, but if you’re sensitive to treble, it can get a little fatiguing after a while. On the upside, the wide sound dispersion means you don’t have to stress too much about placement.
Pros:
- Great clarity and detail, especially up top
- Broad coverage for more even sound across the room
Cons:
- Strong treble response can be a bit much for some
- Setup and gear matching can make or break the experience
Cerametallic Woofers Performance
The woofers here do a solid job—tight, detailed, and not overly colored. They hold their own in the bass and lower mids, and the cerametallic construction seems to help keep things clean even when you push them.
Bass is present and punchy, but don’t expect floor-shaking lows. If you want real thump, a subwoofer is probably in your future. Still, for most uses, the sound stays clean and controlled, and distortion is minimal, even at higher volumes.
Linear Travel Suspension Tweeter Experience
The Linear Travel Suspension tweeter is a highlight—delivering crisp, airy highs with low distortion. You’ll notice a nice sense of space, especially with well-recorded tracks. That said, the tweeter can sound a bit bright, particularly in smaller rooms or with certain music. If you’re treble-sensitive, you might need to experiment with placement or tweak your EQ. But if you love clarity and lively highs, this tweeter’s pretty satisfying.
Vented Tweeter Housing
One of the more technical features is the vented tweeter housing, which helps cut down on those nasty noises that can creep into high-frequency sounds. By managing internal air pressure and heat, it keeps the treble cleaner and more open.
Most users find the highs stay detailed without turning harsh, though in a bright or untreated room, they can still get a bit forward. Overall, it’s a thoughtful touch if you’re chasing clarity in vocals and instruments without too much sibilance.
Tractrix Port Bass Impact
Bass is definitely a talking point here, mostly thanks to the Tractrix port. It moves air efficiently, so you get tighter, cleaner low-end without the muddiness you sometimes hear in smaller speakers.
For bookshelf speakers, the bass is punchy, but if you’re after that deep, sub-bass rumble, you’ll need extra help. For everyday music and movies, though, the bass is controlled and doesn’t get sloppy at higher volumes.
Flexible Bi-Wiring And Bi-Amping Options
If you’re the tinkering type, the dual input terminals let you bi-wire or bi-amp, splitting high and low frequencies for potentially cleaner sound. Some folks swear by it, especially for midrange clarity.
On the other hand, if you just want to plug and play, it’s not essential. For enthusiasts, it’s a cool bonus; for beginners, maybe a bit much.
Pros:
- Customization for audio nerds
- Can improve midrange and reduce distortion
Cons:
- Can get confusing if you’re new to bi-wiring/bi-amping
- Needs extra cables and some patience
Modern Design And Build Quality
The design is sleek, with a minimalist finish that fits most spaces without screaming for attention. The black cabinet feels sturdy, and the magnetic grille keeps things looking tidy.
Some folks mention the MDF and vinyl might show wear if you move them around a lot. They’re a nice size for bookshelves—big enough for presence, but not overwhelming. The look and feel are about what you’d expect for the price.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Detailed, crisp highs—people really notice the treble clarity.
- Improved horn design gives you cleaner audio at any volume, whether it’s music or movies.
- The soundstage feels lively and open, so you’re not stuck in a boring “box” of sound.
- Bi-wiring and bi-amping options let you tweak things if you’re into that.
- Build quality is solid, with finishes that look right at home in a modern setup.
- Some say the initial brightness mellows out with use.
| Strength | Feedback Highlights |
|---|---|
| Crisp, clear highs | Consistent across reviews |
| Customizable connectivity | Appreciated by enthusiasts |
| Stylish, solid construction | Frequently mentioned |
| Versatile for both music and TV setups | Cited in various contexts |
Cons
- Treble can be a bit sharp at first, which might cause fatigue if you listen loud or for long stretches.
- Placement matters, and a subwoofer is often needed for full, balanced bass.
- They’re picky about what you pair them with—cheap amps probably won’t do them justice.
- The sound is revealing, so bad recordings sound, well, bad.
Summary Table
| Concern | Description |
|---|---|
| Bright treble | Can be fatiguing for some |
| Bass response | May need subwoofer support |
| Placement sensitivity | Dependent on room/setup |
| Revealing nature | Highlights flaws in recordings |
Customer Reviews
Most users are happy with the 600M II’s clean sound, especially when paired with good gear. Clear highs and strong dispersion come up a lot, but some folks find the treble a bit much and say a subwoofer helps balance things out.
