Klipsch RP-8000F II Speaker Review

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Introduction

If you’re on the quest for an immersive audio experience, Klipsch promises to deliver refined sound performance with notable enhancements over the previous RP series. Klipsch certainly knows their game and in our Klipsch RP-8000F II review we will put to the test one of their best floorstanders and determine if it is a worthy continuation of Klipsch’s long legacy.

Having reached their 7th generation the latest Reference Premiere series was announced in 2022 and came with many of the characteristics that made Klipsch such a widely favorite brand but also with a few improvements over the previous generation of their top performing lineup.

But let’s see quickly what this top performing floorstander is all about. The Klipsch RP-8000F II is a 2-way floorstanding speaker that feature a vintage look as all other Klipsch speakers before it. It features two 8″ woofers along with a single 1″ Titanium tweeter in what is by now the signature of all Klipsch speakers. A 90 x 90 square Tractrix Horn.

Recently we had the chance to test and review one of their more affordable floorstanders, belonging in the Reference series, the Klipsch R-600F. That speaker was the epitome of what we would call a value for money release. But now, with the Reference Premiere series Klipsch moves to a whole new level. But are the changes enough to make the Klipsch RP-8000F II another winner for the American brand? Keep reading to find out.

Design, Inputs and Features

Exterior design & Dimensions

As always we will start with the design. The new RP-8000F II are your typical Klipsch speakers. If you have seen some of their designs then you immediately know what you are looking at.

The exterior design exudes sophistication. Featuring clean lines and a minimalistic aesthetic. Its dimensions, thoughtfully crafted, strike a balance between commanding presence and room compatibility.

We measured the R-8000F II to be 10.84″ x 43.10″ x 18.25″ (275 mm x 1095 mm x 463 mm) and with a weight of 61.4 lbs (27.85 kg) each.

Undeniably the vintage look of a Klipsch speaker is not for everyone. But Klipsch kept their distinct design over the years with small changes that are required to keep them fresh and updated. Klipsch added thin copper rings in both the woofers and within the Tractrix horn giving them slightly more character.

Additionally the black baffle does offer nice contrast against the copper looking woofers. As for colors, the Reference Premiere series comes in two color variations. Ebony and Walnut vinyl finishes.

Cabinet

The cabinet of the new RP-8000F II has many of the same characteristics we recently saw in the new Reference series. It is using a 3/4″ MDF material, as per usual with many speakers of this type. But with this new version Klipsch went ahead and improved both the interior and exterior construction.

In the interior Klipsch enhanced the cabinet’s bracing. This contributes to minimizing vibrations, ensuring that the sound produced is pure and untainted. Klipsch also created dedicated compartments for each of the woofers. And added rear ports for each of them, but we will talk more on these shortly.

Furthermore, on the outside the obvious changes are the new Tractrix horns that now extend edge-to-edge. And also the hidden woofer fasteners for a cleaner and more seamless look.

Although the cabinet is made out of MDF, Klipsch used a very nice scratch-resistant, textured wood grain vinyl. As a result this can fool most people for being real wood. And shows the amount of work they did to make them as good looking as possible.

Rear Tractrix Ports

The RP-8000F II come with two rear facing Tractrix ports. Each port has its own dedicated compartment so in essence the whole cabinet is divided in two, making easier to minimize any unwanted sound resonances.

As we have noted before having speakers with rear air ports means you need to be extra careful with placement. As the low end output can vastly change depending how close to the walls you place them.

Grilles

The grilles that come with the RP-8000F II are made of a black colored cloth and cover the entire front baffle. Obviously this is a personal choice. But it is really a shame to have such nice speakers and have the grilles cover these beautiful woofers.

We love that Klipsch made these magnetically attached. Because many speakers of this category still go for grilles with plugs. Which certainly do not look so good in comparison.

Stand

The RP-8000F II comes with cast aluminum feet and provide a more modern look with less resonance than MDF or ABS plastic. It is mechanically designed to minimize surface area in contact with floor, decoupling the speaker for faster, tighter low frequencies and more detail.

