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Klipsch RB-81: Review

Posted to Speakers 2009-09-01

Bulky and a bit expensive sure, but the Klipsch RB-81 is the top of range in the Klipsch reference series and there is some serious sound performance available in the right home theater environment. Available in either a cherry or black wood vinyl finish, this high-end performer really shows what can be achieved when quality manufacturing and quality parts come together.

The proprietary Tractix horn that has been used for a number of years in the Reference series of speakers continues to impress when sound crispness and quality are measured on the RB-81. Klipsch claims the technology has been improved further via the redirection of sound through the 'throat like' design. The change in design means that sound arrives via a more lifelike system, improving overall performance. An 8 inches cerametallic subwoofer is included which allows the speaker to have increased damping characteristics, for better focused sound with less after ringing.

Rating:

4.2 out of 5

Quality

Quality is assured in this high end loudspeaker and the parts that are used signify the effort Klipsch has gone to ensure the very best equipment is packed into the RB-81. With the use of an aluminum cap on the subwoofer mixed with a ceramic coating, the woofer becomes more stiff, allowing for a better piston-like action in sound production. High quality wiring is used within the internal workings of the speaker ensuring long lasting performance, while the speaker covers are magnetically attached to further signal thoughtful, quality design.

Features

At 19 inches tall, 9.25 inches wide and 12.25 inches deep, the RB-81 is ideally situated to be the stand mounted loudspeaker that is needed in a high end home theater. It features pre-drilled bottom mounts for easy attachment to a stand and weighs a rather heavy , 30lbs. Featuring the Cerametallic subwoofer cone, the RB-81 has a titanium diaphragm compression driver attached to the Tractix horn tweeter for superior sound above and beyond the competition.

Summary

Reference series speakers are a top of the line Klipsch product, so quality is expected. These loudspeakers are not for the budget conscious, but you may have cause to consider them if you are after long lasting quality for your home theater. Crisp sound quality, great performance across low, mid and high sound ranges means that there is real value in adding in a pair of these to your setup. Depending on your intentions, there may be better value for money in previous Klipsch series.

Pros

Top of the line reference speaker
High Performance and Efficiency
Quality parts
Lifelike Sound

Cons

Not for budget conscious