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Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M Bookshelf speakers (Ebony)

Item # 714RP500ME

Looking to build a high-impact stereo or home theatre system? Then consider a pair of Klipsch Reference...

Looking to build a high-impact stereo or home theatre system? Then consider a pair of Klipsch Reference...

Item # 714RP500ME

Shop all Klipsch Bookshelf Speakers

About the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M

Kramer Crane

Sweet sound from Klipsch

Looking to build a high-impact stereo or home theatre system? Then consider a pair of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500Ms — the middle-sized bookshelf model in Klipsch's new Reference Premiere lineup. These attractive bookshelf speakers feature a 5-1/4" spun-copper woofer for punchy bass and powerful midrange, and Klipsch's signature 1" horn-loaded tweeter for smooth, detailed highs with music and movie soundtracks. 

Sweet sound from Klipsch

Looking to build a high-impact stereo or home theatre system? Then consider a pair of Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500Ms — the middle-sized bookshelf model in Klipsch's new Reference Premiere lineup. These attractive bookshelf speakers feature a 5-1/4" spun-copper woofer for punchy bass and powerful midrange, and Klipsch's signature 1" horn-loaded tweeter for smooth, detailed highs with music and movie soundtracks. 

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M bookshelf speakers

Each Reference Premiere RP-500M bookshelf speaker features a rear-firing horn-shaped port for reinforced bass output.

Hybrid horn technology for dynamic performance

Horn technology is one of Klipsch's long-standing hallmarks. Flared openings in the speaker cabinet project sound waves toward your listening area and prevent them from simply spilling out in all directions. This design reduces reflections that can colour the sound, and boosts dynamics and efficiency for powerful, "front row" sound that remains crystal-clear at all volume levels.

Klipsch's Tractrix® horn features a circular throat around an advanced titanium diaphragm tweeter that transitions into a square 90º x 90º mouth. This unique shape provides a cleaner, more efficient transition of sound waves into your listening space. The result is a wide listening "sweet spot" with precise placement of instruments and vocals. 

A horn that enhances bass, too

Take a look at the back of these speakers and you'll find that instead of the conventional round port tube found on many speakers, Klipsch uses a Tractrix horn-shaped opening for smoother, more efficient airflow in and out of the cabinet. The resulting decrease in air turbulence makes for cleaner, more powerful bass with reduced port noise and low-frequency distortion.

Because these speakers are rear-ported, I recommend pulling them away from your wall or the back of the bookshelf to give them room to "breathe."

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Product highlights:

  • 1" LTS (Linear Travel Suspension) titanium diaphragm tweeter with Tractrix® horn
  • 5-1/4" Cerametallic™ cone woofer with rigid and lightweight voice coil
  • frequency response: 48-25,000 Hz (±3dB)
  • power handling: up to 75 watts RMS (300 watts peak)
  • sensitivity: 93 dB
  • impedance: 8 ohms compatible
  • bass-reflex design with rear-firing Tractrix port
  • magnetically attached grilles for a clean, streamlined look
  • ebony vinyl finish with scratch-resistant design
  • 5-way binding post speaker terminals
  • keyhole slot for easy wall-mounting
  • 6-13/16"W x 13-9/16"H x 10-1/8"D
  • weight: 12 lbs. each
  • warranty: 5 years
  • MFR # 1065807

What's in the box:

  • 2 Bookshelf loudspeakers
  • 2 Grilles (installed)
  • 8 Self-adhesive rubber feet
  • User Manual
  • Important Safety Instructions
  • Warranty Information

Customer reviews for Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M

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5.0 out of 5 stars
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More details on the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M

Stacey B.

