Speakers · Mid-range
Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II (each)
The high-sensitivity tower: even by Erin's Audio Corner's stricter anechoic measurement it plays about 4 dB louder per watt than the Polk or KEF towers, so an 80 W receiver behaves like a 200 W one. The second-generation cabinet splits the two 8 in woofers into separate chambers with their own ports, which Audioholics credited for cleaner bass than the original.
- 2.5-way tower, dual 8" Cerametallic woofers
- 1" titanium LTS tweeter, 90 x 90 Tractrix horn
- 98 dB rated, 91.7 dB anechoic measured
- 35 Hz to 25 kHz (+/-3 dB)
Erin's Audio Corner measured 91.7 dB anechoic sensitivity and only about 2 dB of on-axis deviation through the midrange, which is both louder per watt and flatter than the Klipsch reputation suggests. The 90 by 90 degree Tractrix horn narrows treble dispersion, so less energy hits the side walls and dialogue stays intelligible in a lively room. Audioholics found the dual-chamber cabinet and improved woofer motor gave it tighter bass and more composure at high volume than the first RP-8000F.
Watch out: The horn tweeter still tilts forward in the treble and the anechoic -3 dB point is around 90 Hz before room gain, so cross it at 80 Hz to a sub and go easy on toe-in in reflective rooms.
Pros
- Very high sensitivity for modest receivers
- Controlled directivity from the Tractrix horn
- Big dynamics at a falling street price
Cons
- Bright presentation in untreated rooms
- Vinyl finish on a 61 lb cabinet
- Relies on a sub below about 40 Hz
Specifications
| Type | 2.5-way floorstanding tower (sold each) |
|---|---|
| Drivers | 2 x 8 in Cerametallic woofers, 1 in titanium LTS tweeter on 90 x 90 degree Tractrix horn |
| Sensitivity | 98 dB (manufacturer, in-room); 91.7 dB measured anechoic (Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Impedance | 8 ohm compatible |
| Frequency response | 35 Hz to 25 kHz (+/-3 dB) |
| Recommended power | 150 W continuous, 600 W peak |
| Finish | Ebony or walnut vinyl |
Specs come from manufacturer documentation and published reviews; check the retailer listing for the current revision.