ReviewFinder Bookshelf Speakers

Klipsch RB-81 II

TLDR: The Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers are praised for their exceptional sound quality, neutral sound profile, impressive bass performance, and elegant design, making them a highly recommended choice for a powerful and dynamic sound experience.
Ranking:  
Consumer sentiment:
In comparison:
Klipsch RB-81 II rank #35 out of 119. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.6
Amazing

The product receives amazing reviews on average (consumer score 9.6). This is slightly above the median speakers score of 9.1.

About consumer score

Price:
The lowest price we found for Klipsch RB-81 II is $279, available here. This is slightly below the median speakers price of $279.99.
  • Lowest price: $23.84
  • Median price: $279.99
  • Highest price: $2499.99
  • Klipsch RB-81 II price: $279
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers are praised for their exceptional sound quality, neutral sound profile, impressive bass performance, and elegant design, making them a highly recommended choice for a powerful and dynamic sound experience.

The Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers are highly praised by experts for their exceptional sound quality. They deliver a captivating and coherent sound across a wide range of music genres, making them suitable for various use cases including rock, electro, jazz, movies, and concerts.

The speakers have a neutral sound profile, providing distortion-free, non-fatiguing, and highly accurate audio reproduction. The bass performance is particularly impressive, with a tight and richly textured restitution of higher bass frequencies. The titanium compression driver and Tactrix horn combination contribute to the incredible detail and clarity of the sound.

The speakers have a wide frequency response, handling both low and high frequencies effectively. The design of the RB-81 II is elegant and durable, with a wood-grain vinyl cabinet and options for black or walnut color finishes. In terms of connectivity, the speakers offer binding post speaker terminals, RCA inputs and outputs, and compatibility with TVs and computers.

They have a power handling capacity of 150 watts, allowing for high volume levels without distortion or damage. Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers are highly recommended for those seeking a powerful and dynamic sound experience in their home audio setup.

Sound quality

The Klipsch RB-81 II speakers are highly regarded for their exceptional sound quality, delivering a captivating and coherent sound across a wide range of music genres with a tight and rich bass, sharp treble, and a wide range of information.

The Klipsch RB-81 II speakers are highly regarded for their exceptional sound quality. Experts praise the speakers for delivering a captivating and coherent sound across the entire frequency range. The speakers are known for their tight and richly textured restitution of higher bass frequencies, which is in perfect balance with a sharp treble register.

The titanium compression driver and Tactrix horn combination provide incredible detail and a dynamic range that lends credibility to the sound. The RB-81 II is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it distortion-free, non-fatiguing, and highly accurate.

The bass performance of the Klipsch RB-81 II is also highly regarded. The speakers deliver a tight and richly textured restitution of higher bass frequencies, with a front-firing bass-reflex port and driver agility amplifying the higher bass frequencies and providing an enormous amount of energy.

The bass is described as vigorous and not at all sloppy, with Klipsch delivering on their announced frequency response of 45 Hz.

Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II is praised for its overall sound quality. It delivers a captivating, lively, and coherent sound with a tight and rich bass, sharp treble, and a wide range of information. The speakers are said to have an enormous amount of energy, providing a vigorous and punchy bass performance.

The titanium compression driver and Tactrix horn combination contribute to the incredible detail and clarity of the sound.

The Klipsch RB-81 II is recommended for various genres of music, including rock, electro, and jazz, as well as for movie and concert enjoyment. The speakers are known for their exceptional sound quality, regardless of the genre of music being played.

Key features and technologies that contribute to the sound quality of the Klipsch RB-81 II include the front-firing bass-reflex port, titanium compression driver, Tractrix horn, and balanced sound signature. These features work together to create an immersive and high-quality sound experience.

In summary, the Klipsch RB-81 II is highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality, delivering a captivating and coherent sound across a wide range of music genres. The speakers offer a tight and rich bass, sharp treble, and a wide range of information. They are recommended for various genres of music, as well as for movie and concert enjoyment.

The RB-81 II incorporates features and technologies that contribute to its impressive sound quality, including the front-firing bass-reflex port, titanium compression driver, Tractrix horn, and balanced sound signature. Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II is praised for its exceptional sound quality and is a highly recommended choice for music and home theater applications.

How clear is the sound quality of Klipsch RB-81 II?

The sound quality of the Klipsch RB-81 II is highly praised by experts. According to various product reviews, the RB-81 II delivers a captivating and coherent sound across the entire frequency range. The speakers are known for their tight and richly textured restitution of higher bass frequencies, which is in perfect balance with a sharp treble register. The titanium compression driver and Tactrix horn combination provide incredible detail and a dynamic range that lends credibility to the sound. The RB-81 II is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it distortion-free, non-fatiguing, and highly accurate. Overall, the sound quality of the Klipsch RB-81 II is considered exceptional and engaging.
Based on 7 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How is the bass performance of the Klipsch RB-81 II?

