When it comes to high-quality audio, bookshelf speakers remain a cornerstone of great sound reproduction. Both the Klipsch RP-600M II and original Klipsch RP-600M represent significant investments in your audio journey, each offering compelling features for different types of listeners.
The original RP-600M launched in 2018, quickly becoming a favorite among audiophiles for its dynamic sound and value proposition. In 2022, Klipsch released the RP-600M II, bringing several meaningful improvements to an already successful design. Let's dive into what makes each speaker special and how to choose between them.
Both speakers deliver the engaging, dynamic sound Klipsch is famous for, but there are notable differences. The II version offers a more refined top end thanks to its redesigned horn (that's the distinctive trumpet-shaped piece around the tweeter). This horn is 18% larger than the original, which helps sound spread more evenly throughout your room.
The original RP-600M has a slightly more forward presentation, especially in the upper frequencies. Some listeners love this energetic sound, particularly for rock and pop music. The RP-600M II smooths things out while maintaining detail, making it more versatile across different music genres.
Both models use 6.5-inch woofers (the larger speaker that handles lower frequencies), but the II version gets some meaningful upgrades:
These changes result in tighter, more controlled bass in the II version. While both speakers need a subwoofer for home theater use, the II handles music-only listening with more authority.
The RP-600M II is about an inch deeper than its predecessor, with improved internal bracing. This might seem minor, but cabinet design significantly affects sound quality by reducing unwanted vibrations. Think of it like building a quiet room – better construction means less unwanted noise.
Here's an interesting twist: the original model is actually more sensitive (96dB vs 94.5dB). This means it plays slightly louder with the same amount of power. However, the II's improvements in distortion control and overall refinement more than make up for this small difference in most setups.
Both speakers excel in home theater applications, particularly as front left/right speakers or surrounds. The improved dispersion of the RP-600M II can create a more seamless soundstage, especially important when sounds move across multiple speakers.
For maximum impact, pair either model with:
The $100 premium for the II version brings several meaningful improvements:
Both speakers shine with different types of music:
Original RP-600M:
RP-600M II:
Both models integrate well into home theater systems, but the II's improved dispersion characteristics create a more seamless soundstage. This becomes particularly noticeable during movie scenes with lots of movement across channels.
Both the RP-600M II and RP-600M represent excellent values in their price range. The original remains a compelling choice for those who love its dynamic sound signature or need maximum sensitivity for their amplifier. However, the II's improvements in sound quality, dispersion, and construction make it the better long-term investment for most users.
The decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you're building a system for the long haul and can afford the premium, the II version's refinements make it the better choice. But don't feel like you're settling if you go with the original – it remains an excellent speaker that has earned its reputation for delivering engaging, dynamic sound at a reasonable price point.
| Klipsch RP-600M II | Klipsch RP-600M |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity - Determines how loud speakers play with given amplifier power | |
| 94.5dB (requires slightly more power) | 96dB (more efficient, better with lower-powered amps) |
| Horn Size - Larger horn means smoother sound dispersion | |
| 6.75" square (18% larger, better dispersion) | 5.75" square (original design) |
| Voice Coil - Larger coil means better power handling and control | |
| 70% larger with aluminum shorting rings (worth the upgrade for better bass control) | Standard size (still capable but less refined) |
| Cabinet Depth - Affects bass response and overall sound | |
| 13-1/16" (improved internal bracing) | 11.85" (original design) |
| Price - Value consideration | |
| $649/pair (premium for meaningful upgrades) | $549/pair (excellent value for performance) |
| Frequency Response - Range of sound reproduction | |
| 44-25,000 Hz (slightly deeper bass) | 45-25,000 Hz (virtually identical) |
| Sound Character - Overall listening experience | |
| Smoother, more refined (better for all genres) | More forward, dynamic (excellent for rock/pop) |
| Build Quality - Longevity and performance considerations | |
| Enhanced bracing, premium binding posts (worth it for long-term investment) | Standard construction (still well-built) |
The Klipsch RP-600M II has superior sound dispersion and a smoother response, making it better for home theater use. The improved dispersion creates a more seamless soundstage when used as front L/R speakers or surrounds. However, the RP-600M remains capable and costs $100 less.
Yes, the RP-600M II justifies its $649 price tag with meaningful improvements like better bass control, smoother highs, and improved build quality. However, if budget is tight, the original RP-600M at $549 still offers excellent performance.
Yes, both the RP-600M II and RP-600M should be paired with a subwoofer for home theater use. While both can reach down to about 45Hz, a subwoofer is essential for reproducing deep movie bass.
The original RP-600M is slightly more efficient at 96dB sensitivity compared to 94.5dB for the RP-600M II. This makes the original version marginally easier to drive with lower-powered amplifiers.
Yes, both models work well as surrounds. The RP-600M II has better dispersion characteristics, making it slightly superior for surround duty, but the RP-600M is also excellent in this role.
Both speakers work well in small to medium-sized rooms (up to about 400 square feet). The RP-600M II has slightly better room interaction due to its improved dispersion, while the RP-600M performs similarly in smaller spaces.
Both the RP-600M II and RP-600M have bi-wire capabilities, but it's not necessary for excellent performance. Standard single-wire connection works great for most setups.
The RP-600M II offers more refined sound across all genres, while the RP-600M has a more dynamic, forward presentation that some prefer for rock and pop music.
While mixing brands can work, staying within the same Klipsch line ensures the best timbre matching. The RP-600M II should be paired with other II series speakers, and the RP-600M with original Reference Premiere models.
Both speakers work well with amplifiers rated 50-100 watts per channel. The original RP-600M is slightly more efficient, while the RP-600M II benefits from higher quality amplification.
Yes, both work well as desktop or near-field speakers. The RP-600M II has slightly better close-range performance due to its improved dispersion characteristics compared to the RP-600M.
The RP-600M II has better bass control and slightly deeper extension thanks to its larger voice coil and improved cabinet design, though both speakers need a subwoofer for full-range home theater performance. The original RP-600M still offers good bass for its size.
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 - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - stereophile.com - adorama.com - assets.klipsch.com - bhphotovideo.com
