Klipsch unveiled two new powered Bluetooth bookshelf speakers in its Reference series recently. The R-40PM and R-50PM speakers replace older “41” and “51” models, upgrading design, pumping up bass response and broadening connectivity with a phone preamp so you can easily connect a turntable, in addition to most other sound sources via USB and other line-in connections.
What you don’t need with these speakers is an amplifier, because they’re powered already.
Klipsch R-40PM and R-50PM powered bookshelf speakers
Replacing Klipsch’s R-41PM and R-51PM speakers in the Reference series, the R-40PM and R-50PM models feature improved design appointments, increased cabinet depths that help improve bass response, a larger edge-to-edge Tractrix horn design for better sound coverage and a phono preamp, the company said.
Being powered, the speakers just need to be plugged in and joined together by an included cable (for wired uses as opposed to Bluetooth). The speakers connect over Bluetooth but can also work via 3.5mm, optical, RCA and USB cables. And a new built-in photo preamplifier lets you play records over the speakers easily.
Up to 120W of power
Photo: Klipsch
The speakers’ drivers push sound with 70 watts of system power for the R-40PM, featuring a 100mm spun-copper thermoformed crystal polymer (TCP) woofer and a 25mm linear travel suspension (LTS) aluminum tweeter. The 120W R-50PM has the same LTS tweeter but a larger 130mm TCP woofer.
Both speakers boast enhanced bass response. The R-40PM can hits lows down to 60Hz while the R-50PM gets down to 55Hz. A dynamic bass equalizer helps you dial in the bass you want regardless of volume level, the company said.
Klipsch R-40PM speakers cost $499. R-50PM cost $599. The speakers don’t appear to be available on Amazon yet.
Where to buy: Klipsch
