Premium speaker brand attends Green Music Group launch and 6th Annual Roots Jam Session

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (February 2, 2010) — Rather than sponsor one of the glitzy Hollywood galas that took place during Grammy® weekend, Klipsch® premium speakers helped the Green Music Group and The 6th Annual Roots Jam Session turn up the volume on greening the music industry. 

The Green Music Group, a coalition of environmental non-profit Reverb, held its official launch party on January 30 at Jane’s House in Hollywood. Klipsch attended the earth-friendly celebration in support of this high-profile alliance that brings together musicians, industry leaders and music fans to create widespread environmental change within the music industry and around the globe.

Green Music Group founding members, including Dave Matthews Band, The Roots, Guster and Maroon 5, were there to mingle with guests and provide live music entertainment. Other celebrities in attendance included actor Jason Biggs and actress Elizabeth Banks. These famous folks put their signatures on a pair of Klipsch Reference floorstanding speakers, which will soon hit the auction block to raise money and awareness for the Green Music Group.

Later that evening, the Green Music Group continued its launch at The 6th Annual Roots Jam Session at the Key Club in West Hollywood, an event where the best in music join forces with the Grammy award-winning Roots crew for a continuous, spontaneous night of musical celebration and environmental awareness for an invite-only audience. While celebrity attendees included Slash, George Lopez, Ryan Phillippe, Kate Voegele and Kelsey Grammer, famous musicians such as Mos Def, John Legend, Questlove, Damian Edwards and Grammy-nominated singer Estelle were among the night’s performers.

Each performer and VIP guest took home the new Klipsch Image X10i, the company’s smallest, lightest in-ear headset that features an in-line mic and three-button remote for taking calls and controlling the music content on your iPod, iPod touch or iPhone 3GS. The X10i also employs patented oval ear tips for unequaled comfort, superior noise isolation and enhanced bass as well as a wealth of exclusive sound technology to deliver pristine music performances that are sure to satisfy even the most discriminating listeners.

Klipsch is no stranger to star-studded events. Company chairman Judy Klipsch, along with event marketing company Explicit Events, has been devoted to creating buzz and awareness for Klipsch speakers by connecting the brand with celebrities at major events, including Sundance, the Academy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, The American Music Awards and now pre-Grammy parties with a purpose. Not only is she putting premium sound solutions in the hands and homes of key influencers, she is also educating them on the importance of high performance sound, successfully turning them into Klipsch brand ambassadors.

According to Judy Klipsch, she is a huge advocate of what the Green Music Group is trying to accomplish as Klipsch continuously looks at new, earth-friendly ways to build its products. “We carry a strong sense of responsibility when it comes to preserving the environment,” she said. “Klipsch has been delivering highly efficient speakers for over 60 years, but that’s not enough when you consider climate change and how it’s negatively impacting our world today. From engineering and manufacturing to product packaging and displays, we remain committed to understanding “green” concepts as we shape our future product plans.”

About Explicit Events & Marketing, LLC
Explicit Events and Marketing (EEM) is an L.A.-based firm that uses unique entertainment-based initiatives to generate consumer interest in brands through event production, strategic partnership and sponsorship acquisition. Projects are executed efficiently and consistently, resulting in celebrity and tastemaker support, media placements, and end-user awareness. EEM can develop full entertainment marketing strategies or supplement an existing marketing plan by utilizing key relationships. For more information, email EEM at info@explicitevents.com.

About Klipsch® Premium Speakers
For over 60 years, Klipsch has put its heart and soul into designing premium speakers that cater to those who are passionate about great sound. At the core of the brand’s success is a rebellious spirit mixed with a good dose of tenacity. Company founder Paul W. Klipsch started this legacy in 1946, and it continues today with owners Fred and Judy Klipsch. For over 20 years, Fred and Judy Klipsch have worked hard to maintain the family-owned company’s rich heritage, while also staying committed to innovation and delivering the world’s most powerful, detailed and emotional sound reproduction. From affordable, state-of-the-art high-definition 5.1 surround sound to luxury high-end speakers, and from tiny dynamic headphones to massive professional cinema systems, Klipsch has a premium product for every lifestyle, application and budget.

Learn everything you ever wanted to know about this award-winning product.

