Bookshelf speakers, despite their modest size, remain one of the most versatile ways to bring high-quality sound into your home. Whether you're building a stereo system for music or expanding a home theater setup, these compact performers can deliver impressive results when chosen correctly.
Today we're comparing two popular options: the JBL Stage 2 240B at $240 and the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M at $350. Both are relatively new releases, with the JBL launching in late 2022 as part of their refreshed Stage 2 line, and the Klipsch representing their latest Reference Premiere series update from 2021.
The physical size difference between these speakers is immediately apparent. The JBL 240B uses a 4.5-inch woofer (the main speaker that handles bass and midrange frequencies) in a compact cabinet, while the Klipsch RP-600M sports a larger 6.5-inch woofer. This size difference affects everything from bass response to how much space they'll need in your room.
The JBL's smaller size makes it perfect for desktop setups or small rooms, but it also means it needs a subwoofer for full-range sound more than the Klipsch does. The Klipsch can deliver more bass on its own, making it more suitable as a standalone stereo pair.
One of the biggest technical differences is speaker efficiency - how much sound they produce from a given amount of power. The JBL has an 85dB sensitivity rating, while the Klipsch boasts 96dB. What does this mean in practice? The Klipsch will play much louder with the same amount of amplifier power, or put another way, it needs less power to reach the same volume.
If you have a lower-powered amplifier (say 50 watts per channel), the Klipsch will be easier to drive to satisfying volumes. The JBL might need more powerful amplification to really shine.
These speakers take different approaches to sound reproduction. The JBL uses a conventional dome tweeter (for high frequencies) with their latest waveguide technology to control sound dispersion. The Klipsch employs their signature horn-loaded tweeter design, which helps achieve that high efficiency but also contributes to their distinctive sound.
The JBL tends toward a more neutral, balanced presentation - what you might call "studio accurate." The Klipsch has a more dynamic, exciting character that many find engaging, especially for movies and rock music. Neither approach is inherently better; it's about matching your preferences.
The JBL 240B really shines in near-field listening (when you're sitting relatively close to the speakers). Its imaging - the ability to create a precise sonic "picture" of where instruments and sounds are coming from - is excellent. The neutral tone works well across many music genres, and speech clarity for movies is very good.
Bass response is impressive for the size, but physics are physics - you'll want a subwoofer for home theater use or if you enjoy bass-heavy music. The good news is that these speakers blend very well with subwoofers thanks to their clean midrange response.
The Klipsch RP-600M is simply more speaker in every way. The larger woofer and cabinet provide deeper bass extension and higher maximum volume capabilities. The horn-loaded tweeter design gives them an engaging, dynamic sound that really brings movie soundtracks to life.
These speakers can fill larger rooms with sound more easily than the JBLs, and they're less dependent on subwoofer support (though for home theater, you'll still want one). The build quality is notably premium, with better binding posts and a more substantial feel overall.
Both speakers can work well in home theater applications, but they have different strengths:
The JBL's neutral character makes it easier to match with other brands if you're mixing speakers in a surround setup. Their compact size also makes them easier to place as surround speakers.
The Klipsch's efficiency makes them excellent home theater speakers, especially if your receiver isn't particularly powerful. Their dynamic sound really sells explosive movie moments, and their higher volume capability ensures you won't miss any of the excitement.
At $240, the JBL represents excellent value for those starting their audio journey or building a system on a budget. They're particularly good value if you:
At $350, the Klipsch costs more but offers:
Choose the JBL Stage 2 240B if:
Choose the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M if:
Both speakers represent solid choices in their respective price brackets. The JBL offers remarkable performance for the money, while the Klipsch justifies its higher price with superior build quality and more capable performance.
Remember that speaker choice is quite personal - if possible, try to listen to both before deciding. Your own ears and preferences should be the final judge.
| JBL Stage 2 240B - $240 | Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M - $350 |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power you need | |
| 85dB (needs more power) | 96dB (very efficient, works with lower power amps) |
| Woofer Size - Impacts bass response and room-filling capability | |
| 4.5" (suitable for small rooms) | 6.5" (better bass, works in larger rooms) |
| Power Handling - Indicates maximum safe volume levels | |
| 20-125W (moderate output) | 100-400W (higher maximum volume) |
| Frequency Response - Shows bass extension without subwoofer | |
| 53Hz-25kHz (will need subwoofer) | 45Hz-25kHz (fuller standalone bass) |
| Size (HxWxD) - Consider your space limitations | |
| 10.7" x 6.9" x 8.5" (very compact) | 15.7" x 8" x 11.9" (needs more space) |
| Weight - Indicates build quality and cabinet rigidity | |
| 10.1 lbs per pair (lighter build) | 32 lbs per pair (premium construction) |
| Sound Character - Choose based on listening preferences | |
| Neutral, accurate (good for all genres) | Dynamic, engaging (excellent for movies/rock) |
| Bi-wiring Capability - Allows advanced setup options | |
| No (simpler connection) | Yes (flexible upgrade path) |
The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M is generally better for home theater due to its higher sensitivity (96dB) and dynamic sound signature that excels with movie soundtracks. However, the JBL Stage 2 240B works well in smaller rooms and can be a more budget-friendly choice when paired with a subwoofer.
The Klipsch RP-600M is significantly more efficient with its 96dB sensitivity rating, meaning it plays louder with less power. The JBL 240B requires more amplifier power to achieve similar volume levels due to its 85dB sensitivity.
For home theater use, you'll want a subwoofer with either speaker. The Klipsch RP-600M has better standalone bass extension down to 45Hz, while the JBL 240B reaches 53Hz. Both benefit from subwoofer integration for full-range movie sound.
The JBL Stage 2 240B is ideal for small rooms due to its compact size (10.7" tall) and 4.5" woofer. The Klipsch RP-600M at 15.7" tall may be too large for very small spaces.
The Klipsch RP-600M costs $350 versus $240 for the JBL 240B. The extra $110 gets you better build quality, more powerful bass, and higher efficiency. It's worth it if you have a larger room or prioritize dynamic sound.
Both excel at music but in different ways. The JBL 240B offers more neutral, accurate sound that's great for all genres. The Klipsch RP-600M provides more dynamic, engaging performance that's especially good for rock and live recordings.
The JBL Stage 2 240B includes wall-mounting brackets and is lighter, making it easier to mount. The Klipsch RP-600M is primarily designed for shelf or stand placement due to its size and weight.
The Klipsch RP-600M features superior build quality with better binding posts and a more substantial cabinet. The JBL 240B is well-built for its price point but uses more basic materials.
The JBL 240B is easier to integrate into mixed-brand surround systems due to its neutral sound signature and compact size. The Klipsch RP-600M works best in an all-Klipsch system due to its distinctive sound character.
Both speakers handle dialogue well, but the Klipsch RP-600M has an edge due to its horn-loaded tweeter design that emphasizes vocal clarity. The JBL 240B still provides clear dialogue but in a more neutral presentation.
The JBL 240B works best with amplifiers rated 20-125 watts per channel. The Klipsch RP-600M is more flexible due to its high efficiency and can perform well with both low and high-powered amplifiers.
The Klipsch RP-600M is built with more premium materials and likely to have a longer lifespan. However, both speakers come from reputable manufacturers and should last many years with proper care. The JBL 240B remains a durable choice in its price range.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - jbl.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - crutchfield.com - mm.jbl.com - audioadvice.com - crutchfield.com - nfm.com - jbl.com - kh.jbl.com - av-connection.com - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - stereophile.com - klipsch.com - adorama.com - assets.klipsch.com - bhphotovideo.com
