Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers Review: The Ultimate Hi-Fi Soundbar Killer?

In the rapidly evolving landscape of home audio, we often face a frustrating trade-off: convenience versus quality. We love the ease of a simple soundbar setup, but we yearn for the expansive, dynamic performance delivered by dedicated stereo components. For years, integrating passive bookshelf speakers meant wrestling with bulky receivers, messy wiring, and complicated digital-to-analog converter (DAC) setups just to hook up a turntable or a television.

The core problem for many enthusiasts today is the “lifestyle gap.” They want true high-fidelity (True Hi-Fi) audio—the detailed separation and immersive soundstage that only discrete left and right channels can provide—without sacrificing the minimalist aesthetic of a modern living space. Failing to bridge this gap means settling for compressed, thin, or muddy sound, especially when streaming high-resolution audio files or watching cinematic content. This compromise diminishes the experience, turning music and movies into background noise rather than engaging art. The market desperately needed a solution that was powerful, versatile, aesthetically pleasing, and, critically, fully integrated. That is precisely where the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers step in, promising to deliver audiophile-grade performance in a plug-and-play package.

Decoding the Powered Speaker Market: What to Consider Before Buying Bookshelf Speakers

A Bookshelf Speakers system is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for bridging the gap between convenience and acoustic performance in modern homes. They eliminate the need for an external amplifier or receiver, consolidating components into a single, elegant system. This simplifies setup, reduces clutter, and ensures the amplifier is perfectly matched to the drivers, maximizing efficiency and fidelity. The main benefit is achieving genuine stereo separation—a depth and width of soundstage that standard single-unit soundbars simply cannot replicate, resulting in a more realistic and engaging listening experience.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing spatial constraints (apartment dwellers, desktop users) but who refuses to compromise on sound quality. This customer often owns modern components like a Smart TV (requiring HDMI-ARC) and traditional gear like a turntable (requiring a phono preamp). It is also perfect for those upgrading from a 5.1 system or a high-end soundbar who seek musicality and clarity over raw surround sound effects. Conversely, a powered bookshelf system might not be suitable for those who prioritize multi-room functionality above all else or those seeking full-scale, dedicated home theater setups requiring complex decoding. Those users might still need a traditional receiver. However, for a 2.0 or 2.1 Hi-Fi setup in a small to medium room, a high-quality powered option like the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers is hard to beat.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: It is vital to measure your space. While these are “bookshelf” speakers, high-performance models require adequate room to breathe, especially if they are rear-ported. The Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers stand 30.5 cm (12 inches) high and weigh 22.5 pounds per pair, making them substantial units. Ensure your tabletop or stand can accommodate their size and weight, and remember that speaker placement significantly affects imaging and bass response.
• Capacity/Performance: The key metric here is power output and frequency response. The Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers deliver a substantial 160 Watts total output, providing ample headroom for dynamic peaks without distortion. Look closely at the driver configuration: the 4.5-inch long-throw woofers and 1-inch titanium horn-loaded tweeters are Klipsch’s signature move, ensuring powerful bass and crisp, non-fatiguing high frequencies, making them suitable for reproducing Hi-Res Audio.
• Materials & Durability: A quality speaker enclosure should be inert and well-damped, minimizing unwanted resonance. The Matte Black finish on the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers speaks to robust construction and attention to detail, giving them a heavy, reliable feel. Look for features like magnetic grilles (which protect the drivers but can be removed for a more retro look) and solid internal wiring to ensure long-term acoustic integrity.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: The true measure of a great powered speaker is its integrated features. Does it have Bluetooth 5.0? Does it include a phono preamp? The most critical modern inclusion is HDMI-ARC, which allows the speakers to wake up, turn off, and adjust volume using your existing TV remote—a feature that transforms the daily experience from complicated to seamless. Long-term care involves minimal dusting and ensuring firmware updates are accessible, though as we’ll discuss, the process for the latter can sometimes be complex.

