Since this is a translation of an overseas article, there may be mistranslations.
https://www.ecoustics.com/products/klipsch-rp-500pm-powered-speakers/
Klipsch RP-500PM, Debut as the First Powered Reference Premier Speaker at CEDIA 2026
Klipsch has added HDMI ARC, phono, USB-C and a new Tractrix horn to its $799.99 RP-500PM. Is this the birth of a reference premier that doesn't require a receiver?
Klipsch is leading its Reference Premier series into a new territory it has never explored before. The new RP-500PM powered monitor is the first powered speaker in the lineup, integrating an amp, HDMI ARC, USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, phono input and various digital/analog connections into one compact stereo system.
Launching at $799.99 per pair, the RP-500PM also features a new high-density axial Tractrix horn made of upgraded BMC material. Klipsch explains that its flush mount design reduces resonance and wave breakup while improving off-axis response for a wider listening sweet spot.
This last part could be particularly important. While Klipsch speakers have never lacked character, if they can improve directivity without sacrificing their signature dynamism, the RP-500PM could become a much better fit for TVs, desktops and shared living spaces.
What Makes the Klipsch RP-500PM Special?
The Reference Premier series has traditionally been centered around passive speakers that require an amp or AV receiver. The RP-500PM is designed to work directly with TVs, computers, turntables, gaming systems and mobile devices by incorporating electronic circuitry within the system.
In terms of connectivity, it supports HDMI ARC, USB-C, optical digital, RCA line level, phono and 3.5mm analog inputs, as well as Bluetooth 5.3. A dedicated subwoofer output is also provided, opening an upgrade path for listeners who desire more powerful low-frequency output than what the 5.25-inch cerametallic woofer provides on its own.
Klipsch has stated that the internal amp is custom-matched to each individual driver, but the amp output has yet to be disclosed. The provided launch information also lacks specifications for frequency response, Bluetooth codec support, USB resolution, dimensions or weight.
Considering that several competing products in a similar price range have already released detailed amp and digital audio specs, these omissions are worth noting.
Klipsch RP-500PM vs RP-600M II
The RP-600M II is the most appropriate passive Reference Premier model for comparison, and it's a successor to the highly successful original RP-600M. It utilizes a larger 6.5-inch cerametallic woofer and Klipsch's 90 x 90 degree hybrid Tractrix horn with a 1-inch titanium LTS tweeter.
The RP-500PM uses a smaller 5.25-inch cerametallic woofer and a new axial Tractrix horn, but the biggest difference lies in its structure. With an amp and source connectivity already built-in, it eliminates the need for an external amplifier, receiver, outboard DAC or separate phono preamp for most users.
The RP-600M II remains a more flexible choice for those looking to build a traditional component system or a Reference Premier home theater. Conversely, the RP-500PM targets listeners who desire Klipsch's sound and design language without the complexity of separate electronics or a project-level tangle of cables.
The new horn may provide different tonal expression to the RP-500PM. Klipsch particularly emphasizes improved off-axis response, which is a very appropriate element for speakers likely to be placed next to a TV or computer monitor, as much as in a dedicated 2-channel environment.
RP-500PM Key Features and Specifications:
• Reference Premier Series' first powered monitor
• New high-density axial tractrix horn
• Upgraded BMC horn material
• Flush-mount horn design
• 5.25-inch Cerametal woofer
• Driver-optimized built-in amplifier
• HDMI ARC
• Bluetooth 5.3
• USB-C
• Optical digital input
• RCA line-level input
• Phono input
• 3.5mm auxiliary (AUX) input
• Dedicated subwoofer output
• IR remote control
• Floating fabric grille
• Textured wood grain cabinet
• Copper woofer with matching trim ring
• Compatible with Klipsch KS-28 stand
Klipsch has not yet provided information on amplifier output, frequency response, dimensions, weight, maximum USB resolution, or supported Bluetooth codecs.
3 Major Competing Products
• Triangle Borea BR03 Connect — $799 per pair
The Triangle Borea BR03 Connect similarly combines a diverse range of input connectors with a larger 6-inch cellulose midwoofer and 1-inch EFS silk dome tweeter. The Class D amplifier outputs 60 watts per channel, covering almost all sources with HDMI ARC, USB-B, optical, coaxial, RCA, 3.5mm, MM phono, and subwoofer connections. It also supports up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256 via USB connection through an ESS ES9018K2M DAC, and Bluetooth 5.0 includes aptX HD. In terms of specs, the BR03 Connect meets more features at the same price, while the RP-500PM aims for a distinctly different acoustic philosophy.
• ELAC Debut ConneX DCB61 — $899 per pair
The ELAC Debut ConneX DCB61 is $100 more expensive than Klipsch and offers a larger 6.5-inch long-excursion woofer, a tweeter with waveguide, and a total amplifier output of 160W RMS. The rear-firing S-shaped port is designed to extend bass response while reducing port noise, and specifies a frequency response of 48Hz to 22kHz at -3dB.
Connectivity is excellent with HDMI eARC, USB audio up to 24-bit/96kHz, optical, Bluetooth LC3+, switchable line/phono input, and subwoofer output. The DCB61 also adds Dolby Digital decoding and iOS/Android app control for adjusting EQ, placement optimization, volume, and more.
This makes it a compelling alternative for buyers willing to pay an extra $100. The RP-500PM counters with Klipsch's new axial tractrix horn and a more compact design, while the DCB61 touts larger drivers, app control, and Dolby Digital as its strengths. Simply a copper-colored cone woofer alone won't be enough to win the battle.
• SVS Prime Wireless Pro — $899 per pair
The SVS Prime Wireless Pro is also $100 more expensive but focuses on network streaming. It uses a 5.25-inch midbass driver and 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, providing a total system output of 200W.
It includes Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and DTS Play-Fi, supporting high-resolution playback up to 24-bit/192kHz. HDMI ARC/eARC, optical, analog, and Bluetooth connectivity are also provided.
Since SVS doesn't include Klipsch's built-in phono amplifier or USB audio input, the two products appeal to slightly different user demographics. Klipsch is more useful for direct connection to turntables and computers, while SVS has a clear advantage for listeners who want network streaming built into the speakers themselves.
Final Thoughts
The RP-500PM doesn't just shrink the size of existing passive speakers and cram in an amp; it fills a clear space in the Reference Premiere lineup. The new Tractrix horn design, wider connectivity, and integrated phono preamp show that Klipsch designed this product to be a standalone stereo system rather than just an accessory for other components.
The price of $799.99 puts it directly in competition with some excellent powered speakers, so the badge and copper woofer alone might not be enough. The Triangle offers robust connectivity and high-resolution support for less, and the Elac DCB61 is $100 more expensive. SVS also asks for an extra $100 but provides a much stronger streaming platform.
What could set Klipsch apart is its acoustic design. If the new horn maintains the speed, dynamics, and impact that made the Reference Premiere a success while actually delivering broader off-axis performance, the RP-500PM could have appeal beyond mere convenience.
With CEDIA Expo happening in Denver, there will be an opportunity to hear firsthand whether Klipsch has pulled it off.
Pricing and Availability
The Klipsch RP-500PM powered monitor will launch in North America in December 2026 for $799.99 per pair through Klipsch.com and authorized Klipsch dealers.
For more information: klipsch.com
▶ Source: https://www.ecoustics.com/products/klipsch-rp-500pm-powered-speakers/
