When it comes to high-end audio, few decisions are as personal as selecting the right pair of speakers. Today, we're comparing two exceptional options: the Revel Concerta2 M16 and the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M, both representing different approaches to premium sound reproduction.
Bookshelf speakers remain the sweet spot for many audio enthusiasts, offering an ideal balance between performance and practicality. Unlike tower speakers, they're easier to position and generally more affordable, while still capable of delivering remarkable sound quality. The key is understanding what matters most for your specific needs.
Modern bookshelf speakers have evolved significantly, incorporating advanced materials and design techniques that were once reserved for much more expensive models. Both the M16 and RP-600M showcase this evolution, though they take distinctly different approaches to achieve their goals.
The Revel M16 represents the scientific approach to speaker design. Its aluminum dome tweeter (the small speaker that handles high frequencies) works with a carefully engineered acoustic lens waveguide – think of it as a specially shaped horn that helps control how sound spreads into your room. The 6.5-inch aluminum woofer (for mid and low frequencies) is designed for minimal distortion, prioritizing accuracy over dramatic presentation.
In contrast, the Klipsch RP-600M embraces the company's traditional horn-loaded design philosophy. Its distinctive Tractrix horn (a mathematically derived shape that efficiently directs sound) houses a titanium tweeter, while the copper-colored Cerametallic woofer provides visual and sonic impact. This design naturally achieves higher efficiency, meaning it can play louder with less amplifier power.
Both speakers excel at revealing musical details, but they present them differently. The M16 offers a more neutral, studio-monitor-like presentation. You'll hear exactly what's in the recording, with minimal coloration – imagine looking through perfectly clean glass versus one with a slight tint. The RP-600M adds a touch more excitement to the presentation, particularly in the upper frequencies, which can make certain instruments really shine.
Despite their modest size, both speakers handle bass impressively. The Revel extends down to 55Hz (-3dB), while the Klipsch reaches slightly lower to 45Hz. However, numbers don't tell the whole story. The M16's bass is tighter and more controlled, perfect for acoustic bass and orchestral music. The RP-600M offers more impact and punch, making it particularly enjoyable for rock music and movie explosions.
Here's where things get interesting. The M16 creates a precise, focused soundstage – you can easily point to where each instrument is positioned between the speakers. The RP-600M, thanks to its horn design, creates a larger, more room-filling sound that some listeners find more engaging, especially for movies and larger spaces.
This is perhaps the biggest practical difference between these speakers. The Revel's 86dB sensitivity means it needs more power to reach the same volume as the Klipsch, which boasts 96dB sensitivity. In practical terms, the RP-600M will play significantly louder with a 50-watt amplifier than the M16 will.
Room size and acoustics play a crucial role in speaker performance. The Klipsch's higher sensitivity and more forward presentation make it an excellent choice for larger rooms or spaces with lots of soft furnishings that might absorb sound. The Revel's more precise presentation might be better suited to smaller, well-treated rooms where critical listening is the priority.
While both speakers excel in stereo music reproduction, they offer different benefits in home theater applications. The RP-600M is particularly well-suited for home theater use, thanks to its high sensitivity and dynamic capabilities. It can handle movie soundtracks' explosive dynamics without strain, and its horn-loaded design helps with dialogue clarity.
The M16, while still capable in home theater applications, really shines in pure music reproduction. Its neutral presentation means it won't add artificial excitement to soundtracks, but it might not deliver quite the same impact during action scenes.
At their respective price points – Revel M16 at $693 (sometimes available for around $300) and Klipsch RP-600M at $331 – both speakers offer exceptional value. The choice often comes down to personal preferences and intended use rather than absolute performance metrics.
