When it comes to bookshelf speakers, choosing between premium and value options isn't always straightforward. Today we're comparing the upscale Revel Concerta2 M16 (MSRP $900) with the more budget-friendly Klipsch Reference R-51M (MSRP $220). Despite their price difference, both aim to deliver engaging sound in a compact form factor.
Bookshelf speakers serve as the foundation of many high-quality audio systems. Unlike tower speakers, their compact size allows flexible placement while still delivering impressive sound. The key is understanding what matters most for your specific needs.
Modern bookshelf speakers have benefited from significant advances in materials science and computer-aided design. Both the Revel M16 and Klipsch R-51M incorporate technologies that would have been impossible just a decade ago, from advanced waveguides to precisely-tuned ports that enhance bass response.
Room acoustics play a huge role in speaker performance. Both models are rear-ported, meaning they use a tuned opening in the back to enhance bass response. This design choice requires some space behind the speakers - typically 6-12 inches minimum. The Revel's more sophisticated port design handles close-to-wall placement better, but both speakers benefit from some breathing room.
The Klipsch's higher sensitivity (93dB vs 86dB) means it needs less power to play loud. This makes the R-51M an excellent choice for modest amplifiers. The Revel M16 demands more power but rewards it with greater refinement and detail.
The Revel M16 showcases its premium heritage through exceptional neutrality and accuracy. Its advanced waveguide helps create a wider, more consistent listening area - you don't have to sit in the exact sweet spot to get good sound. The aluminum dome tweeter delivers airy, extended highs without harshness, while the carefully designed crossover ensures seamless integration between drivers.
Klipsch takes a different approach with their signature horn-loaded tweeter design. This provides excellent efficiency and can make the R-51M sound more dynamic and "alive," especially with rock and pop music. However, this comes with a brighter tonal balance that some listeners might find aggressive on certain recordings.
The Revel's 6.5" woofer provides deeper bass extension than the Klipsch's 5.25" driver. In practice, this means the M16 can reach down to about 45Hz with usable output, while the R-51M starts rolling off around 62Hz. This difference matters less if you're using a subwoofer, which is recommended for both speakers in a home theater setup.
Revel's parent company, Harman, operates some of the most sophisticated speaker testing facilities in the world. This shows in the M16's measured performance - its off-axis response (how it sounds when you're not sitting directly in front) is exceptionally smooth. The crossover (which splits the audio signal between tweeter and woofer) uses higher-grade components and more complex filtering to achieve better driver integration.
Klipsch's horn technology, refined over 75 years, provides excellent directivity control in the treble region. This can help reduce room reflections, potentially creating a more focused soundstage. The tradeoff is a smaller optimal listening area compared to the Revel.
Both speakers excel in different home theater scenarios. The Revel M16's neutral character makes it easier to match with other brands if you're building a system piece by piece. Its superior off-axis performance helps create a more convincing surround sound field.
The Klipsch R-51M's high sensitivity and dynamic capability make it shine with action movies and high-impact content. It can play quite loud with modest amplification, which is particularly valuable in larger rooms or when using lower-powered AV receivers.
The Revel Concerta2 M16 makes the most sense for:
The Klipsch Reference R-51M is ideal for:
Consider your primary use case first. If you're building a serious music system and budget allows, the Revel M16's superior technical performance and neutrality make it the better choice. Its ability to disappear into the music while delivering exceptional detail and imaging justifies the premium price for discerning listeners.
However, if you're working with a tighter budget or prefer a more exciting sound signature, the Klipsch R-51M offers tremendous value. Its efficient design and dynamic character make it especially suited to rock, pop, and home theater use. The money saved could go toward a quality subwoofer, creating a more complete system.
Final system matching considerations:
Both speakers represent different but valid approaches to high-quality sound reproduction. The Revel emphasizes accuracy and refinement, while the Klipsch delivers excitement and value. Your choice should align with your specific needs, preferences, and budget constraints.
