Klipsch Reference Premiere Center Channel Review: Specs, Pros and Cons

What stands out

• 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix horn for clearer dialogue
• 1" LTS titanium diaphragm tweeter minimizes distortion
• Cerametallic woofers for maximum efficiency and minimum distortion
• Tractrix ported enclosure for fast air transfer
• Removable magnetic grille for discrete appearance

Who it fits

Key specs explained

Speaker Type: Center channel

This speaker is built specifically for the center position in front of your TV. It handles most of the dialogue in movies and shows. You get clear voices without needing a separate surround setup. If you want a dedicated home theater anchor, this type is essential for balanced sound.

Tweeter Type: 1" LTS titanium diaphragm

The 1-inch titanium diaphragm handles high frequencies with minimal distortion. The Linear Travel Suspension design keeps the tweeter moving smoothly. You hear crisp details in music and dialogue. This spec helps you distinguish between speakers that blur high notes and those that deliver precise audio clarity.

Enclosure Type: Tractrix ported

The Tractrix ported enclosure uses a specific horn shape to guide air. This design improves bass response and reduces turbulence. You get deeper, cleaner low-end output from a compact box. When shopping, this feature helps you compare how efficiently different speakers move air for powerful sound.

Dimensions: 19.3 x 6.87 x 10.6 inches

These measurements define the physical footprint on your shelf or stand. The width fits most standard TV stands. The height allows for flexible placement. You need to check these numbers to ensure the speaker fits your current furniture. Proper sizing prevents visual clutter and ensures optimal sound dispersion.

Weight: 18 pounds

The unit weighs 18 pounds, indicating a solid build. Heavier cabinets often reduce unwanted vibrations. You get a stable speaker that stays in place during loud scenes. This weight helps you compare durability against lighter, plastic models that may resonate or rattle during intense audio playback.

Physical Design And Build Quality

The listing describes the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500C II as a center channel speaker with furniture-grade materials. You get a finish that aims to make the unit a statement piece for any room. The cabinet uses walnut wood, which appears in the brown color option listed here. A black finish is also available as a variation. The grille attaches magnetically, allowing you to remove it for a discrete look. This design choice lets you switch the speaker from a visible component to a background element.

Dimensions are specific. The unit measures 19.3 inches in width, 6.87 inches in height, and 10.6 inches in length. At 18 pounds, it has substantial mass. This weight suggests a stable build that resists vibration. The Tractrix ported enclosure design helps manage air transfer efficiently. You get cleaner, more powerful bass output from this geometry. The vented tweeter housing sits within this structure to enhance detail.

These physical specs mean the speaker fits standard TV stands or center consoles. Its width requires a dedicated space in front of your display. The removable grille allows you to customize the visual impact in your living space. You can keep it on for a uniform look or take it off to expose the drivers. The materials and dimensions support its role as a primary audio anchor for your home theater setup.

Setup and everyday use

Setting up this center channel speaker requires minimal effort. The unit measures 19.3 inches wide, 6.87 inches high, and 10.6 inches deep. It weighs 18 pounds, which provides stability on most standard TV stands. You should place it directly in front of your display. This positioning ensures the dialogue remains anchored to the screen. The speaker connects to your receiver via standard speaker wire. No complex calibration is needed for basic operation. The Tractrix ported enclosure requires some clearance from the wall. You should leave a few inches of space behind the cabinet. This allows the port to function efficiently and move air properly. Daily use is straightforward. The removable magnetic grille allows you to change the look. You can attach it for a discrete appearance or remove it to reveal the drivers. The walnut finish and furniture-grade materials mean it blends well with home decor. You do not need to hide it. The 1-inch LTS titanium diaphragm tweeter and ceramic metallic woofers handle the audio load. You get clear dialogue without adjusting settings constantly. The vented tweeter housing enhances detail in what you hear. This design choice reduces distortion during loud scenes. The speaker works with any standard home theater receiver. You simply connect the wires and play content. The Tractrix horn and port geometry manage the sound delivery. You get crisp dialogue and powerful bass from the same unit. The brown color option matches many wood tones. The black option is also available if your setup prefers darker finishes. The physical setup is quick. The everyday experience relies on the speaker's internal design. You get consistent performance without needing external tools.

Before you buy this center speaker

This speaker anchors your home theater, but it does not produce low frequencies on its own. You need a compatible receiver with enough power to drive the Cerametallic woofers efficiently. Check your AV receiver’s output specifications to ensure it matches the speaker’s requirements for clean sound. The Tractrix ported enclosure requires some clearance behind it for proper air transfer. You should leave space behind the unit to prevent bass distortion. The magnetic grille is removable, so you can switch between a visible statement piece and a discrete look. Keep the walnut finish dusted with a soft cloth to maintain the furniture-grade appearance. This model fits well alongside other Klipsch Reference Premiere speakers for a matched surround system. If you already own matching satellites, this center channel completes the set. Verify your TV stand width supports the 19.3-inch footprint. The 18-pound weight provides stability, but ensure your stand is level.

Check before you buy

• Verify your AV receiver has sufficient power output for efficient woofers.
• Ensure your TV stand is at least 19.3 inches wide.
• Check that your current speaker system uses matching Klipsch models.
• Confirm you have clearance behind the speaker for the Tractrix port.
• Decide if you prefer the visible walnut finish or hidden grille.

The product at a glance

1

Klipsch Reference Premiere Center Channel Speaker

Best for: Wide TV stands needing clear dialogue

Speaker Type

Center channel

Tweeter Type

1" LTS titanium diaphragm

Enclosure Type

Tractrix ported

Dimensions

10.6 × 19.3 × 6.87 inches

Weight

18 pounds

View on Amazon: Klipsch Reference Premiere Center Channel Speaker Affiliate link

The Klipsch RP-500C II is a center channel speaker designed for clear dialogue and detailed sound. It features a 1-inch LTS titanium diaphragm tweeter and all-new Cerametalllic woofers. The Tractrix ported enclosure enhances bass efficiency. Measuring 19.3 inches wide and weighing 18 pounds, it fits standard TV stands. You will appreciate its furniture-grade walnut finish and magnetic removable grilles for a clean look.

Pros

• 90 x 90 degree Tractrix horn for clearer dialogue
• 1-inch LTS titanium diaphragm tweeter minimizes distortion
• Cerametalllic woofers ensure maximum efficiency
• Tractrix ported design for powerful bass
• Magnetic removable grilles for discrete appearance

Cons

• Heavy at 18 pounds
• Wide 19.3-inch footprint may not fit small stands
• No remote or app control listed

Good fit if

• You want crisp dialogue from a center channel speaker
• You have a wide TV stand that can support 19.3 inches
• You prefer a walnut finish that matches furniture

Skip if

• You need a compact speaker for a small shelf
• You require wireless connectivity or app control
• You prefer a lightweight speaker under 10 pounds

Verdict: Klipsch RP-500C II Center Speaker delivers clear dialogue and efficient bass for viewers with wide TV stands who value a furniture-grade look.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• klipsch reference premiere rp 500c ii alternatives
• best klipsch pair speakers
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