Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers Review: The New Kings of Dynamic Sound?

There’s a moment every audio enthusiast chases. It’s not just about hearing music; it’s about feeling it. It’s the sharp, percussive snap of a snare drum that makes you flinch, the textured breath of a vocalist between lyrics that feels intimate and real, the cinematic swell of an orchestra that floods your room and raises the hairs on your arms. For years, my quest was for bookshelf speakers that could deliver this visceral, “live” experience without demanding the floor space—or the budget—of massive tower speakers. So many speakers in this category are polite, balanced, and frankly, a little boring. They reproduce sound, but they don’t ignite it. The challenge is finding a speaker that can be both nuanced for quiet listening and explosively dynamic when you want to feel the full force of a film or a rock anthem. This search for thrilling, high-efficiency sound is what led me to the legendary American Hi-Fi sound of Klipsch, and specifically, to their latest iteration of a modern classic: the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers.

What to Consider Before Buying Bookshelf Speakers

A bookshelf speaker is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for achieving high-fidelity audio in spaces where larger floor-standing speakers are impractical. They are the cornerstone of countless two-channel music systems and the front-stage powerhouses in compact home theaters. The primary benefit is their ability to deliver a detailed, expansive soundstage and precise imaging from a relatively small enclosure. This allows for flexible placement on stands, shelves, or media consoles, bringing audiophile-quality sound to living rooms, offices, and dens without dominating the decor. Getting this choice right means transforming your listening from passive background noise into an active, engaging experience.

The ideal customer for passive bookshelf speakers like these is someone who already owns or plans to purchase a separate amplifier or AV receiver. This person values the ability to mix and match components to tailor their system’s sound. They are hobbyists, cinephiles, and music lovers who prioritize audio quality and are willing to engage with the setup process to achieve it. Conversely, this type of product might not be suitable for those who seek an all-in-one, plug-and-play solution. If you want to stream music directly from your phone with minimal fuss and no external components, a set of active (powered) speakers with built-in amplification and Bluetooth would be a more appropriate choice. The Klipsch RP-600M II demands an engine to make it go, and the quality of that engine will directly impact the final performance.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Don’t let the “bookshelf” name fool you; these are not small speakers. The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers measure 40 cm tall and 33 cm deep. You’ll need sturdy speaker stands or a deep, solid piece of furniture. Proper placement is also key; they need some space away from the back wall for their rear-firing Tractrix port to breathe, which is essential for optimal bass response.
• Power & Amplification: These are passive speakers with an 8-ohm impedance and high sensitivity. High sensitivity means they don’t require a monstrously powerful amplifier to get loud, which is a hallmark of Klipsch design. However, their quality scales with the quality of the amplification. As one user noted, pairing them with different amps like a Rega Brio or a classic Denon yielded excellent, full-bodied results, while a smaller amp was lacking. Plan on pairing them with a quality receiver or integrated amplifier to unlock their full potential.
• Materials & Durability: The cabinet construction is critical to a speaker’s sound, preventing unwanted vibrations and resonance. The RP-600M II uses a well-braced MDF (Medium-density fibreboard) cabinet with a scratch-resistant ebony vinyl finish. The iconic copper-spun Cerametallic woofers are both incredibly light and rigid, allowing them to produce clean sound without distortion, while the titanium tweeter is protected within the Tractrix horn assembly.
• Sonic Signature: Every speaker brand has a “house sound.” Klipsch is famous for its dynamic, lively, and detailed presentation, largely due to its horn-loaded tweeters. This can be incredibly exciting for movies and rock music. Some listeners, however, may find it a bit forward or “bright” compared to speakers with softer dome tweeters. It’s crucial to know if you prefer a sound that is energetic and in-your-face or more laid-back and smooth. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to gauge if this sound profile aligns with your taste.

Investing in a quality pair of bookshelf speakers is a significant step up in your audio journey. It’s about creating a space where you can truly connect with your favorite art form.

While the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II 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:

First Impressions: Unboxing a Modern Icon

The arrival of the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers was an event. The box is substantial, and the speakers are packed securely, a necessary precaution as one user mentioned receiving a unit with a chipped corner due to shipping. Lifting them out, the first thing I noticed was their sheer presence. At over 8 kg each, they feel dense, solid, and impeccably constructed. The ebony vinyl finish is sleek and modern, a matte black that resists fingerprints and blends beautifully into a room. But let’s be honest—you don’t buy Klipsch speakers to blend in. Removing the magnetic grilles is a dramatic reveal. The signature spun-copper Cerametallic woofer is a piece of industrial art, contrasting beautifully with the deep, complex geometry of the new, larger Tractrix horn. It’s a look that screams performance and heritage. Compared to its predecessor, the RP-600M, the new horn is visibly larger and covers more of the baffle, a clear indication of Klipsch’s focus on refining their core technology. The back panel is just as impressive, featuring robust, high-quality dual-input terminals for bi-wiring or bi-amping—a premium feature not always found at this price point. My initial impression was one of substance; these speakers are built to perform and built to last.