Will the dimmer switch that controls my regular in-ceiling lights affect the LightSpeaker?
We’ve tested many dimmer switches and most of them worked flawlessly with the LightSpeaker, offering no interruption to the light or sound. The reason being is that the LightSpeaker is part of a low voltage system that requires very little power. However, if you turn your dimmer switch completely off, you “kill” the power to the LightSpeaker and it will not work. It’s also important to note that you can only control the LightSpeaker’s light and sound with its transmitter or remote.

If I dim the LightSpeaker’s LED bulb … will the speaker volume go down, too?
No, the LightSpeaker’s remote and transmitter control the lighting levels and speaker volume independently. For example, you can dim the lights without affecting the speaker volume or vice versa.

Will the LightSpeaker’s wireless technology interfere with other wireless devices?
The LightSpeaker utilizes proprietary 2.4GHz wireless technology that will not interfere with most wireless devices, i.e. cordless phones. In studies, the LightSpeaker’s wireless technology has been affected when an old microwave, a SoundCast product or Verizon’s MiFi is positioned within 35 feet of the LightSpeaker’s standalone transmitter. However, interferences like this can often be solved by increasing the distance between the two devices. If you have separated the products and are still experiencing what you believe is wireless interference, please contact Klipsch customer service at 1-800-KLIPSCH.

How far can the LightSpeaker be from the wireless transmitter?
The transmitter will wirelessly stream audio to the LightSpeaker within a 50-foot radius. However, the distance could increase if there are few or no obstacles in the wireless path, i.e. metal wall studs. In outdoor tests, the LightSpeaker was found to deliver wireless audio over 125 feet.

How does the LightSpeaker Sound?
Everyone experiences sound differently so how a speaker performs is really a matter of opinion. Therefore, Klipsch designs a variety of premium speakers that satisfy different tastes, lifestyles and budgets. The LightSpeaker, which has a wide frequency response of 90Hz to 20kHz, is designed to deliver a full spectrum of sound. If you want to hear the LightSpeaker before you buy it, please visit one of our retail partners for a demonstration.

Can I use the LightSpeaker as a wireless rear surround speaker in my home theater system?
Yes, the LightSpeaker will work as a wireless rear surround speaker in certain home theater applications.

Can a LightSpeaker system be added to a universal RF remote?
No, you cannot use the system with a universal RF remote.

Can the Klipsch LightSpeaker be purchased outside of the United States?
No, the Klipsch LightSpeaker is only available in the United States.

Can you replace just the light in the LightSpeaker, or does the entire unit need to be changed?
The LightSpeaker’s LED light is not a replaceable part on its own. However, it is rated for 40,000 hours of use, which equals 15 years or more under normal use conditions.

Is the LightSpeaker weatherproof?
The LightSpeaker is intended for indoor use. However, it is not recommended for placement above showers or in saunas.

Will the LightSpeaker interfere with the Internet I use over my electric lines?
The LightSpeaker system transmits audio and control functions wirelessly at 2.4 GHz (not over an electrical line) and will not interfere with any system transmitted over an electrical line. The only use of electrical lines for the LightSpeaker system is for electrical power to the LightSpeakers (which are connected to standard Edison sockets) and electrical power to the transmitter (where a DC power supply for the transmitter would plug into a standard wall socket for power only).

What is the light equivalency and warm color temperature of the LightSpeaker’s LED bulb?
The LightSpeaker’s 10 watt LED bulb gives off the equivalent lumens of a standard 65 watt incandescent. The Kelvin temperature is 3,000, which is very close to that of a compact fluorescent light. The LightSpeaker’s LED bulb has a color rendering index of 80, which means you can easily distinguish between a dark navy blue sock and a black sock. To give you more perspective, natural sunlight has a color rendering index of 100.

Can the LightSpeaker be added to a system that already has multi-room speakers?
Yes, if it is hooked up to share music sources. For example, it can be used in conjunction with a Sonos system.

Is the LightSpeaker too heavy for an Edison socket?
No, the LightSpeaker meets the UL-approved weight limit.

How is the LightSpeaker System worth its $599 price tag?
There are several money-saving benefits to owning a LightSpeaker System:

• A LightSpeaker uses an efficient LED bulb that is rated for 40,000 hours of use, meaning it can last 15 years or more. It will reduce your daily lighting expenses by 80% and save you from having to change a standard light bulb 50 times.

• A LightSpeaker lets you create a whole-house music system for a fraction of what a traditional distributed audio system costs. You don’t have to pay for separate audio components (i.e. a receiver) or any internal wiring/installation costs. For example, the wiring/installation costs for a traditional 2-channel distributed audio system can cost as much as $1,000 if not more—and that does not include the price of speakers.