Placement and pairing with quality equipment seem to make a real difference. Treble fatigue is mentioned here and there, mostly due to their bright sound. Some note that things settle in after a bit of break-in time. All in all, satisfaction seems high.
At a glance:
- Positive feedback: Detailed sound, clarity, solid build
- Constructive criticism: Treble can be sharp for some, benefits from a subwoofer
- Overall rating: 4.7/5 from over 350 ratings
Setup Tips For Optimal Sound
Getting these right is all about placement. Put them on sturdy stands at ear level, and leave some space—about 15-24 inches—from the back wall so the bass ports can do their thing. Don’t wedge them into a tight bookshelf; they need room to breathe for best clarity.
If you’re up for it, try bi-wiring or bi-amping—some users say it cleans up the midrange. Adding a subwoofer is a good move if you want more balanced sound, especially if you’re sensitive to treble.
And hey, give them a little time—some say the sound improves after a few hours of use. Play around with placement and gear to find the sweet spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some of the most common questions and concerns about the Klipsch RP-600M II are below. If you’re curious about what makes these speakers tick—or where they might not be perfect—these might help.
How does the sound quality of the Klipsch RP-600M II compare to its predecessor?
If you’re choosing between the original RP-600M and the II, the differences are pretty noticeable. The newer version has a bigger Tractrix horn and a refined tweeter, so highs are crisper and the midrange is a bit cleaner (especially if you use good stands).
Some say the II is a little less harsh at high volumes, but it still has that classic Klipsch sound. Bass is strong for the size, but a subwoofer can help round things out for movies and music.
What are the improvements in the crossover design of the Klipsch RP-600M II?
People who pay attention to this stuff say the new crossover makes the transition between woofer and tweeter smoother. That means vocals and instruments sound more coherent, and imaging is a bit tighter—especially in smaller or mid-sized rooms.
The overall sound signature isn’t drastically different from the first version, so if you want something totally new, you might want to compare them side by side.
What are the detailed specifications of the Klipsch RP-600M II bookshelf speakers?
For folks who care about the nitty-gritty, the RP-600M II packs some solid specs:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Woofer Diameter | 6.5 Inches |
| Tweeter Diameter | 1 Inch |
| Impedance | 8 Ohm |
| Maximum Output Power | 400 Watts |
| Cabinet Material | MDF, Vinyl |
| Weight (each) | 18 Pounds |
| Dimensions (per speaker) | 13″D x 7.95″W x 15.75″H |
| Connectivity | Wired |
| Bi-Wiring/Bi-Amping | Yes |
| Surround Channel Support | 5.1 Configuration |
Just to be clear, these aren’t wireless, and you’ll want a proper amplifier to get the most out of them. They’re not built for rain or outdoor setups either, so probably best to keep them inside.
What is the price range for the Klipsch RP-600M II bookshelf speakers?
The price on the RP-600M II shifts around—a lot like most audio gear, honestly. Last I checked, they usually land somewhere in the mid-to-high bracket for bookshelf speakers, which kind of matches their reputation and build.
If you’re patient, keeping an eye out for deals or sales might snag you a better price. They’re definitely not the budget pick, but then again, there are a few rivals at a similar price point. Whether the extra cost is worth it? That’s up to you, but plenty of folks seem to think the features and sound make the case.
How do audio reviewers rate the Klipsch RP-600M II’s performance?
Reviewers tend to call out the RP-600M II for its punchy, energetic sound. The highs are crisp and detailed—sometimes a bit on the bright side, depending who you ask. Placement and pairing with the right gear can make a big difference.
Some people mention the upper frequencies might be a touch too sharp for their taste, but the overall clarity and imaging get a lot of love. If you’re picky, maybe try an equalizer or a warmer amp to mellow things out. Otherwise, a lot of listeners seem happy straight out of the box.
What are consumers saying about the Klipsch RP-600M II on forums like Reddit?
Browsing through forums and Reddit threads, you’ll find a lot of love for the RP-600M II’s clarity and stage presence. People seem to notice a real lift in both music and home theater setups—sometimes it’s almost surprising how much detail pops out.
Something that comes up a lot: these speakers don’t really hide anything. If your source isn’t great, you’ll probably hear it. Folks also talk about pairing them with the right amp, and some swear by giving them a long break-in period before making any judgments.
There’s a bit of back-and-forth about the highs—some wish they were a touch softer, others crave a little more warmth overall. But most owners sound pretty happy, especially if they’ve spent time dialing in placement and matching gear. It’s not a plug-and-play miracle, but when you get it right, the payoff seems worth it.
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