I recently
sold my Klipchorns after 17 years of pure enjoyment. I’m moving and downsizing,
and the new digs don’t have the corners I need. Prior to selling, I went on a
six month odyssey (a very enjoyable one, I might add) of listening to every
deserving speaker under $3,500 I could get to. I’ve auditioned Aperion, B&W,
Magnepan, Definitive Technology, NHT, KEF, Goldenear, Zu, and others – that’s a
range from A to Z!). Through it all, I came to the conclusion that the Klipschorn
is quite possibly the most overlooked and under-appreciated speaker out there. Used
Khorns can be had for as little as $1,500 to $2,000. In that price range, they
are very, very hard to beat. They have detail, efficiency, dynamics, and a
tonal balance that match up with any speaker out there, and a life-size sound
that is matched by few. At high volumes or low, the sound is spot on. The tone
is uniquely Khorn – but it’s always impressive. These are amazing speakers, and
don’t take a back seat to much of anything under $8k. There’s a reason they are
still viable after 70 years.
Many people
have never had the chance to hear a pair of Khorns. If you get a chance, take
it. You’ll quickly understand why they are so beloved by so many. My hat is off
to Paul Klipsch and his amazing Klipshorns.
(In case you’re
interested, in my search I ended up with Spatial Audio M3 speakers (check them
out. They’re pretty special) paired with 2 Goldenear Forcefield 4 subs. This
setup has an open, natural sound that rivals the Khorns. It is better in some
respects (especially soundstage and imaging depth), and not as good in other
respects. That’s the nature of speakers. But just let me say, don’t make the
mistake of underestimating the Klipschorn. They are an amazing speaker!)