• You can take the LightSpeaker with you if you move. A traditional whole-house system is connected to a bunch of wiring and installed in large drywall openings, so it pretty much has to stay with the house.

• A LightSpeaker brings audio to areas previously inaccessible—pretty much wherever you have a light bulb socket you can use a LightSpeaker. However, it is not recommended for areas with high moisture, i.e. above a shower or in a sauna.

Is there a LightSpeaker with an LED light only without a speaker for aesthetic purposes?
The LightSpeaker is currently available only as a combination light and speaker.

Can I turn off the light on LightSpeaker system without turning off the speakers?
You can fully dim or turn off a zone of lights with the button on the remote or transmitter and the speakers will still work. However, neither the speaker nor light will work without the actual light switch on.

Learn everything you ever wanted to know about our flagship headphones.

Will the Image X10i work with any cell phone?
The Image X10i is designed to work seamlessly with the iPhone 3GS. It will work with the iPhone 3G and first generation iPhone, but with limited functionality. Because the X10i features an Apple chip, we cannot guarantee what level of functionality it will have with other cell phone brands. 

Why is it beneficial for the Image X10i headset to be small and light?
First of all, your ear is a sensitive area; the lighter the headphone the better, as it puts less pressure on the ear canal, resulting in extreme comfort. Secondly, the X10i’s small size allows it to automatically adjust to the center of the ear canal, meaning users can easily insert and remove the headphones, as well as find the perfect seal. Thirdly, its compact dimensions make toting it around virtually hassle-free.

What makes the Image X10i so comfortable?
Unlike other in-ear designs on the market, our patented oval ear tips are anatomically shaped to accurately fit inside the human ear canal. These soft, flexible silicon tips reduce ear fatigue and provide excellent noise isolation for superior audio performance.

Why should I choose an in-ear design over a traditional on-ear model?
First of all, the music source is closer to your ear drum, which in turn, makes the sound more accurate. Secondly, your ear lobes won’t get hot and sweaty after hours of use. Not to mention, in-ear designs won’t mess up your hair.

Are in-ear headphone designs bad for your hearing?
Anytime you put something in your ear or listen to loud music, there is a health risk involved. However, when you wear an in-ear design with a good seal, you typically don’t have to turn up the volume as much because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise.

These headphones are too loud and my ears are ringing! What should I do?
You have your volume set too high. These products offer a far higher quality of sound than most people expect from headphones, and you might not always realize that you are listening too loud.

Why am I not getting enough bass response?
It’s probably because you don’t have a good ear seal. Be sure to try out the various ear tip sizes, as you may find that you need the double flange design for the best possible seal. You may also want to try pulling the ear tip out slightly, as it may have collapsed.

What is a full-range acoustic experience?
It’s the perfect acoustic situation where a listener gets a true-to-life sound experience with crisp highs and deep lows.

How do I know if I have a good seal?
When no music is playing, your voice should sound louder and ambient noise should sound quieter, very similar to wearing a pair of ear plugs. Creating a tighter seal is simple. Insert the ear tip into the ear canal and then gently pull it back. This adjustment eliminates virtually all external noise so you can play your music at a lower volume, for a longer period of time, without experiencing ear fatigue.

What is a balanced armature speaker?
A balanced armature is the tiny specialized speaker that’s inside your headphones. You have one for each ear and they turn electrical signals into acoustical sound waves. Like a traditional speaker, an armature features an internal diaphragm that’s driven by an electromagnetic motor system to produce sound. Armature benefits include: smaller size, higher output, extended frequency response and improved high frequency detail compared to a traditional moving coil speaker.

Why are Image ear tips oval-shaped instead of round?
When Klipsch started studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. The company couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones. Aside from their comfort value, our oval ear tips load quickly and easily into the ear canals as well as virtually disappear from view.

Why does the Image X10i come with a variety of ear tip sizes?
Ear canal measurements vary. Therefore, the X10i comes with five different-sized pairs of ear tips: small, medium, and large single flange designs as well as small and large double flange designs. Such variety allows Klipsch to fit more of the population than its competition.

How do I know which ear tip size is right for me?
We recommend trying on various sizes. The tip that offers the most comfort and the best ear seal is the right one for you. You may even find that using a different size tip in each ear is the best option.