Features & specs

Enclosure Bass Reflex
Finish MDF/Wood-grain vinyl
Color Black
Tweeter Type Hybrid Tractrix Horn
Tweeter Size (inches) 1
Midrange Size (inches) N/A
Woofer Size (inches) 5.25
Woofer Composition Cerametallic
Woofer Surround Rubber
Power Range up to 75
Sensitivity 93 dB
Impedance (Ohms) 8
Frequency Response 48-25k Hz
Connector Type Binding post
Bi-amp Inputs No
Height (inches) 13-9/16
Width (inches) 6-13/16
Depth (inches) 10-1/8
Weight (pounds) 12
Wall-mountable Yes
Bracket Included Fixed keyhole mount
Recommended Stand Height (inches) 28-30
Parts Warranty 5 Years
Labor Warranty 5 Years

Product Research

Features

1" Horn-Loaded Tweeter: The Klipsch RP-500M bookshelf loudspeaker features a 1" Titanium LTS Vented Tweeter with a Hybrid Tractrix Horn technology exceptional high frequency response, detail, and dispersion. Klipsch proprietary Tractrix horn-loaded technology ensures high-frequency energy of the RP-500M bookshelf speakers are aimed directly at the listener and reduces unwanted, artificial reverb caused by indirect sound bouncing off walls - meaning you experience the most clear, detailed, lifelike sound possible.

  • Titanium LTS Vented Tweeter: The titanium tweeter diaphragm's light weight yet rigid composition exceeds the performance of aluminum, polymer or silk tweeters. A vented tweeter design reduces standing waves behind the tweeter diaphragm for a smoother high frequency reproduction. Klipsch award-winning Linear Travel Suspension technology leverages a piston motion of the titanium diaphragm that lowers distortion and delivers real-to-life sound. A ceramic magnet housing provides premium performance,
  • Hybrid Tractrix Horn Technology: This redesigned 90°x90° Hybrid Tractrix Horn utilizes a circular horn throat paired to a square horn mouth to further improve high-frequency response and extension, while enhancing imaging and dynamics. The Hybrid Tractrix Horn's compressed molded silicon face adds high frequency damping to reduce harshness and horn resonance for a smoother frequency response with improved detail - creating a clean and natural sound. Klipsch also utilizes computer modeled phase plugs that act as a mechanical filter to further ensure a smooth, flat frequency response while protecting the tweeter from damage.

5.25" Cerametallic Woofer: The RP-500M bookshelf loudspeaker utilizes a 5.25" Klipsch Proprietary Cerametallic woofer. Cerametallic consists of extremely light, rigid materials that can hold shape while being able to deliver lower frequencies with maximum efficiency. The Klipsch Cerametallic cone is matted to a dual-layer, copper-wound voice coil for exceptional conductivity. The 5.25" woofer is housed in a non-resonating, stamped-steel basket that's secured to a large magnet motor for exceptional efficiency and low distortion.

Rear Tractrix Port: The rear Tractrix port of the RP-500M bookshelf loudspeaker is perfectly matched to the cabinet and woofer, creating ideal airflow with minimal distortion and turbulence even at the lowest frequencies. Klipsch Tractrix ports have custom designed inner flares that help reduce air turbulence entering the port. Less turbulent air helps reduce port noise for cleaner, more powerful bass.

MDF Cabinet: The Klipsch RP-500M bookshelf speaker features a MDF cabinet with a scratch-resistant, textured wood grain vinyl that seamlessly integrates into almost any room or decor. The enclosure's reinforced MDF construction reduces cabinet vibration for less audible coloration and improved sonic accuracy. The MDF enclosure also features a satin painted baffle with a scratch resistant design for an elegant look without the grille.

Acoustically Transparent Grille: The Klipsch RP-500M bookshelf loudspeaker comes with a removable, black cloth grille that is magnetic and acoustically transparent. This strong magnetic grille provides protection and a sleek aesthetic look to compliment your home's decor.

Binding Posts: The Klipsch Reference Premiere series bookshelf speaker is fitted with sturdy  binding posts to ensure a secure connection to many types of cable and connectors. The binding post terminals will accept banana plugs (single only), pin-connectors, spade-lugs and bare wire (up to 10AWG). Two plastic caps will need to be removed to use banana plugs.

Mounting Options: The Klipsch RP-500M bookshelf loudspeaker can be placed on a speaker stand, bookshelf, table, or other flat surface. It can also be wall-mounted using the integrated keyhole slot.

  • Rubber Feet: The bookshelf loudspeaker comes with self-adhesive rubber feet to secure the speaker in place and prevent any damage to your stand's or shelf's surface. The rubber feet add approximately 0.125" to the overall height of the speaker.
  • Keyhole Slot: The RP-500M features a single keyhole slot on the back of the cabinet for wall-mounting the speaker without any additional wall-mount bracket (mounting screws not supplied).