The bass performance of the Klipsch RB-81 II is highly regarded by experts. According to verified product experts in the ReviewFinder database, these speakers deliver a tight and richly textured restitution of higher bass frequencies. The front-firing bass-reflex port, combined with the driver's agility, amplifies the higher bass frequencies and provides an enormous amount of energy. The RB-81 II has a generous amount of punch in the higher bass frequencies and a wide range of information that is typically not heard from conventional compact speakers. The bass is described as vigorous and not at all sloppy, with Klipsch delivering on their announced frequency response of 45 Hz. Overall, the bass performance of the Klipsch RB-81 II is considered impressive, lively, and energetic.
Based on 7 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the Klipsch RB-81 II perform in terms of overall sound quality?

According to the reviews in our database, the Klipsch RB-81 II speakers are praised for their overall sound quality. They are described as delivering a captivating, lively, and coherent sound with a tight and rich bass, sharp treble, and a wide range of information. The speakers are said to have an enormous amount of energy, providing a vigorous and punchy bass performance. The titanium compression driver and Tactrix horn combination is also mentioned as contributing to the incredible detail and clarity of the sound. Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II is highly regarded for its sound quality and is recommended for various genres of music as well as for movie and concert enjoyment.
Based on 5 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Is there a noticeable difference in sound quality when playing different genres of music on the Klipsch RB-81 II?

According to the product reviews in our database, the Klipsch RB-81 II is known for delivering a captivating and coherent sound across a wide range of music genres. The speakers offer a tight and richly textured restitution of higher bass frequencies, which is in perfect balance with a sharp treble register. The RB-81 II is recommended for amateurs of rock, electro, and jazz scenes, as well as for those who enjoy watching films and concerts. The speakers are said to be lively and fun to listen to, with a generous amount of punch in the higher bass frequencies and a wide range of information that our ears hardly ever hear from a conventional compact loudspeaker. The tweeter is also praised for its impressive dynamic range and ability to be bright when necessary. Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II is known for its exceptional sound quality, regardless of the genre of music being played.
Based on 5 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What specific features or technologies in the Klipsch RB-81 II contribute to its sound quality?

The Klipsch RB-81 II incorporates several features and technologies that contribute to its impressive sound quality. Here are some key factors: 1. Bass-Reflex Port: The front-firing bass-reflex port on the RB-81 II is relatively short, which amplifies the higher bass frequencies. This, combined with the driver's agility, provides the speaker with an enormous amount of energy and punch in the higher bass frequencies. 2. Titanium Compression Driver: The RB-81 II utilizes a titanium compression driver that is mated to the Tractrix horn. This combination helps to produce detailed and accurate high frequencies, while also maintaining a wide dynamic range. 3. Tractrix Horn: The Tractrix horn technology in the RB-81 II enhances the dispersion of high-frequency sounds, allowing for improved clarity and a more natural sound reproduction. It helps to minimize distortion and improves overall efficiency. 4. Balanced Sound Signature: The RB-81 II is known for its tight and richly textured restitution of higher bass frequencies, which is in perfect balance with a sharp treble register. It offers a captivating sound that is both lively and engaging, making it enjoyable for music listening and home theater applications. These features and technologies work together to create an immersive and high-quality sound experience with the Klipsch RB-81 II speakers.
Based on 5 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Frequency response

The Klipsch RB-81 II speakers offer a wide frequency response, strong bass performance, and detailed high frequencies, making them a great choice for a powerful and dynamic sound experience.

The Klipsch RB-81 II speakers have a frequency response of 44 Hz to 24 kHz, allowing for a wide range of sound reproduction. They handle low frequencies well, with a strong and energetic bass performance. The front-firing bass-reflex port and driver's agility amplify higher bass frequencies and deliver a punchy sound.

However, the low-end bass rolls off just below 50Hz, so pairing these speakers with a subwoofer is recommended for a fuller bass experience.

In terms of high frequencies, the RB-81 II excels. The titanium dome tweeter mounted on an acoustic horn produces a bright and detailed sound, enhancing the overall listening experience. The Tractrix horn design contributes to the clarity and accuracy of high-frequency reproduction.

Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II is praised for its wide frequency response and ability to handle both low and high frequencies effectively. It is recommended for users who want a powerful and dynamic sound experience, particularly for music and movies.

What is the frequency range of Klipsch RB-81 II?

The Klipsch RB-81 II has a frequency response of 44 Hz to 24 kHz according to a product review on Blog. This means that it is capable of producing sound across a wide range of frequencies, allowing you to hear both low and high notes with clarity and detail.
Based on 5 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the Klipsch RB-81 II handle low frequencies?

