Choosing Between Popular Bookshelf Speakers: A Complete Guide

If you're looking to upgrade your home audio setup, you've probably encountered these two popular bookshelf speakers: the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M ($299) and the Polk Audio Reserve R200 ($659). Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your needs and budget.

Understanding Bookshelf Speakers

Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what makes bookshelf speakers special. These compact performers typically stand 12-15 inches tall and are designed to deliver high-quality sound from a relatively small package. They're called "bookshelf" speakers because they were originally marketed to fit on, well, a bookshelf - though today most audiophiles place them on dedicated stands for better performance.

Sound Signatures and Technology

The Klipsch RP-500M and Polk R200 take notably different approaches to sound reproduction.

Klipsch's Dynamic Approach

Released in 2018, the RP-500M features Klipsch's signature horn-loaded tweeter design. This horn (which looks like a square funnel around the tweeter) increases efficiency and helps create that "live performance" sound Klipsch is famous for. The horn design means these speakers can play incredibly loud with very little power - they're 93dB sensitive, which means they need only half the power of the Polk to reach the same volume.

The horn technology has improved significantly over earlier Klipsch models, with better control over the high frequencies. While older Klipsch speakers could sometimes sound harsh or "shouty," these newer ones maintain detail while being much more listenable.

Polk's Refined Evolution

The R200, released in 2021, represents Polk's latest thinking in speaker design. Their ring radiator tweeter (imagine a tiny donut-shaped speaker for high frequencies) provides extremely smooth and detailed highs without the forward presentation of the Klipsch. The specially designed "Turbine" cone woofer (the larger speaker that handles bass and midrange) uses molded ridges to increase stiffness without adding weight - clever engineering that helps deliver cleaner bass.

Real-World Performance

Having spent time with both speakers, here's how they perform in typical situations:

Music Listening

The Polk R200 really shines with acoustic music, jazz, and classical. Its neutral presentation lets you hear exactly what's on the recording without adding its own character. Bass is surprisingly deep for a bookshelf speaker, and the overall sound is refined and natural.

The Klipsch RP-500M brings more excitement to rock, pop, and electronic music. The horn tweeter adds a sense of immediacy and "live" feeling that many listeners love. Bass isn't quite as deep as the Polk, but it's punchy and dynamic.

Home Theater Use

Both speakers work well in home theater setups, but they excel in different ways. The Klipsch's high sensitivity makes them easy to drive, even with modest AV receivers. They excel at movie dialogue and create impressive dynamics for action scenes - explosions and sound effects have real impact.

The Polk R200s require more power but reward you with a more cinematic presentation. Their wider soundstage (the apparent width and depth of the sound) creates an immersive experience that works particularly well in larger rooms.

Value Considerations

At $299, the Klipsch RP-500M represents exceptional value, especially for home theater use. You're getting technology and performance that competed with $1000+ speakers just a few years ago.

The Polk R200 at $659 requires a bigger investment but justifies it with superior build quality, more refined sound, and better bass extension. It's still competitive with speakers costing significantly more.

Making Your Choice

Here's how to decide which speaker is right for you:

Choose the Klipsch RP-500M if:

• You're building a home theater system
• Your amplifier or receiver is modest in power
• You enjoy energetic, dynamic sound
• Value is a primary consideration
• You listen primarily to rock, pop, or electronic music

Choose the Polk R200 if:

• Music listening is your primary focus
• You have a powerful amplifier
• You prefer accurate, neutral sound
• Your room is larger
• Budget allows for the investment in higher-end performance

Setup and Placement Tips

Both speakers benefit from proper setup:

• Place them at ear level when seated
• Position them 6-8 feet apart
• Keep them at least 6 inches from rear walls
• Angle them slightly toward the listening position

The Klipsch, with its horn design, is somewhat more forgiving of placement. The Polk benefits more from careful positioning but rewards the effort with superior imaging (the ability to precisely locate instruments and voices in the soundstage).

Looking Forward

Both companies continue to refine their technologies. Klipsch has already released a "II" version of the RP-500M with subtle improvements to the crossover design (the electronic circuit that splits frequencies between tweeter and woofer). Polk's R200 represents their current thinking, but we'll likely see continued evolution of their driver technologies.

Final Thoughts

These speakers represent two different philosophies in sound reproduction. The Klipsch RP-500M brings excitement and dynamics at a killer price point, while the Polk R200 offers more refined, accurate sound for discerning listeners.

My personal take? If you're building a home theater or want maximum bang for your buck, the Klipsch is hard to beat. For dedicated music listening in a system where you've invested in quality amplification, the Polk's superior refinement and neutrality make it worth the premium.

Choose based on your primary use case, budget, and personal preferences - either way, you'll end up with speakers that represent excellent performance for their price points.

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M Bookshelf Speakers - Pair Deals and Prices

Polk Audio Reserve R200 Bookshelf Speakers - Pair Deals and Prices