But this design also has a few drawbacks. Firstly you cannot adjust the stand for uneven surfaces. Which can be a bit of a problem if you have a carpet and the speakers will have to sit on the edge of it. Also with such a design you obviously cannot use spikes with all the problems this may have.

Drivers Design

One key change in the new Reference Premiere series is the improved drivers they used. Klipsch employed advanced engineering with a Titanium LTS Tweeter and Cerametallic Cone Woofers. Evidently, these components are meticulously designed to work in harmony, delivering a balanced and immersive audio experience.

The Klipsch RP-8000F II is basically a 2-way design. At the top we find a single 1″ Titanium LTS tweeter mated to a 90 x 90 square Tractrix Horn while below them we get two 8″ Cerametallic Cone woofers.

LTS tweeter

When delving into the realm of the Klipsch RP-8000F II floorstanding speaker, the spotlight naturally falls upon its innovative 1″ Titanium LTS tweeter. Klipsch introduces a “Hybrid Cross-Section Expanded Tractrix” horn, a design masterpiece.

This horn, with a conical throat and a silicone-molded mouth, orchestrates soundwaves with precision. The widened, edge-to-edge design, horn enhances directivity control, reducing diffraction effects for a cleaner auditory experience.

The titanium dome tweeter, powered by the ‘Linear Travel Suspension’ system, ensures larger excursions, minimizing distortion. Klipsch’s choice of a ferrite magnet over neodymium aids in heat dissipation, addressing thermal compression concerns.

The copper ring division in the horn serves not only as a visual flourish but as a functional element, mitigating bell resonances. This attention to detail contributes to a tweeter that harmoniously balances clarity and warmth.

TCP Woofers

The heartbeat of the Klipsch RP-8000F II lies within its Cerametallic woofers, setting the stage for unparalleled bass performance. The dual 8-inch Cerametallic Cone woofers boast a unique composition, featuring an aluminum layer hard-anodized to form a copper-colored ceramic coating. This Cerametallic innovation offers stiffness, pushing breakup modes to higher frequencies, easily managed by the crossover circuit.

Klipsch goes beyond the standard by incorporating shorting rings, countering induced current effects caused by voice coil motion. This ingenious addition enhances upper-frequency sensitivity while minimizing distortion. The 1,630Hz crossover frequency signifies a meticulous design choice, allowing seamless transition between the tweeter and woofers.

Drivers Specifications

The combination of the 1″ Titanium LTS tweeter with the 8″ Cerametallic Cone woofers give the RP-8000F II the following characteristics. A frequency response of 35Hz – 25kHz (+/- 3dB), 8 ohms of impedance and 98 dB sensitivity.

The crossover frequency between the tweeter and the woofers, as mentioned above, is set at 1,630Hz. The speakers come with a rating of 150 watts continuous and 600 watts of peak power.

Connectivity

The RP-8000F II use dual aluminum binding posts with Dolby Atmos pass-through which are located at the lower part of the back face. With the available terminals you can either use bare wires or various plugs including spades or banana plugs if that is your preference. With its dual posts design you can also bi-amp or bi-wire them.

And here we find another change in the design of the new Reference Premiere series floorstanders. The speakers come with a second set of binding posts meant for Dolby Atmos pass-through. These can be used in case you want to add the R-40SA Dolby Atmos modules on top of them. In that case you don’t have to run the cables all the way up to them.

Instead you can connect the Atmos channel cables to the lower back of the RP-8000F II. And connect the Dolby Atmos modules to the additional connectors that are placed on the upper part of the back face. This way you have much better cable management and a vastly cleaner look.

Positioning & Setup

Unpacking of the RP-8000F II was very easy and Klipsch made sure to add enough protection in the boxes to keep them safe from being hit. They have added special foam not only at the top and bottom but also a couple of foam rings in the middle where the boxes are more vulnerable.

Along with the speakers you get the usual manuals with some generic instructions on how to connect and position them for best output. Keep in mind that the RP-8000F II have their feet pre-assembled so you do not need to attach them after unboxing.

Placement

In the manual Klipsch includes instructions about setting them up and preferred distances. Specifically they suggest about 6 to 15 feet (1.8 to 4.6m) between them. Your sitting position should be 1 to 1.5 times the distance separating the speakers.