We believe the meticulous engineering and expansive feature set of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers address nearly every pain point a modern listener faces, offering a streamlined path to True Hi-Fi. If you are ready to upgrade your auditory life, this system deserves serious consideration. If you want to dive deeper into the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers and check the latest price and availability, we highly encourage it.

While the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Aesthetics, Control, and First Contact with the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers

The unboxing experience of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers sets an immediate tone of quality and legacy. Lifting the speakers from the box, we are instantly greeted by the heft and robust build quality. These are not flimsy units; the cabinets feel dense, contributing to better sound damping. The Matte Black finish is sophisticated and understated, designed to blend into any modern or classic interior. The aesthetic is definitively retro-modern—a nod to Klipsch’s heritage, enhanced by contemporary features.

One feature we instantly loved, which many users also praised, are the physical controls. Klipsch wisely avoided the trend of multifunction touch panels. Instead, the primary speaker features two large, satisfyingly tactile knobs—one for volume and one for input selection. As one user noted, “One of my pet peeves is multifunction buttons and exotic controls that are inferior in every respect to the good old volume and input knobs. With a volume knob you can turn it from minimum to maximum in the blink of an eye.” This old-school approach to control is instantly accessible and incredibly practical.

Setup is remarkably minimal for a Hi-Fi system. Since the amp is built into the primary speaker (which connects to the passive secondary speaker via a simple speaker wire), the initial assembly is almost nonexistent. The speaker grilles are magnetic and easily removable, allowing users to choose between the sleek, covered look or the exposed, aggressive driver aesthetic. In terms of initial comparison, the versatility of the connectivity immediately stood out. Compared to other premium powered speakers that might omit HDMI or phono, the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers provide a complete audio hub, ready for almost any source device imaginable.

A Deep Dive into the Performance and Hi-Fi Capabilities of Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers

Evaluating the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers means looking beyond the specs and analyzing how their integrated components work together to create an elevated listening experience. We subjected these speakers to rigorous testing across streaming music, vinyl playback, and high-definition video content, confirming that Klipsch has created a truly modern audio solution that pays homage to classic sound.

The Connectivity Nexus: HDMI-ARC and Phono Integration

The primary reason the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers succeed where many competitors fall short is their dedication to modern, simple connectivity, particularly the inclusion of HDMI-ARC. This single feature transforms the speakers from traditional audio components into the center of a contemporary entertainment system.

Setting up the speakers with a television via the HDMI-ARC port is a genuinely transformative experience. We simply plugged in the HDMI cable, and the speakers were instantly recognized by the television (we tested with several models from different manufacturers). Crucially, this allowed us to control the volume using the standard TV remote or Apple TV remote, completely eliminating the need for the separate Klipsch remote for daily TV viewing. This convenience factor cannot be overstated. As one satisfied user mentioned, “I also want to mention that these are the one of the few bookshelf speakers that offer HDMI arc compatibility. So now I’m able to control the volume of these through my Apple TV remote.” This integration makes the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers a far superior, and simpler, alternative to any existing high-end soundbar.

Beyond digital convenience, Klipsch also caters to analog purists by including a built-in phono preamplifier. This means vinyl enthusiasts can plug their turntable directly into the speakers without needing an external preamp box, maintaining a clean aesthetic and saving money. We found the phono stage delivered clean, warm sound, perfectly complementing the rich character of vinyl records. This dual nature—seamlessly integrating cutting-edge digital (HDMI-ARC, Hi-Res USB) and traditional analog (Phono, RCA)—demonstrates Klipsch’s commitment to versatility, making these speakers a true audio centerpiece for any source material.

The Signature Sound: Dynamic Range and Klipsch Clarity

The acoustic performance of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers is unmistakably Klipsch, yet refined for the modern integrated audio market. The system uses proprietary Tractrix horn technology coupled with 1-inch titanium tweeters. This configuration is responsible for the characteristic clarity, dynamic range, and expansive soundstage that Klipsch enthusiasts seek.

