When it comes to high-quality bookshelf speakers, few choices generate as much discussion as the KEF LS50 Meta ($1,440) and the Klipsch RP-600M ($350). Both represent different approaches to speaker design and sound reproduction, but each has earned its place in the hearts of audio enthusiasts. Let's dive into what makes these speakers special and help you decide which might be right for your setup.
Bookshelf speakers form the backbone of many high-end audio systems, offering a sweet spot between size and performance. Despite their name, they actually perform best on dedicated stands, positioned away from walls. These speakers typically handle the crucial midrange and high frequencies where most musical detail lives, making them perfect for both critical listening and home theater use.
The LS50 Meta, released in 2020, represents KEF's most advanced bookshelf speaker to date. Its standout feature is the Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) - think of it as a sophisticated maze that catches and eliminates unwanted sound waves that would normally bounce around inside the speaker cabinet. This technology, along with KEF's signature Uni-Q driver (where the tweeter sits in the center of the woofer), creates an incredibly precise sound stage.
The RP-600M, introduced in 2018, takes a more traditional route but with modern refinements. Its horn-loaded tweeter design (imagine a megaphone shape that helps direct sound) is a Klipsch trademark, making these speakers notably efficient - they can play quite loud with minimal power. The copper-colored woofer isn't just for show; it's made of a ceramic-metallic material that helps prevent distortion during heavy bass passages.
The LS50 Meta produces what many would call a "reference" sound - extremely accurate and detailed. Listening to acoustic music through these speakers is almost like being in the recording studio. The soundstage (how the speakers create a three-dimensional space for the music) is remarkably precise, placing each instrument exactly where it should be.
Their handling of voices is particularly impressive - singers sound natural and present, without any artificial emphasis. However, these speakers demand quality amplification to perform their best, typically needing at least 40-100 watts of clean power per channel.
The Klipsch approach is more about excitement and energy. These speakers have a slightly forward sound that makes rock and pop music really come alive. Their horn-loaded tweeters create an engaging, room-filling sound that's particularly impressive with movies and TV shows. Bass response is surprisingly robust for speakers this size, and they're much easier to drive, working well with even modest amplifiers.
With the KEF LS50 Meta, you'll hear details in familiar recordings that you might have missed before. The precise imaging means you can close your eyes and point to exactly where each instrument is in space. However, they can be somewhat unforgiving with poor recordings, showing every flaw in the source material.
The Klipsch RP-600M trades some of that precision for excitement and impact. They're particularly good with rock, pop, and electronic music, where their dynamic sound can make the music feel more alive. While they might not reveal every subtle detail like the KEFs, many listeners find their presentation more fun and engaging.
Both speakers excel in home theater applications, but in different ways. The LS50 Meta's precision makes dialogue incredibly clear and easy to understand, while their accurate sound helps create a convincing surround sound field. They're particularly good at revealing subtle atmospheric effects in movie soundtracks.
The Klipsch speakers really shine with action movies and dramatic scenes. Their efficient design means they can play loud without strain, and their dynamic sound makes explosions and sound effects more impactful. They're also easier to match with other Klipsch speakers if you're building a complete surround system.
The price difference between these speakers is significant. The KEFs cost about four times as much as the Klipsch, so it's worth considering what you're getting for the money.
The LS50 Meta represents the cutting edge of speaker technology. Their MAT system and advanced driver design deliver objectively better technical performance in terms of distortion and accuracy. However, better measurements don't always translate to more enjoyment for everyone.
The RP-600M offers remarkable performance for their price point. While they might not match the absolute precision of the KEFs, they deliver an engaging, dynamic sound that many listeners prefer, especially for certain types of music and movies.
Choose the KEF LS50 Meta if:
Choose the Klipsch RP-600M if:
Both speakers represent different philosophies in speaker design. The KEF LS50 Meta shows what's possible when cost is secondary to performance, while the Klipsch RP-600M demonstrates how much performance you can achieve at a more accessible price point.
Remember that speaker choice is highly personal, and what sounds best to one person might not appeal to another. If possible, try to listen to both speakers with music you know well before making a decision. Also consider your room size, existing equipment, and long-term plans for your audio system.