Consider these key factors when making your choice:
Both speakers represent different philosophies in high-end audio reproduction, and both execute their design goals exceptionally well. The Revel M16 offers studio-monitor accuracy and precision, while the Klipsch RP-600M delivers excitement and dynamics. Your choice should ultimately align with your listening preferences, room characteristics, and existing equipment.
| Revel Concerta2 M16 | Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M |
|---|---|
| Price - Current market positioning | |
| $693/pair (sometimes $300 on sale) | $331/pair |
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power you need | |
| 86dB - Needs more powerful amp | 96dB - Easy to drive with modest amps |
| Frequency Response - Indicates bass depth and overall range | |
| 55Hz-20kHz (±3dB) - Tighter, more controlled | 45Hz-25kHz (±3dB) - Deeper bass extension |
| Power Handling - Maximum recommended amplifier power | |
| 50-120W - More flexible with powerful amps | 100W continuous/400W peak - Better with moderate power |
| Drivers - Key components that create the sound | |
| 1" aluminum dome tweeter, 6.5" aluminum woofer | 1" titanium tweeter, 6.5" Cerametallic woofer |
| Design Philosophy - Affects sound character | |
| Acoustic Lens waveguide, neutral/accurate presentation | Tractrix horn design, more dynamic/exciting presentation |
| Impedance - Affects amplifier compatibility | |
| 6 ohms - More demanding on amplifiers | 8 ohms - Easier load for amplifiers |
| Size (H x W x D) - Consider your space | |
| 14.75" x 8.6" x 10.76" - Compact | 15.69" x 7.95" x 11.85" - Slightly taller |
| Weight - Important for mounting considerations | |
| 16 lbs each - Solid build | 16 lbs each - Equally substantial |
| Best Use Case - Primary application | |
| Critical listening, accuracy-focused music playback | Dynamic music, home theater, larger rooms |
| Special Features - Notable technology inclusions | |
| Computer-optimized driver positioning, constant pressure gradient port | Bi-wire capable, magnetic grilles, rear Tractrix port |
The Klipsch RP-600M is generally better for home theater due to its higher sensitivity, more dynamic sound, and better handling of movie soundtracks. While the Revel M16 performs well, the Klipsch's horn design excels at dialogue clarity and impact during action scenes.
The Klipsch RP-600M is much easier to power, with 96dB sensitivity compared to the M16's 86dB. This means the Klipsch needs significantly less amplifier power to reach the same volume levels.
The Revel M16 is generally preferred for pure music listening, especially for acoustic, jazz, and classical, due to its neutral and accurate sound. The Klipsch RP-600M offers a more exciting presentation that some prefer for rock and pop music.
The Klipsch RP-600M is typically priced at $331/pair, while the Revel M16 lists at $693/pair but can sometimes be found for around $300 on sale.
The Klipsch RP-600M extends slightly lower to 45Hz compared to the Revel M16's 55Hz. However, the Revel offers tighter, more controlled bass, while the Klipsch provides more impact.
The Klipsch RP-600M performs better in larger rooms due to its higher sensitivity and more room-filling sound. The M16 is better suited to small to medium-sized rooms.
The Klipsch RP-600M works well with modest amplifiers due to its high sensitivity. The Revel M16 benefits from more powerful amplification to perform its best.
The Revel M16 offers more accurate, studio-monitor-like sound reproduction, while the Klipsch RP-600M provides a more colored, exciting presentation.
Both the Revel M16 and Klipsch RP-600M can be wall-mounted, though they perform best on stands away from walls due to their rear-firing ports.
Both the Revel M16 and Klipsch RP-600M are well-built speakers with similar weight (16 lbs each) and high-quality materials. Both should last many years with proper care.
At regular pricing, the Klipsch RP-600M at $331/pair offers excellent value. However, if you can find the Revel M16 on sale for around $300, it represents exceptional value for its level of performance.
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: audioholics.com - upscaleaudio.com - crutchfield.com - audiosciencereview.com - musicdirect.com - audiolab.com - crutchfield.com - crutchfield.com - avstore.in - speakerdata2034.blogspot.com - spacehifi.com.au - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - stereophile.com - klipsch.com - adorama.com - assets.klipsch.com - bhphotovideo.com
