Today we're comparing two popular bookshelf speakers - the newer Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 ($347) and the established Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M ($599). Before diving into the details, let's talk about what makes bookshelf speakers special and why they remain a fantastic choice for both music and home theater.
Bookshelf speakers, despite their name, are versatile performers that work well on stands, desks, or yes - actual bookshelves. They offer an excellent balance of performance and space efficiency that often rivals larger tower speakers, especially in small to medium-sized rooms.
The Polk ES20, released in 2022, represents Polk's latest refinement of their Signature series. It features their updated Terylene dome tweeter (the part that produces high frequencies) which extends response up to 40kHz - well beyond human hearing but potentially beneficial for high-resolution audio. The speaker uses a 6.5-inch woofer made of mica-reinforced polypropylene for handling bass and midrange frequencies.
The Klipsch RP-600M, introduced in 2018, takes a different approach with their signature horn-loaded tweeter design. Think of a horn like a megaphone for sound - it helps direct high frequencies more efficiently toward the listener. Klipsch uses a titanium tweeter with their proprietary Tractrix horn design, paired with a copper-colored Cerametallic woofer that's both lightweight and rigid.
Here's where things get interesting. These speakers showcase two distinct approaches to sound reproduction:
The Polk ES20 aims for accuracy and neutrality, which can be both a blessing and a challenge. Without EQ, some users report a slight muddiness in the upper bass and elevated treble. However, with proper EQ adjustment (which means adjusting specific frequencies to taste), these speakers really shine, offering performance that punches well above their price point.
The Klipsch RP-600M takes a more dramatic approach. Its horn-loaded tweeter and efficient design create an immediately engaging sound that's particularly good with rock, pop, and movie soundtracks. The speaker's high sensitivity (96dB vs the Polk's 86dB) means it can play louder with less amplifier power.
Both speakers excel in home theater applications, but in different ways:
This is a crucial difference between these speakers. The Polk ES20's 86dB sensitivity means it needs roughly four times more power than the Klipsch to reach the same volume levels. In practical terms:
The Polk ES20 at $347 represents exceptional value, especially if you're comfortable using EQ. You're getting technology and performance that would have cost significantly more just a few years ago.
The Klipsch RP-600M at $599 might seem expensive in comparison, but its premium build quality, efficiency, and engaging sound make it worth considering if budget allows. It's also worth noting that it often goes on sale for closer to $400.
Choose the Polk ES20 if you:
Choose the Klipsch RP-600M if you:
Room size and acoustics play a crucial role in speaker performance. The Polk ES20's neutral character might work better in well-treated rooms, while the Klipsch's forward presentation can help overcome challenging room acoustics.
For small rooms (under 200 sq ft):
For medium rooms (200-400 sq ft):
For large rooms (400+ sq ft):
Both speakers are part of larger product families, making it easy to expand into a full home theater system later. The Polk ES20 integrates particularly well with Dolby Atmos height speakers, while the Klipsch excels in traditional 5.1/7.1 setups.
After spending considerable time with both speakers, it's clear they serve different audiences while maintaining high performance standards. The Polk ES20 represents the value choice, offering remarkable performance after some tweaking. The Klipsch RP-600M delivers premium performance out of the box with a more exciting presentation.
Remember that speaker preference is highly personal. If possible, try to listen to both before making a decision. Many dealers offer home trials, which is the best way to determine which speaker works best in your space.
The good news is that either choice will provide years of enjoyable listening. The key is matching your choice to your specific needs, preferences, and system capabilities.
| Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 ($347) | Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M ($599) |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power you need | |
| 86dB (needs more power, 50W+ recommended) | 96dB (very efficient, works with 20W+) |
| Frequency Response - Shows how deep the bass goes and overall range | |
| 41Hz - 40kHz (excellent bass extension) | 45Hz - 25kHz (slightly less bass but still impressive) |
| Driver Design - Affects sound character and clarity | |
| 1" Terylene dome tweeter (neutral, detailed) | 1" Titanium horn-loaded tweeter (dynamic, exciting) |
| Power Handling - Shows maximum safe volume capability | |
| 20-125 watts (good for most uses) | 100-400 watts (more headroom for peaks) |
| Size - Important for placement flexibility | |
| 14.8" x 8.5" x 13.8" (slightly larger) | 15.7" x 8" x 11.9" (more compact depth) |
| EQ Requirements - Affects setup complexity | |
| Benefits significantly from EQ adjustment | Sounds great out of the box |
| Build Quality - Impacts longevity and appearance | |
| Good build, vinyl finish | Premium build, multiple finish options |
| Value Proposition - Overall price/performance ratio | |
| Excellent value with EQ | Premium performance at higher price |
| Best Use Case - Helps match to your needs | |
| Neutral listening, budget-conscious buyers | Dynamic listening, home theater focus |
The Klipsch RP-600M ($599) has an edge for home theater due to its higher sensitivity and dynamic sound, making it excellent for movie effects and dialogue. However, the Polk ES20 ($347) still performs well and offers better value if budget is a concern.
The Polk ES20 needs more power (50W+ recommended) due to its 86dB sensitivity. The Klipsch RP-600M is much more efficient at 96dB sensitivity, working well with as little as 20W per channel.
The Polk ES20 has slightly better bass extension reaching down to 41Hz compared to the Klipsch RP-600M's 45Hz. Both will benefit from a subwoofer for home theater use.
Yes, both excel at both. The Polk ES20 offers a more neutral presentation ideal for accurate music listening, while the Klipsch RP-600M provides more dynamic excitement that works especially well for movies.
Both work well in small rooms. The Polk ES20 is slightly larger but offers excellent value, while the Klipsch RP-600M's higher efficiency means it can fill small spaces with less power.
For music, both can perform well without a subwoofer. For home theater use, adding a subwoofer is recommended with either the Polk ES20 or Klipsch RP-600M to handle deep bass effects.
Both are part of established speaker lines, making it easy to expand to a full home theater system. The Polk ES20 has newer technology (2022 release) compared to the Klipsch RP-600M (2018).
Yes, both work well as surrounds, though the Klipsch RP-600M might be overkill for this purpose. The Polk ES20 offers better value for surround duty.
The Klipsch RP-600M's horn-loaded tweeter provides excellent dialogue clarity. The Polk ES20 is also good but may need slight EQ adjustment for optimal dialogue performance.
Both benefit from break-in time, typically 20-30 hours. The Polk ES20 may need EQ adjustment for best performance, while the Klipsch RP-600M sounds good out of the box.
Both handle streaming content well. The Klipsch RP-600M's dynamic sound might make streaming content more exciting, while the Polk ES20 provides a more neutral presentation.
Both excel for gaming. The Klipsch RP-600M offers more immediate impact for action games, while the Polk ES20 provides accurate sound positioning at a lower price point.
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: audiosciencereview.com - polkaudio.com - pcrichard.com - crutchfield.com - forum.audiogon.com - ooberpad.com - safeandsoundhq.com - pcrichard.com - polkaudio.com - polkaudio.com - sweetwater.com - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - stereophile.com - klipsch.com - adorama.com - assets.klipsch.com - bhphotovideo.com