According to reviews from verified product experts, the Klipsch RB-81 II speakers have a strong and energetic bass performance. The front-firing bass-reflex port, combined with the driver's agility, amplifies the higher bass frequencies and delivers a generous amount of punch. Klipsch claims a frequency response down to 45 Hz, and reviewers have confirmed that the RB-81 II delivers on this promise. However, it's worth noting that the low-end bass rolls off just below 50Hz, so if you're looking for a full movie or music experience with deep bass, it is recommended to pair these speakers with a subwoofer.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the Klipsch RB-81 II handle high frequencies?

According to the product review on Blog, the Klipsch RB-81 II has an impressive dynamic range when it comes to handling high frequencies. The titanium dome tweeter mounted on an acoustic horn delivers a bright and detailed sound. The tweeter steps in at the most opportune moments, enhancing the overall listening experience. Additionally, the Tractrix horn design is mentioned as a real plus, contributing to the clarity and accuracy of the high-frequency reproduction.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Design

The Klipsch RB-81 II speaker is a well-designed and durable speaker that delivers high-quality sound and blends well with various home decor styles.

The Klipsch RB-81 II speaker has a rectangular shape and measures 19" in height, 9.25" in width, and 12.3" in depth. It features a wood-grain vinyl cabinet that adds elegance to its design. The speaker is larger than typical bookshelf speakers, so it may require more space.

However, its aesthetic appeal allows it to blend well with various home decor styles.

The speaker is constructed using a combination of materials. The cabinet is made of MDF panels with a black, wood-effect vinyl finish, providing a sturdy and rigid enclosure that minimizes vibrations and resonance. The front of the speakers is made of plastic, allowing for a one-piece panel design that conceals the driver's basket and fastenings while integrating the Tractix horn and bass-reflex port.

The grill is composed of black acoustic cloth, protecting the drivers and diffusing sound.

The Klipsch RB-81 II speaker is available in two color options: black and walnut. The walnut color option gives the speaker a premium quality vibe, while the black option has a simple design with a black ash woodgrain vinyl finish.

Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II speaker is well-designed, durable, and delivers high-quality sound. It can be a great addition to a living room, home theater, or any other room where both audio performance and aesthetic appeal are desired.

What is the size and shape of the Klipsch RB-81 II speaker, and how does it fit into a typical home decor?

The Klipsch RB-81 II speaker measures 19" in height, 9.25" in width, and 12.3" in depth. It has a rectangular shape and features a beautiful wood-grain vinyl cabinet. In terms of fitting into a typical home decor, it is important to consider the size and aesthetic appeal of the speaker. The RB-81 II is a bookshelf speaker, which means it is designed to be placed on a shelf or stand. Its dimensions make it larger than most typical bookshelf speakers, so it may require a bit more space. However, the wood-grain vinyl cabinet adds a touch of elegance to the speaker's design, making it visually appealing and capable of blending in with various home decor styles. It can be a great addition to a living room, home theater, or any other room where high-quality audio and aesthetic appeal are desired. Ultimately, the decision of how it fits into a specific home decor will depend on personal preferences and the layout of the room.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What materials are used in the construction of Klipsch RB-81 II speakers, and how do they contribute to the overall design?

The Klipsch RB-81 II speakers are constructed using a combination of materials that contribute to their overall design and performance. According to a product review on Blog, the cabinet of the speakers is made of MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) panels with a black, wood-effect vinyl finish. This construction material helps to provide a sturdy and rigid enclosure, which minimizes vibrations and resonance that can distort sound quality. The front of the speakers is made of plastic, which allows for a one-piece panel design that conceals the driver's basket and fastenings while integrating the Tractix horn and the bass-reflex port. The loudspeaker's grill is composed of black acoustic cloth, which not only protects the drivers but also helps to diffuse sound and maintain a clean aesthetic. The use of magnets to hold the grill in place ensures easy removal for those who prefer the speakers without the grill. Overall, the materials used in the construction of Klipsch RB-81 II speakers contribute to their durability, acoustic performance, and aesthetic appeal. The combination of MDF, plastic, and acoustic cloth helps to create a well-designed speaker that delivers high-quality sound.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What color options are available for the Klipsch RB-81 II speaker, and how do they affect its visual appeal?

The Klipsch RB-81 II speaker is available in two color options: black and walnut. According to the product review on SoundboxLab, the walnut color option gives the speaker a premium quality vibe. On the other hand, the black color option has a simple design with a black ash woodgrain vinyl finish. The choice of color ultimately depends on personal preference and how it suits your room decor or taste.
Based on 3 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Connectivity

The Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers offer multiple connectivity options, including binding post speaker terminals, RCA inputs and outputs, allowing for versatile use with different audio sources and devices.

The Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers offer a variety of connectivity options to suit different needs. They feature binding post speaker terminals that can accept bare wire, spade connectors, or banana plugs, providing flexibility in how you connect the speakers to your audio source or amplifier.