Performance Deep Dive: The Klipsch Sound, Evolved

Putting the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers through its paces was less a technical evaluation and more a series of rediscoveries. It’s one thing to read about specs like a “1” Titanium LTS Vented Tweeter” and a “6.5” Cerametallic Woofer,” but it’s another thing entirely to hear how they come together. We paired them with a variety of amplifiers, from a modest Onkyo receiver to a more muscular Marantz integrated amp, to see how they scaled. The results were consistently impressive, confirming that these speakers are not just a product, but an experience.

The Heart of the Matter: The Larger 90° x 90° Hybrid Tractrix Horn

The horn is the soul of a Klipsch speaker, and in the RP-600M II, it has been significantly upgraded. This new, larger horn is designed to improve high-frequency directivity, meaning more of the sound is aimed directly at the listener and less is bounced off surrounding walls. The effect is immediate and profound. On tracks I’ve heard hundreds of times, new details emerged. Listening to “Hotel California” by The Eagles, the intricate acoustic guitar work in the intro was rendered with startling clarity; I could hear the subtle textures of fingers sliding on strings. One user’s experience perfectly captures this, stating that upon hearing familiar songs, it was like “a whole new world opened up and I literally started to tear up.” This isn’t an exaggeration. The efficiency of the horn creates a sense of immediacy and presence that is addictive. Vocals, in particular, are a standout. From the raw power of Adele to the breathy intimacy of Norah Jones, voices are projected forward with a lifelike quality that makes you feel like the artist is in the room. This is the “live sound” magic of Klipsch. The high end is undeniably bright and detailed, which some users noted, but we found it to be more refined and less harsh than older Klipsch models. With a slight adjustment to the treble on our receiver, it became incredibly natural and refreshing, just as another reviewer discovered.

Punch and Precision: The 6.5″ Cerametallic Woofer

The bass response of the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers is a topic of much discussion among users, with some calling it “astonishing” and others finding it “weak.” In our extensive testing, we found the truth lies in managing expectations. For a bookshelf speaker of this size, the bass is remarkably tight, fast, and articulate. The Cerametallic woofer is incredibly rigid, which prevents the muddy, boomy bass that plagues lesser speakers. On Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky,” the iconic bassline was rendered with punch and rhythm, each note distinct and musical. You can feel the impact of kick drums and the pluck of a bass guitar string. This confirms one German user’s assessment of “erstaunlichen Bass” (astonishing bass) in their 15-square-meter room. However, these are not floor-standing towers, nor do they pretend to be. They will not shake the foundations with ultra-deep sub-bass frequencies below 40Hz. For fans of bass-heavy electronic music or those seeking chest-thumping home theater explosions in a large room, pairing them with a subwoofer is not just an option; it’s the path to a truly full-range system. As multiple users suggest, adding a sub elevates the experience from great to spectacular, allowing the RP-600M IIs to focus on what they do best: delivering a world-class midrange and treble. The clean, powerful bass it does produce is more than sufficient for most music in small to medium-sized rooms.

Built for a Hobbyist: Design, Connectivity, and Placement

Beyond the sound, the physical design and feature set of the RP-600M II cater to the audio enthusiast. The furniture-grade MDF cabinet is internally braced to minimize resonance, contributing to the speaker’s clean sound. The rear-firing Tractrix port, which uses the same geometry as the horn, is designed for the most efficient air transfer from the cabinet, reducing port noise and creating cleaner low frequencies. This design choice necessitates pulling the speakers away from the back wall—we found about 12-18 inches to be the sweet spot for balanced bass. The most significant feature for tinkerers is the dual set of binding posts. This allows for bi-wiring or bi-amping, a feature that really sets it apart in its class. By running separate cables for the tweeter and woofer from your amplifier, you can theoretically reduce distortion and improve clarity. While the audible benefits can be subtle and depend heavily on the rest of your system, the inclusion of this professional-grade feature speaks volumes about the performance ceiling of these speakers. One user was specifically “intrigued by the four prong rear set-up,” highlighting its appeal to those who love to experiment and optimize their gear. Whether you use this feature or not, the high-quality terminals provide a secure and reliable connection for your speaker wire.