Will the ear tips get stuck in my ears?
While we can’t guarantee this will not happen, Klipsch’s patent-pending earphone nozzles are designed with mechanical retention rings to help reduce the chance of the tips getting lodged in the ear canal. However, make sure that the ear tip is fully seated on the nozzle and that the ring is engaged by pulling on the ear tip before inserting into your ear. If it comes off easily, then it is not positioned properly.

What if I lose or damage my ear tips?
You can purchase ear tip replacements from the klipsch.com web store.

What if my ears are wax magnets?
If used regularly, it is natural for you to experience wax buildup in the ear gels. The X10i comes with an ear tip cleaning tool that easily removes wax buildup from the ear tip’s acoustic opening. Plus, you can clean the exterior of the silicon ear tip with rubbing alcohol.

How durable are Image headphones?
Klipsch put the Image X10i through extensive “real world” testing to ensure long-lasting durability. You’ll find reliable strain relief at every cable connection point to help prevent wire damage. Furthermore, Image’s sleek, streamlined black “tail” reduces cable stress and strain, as well as serves as an acoustic dampener that minimizes cable noise. However, cable wear occurs over time, so you should always take special care of your headphones.

Will I still be able to hear my music if I'm on a noisy bus, train or plane?
Yes, that is the best reason to use our noise-isolation headphones. Keep in mind though; you must have a good seal. By inserting Image earphones properly, you’ll easily be able to tune out screaming children, brake sounds, tire squeals, and engine roars. You CHOOSE your audio environment.

What compression format should I use to get the most from my X10i?
When it comes to the superior delivery of your digital music, the compression format you choose to import your songs makes a huge difference—especially when you listen with high-end headphones. The more compression, the more sound quality is lost. In iTunes, you can select between five different compression encoders when ripping music files from your CD collection: AAC, AIFF, Apple Lossless, MP3 and WAV. Which is best?

If you’re into serious listening and want the full impact of the X10i’s performance prowess, you’ll need to select a WAV, AIFF or Apple Lossless format for your music. While WAV and AIFF are raw audio files from CDs in computer-readable formats, Apple Lossless preserves a CD’s original quality, while cutting its size in half. You might compare this lossless encoding to a zip file: smaller than the original, but with no data loss. Keep in mind that these three formats take up a lot more file space than the standard AAC and MP3 encodings. In other words, you’ll get fewer songs on your iPod or other device, but they’ll be delivered at a much higher quality.

Another thing to consider when choosing these compression formats is that only iTunes and the iPod can support Apple Lossless files and just about every other piece of music-playing software will be able to play WAV files. AIFF files are specific to Macs, so if you are planning to listen to music on a PC, WAV is your best choice.

Because they sound pretty good and achieve the best compression of the five formats, most iPod users choose between AAC and MP3. AAC, or advanced audio coding, is the standard default on iTunes. When compared to an MP3 format, AAC gives better sound at the same bit rate. However, only iTunes and the iPod can support AAC; MP3s can be played on just about every digital music player.

PC users can make their compression selection in iTunes by going to the edit drop-down box, selecting preferences and then clicking on the importing tab. Mac users can go to the iTunes drop-down box, select their preferences, then click on the importing tab.

How does bit rate influence Image sound performance?
The second variable to consider when trying to get the best sound performance out of your digital music files is “bit rate.” Bit rate refers to the rate that data is flowing in bits per second. The greater the bit rate, the more data is played back every second.

Most often, files are compressed to 128 kbps, 160 kbps or 192 kbps. The standard bit rate default in iTunes is 128 kbps, but you can customize your rate to go as high as 320 kbps (you make your bit rate selection when choosing your compression format). Kbps means kilobits per second—the higher the number, the better the sound and the more space a music file will consume on your computer or iPod. Conversely, the lower the number, the lower quality of audio will be and the less file space you’ll take up.

To give you an example of how bit rates works, a 4-minute song requires about 3.7 MB of iPod/hard disk space at 128 kbps and about 4.7 MB at 160 kbps. If you go to 192 kbps, you’d have a 5.6 MB file, and file sizes increase accordingly each time you move to a higher bit rate.

You may find that your music sounds fine at the 128 kbps rate, but if you want true audiophile-quality sound to fully appreciate your Klipsch Image headphones, you should go to a 192 kbps or 256 kbps rate. Bit rate and file size don’t usually pose a problem unless you have tons of music and want to fit it all on your iPod. That’s when you have to make a choice: better sound quality and fewer songs, or lower sound quality and more songs.