Remember that speaker preference is somewhat subjective. If possible, listening to both models in your space with your music would be ideal. The Revel M16 and Klipsch R-51M both have their merits - the key is choosing the one that best matches your priorities and system context.
| Revel Concerta2 M16 | Klipsch Reference R-51M |
|---|---|
| Price - Base comparison point for value assessment | |
| $900 MSRP (often available ~$500) | $220 MSRP |
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power is needed | |
| 86 dB @ 2.83V/1m (needs more power) | 93 dB @ 2.83V/1m (very efficient) |
| Woofer Size - Impacts bass capability and overall output | |
| 6.5" aluminum cone (better bass extension) | 5.25" copper-spun IMG (adequate for size) |
| Frequency Response - Indicates bass depth and overall range | |
| 45 Hz - 20 kHz (-10 dB) | 62 Hz - 21 kHz (±3 dB) |
| Power Handling - Maximum recommended amplifier power | |
| 50-120W recommended | 85W continuous/340W peak |
| Impedance - Affects amplifier compatibility | |
| 6 ohms (moderately easy to drive) | 8 ohms (easy to drive) |
| Tweeter Design - Influences high frequency performance | |
| 1" aluminum dome with acoustic lens waveguide | 1" aluminum LTS with Tractrix horn |
| Cabinet Size - Affects placement flexibility | |
| 14.75" x 8.6" x 10.76" (larger) | 13.3" x 7" x 8.5" (more compact) |
| Weight - Indicates build quality and materials | |
| 16 lbs each (substantial) | 11 lbs each (lightweight) |
| Special Features - Unique technical advantages | |
| Advanced waveguide, premium crossover, superior off-axis response | Horn technology, high sensitivity, magnetic grille |
| Warranty - Manufacturer confidence indicator | |
| 5 years | 5 years |
| Best Use Case - Primary application strengths | |
| Critical listening, acoustic music, larger rooms | Rock/pop, modest amplification, smaller rooms |
The Revel Concerta2 M16 offers superior sound quality and accuracy, while the Klipsch R-51M provides excellent value. The Revel is better for critical listening, while the Klipsch excels at rock and pop music. Choose based on your budget and listening preferences.
The Revel M16 has an MSRP of $900 (often available around $500), while the Klipsch R-51M typically sells for $220. The price difference reflects the Revel's more advanced technology and superior components.
The Klipsch R-51M is generally better suited for small rooms due to its more compact size and higher sensitivity. The Revel M16 may be overqualified for very small spaces, though it performs well in any room size.
The Klipsch R-51M is very efficient (93dB sensitivity) and works well with modest amplifiers. The Revel M16 (86dB sensitivity) benefits from higher quality amplification to reach its full potential.
The Revel M16 has better bass extension, reaching down to 45Hz compared to the Klipsch R-51M's 62Hz limit. However, both speakers benefit from a subwoofer for full-range sound.
Both speakers work well in home theater systems. The Revel M16 offers better off-axis performance for surround sound, while the Klipsch R-51M provides excellent dynamics for movie effects.
Both speakers are well-built, but the Revel M16 features higher-grade components and more substantial construction at 16 lbs vs the Klipsch R-51M's 11 lbs. Both come with 5-year warranties.
The Klipsch R-51M plays louder with less power due to its higher sensitivity. The Revel M16 can achieve similar volumes but requires more amplifier power to do so.
The Revel M16 is superior for classical music due to its more neutral tonal balance and better detail retrieval. The Klipsch R-51M can sound bright with classical recordings.
Yes, both the Revel M16 and Klipsch R-51M perform best on proper speaker stands, though they can be placed on solid furniture if necessary. Proper positioning is important for optimal sound.
The Revel M16 typically maintains better resale value due to its premium brand status and higher initial cost. The Klipsch R-51M represents excellent value but has lower resale potential.
The Revel M16 is easier to mix with other brands due to its neutral sound signature. The Klipsch R-51M has a distinctive sound that works best with other Klipsch speakers in multi-speaker setups.
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 - cnet.com - youtube.com - community.klipsch.com - klipsch.com - catchgroove.com - techx.com.my - audiovideoplus.ca - target.com - crutchfield.com - voitektv.com - d2um2qdswy1tb0.cloudfront.net