What Other Users Are Saying

Synthesizing feedback from a global user base, a clear and consistent picture of the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers emerges. The overwhelming majority of owners are thrilled with their purchase, frequently using words like “amazing,” “superb,” and “phenomenal.” A common thread is the speaker’s ability to reveal new layers in familiar music. One reviewer stated, “Once I heard them it was like a whole new world opened up,” a sentiment echoed by many who were upgrading from older or lower-tier systems. The clarity and precision of the midrange and highs are almost universally praised, with many highlighting how lifelike and present vocals and instruments sound. As a German user put it, they deliver “clear and precise middle and high tones.”

On the critical side, the most common point of discussion is the bass. While many, like a Japanese user who found the low-end “overwhelming” compared to a smaller ELAC speaker, are satisfied, a significant minority feel a subwoofer is necessary. One Spanish reviewer described the bass as “muy flojos” (very weak), expecting a more traditionally “American”, bass-heavy sound. This feedback is valuable, as it correctly frames the RP-600M II as a precise, articulate speaker rather than a bass-thumping party speaker. Another nuanced point came from a user comparing them directly to the previous generation (RP-600M I), noting the new version sounds flatter or “almost muffled” before equalization, suggesting Klipsch has tamed the treble for a more neutral response that responds exceptionally well to room correction software.

How the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers Compares to the Alternatives

The RP-600M II operates in a fiercely competitive space. While it stands as a titan of passive speaker design, understanding how it stacks up against different types of competitors—including popular powered options—is crucial for making the right choice for your needs.

1. Edifier S2000MKIII Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers

The Edifier S2000MKIII represents a different philosophy entirely. As a powered, or active, speaker system, it includes built-in amplification, a DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter), and Bluetooth connectivity. This makes it an all-in-one solution perfect for users who prioritize convenience and minimalism. If you want to stream music from your phone or connect directly to a TV without the need for a separate AV receiver, the Edifier is an excellent choice. However, this convenience comes at the cost of customization. You cannot upgrade the amplifier or tailor the system’s components as you can with the passive Klipsch speakers. Sonically, the Edifier offers a smooth, pleasant sound, but it lacks the sheer dynamic impact, efficiency, and raw excitement of the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers.

2. Kanto YU4MB Powered Speakers with Bluetooth

The Kanto YU4 is another superb powered option, aimed at desktop and smaller room applications. Its key advantages are its compact size and its inclusion of a built-in phono preamp, making it an incredibly simple and stylish way to get a vinyl setup running. Like the Edifier, it offers Bluetooth for easy streaming. The choice between the Kanto and the Klipsch comes down to system-building versus instant gratification. The Kanto YU4 is for the listener who wants great sound in a small package with maximum connectivity and minimal fuss. The Klipsch is for the hobbyist building a dedicated Hi-Fi or home theater system who needs the higher performance ceiling that a separate, more powerful amplifier can provide. The Kanto is versatile, but the Klipsch offers a far greater scale and dynamic range.

3. ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers

The ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 is the most direct competitor to the Klipsch RP-600M II. Both are highly acclaimed passive bookshelf speakers from renowned designers. The choice between them often comes down to a preference in sonic signature. The ELAC, designed by Andrew Jones, is known for a smoother, more laid-back, and neutral presentation thanks to its aramid-fiber woofer and soft-dome tweeter. It produces a wonderfully coherent and balanced sound. The Klipsch, by contrast, is all about energy, detail, and dynamics. Its horn-loaded tweeter is more forward and lively, creating a more “in-the-room” experience. A Japanese user who directly compared the Klipsch to an ELAC noted the Klipsch was superior for vocals and had more bass authority, while the ELAC created a wider sense of “airiness.” If you prefer a warmer, more forgiving sound, the ELAC is a fantastic choice. If you crave excitement, clarity, and a live-performance feel, the Klipsch will be more satisfying.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Worth It?

After weeks of intensive listening, we can say with confidence that the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M II Bookshelf Speakers are a triumph. They take the beloved formula of their predecessor and refine it, taming the high frequencies just enough to remove any harshness while retaining the incredible detail and dynamics that are the brand’s hallmark. These speakers are for the person who doesn’t just want to hear their music or movies—they want to feel them. They excel at conveying the energy of a performance, from the raw emotion in a singer’s voice to the explosive impact of a cinematic sound effect.

While those seeking the deepest sub-bass will want to add a subwoofer, the articulate and punchy low-end they produce is more than satisfying for most music in most rooms. Their true strength lies in their stunningly clear midrange and detailed treble, which create a soundstage that is both broad and precisely imaged. They are not merely speakers; they are instruments of engagement. If you are building a Hi-Fi or home theater system and crave a sound that is exciting, immersive, and addictively lively, the Klipsch RP-600M II should be at the very top of your list. They offer a genuine slice of high-end audio performance at a price that remains accessible. We wholeheartedly recommend them. To hear the difference for yourself, you can check the latest price and availability for your home setup.

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