Comparing Klipsch's Popular Bookshelf Speakers: RP-500M II vs Original RP-500M

When Klipsch introduced the Reference Premiere RP-500M in 2018, it quickly became a favorite among audio enthusiasts looking for high-quality bookshelf speakers. In 2022, they launched the RP-500M II, promising several improvements to an already successful design. Let's explore what these changes mean for your listening experience and whether the price difference is worth it.

Understanding Bookshelf Speakers

Before diving into comparisons, let's understand what makes bookshelf speakers special. Despite their name, these compact speakers aren't meant to sit on your bookshelf - they perform best on dedicated stands that place them at ear level. They're designed to deliver high-fidelity sound in small to medium-sized rooms without dominating your space like floor-standing speakers would.

The magic of good bookshelf speakers lies in their ability to create an immersive "soundstage" - imagine a three-dimensional space where instruments and vocals appear to come from specific locations between and around the speakers. Both RP-500M models excel at this, but with some notable differences.

Sound Quality Improvements

The RP-500M II ($419) brings several meaningful improvements over its predecessor RP-500M ($299). The most noticeable enhancement is in the midrange frequencies - where most vocals and instruments live. The II version delivers clearer, more detailed reproduction of voices and acoustic instruments.

What Changed?

• New Voice Coils: The II version uses voice coils (the part that moves the speaker cone) that are 70% larger. This improvement means better control over the speaker cone's movement, resulting in more accurate sound reproduction.
• Cabinet Design: The newer model has a deeper cabinet, which helps produce fuller bass notes. Think of it like having a larger resonance chamber for a musical instrument.
• Horn Design: The signature Klipsch horn (the trumpet-like structure around the tweeter) has been refined for better high-frequency dispersion, meaning the sweet spot for listening is larger.

Real-World Performance

In practical terms, these improvements translate to:

Music Listening

The RP-500M II offers a more refined experience, with better separation between instruments and more natural-sounding vocals. Bass notes have more weight and definition, though neither model will shake your walls without a subwoofer - they're bookshelf speakers after all.

Home Theater Use

Both models work excellently as front speakers in a home theater setup. The II version's improved midrange clarity makes movie dialogue more intelligible, while its better bass response helps with sound effects. However, for a complete home theater experience, you'll want to pair either model with a subwoofer for those deep movie explosions.

Value Proposition

Here's where things get interesting. At $299, the original RP-500M represents excellent value for money. It still offers the core Klipsch sound signature - dynamic, detailed, and engaging. The RP-500M II at $419 brings noticeable improvements, but whether these are worth the extra $120 depends on your priorities.

Technology Evolution

Since the original model's release, speaker technology has evolved in subtle but important ways:

• Better materials for driver construction
• More sophisticated crossover designs (the electronics that split sound between woofer and tweeter)
• Improved cabinet bracing techniques

The II version incorporates these advances, resulting in a more technically accomplished speaker.

Setup and Placement

Both models share similar setup requirements:

• Work best with 6-8 feet between speakers
• Benefit from being placed 1-2 feet from walls
• Should be angled slightly toward the listening position

The II version is slightly more forgiving with placement thanks to its improved horn design, but both models reward careful setup with excellent sound quality.

How to Decide

Choose the RP-500M II if:

• You're primarily focused on sound quality
• Your budget allows for the premium
• You listen critically to music
• You want the latest technology
• You plan to keep these speakers long-term

Choose the original RP-500M if:

• You're working with a tighter budget
• You want great sound without the latest refinements
• You're building a home theater on a budget
• You prefer maximum value for money

Personal Experience and Recommendations

Having spent time with both models, I find the II version's improvements genuine and meaningful, particularly in how it handles complex musical passages and vocal reproduction. However, the original model remains impressive, especially considering its lower price point.

For home theater use, both models excel, but if you're building a complete system, the money saved with the original model could go toward a better subwoofer or center channel - crucial components for movie watching.

Final Thoughts

The Klipsch RP-500M II represents a meaningful evolution of an already excellent speaker. Its improvements in midrange clarity, bass response, and overall refinement make it a worthy upgrade for those seeking the best possible sound quality in this price range. However, the original RP-500M remains a compelling choice, offering much of what makes Klipsch speakers special at a more accessible price point.

Remember, both models will benefit from quality amplification and proper setup. The best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and how critical your listening habits are. Either way, you'll be getting speakers that carry the Klipsch heritage of dynamic, engaging sound that can bring your music and movies to life.

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