Application & Placement: The Klipsch RP-500M bookshelf loudspeaker can be used in a dedicated stereo application or in a home theater application as front and/or rear speakers.

  • Front Placement: For optimum performance in a stereo application or as front speakers in a home theater application, Klipsch suggests placing the loudspeakers 6' to 15' apart. They may also be toed-in slightly for better stereo imaging. The listening position should be about 1 to 1.5x the distance separating the speakers.
  • Rear Placement: When used as surround speakers in a home theater setup, the loudspeakers should be placed approximately 2' above the listening position. Typically this will be approximately 5' to 7' above the floor. The surrounds should be placed on the walls directly adjacent to the listening position. Another option would be on the wall behind the listening position.

Reference Premiere Series: The Klipsch Reference Premiere series utilizes a redesigned hybrid 90°x90° Tractrix Horn, a vented LTS titanium tweeter, Cerametallic woofer construction, and Tractrix geometry port technology for sound that will envelope you and blow you away. The Reference Premiere series by Klipsch consists of a variety of floorstanding, bookshelf, center, and surround speakers (all sold separately). Click on the Accessories Tab to find more Reference Premiere series speakers for your home system.

Optional Powered Sub: For bigger & deeper bass response, pair the Klipsch Reference Premiere series loudspeaker with one of Klipsch's powered subwoofers (sold separately - click on Accessories Tab).

