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Klipsch La Scala II : Review

Posted to Speakers 2009-09-05

The Klipsch La Scala II loudspeakers sit in the number two spot in the Heritage line of loudspeakers from Klipsch, just below the legendary Klipschorn. These high-end speakers feature a 3-way design with the same fully horn-loaded drivers as the Klipschorn. The speakers utilize a 15 inch woofer, 2 inch midrange and 1 inch tweeter compression drivers.

They are capable of extreme output levels with ultra-low distortion and astonishing dynamic range. The speakers feature a frequency response of 51Hz-17Khz, power handling capacity of 100W continuous or 400W peak and a sensitivity of 105db at 1 watt/1 meter. Maximum acoustic output is 121db. Crossover frequencies are at 400Hz and 4500Hz, impedance is 8 ohms and the cabinet is constructed or Birch plywood and MDF.

Rating:

4.6 out of 5

Quality

These loudspeakers feature legendary Klipsch quality throughout. From the all-wood cabinet construction, to the phenolic diaphragm compression drivers, to the fiber-composite cone used on the 15 inch woofer, all materials are high end. The cabinet is available in walnut, cherry or black lacquer real wood finish, and the mid and high frequency drivers are covered by an attractive cloth grill. The horn-loaded drivers and folded-horn design for the woofer are top-of-the-line as well.

Performance

The LaScala II loudspeakers get high marks in the performance category as well. The 400W peak power handling capacity means you're never likely to blow the drivers - in addition the high sensitivity means they can be driven at safe power levels, which further protects the drivers. These speakers deliver crisp, clear highs, lifelike midrange, and room-pounding bass. With the 15 inch woofer, you can use them in applications without a sub-woofer.

Summary

If you're building a high-end stereo or surround system, the LaScala II loudspeakers definitely deserve a look. They're quite a bit cheaper than the top-of-the-line Klipschorn, yet deliver almost the same performance. They make ideal front surround speakers in a truly professional surround system, and as previously mentioned, with their 15 inch woofers you might get by without a sub-woofer. All-in-all an excellent offering from Klipsch.

Pros

15 inch woofer with folded horn design
2 inch midrange and 1 inch tweeter horn-loaded compression drivers
105db at 1watt/1meter sensitivity
100W continuous, 400W peak power handling

Cons

very heavy; needs two people to assemble