Whichever you choose, both speakers represent excellent examples of their respective design philosophies and will provide years of musical enjoyment when properly set up and matched with appropriate equipment.
| KEF LS50 Meta ($1,440) | Klipsch RP-600M ($350) |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power you need | |
| 85dB (requires powerful amp) | 96dB (easy to drive with most amps) |
| Frequency Response - Shows bass depth and treble extension | |
| 79Hz-28kHz (less deep bass, extremely extended highs) | 45Hz-25kHz (impressive bass for size) |
| Driver Technology - Impacts sound accuracy and dispersion | |
| Uni-Q with MAT (cutting-edge, extremely precise) | Horn-loaded tweeter (traditional, dynamic) |
| Power Handling - Indicates maximum safe volume | |
| 40-100W recommended (demanding) | 100W continuous/400W peak (very robust) |
| Size - Affects placement flexibility | |
| 11.8" H x 7.9" W x 11" D (compact) | 15.7" H x 8" W x 11.9" D (larger footprint) |
| Crossover Design - Influences sound integration | |
| 2-way with sophisticated network (seamless) | 2-way with 1500Hz crossover point (energetic) |
| Build Quality - Impacts longevity and resonance | |
| Premium MDF with MAT technology (exceptional) | Standard MDF with quality veneer (very good) |
| Imaging Precision - Affects soundstage accuracy | |
| Exceptional (studio monitor level) | Very good (wider, less precise) |
| Value Proposition - Price vs Performance | |
| Premium price, reference quality sound | Excellent performance for the price |
| Home Theater Use - Consider for multi-channel | |
| Excellent for precision, needs subwoofer | Great dynamics, matches other Klipsch easily |
The Klipsch RP-600M ($350) is generally better for home theater due to its higher sensitivity, dynamic sound, and easier integration with other home theater speakers. However, the KEF LS50 Meta ($1,440) offers superior dialogue clarity and precise sound positioning.
The KEF LS50 Meta's price premium is justified if you prioritize absolute sound accuracy and detail. For most home theater users, the Klipsch RP-600M offers better value and more dynamic performance at a fraction of the cost.
The Klipsch RP-600M is significantly easier to power, with 96dB sensitivity compared to the KEF LS50 Meta's 85dB. This means most AV receivers can drive the Klipsch speakers effectively, while the KEFs may need more powerful amplification.
Both speakers benefit from a subwoofer for home theater use. The Klipsch RP-600M extends to 45Hz while the KEF LS50 Meta only reaches 79Hz, but neither delivers the deep bass needed for movie effects.
The KEF LS50 Meta offers more precise, detailed sound ideal for critical music listening. The Klipsch RP-600M provides a more dynamic, engaging sound that many find more entertaining but less accurate.
Both can work as surrounds, but the Klipsch RP-600M is typically a better choice due to lower cost and easier integration with other speakers in a surround setup.
The KEF LS50 Meta offers superior dialogue clarity due to its Uni-Q driver design. The Klipsch RP-600M is still very good but slightly less precise in vocal reproduction.
The KEF LS50 Meta is more compact and often works better in small rooms. The Klipsch RP-600M can be somewhat overwhelming in very small spaces due to its more forward sound.
Yes, both the KEF LS50 Meta and Klipsch RP-600M perform best on proper speaker stands, despite being called "bookshelf" speakers.
The Klipsch RP-600M excels with action movies due to its dynamic sound and ability to play loud without strain. The KEF LS50 Meta is more refined but lacks the same impact.
The KEF LS50 Meta is easier to mix with other brands due to its neutral sound. The Klipsch RP-600M works best with other Klipsch speakers due to its distinctive sound signature.
Both are well-built, but the KEF LS50 Meta uses more premium materials and newer technology. The Klipsch RP-600M uses proven, traditional designs that have demonstrated long-term reliability.
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: erinsaudiocorner.com - musicdirect.com - headphones.com - forum.audiogon.com - whathifi.com - youtube.com - crutchfield.com - us.kef.com - assets.kef.com - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - stereophile.com - klipsch.com - adorama.com - assets.klipsch.com - bhphotovideo.com