Obviously these are very generic guidelines and give you only an idea of normal positioning. But as always you need to experiment to find how they sound best to you and make changes accordingly. Experimentation is key, allowing you to strike a balance between proximity to walls and room dimensions.

For this review we left around 2 feet from the back wall in order to give them slightly more breathing space. Keep in mind that placing the speakers near a wall will increase their bass output. But this will be at the cost of overall definition so finding the best balance is always crucial. And with the RP-8000F II being rear ported, placement near a wall can change the sound output to a certain degree.

Distance between the two speakers was, as usual, around 9 feet. We also like to toe-in them a little towards our viewing position for better sound imaging.

Running Hours

Most manufacturers do suggest to give them certain time in order to get the best out of them. This usually comes at about 100 hours on average for most brands. But each one gives slightly different numbers that’s why we do suggest 100 hours, to be on the safe side.

There is one last thing to mention here. In our movies testing we tend to strictly use a 4.0 channels surround system. A full surround system can sometimes cover some weaknesses many speakers have.

But with our half baked system it is easier to determine how they can perform. Obviously if you add a subwoofer along with a center speaker the overall immersion will increase tenfold. So keep this in mind when you read our reviews.

As for our music testing we always switch to a standard 2.0 channels audio setup that most audiophiles tend to go with. Obviously since we are more into movies we will use an AV receiver instead of separates. But as you can imagine a dedicated music setup will do even better in this regard.

So without further delay, and after finishing the necessary audio calibrations with our Marantz AV receiver, we moved on with our tests.

Movies

Mad Max: Fury Road

The Klipsch RP-8000F II established a commanding presence in the front soundstage. With a 1″ Titanium LTS vented tweeter and a 90° x 90° Tractrix Horn, the speakers delivered crisp highs that pierced through the audio landscape. In Mad Max’s dystopian world, the front soundstage became a canvas where every sonic element found its place with precision.

Dialog, crucial in conveying the narrative, was rendered with utmost clarity. Even amidst the chaos of Fury Road, the speakers excelled in reproducing dialogues with articulate detail.

The Klipsch towers showcased a remarkable ability to reproduce the entire frequency range. From the thunderous lows of engine roars to the nuanced highs of ambient sounds, these speakers captured the film’s sonic spectrum faithfully. The 8″ Cerametallic woofers and innovative horn tweeter worked in harmony to create an immersive auditory experience across all frequencies.

Bass, a critical component in a film like Mad Max, was delivered with authority. The reflex-loaded 8″ Cerametallic woofers provided a tight and tuneful bass response. In high-octane sequences, the speakers resonated with the visceral impact needed to convey the intensity of the film’s audio dynamics.

Clarity is the hallmark of the Klipsch RP-8000F II speakers. Whether it was the screeching of tires on desert sand or the subtle rustling of wind, each sound was articulated with clarity. The advanced technologies, from aluminum shorting rings in the woofers to vented tweeter housing, contribute to a distortion-free, crystal-clear sonic performance.

The speakers excelled in creating a precise and expansive soundstage. In Mad Max’s world of high-speed pursuits and explosive encounters, sound imaging is crucial. And the controlled directivity of the Klipsch towers ensured that sonic elements were accurately placed within the three-dimensional space, enhancing the overall immersion.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Next we delved into the world of Transformers: Dark of the Moon in 4K UHD with another reference grade Dolby Atmos mix.

The Klipsch RP-8000F II’s prowess in the front soundstage was akin to an audio battleground. In the midst of robotic warfare, dialog held pivotal significance. The Klipsch speakers, with their proprietary tweeter technology, ensured that every robotic whisper and human interaction was conveyed with clarity.

The Klipsch towers showcased their ability to handle the diverse audio spectrum. From the metallic reverberations of transforming robots to the intricate details of high-frequency effects, these speakers breathed life into the entirety of Transformers’ sonic palette.