When critically listening, we were immediately struck by the separation and depth of the sound. The speakers create an energetic and layered soundstage that genuinely makes the listener feel pulled into the music. We found the vocals to be crisp and forward, cutting through complex arrangements with ease. This characteristic clarity is often missing in soundbar setups, where sound tends to be homogenized. Even comparing these to high-end passive monitors (like the user who compared them favorably to their own Klipsch RP600M 5.1 setup), we found the digital signal processing (DSP) and tuning employed here allow the 160 Watts of power to push the system far beyond its physical size.

However, we noted a crucial detail confirmed by several listeners: the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers require a significant break-in period. Out of the box, the sound can be a little disappointing, sometimes described as muffled, particularly in the mid-range vocals. Patience is a virtue here. After approximately 40 to 50 hours of playback, the drivers loosen up, and the intended “sparkle” emerges. One user detailed their initial disappointment, noting that the vocals were muffled until they downloaded the app and adjusted the minimal EQ settings. However, they concluded that after hours of tweaking and simply using the speakers, they were “blown away.” This initial dip in performance, followed by dramatic improvement, is important for new owners to anticipate. Once broken in, the Klipsch signature sound is “warm, brilliant, and clearly defined,” offering a huge step up from any conventional soundbar experience.

Low-End Authority and Strategic Power Management

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers is the sheer power and authority they command in the low-end spectrum. Despite having relatively modest 4.5-inch woofers, the implementation of state-of-the-art DSP allows these speakers to punch far above their weight class.

The result is a bass response that is both deep and controlled, easily filling small to medium rooms. We pushed the speakers in a typical living room environment and found that the 160 Watts delivered sufficient volume and impact for action movies and bass-heavy music genres without significant distortion. In fact, many users found the low-end performance so compelling that they abandoned their plans to purchase an auxiliary subwoofer, stating that the bass was already “mind-bending” and deep enough. One reviewer went so far as to say they purchased a subwoofer only to leave it “unplugged because these speakers produce an amazing low end.” This ability to deliver room-shaking audio without external components is a massive value proposition for apartment dwellers or those seeking maximal minimalist efficiency.

It is important to acknowledge, however, that while the bass is strong, it can occasionally feel “overcharged” if the listener pushes the volume or uses certain factory EQ settings, especially in highly reflective rooms. This is why the dedicated subwoofer output is a welcome feature. While many listeners won’t need it, the option to easily integrate a Klipsch R-100SW (as one user did) or similar dedicated sub transforms the 2.0 system into a fully fledged 2.1 powerhouse, allowing the Fives to focus entirely on mids and highs while the sub handles the deepest rumbles. The volume control for the subwoofer is even manageable via the remote—a feature that really sets the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers apart from competitors that require manual sub adjustment.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our expert findings regarding the exceptional sound quality and integrated features of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers are overwhelmingly supported by the user community, though some technical complexities were also echoed. The general consensus centers on the staggering performance for the size and the incredible convenience provided by the connectivity options.

Many listeners, especially those upgrading, found the sound quality to be a revelation. One user noted the speakers “absolutely SLAP for their size” and another highlighted the dynamic, “truly soulful” soundstage, even comparing their performance favorably to larger home theatre systems they previously owned. Enthusiasts transitioning from previous high-fidelity gear confirmed the high value, stating that despite costing nearly half the price of competitors like the Kef LSX, the sound quality of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers was “comparable,” while offering superior connectivity like HDMI Arc and Bluetooth 5.0. This speaks directly to the tremendous value proposition, especially when the speakers are acquired during a promotion.

However, the review pool reveals a consistent pattern of technical frustrations. The most common complaint centers on the reliability of the Klipsch Connect app and occasional software glitches, particularly with the HDMI-ARC or Bluetooth connection. Some users reported needing to “power cycle” the speakers once or twice a day to maintain connectivity or resolve issues like unexpected crackling or unrecognized source material. Furthermore, the mandatory firmware update process, which is necessary to gain access to the app’s basic EQ functions, was described by some as complicated and occasionally problematic. While these operational hiccups are disappointing for such a premium product, most users agreed that the superior sound quality and functionality, once operational, easily outweigh these software annoyances. When evaluating the overall package, the sonic rewards make these speakers worth the minor technical investment needed to ensure stability. If you want to dive deeper into why this speaker system is a top performer, see its full feature set and user reviews.

Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers Compared to Top Alternatives

The market for powered bookshelf speakers is highly competitive, featuring both dedicated audiophile brands and established home theater players. While the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers offer a unique combination of HDMI-ARC integration, signature horn-loaded sound, and built-in phono stage, potential buyers may consider these strong alternatives, each offering a slightly different value proposition.

1. Polk Audio Signature Elite ES10 Surround Loudspeaker

The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES10 Surround Loudspeaker takes a different approach, positioned primarily as a passive surround or height speaker but often repurposed for minimal stereo setups. They are Hi-Res Audio Certified and compatible with modern surround codecs like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, making them a strong fit for someone building a modular passive system. The Power Port technology aims to deliver effortless bass, similar to the Fives’ DSP-aided low-end. However, these are passive speakers, meaning they require an external amplifier or receiver to function, directly contrasting the “powered” simplicity of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers. A customer prioritizing future expansion into a multi-channel passive home theater system might lean toward the Polk ES10, but anyone seeking a self-contained, integrated solution with plug-and-play TV capability will still prefer the Klipsch Fives.

2. Kanto YU4MB Powered Speakers with Bluetooth

The Kanto YU4MB Powered Speakers are perhaps the closest lifestyle competitor, offering a beautiful aesthetic and the convenience of built-in amplification. Like the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers, the YU4MB includes a built-in Phono Preamp, making it turntable-ready out of the box. They provide 140W Peak Power, slightly less than the Klipsch’s 160W, and feature simpler connectivity (Optical, RCA, Bluetooth) without the critical HDMI-ARC connection. The Kanto system often appeals to minimalist desktop users and vinyl listeners who value auto-standby and a wide range of color options. While Kanto delivers clean, balanced sound, the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers generally offer superior clarity, greater dynamic range, and the distinct advantage of TV integration that makes the Klipsch Fives a feature that really sets it apart for combined media centers.

3. Edifier R2000DB Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers

The Edifier R2000DB Active Speakers serve as an excellent budget-conscious alternative, especially for those new to the studio monitor space who require good performance without the premium price tag. Edifier systems are known for offering robust RMS power (though the total output is typically lower than the Fives) and flexible input options including Optical and Bluetooth. They provide a clear, near-field sound suitable for a dorm room or small office, often praised for their large 5-inch woofer. While the Edifier R2000DB provides solid performance, they lack the high-fidelity Hi-Res Audio capability, the powerful Tractrix horn technology, and, crucially, the HDMI-ARC integration of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers. A buyer on a strict budget who primarily uses a desktop computer for music streaming might choose the Edifier, but those seeking audiophile-grade performance and true TV integration will find the investment in the Fives justified.

Final Verdict: Are Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers Worth the Investment?

The Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers represent a highly successful convergence of heritage Hi-Fi audio engineering and modern consumer convenience. We found them to be an absolute powerhouse, delivering a dynamic, clear, and soulful soundstage that rivals systems far larger and more complex. The ability to produce “tower level soundstage” in a compact bookshelf format is a testament to Klipsch’s superior driver technology and advanced DSP tuning.

The core strength of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers lies in their unparalleled versatility: they serve as an exceptional dedicated music system (thanks to the Phono preamp and Hi-Res USB input) and an unmatched television audio solution (thanks to HDMI-ARC). While the system is not without minor flaws—the Klipsch Connect app requires polish, and an initial break-in period is mandatory—the sonic rewards far outweigh these brief technical hurdles. This system is the ideal choice for the audiophile who demands true stereo quality but refuses to clutter their space with receivers and multiple cables. For anyone looking to replace a subpar soundbar or elevate their apartment listening experience to true high-fidelity, the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers are, without a doubt, a category leader.

If you are ready to experience the energetic, layered sound that Klipsch is famous for, and want the ultimate convenience of HDMI-ARC control, we highly recommend this system. They are an absolute steal for the sound quality and functionality offered. Make the upgrade today and secure your Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers.

Last update on 2025-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API