When it comes to high-end bookshelf speakers, the Klipsch RP-600M II ($359) and KEF LS50 Meta ($1,440) represent two different philosophies in speaker design. Let's dive into what makes each special and help you decide which might be right for your setup.
Bookshelf speakers remain the sweet spot for many audio enthusiasts, offering excellent sound quality while taking up minimal space. They're versatile enough for both music and home theater use, though they often benefit from adding a subwoofer for the lowest frequencies.
Modern bookshelf speakers have come a long way from their predecessors, with advanced materials and innovative technologies pushing the boundaries of what's possible in smaller cabinets. Both these models showcase this progress, albeit through different approaches.
The Klipsch RP-600M II, released in 2022, continues Klipsch's signature horn-loaded design philosophy. The horn (that distinctive trumpet-shaped opening around the tweeter) helps direct sound waves more efficiently toward listeners, which is why these speakers can play louder with less power. The updated version brings improved materials and refined tuning over the original RP-600M.
The KEF LS50 Meta, launched in 2021, represents a significant leap forward in speaker technology. Its standout feature is the Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) - think of it as a sophisticated maze that captures and eliminates unwanted sound waves behind the driver. This results in cleaner, more precise sound reproduction. The Uni-Q driver (where the tweeter sits in the center of the woofer) creates a more coherent sound field, similar to how we hear sounds in nature.
Having spent time with both speakers, I can tell you they present music quite differently:
The RP-600M II delivers an energetic, dynamic presentation that can make rock and electronic music really exciting. The horn-loaded tweeter produces detailed highs that seem to float in space, while the 6.5" woofer provides impressive bass for a bookshelf speaker. In my experience, they excel at making music feel "live" and engaging.
The LS50 Meta takes a more analytical approach. Its presentation is incredibly precise - you can pick out exactly where each instrument is positioned in the recording space. The sound is more neutral and refined, which some listeners might prefer for acoustic music or vocal performances. The MAT technology makes a noticeable difference in reducing distortion, especially during complex musical passages.
The Klipsch speakers tend to work better in larger rooms thanks to their higher sensitivity (94dB, meaning they play louder with less power) and more forward presentation. They're also more forgiving of placement - you can put them fairly close to walls without severely compromising sound quality.
The KEFs prefer medium-sized rooms and benefit from more careful placement. They need a bit more space from walls but reward the effort with holographic imaging (the ability to create a three-dimensional soundstage).
Both speakers excel in home theater applications, but in different ways:
The Klipsch RP-600M II shines in action movies and dynamic content. Their efficiency means they can handle explosive scenes without strain, and their forward presentation helps with dialog clarity. They're also easier to match with other Klipsch speakers if you're building a surround system.
The KEF LS50 Meta offers superior detail retrieval and more precise sound positioning, which can make movie soundtracks more immersive. However, they might need a more powerful amplifier to reach the same volume levels as the Klipsch.
This is where things get interesting. The price difference between these speakers is substantial:
The Klipsch represents exceptional value at $359/pair. They deliver much of what makes high-end speakers special - dynamic contrast, engaging presentation, and solid build quality - at a price that's quite reasonable for serious audio gear.
The KEFs at $1,440/pair sit firmly in premium territory. You're paying for cutting-edge technology, superior build quality, and that last bit of refinement that audiophiles often seek. Whether this is worth the premium depends on your priorities and budget.
The Klipsch speakers are notably easier to drive, working well with modest amplifiers (even budget receivers). Their high sensitivity means they can sound great with as little as 20-30 watts per channel.
The KEFs are more demanding, benefiting from quality amplification of at least 50-60 watts per channel. They really shine when paired with higher-end electronics, which should factor into your budget considerations.
Both speakers represent different approaches to high-end audio. The Klipsch RP-600M II offers tremendous value and an exciting sound that many will love, while the KEF LS50 Meta delivers reference-level accuracy and cutting-edge technology for those willing to invest in ultimate refinement.
In my experience, both can provide years of musical enjoyment - the choice really comes down to your personal preferences, room conditions, and budget. If you're building a system from scratch, remember to factor in amplification costs, as the KEFs will demand more from your electronics.
| Klipsch RP-600M II ($359) | KEF LS50 Meta ($1,440) |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power you need | |
| 94dB (works well with modest amplifiers) | 85dB (requires more powerful amplification) |
| Driver Configuration - Impacts sound coherence and imaging | |
| Traditional separate tweeter/woofer with horn | Uni-Q coaxial driver with MAT technology |
| Frequency Response - Indicates bass capabilities without a subwoofer | |
| 44Hz-25kHz (deeper bass extension) | 79Hz-28kHz (may need subwoofer support) |
| Power Handling - Shows maximum recommended amplifier power | |
| 100W RMS (very efficient, needs less power) | 100W RMS (needs more power to reach same volume) |
| Size - Important for room placement | |
| 15.8" x 8" x 13.1" (larger cabinet) | 11.9" x 7.9" x 11" (more compact) |
| Design Technology - Affects sound quality and character | |
| Horn-loaded tweeter (dynamic, forward sound) | MAT technology (precise, neutral sound) |
| Sweet Spot - How positioning affects listening experience | |
| Wider listening area, more forgiving placement | More precise imaging, needs careful placement |
| Room Size Suitability - Crucial for optimal performance | |
| Medium to large rooms (more dynamic output) | Small to medium rooms (more refined sound) |
The Klipsch RP-600M II ($359) is generally better for home theater due to its higher sensitivity and dynamic range, making it excellent for movie effects and dialogue. The KEF LS50 Meta ($1,440) offers more precise imaging but requires more power to achieve similar volume levels.
Yes, both speakers excel at music and movies. The Klipsch RP-600M II offers more impact and excitement, while the KEF LS50 Meta provides more accurate sound reproduction.
For full home theater performance, yes. The Klipsch extends to 44Hz and KEF to 79Hz, but both benefit from a subwoofer for movie bass effects below these frequencies.
The Klipsch RP-600M II is better suited for larger rooms due to its higher sensitivity (94dB) and more efficient design. The KEF LS50 Meta performs best in small to medium-sized rooms.
The Klipsch works well with as little as 20-30 watts, while the KEF needs at least 50-60 watts for optimal performance. Both can handle up to 100 watts RMS.
Both excel at dialogue, but the Klipsch RP-600M II has a slight advantage due to its horn-loaded tweeter design, which emphasizes vocal frequencies.
The Klipsch is more forgiving with placement and easier to drive with most amplifiers. The KEF LS50 Meta requires more careful placement and amplifier matching.
While both can be used as surrounds, the Klipsch is more commonly used due to its lower price point and easier integration with other speakers.
Both are well-built, but the KEF LS50 Meta features more advanced materials and technology, reflected in its higher price point compared to the Klipsch RP-600M II.
Yes, both speakers perform best on proper stands positioned at ear level, about 2-3 feet from walls for optimal sound.
The Klipsch RP-600M II offers exceptional value at $359/pair, delivering much of the performance of the $1,440 KEF LS50 Meta at a fraction of the cost.
The Klipsch works well with most receivers due to its high sensitivity, while the KEF requires more careful matching with higher-quality amplification for best results.
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 - crutchfield.com - walts.com - audiosciencereview.com - therobinsonbrand.com - youtube.com - klipsch.com - abt.com - qobuz.com - bhphotovideo.com - youtube.com - support.klipsch.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - musicdirect.com - headphones.com - forum.audiogon.com - whathifi.com - youtube.com - crutchfield.com - us.kef.com - assets.kef.com