The low-frequency resonance of Transformers demands a speaker system with formidable bass capabilities. And the Klipsch RP-8000F II delivered bass that resonated with cinematic impact. The robotic footfalls and explosive effects reverberated through the room, enhancing the cinematic experience.

In the mechanized chaos of Transformers, clarity becomes paramount. The Klipsch speakers ensured that every metallic clang, futuristic whirr, and explosive crash is reproduced with unparalleled clarity. The sonic landscape remained pristine, even amidst the cacophony.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon, with its dynamic visual effects, demands precise sound imaging. The Klipsch towers excelled in creating a spatially accurate soundstage. From Autobots to Decepticons, each robotic entity found its sonic place, contributing to a three-dimensional auditory experience that aligns seamlessly with the visual spectacle.

Closing Remarks

The Klipsch RP-8000F II floor-standing speakers prove to be more than mere conduits of sound. They become sonic architects, constructing an auditory realm that complements the visual marvels of 4K UHD.

Whether it’s the metallic nuances or the explosive effects, these speakers transform the cinematic journey into an immersive auditory odyssey, redefining home entertainment.

Music

Next, we switched to a pure 2.0 channels audio setup with only the two front speakers connected and we streamed a selection of FLAC music tracks through the front USB port of our Marantz receiver.

Fidelity & Overall Quality

The meticulous engineering of the RP-8000F II manifests in an extraordinary fidelity and overall audio quality. The heart of their sonic prowess lies in the carefully tuned drivers. This harmonious combination translated into an audio experience marked by astonishing clarity.

Whether you are traversing the intricate realms of classical compositions or surrendering to the energy of pop anthems, the RP-8000F II surely capture the essence of each note with unrivaled precision.

Bass

Klipsch’s engineering brilliance shines through as the cerametallic cone woofers, propelled by a robust amplifier, delivered a punchy and well-defined low end. The speakers do not merely reproduce bass frequencies. They articulate them with authority.

From the deep resonance of double basses in Jazz to the impactful thump in electronic beats, the RP-8000F II ensured a comprehensive and immersive low-frequency experience. They don’t just play the bass, they really make you feel it.

Different Content

Versatility takes center stage as the Klipsch RP-8000F II seamlessly transition between musical genres, catering to the diverse tastes of music enthusiasts. For the discerning Jazz aficionado, the speakers unveiled the nuanced beauty of saxophone solos with a finesse that captures every subtle nuance.

Simultaneously, rock enthusiasts are treated to the raw power of electric guitars. Experiencing the speaker’s capability to convey the intensity and dynamism of rock compositions. The RP-8000F II’s adept handling of various instruments and vocal ranges ensures a rewarding listening experience across the musical spectrum, making them an ideal companion for those with eclectic tastes.

Final Thoughts

The Klipsch RP-8000F II embody Klipsch’s commitment to high efficiency, controlled directivity, dynamic range, and balanced frequency response. Priced for as low as $1,198 for a pair, they offer a compelling blend of quantity and quality, delivering an immersive audio experience.

The RP-8000F II excel in dynamic, detailed, and tuneful sound reproduction. They boast a large, open soundstage with impressive bass quality that sets them apart in their price range. The careful tuning of the drivers, including the Titanium LTS Tweeter and Cerametallic Cone Woofers, ensures fidelity and overall audio quality. Their versatility shines as they effortlessly transition between musical genres, catering to diverse listener preferences.

On the other hand, to unlock the RP-8000F II’s optimal sound, precise positioning is crucial. The speaker’s amplitude response, favoring treble, demands careful angling for a balanced sound. Klipsch’s user manual falls short in guiding users to this nuanced setup. Larger rooms may pose challenges in achieving ideal bass levels, requiring strategic placement adjustments. Despite this, once configured correctly, the RP-8000F II offers a nuanced and balanced audio profile.

In conclusion, the Klipsch RP-8000F II stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to audio excellence. While meticulous placement is essential, the effort yields a rewarding sonic experience. For a very affordable, yet high-performing audio solution, the RP-8000F II emerges as a standout option in the market.

For more reviews you can check our dedicated Floorstanding Speaker reviews list or even look at our Product Reviews Table where you can find the brand and specific product you are looking for.

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