Additionally, these speakers have RCA inputs and outputs, allowing for easy connection to audio devices using RCA cables. This means you can connect the speakers to a receiver, amplifier, or any other audio device with RCA outputs.

The Klipsch RB-81 II speakers can also be connected to a TV or computer. By using the standard speaker wire connectors, you can connect the speakers to an amplifier or receiver, which can then be connected to the TV or computer using the appropriate audio cables, such as RCA or HDMI. This allows you to enjoy high-quality sound while watching movies, TV shows, or listening to music on your TV or computer.

Overall, the Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers offer a range of connectivity options that make them versatile and suitable for various use cases. Whether you want to connect them to a traditional audio setup, a multi-channel audio system, or use them with your TV or computer, these speakers provide the necessary inputs and outputs to accommodate your needs.

What types of inputs and outputs are available on the Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers?

The Klipsch RB-81 II bookshelf speakers have a single set of binding post speaker terminals for connecting speaker wires. These binding posts can accept bare wire, spade connectors, or banana plugs, providing flexibility in terms of how you connect your speakers to your audio source or amplifier. There are no other inputs or outputs available on these speakers.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Klipsch RB-81 II speaker have RCA inputs and outputs?

Yes, the Klipsch RB-81 II speaker does have RCA inputs and outputs. This allows you to easily connect the speaker to your audio source using RCA cables. The RCA inputs can be used to connect the speaker to a receiver, amplifier, or any other audio device with RCA outputs. The RCA outputs can be used to connect additional speakers or a subwoofer to create a multi-channel audio system.

What are the Bluetooth connectivity options available for Klipsch RB-81 II?

Sorry, I can only provide information about Klipsch RB-81 II.

Can the Klipsch RB-81 II speaker be connected to a TV or computer?

Yes, the Klipsch RB-81 II speaker can be connected to a TV or computer. It has standard speaker wire connectors that can be used to connect the speakers to an amplifier or receiver. The amplifier or receiver can then be connected to the TV or computer using the appropriate audio cables, such as RCA or HDMI. This allows you to enjoy the high-quality sound of the Klipsch RB-81 II speakers while watching movies, TV shows, or listening to music on your TV or computer.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Power handling

The Klipsch RB-81 II has a power handling capacity of 150 watts, allowing it to handle high volumes without distortion or damage, making it suitable for those who enjoy listening to music or watching movies at loud volumes.

The Klipsch RB-81 II has a power handling capacity of 150 watts, allowing it to handle high volumes without distortion or damage. This makes it suitable for those who enjoy listening to music or watching movies at loud volumes. The speakers can deliver a significant amount of sound even with a less powerful amplifier, such as a 2x20W integrated amplifier.

However, to fully utilize its 150W power handling capability, a more powerful amplifier may be more appropriate. Overall, the power handling of the Klipsch RB-81 II contributes to its powerful performance, but it's important to consider other factors such as amplifier quality and room acoustics for optimal sound quality.

What is the maximum power handling capacity of the Klipsch RB-81 II?

The Klipsch RB-81 II has a power handling capacity of 150 watts, according to the product review on Blog. This means that it can handle up to 150 watts of power without any distortion or damage to the speakers.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the power handling of Klipsch RB-81 II affect its overall sound quality and performance?

The power handling of the Klipsch RB-81 II speakers refers to the amount of power the speakers can handle without distortion or damage. In the case of the RB-81 II, it has a power handling of 150 watts. A higher power handling capability means that the speakers can handle more power from an amplifier, allowing them to play at higher volumes without distortion. This is especially useful for those who like to listen to their music or movies at high volume levels. However, it's important to note that the power handling of the speakers does not necessarily determine the overall sound quality. While the RB-81 II can handle a significant amount of power, the actual sound quality will depend on various factors such as the amplifier being used, the room acoustics, and personal preferences. According to a product review on Blog, the Klipsch RB-81 II is a powerful loudspeaker capable of putting out a huge amount of sound, which means that you can obtain a high volume even with a less powerful amplifier. So, even a 2x20W integrated amplifier can deliver a convincing result with the RB-81 II. However, it also suggests that a more powerful amplifier may be more appropriate to fully utilize its 150W power handling capability. In summary, while the power handling of the Klipsch RB-81 II can contribute to its overall performance, it's just one factor to consider. It's always recommended to pair the speakers with an amplifier that can provide adequate power for your listening preferences and room size.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Expert Reviews

There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

ReviewFinder database has 5 expert reviews of Klipsch RB-81 II.

Expert reviews [5]

No critic scores
Total expert reviews: 5
  • with a score: 0
  • without a score: 5

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Klipsch RB-81 II did not receive any endorsements this month.

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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.