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Customer Q&A

9 questions already asked

Q
Do theses have a threaded hole in the bottom of the speaker to attach to speaker stands?
john  Mar 09, 2024
1 answer
A
Hey John, great question. So these do not have a hole on the bottom to thread onto a speaker stand. Most speakers today are designed to sit flat on a speaker stand and allow gravity to hold them in place and typically stands that use a threaded screw are made as a proprietary match for a particular line of speakers. One solution many folks use is to apply something like Blue Tack to the four corners of a stands top plate to give some additional grip for the speaker and stand.
red  Mar 09, 2024 (Staff)
Q
I have Klipsch RP-8000F connected via fiber optic. Can these be connected wirelessly at the same time?
aaron  Feb 18, 2024
1 answer
A
So there are quite a few factors that can come into question when we are talking wireless connectivity with passive speakers, but they all involve some sort of amp to drive them in the end. We have advisors who can be reached by calling 1-800-324-9695 that can help recommend the best course of action for your goals.
red  Feb 18, 2024 (Staff)
Q
How do these compare to the r51-m speakers that I have?
david  Mar 13, 2023
1 answer
A
Greetings David, and thank you for your question. You can actually listen to both next to one another on a tool we have on our site called Speaker Compare. Short answer, is the Premier line from Klipsch uses better materials, reworked crossovers, and have a better low bass production over their Reference line.
hogan  Mar 13, 2023 (Staff)
Q
I have an Onkyo TX-NR686 receiver, rated at 100 W per channel, which exceeds the 75-W power range for these speakers. Would it be inadvisable to run these speakers with my receiver?
david  Apr 11, 2021
5 answers
A
Yes, they will work well. The 100 W rating for your Onkyo is a maximum. Meaning that the Onkyo can support speakers up to 100W, but speakers with a lower rating will work just fine with it, and be safe to do so.
michael  Apr 12, 2021
A
I have a similar setup. I run them as surround speakers. If you want to run them as main speakers then don't turn the volume on super high or you will burn them.
panagiotis  Apr 12, 2021
A
I have this same setup and use these speakers as my front L and R channels in a 5.1 system. They work great but I don't listen to them at loud volumes so I can't comment on how they work when pushed to the limit. For normal listening they work great.
john  Apr 12, 2021
A
It is much better for a speaker to over power vs. under power. You will be fine.
brian  Apr 11, 2021
A
I have a Sony STR DH590 (2018, brand new) that is 145w total. I've been running the Klipsch's with a Yamaha sub for 2 years. I rarely "blast" the sound but i do like to listen at a solid, solid volume. I love them. Given the size, they were a bit lacking in bass - not terribly so, but I did notice it - so i bought the Yahama sub and when I run movies (with a Polk 3-channel center speaker), the room just blooms with sound.
chuck  Apr 11, 2021
Q
Any reason these can't be placed on their side?
oliver  Aug 23, 2020
5 answers
A
None that I can see, as long as your cables are long enough. I use mine like the picture, but you can use them as you see fit.
mattthew p  Aug 23, 2020
A
There is no reason that they can't be placed on their side, great sounding speaker's
william  Aug 23, 2020
A
No, no reason at all they couldn't mount sideways. You might want to use rubber pads on the side however, depending on the surface you use to lay them on.
george  Aug 23, 2020
A
Not that I know of - I have them on their side in a bookshelf and they work nicely.
john  Aug 23, 2020
A
I have 2 speakers on their side. Sounds great.
derek  Aug 23, 2020
Q
Interesting that these have a keyhole for wall mounting AND a rear-firing port which requires that the speaker be placed away from the wall. I really want to use the keyhole and wall mount these to maintain the decor of the room, so what is the absolute minimum distance (inches) they should be placed away from the rear wall to allow them to "breathe"?
jeff  Oct 19, 2019
2 answers
A
I am confident that Klipsch has tested the speakers mounted to the wall using the keyhole. And found that, the space provided is more than adequate to allow the speaker to breath. otherwise, the speaker would most likely have no port... or the suggestion of a mounting bracket would be recommended. mine are used as side surround. Are on 29" speaker stands. 3 inches of the wall. with 2 inch pyramid acoustical tiles behind them ( do to the width of room that is as far as can position them) I'm not saying the sounded will be the same. but I would say that without some form of a calibration microphone. you would be hard pressed to discern wall mounted vs a few inches. sounds test suggestion: cover one speaker port with cardboard and tape. While leaving the other open. I hope this was helpful....
fred  Oct 30, 2019
A
So, these do have a keyhole slot, but it is designed to be use with an additional bracket of sorts. A few inches of space is all that you will need.
thomas  Oct 25, 2019 (Staff)
Q
I have the RP-4000Fs as fronts, RP-500C for center, and the RP-500SA atmos speakers. Would these work well as my surrounds, or should I get the smaller version?
stephen  Jun 27, 2019
4 answers
A
I like the 500m's. It depends on your room size. I wish i would have got the 600m's for a little more output, but these work great for now. I have Rp8000f rp504c rp500m svs prime elevations.
ernest l  Jun 27, 2019
A
The 500m would work well for your surrounds. You could probably live with the 400m''s if you have a good subwoofer, but I would go with the 500m's.
stephen  Jun 27, 2019
A
These would work well, but for surrounds I would just go smaller. You aren't going to be focusing on the low end in your surrounds if you are running a sub.
timothy  Jun 27, 2019
A
Stephen, I'm using the RP-500M's as main L/R and RP-400M's as surround L/R. This configuration works well. Eventually I am going to upgrade to full-range up front and move the 500's to Surrounds. Either one would be a fantastic option.
kenneth  Jun 27, 2019
Q
I assume that the scratch and dent have been tested and preform like new and there is no damage to the speaker's I'm referring the RP-500M. Are you able to actually take a look at them?
william  Nov 03, 2018
1 answer
A
Thanks for your question. Anything we sell from the Scratch n Dent stock will only have a minor cosmetic flaw. The product would be fully tested. The manufacturer's warranty as well as Crutchfield's 60 day satisfaction guarantee would still apply as well. Hope that helps.
kenneth  Nov 09, 2018 (Staff)
Q
How do these sound when placed flush against a wall in bookshelves?
antonio j.  Sep 21, 2019
3 answers
A
These are not recommended to be placed directly against a wall due to the port on the back. Doing so will affect the sound in a negative way.
thomas  Oct 03, 2019 (Staff)
A
These sound great with good bass response and incredible definition of the highs. However , I have them away from the wall and one is in the corner,remember they have a bass reflex port on the back. They are also quite deep(9") and won't fit most bookshelves. Good luck and have fun
jonathan m.  Oct 02, 2019
A
Sorry, I used speaker stands
harry j.  Oct 02, 2019
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