When it comes to comfortable listening, no one beats Klipsch. While we take sound performance very seriously, it doesn’t matter how great a pair of headphones sound if they are painful to wear.

Before Klipsch entered the headphone market in 2007, its engineering team closely studied three-dimensional ear impressions. Much to their surprise, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. The company couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones. 

You’ll find that every single Klipsch headphone model uses the company’s patented oval ear tips. Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch’s ear tips naturally fit the contours—or mimic the shape—of your ear canals.

Oval Ear Tip Benefits:

- Amazing fit eliminates listener fatigue
- Virtually impossible to feel inside your ears
- Superior noise isolation provides excellent bass response
- Good seal dramatically reduces external noise 
- Loads quickly into the ear canal and virtually disappears from view
 

Speaker company adds sleek new finish option to top-selling personal audio products

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (January 5, 2010) — Klipsch has found overwhelming success with its Image S4 and S4i noise-isolating in-ear headphones. As a result, the premium speaker company will soon introduce a sleek new color scheme for these award-winning products.

While the S4 and S4i are currently available in high-gloss black with silver accents, they will also sport a pristine white finish with silver and black accents next month. “These headphones are in such high demand that we thought a new exciting color option would further broaden their appeal,” said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of product development for personal audio.

The Image S4, which launched in June 2009, has received continuous praise from reviewers and consumers alike for its comfortable, long-term wear and stellar sound performance that rivals much more expensive earbuds. In July 2009, Klipsch introduced the Image S4i, which is just like the S4 only it features an advanced three-button mic and remote system to take phone calls and control music.

Consumers will not have to pay a premium for the new white finish. The Image S4 and S4i will remain at $79.99 and $99.99 respectively.

Image X10i headset augments X10 headphones by taking calls and offering iPod/iPhone control

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (January 5, 2010) — Klipsch made a huge statement in 2007 when it entered the headphone market with its tiny Image X10, an ultra lightweight in-ear design that’s been praised for its unequaled comfort and sound quality. Today, the company is adding a mic and remote to these award-winning, luxury headphones and calling it the Image X10i.

According to Don Inmon, Klipsch director of product development for personal audio, the company’s new flagship X10i is designed for the iPhone 3GS, iPod touch and iPod. It offers the absolute best in style, sound, comfort and fit.

“The X10i is free of compromise at every level,” he said. “We had great success with our X10 in-ear headphones, so it made perfect sense to evolve the product and start catering to discriminating, on-the-go users who are constantly listening to music and taking phone calls.”

While the Image X10i serves as a great pair of premium headphones for any device with a 3.5 mm headphone jack, its advanced mic and three-button remote seamlessly handles the voice and/or music control of the following Apple products: iPhone 3GS, third generation iPod shuffle, second generation iPod touch, fourth and fifth generation iPod nano models and the iPod classic 120GB. If you have an iPod touch or iPhone and Wi-Fi access, you can also use the X10i with VOIP (need an adapter for PC or Mac), Skype and iChat.

The X10i positions its in-line mic and remote at the yoke—where the two cables meet at chest level—to create a more natural feel when answering calls and controlling music. Because the microphone is a highly intelligible 360-degree design, you don’t have to talk down into it or hold it close to your mouth. The microphone also features echo cancellation, which keeps it from picking up surrounding noise.

Like all Klipsch headphones, the Image X10i utilizes the company’s patented oval ear tips for comfortable long-term wear, superior noise isolation and excellent bass. Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, these soft exclusive ear tips naturally fit the contours of the ear canals. “Almost everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal, so we wanted our products to be as anatomically correct as possible,” noted Inmon. “Once you have the right fit and seal, these headsets are virtually impossible to feel.”

Inside each of the X10i’s machined aluminum bodies finished in anodized copper, you’ll find an exclusive full-range armature micro-speaker with a tuned bass-reflex system for lifelike dynamics, sonic clarity and booming bass. “The X10i is not intended for casual listening,” said Inmon. “If you rip your digital music files using a poor compression format and low bit rate, this high-resolution Klipsch headset will uncover all the flaws in your content.”

Slated to launch next month, the Image X10i will be sold at klipsch.com and select retail locations for $349.99 (U.S. MSRP). It includes a two-year warranty, five pairs of different-sized ear tips, a protective carrying pouch, air plane and 1/4-inch jack adaptors, a clothing clip and an ear tip cleaning tool.
 

Energy-saving product uniquely combines brilliant LED lighting and wireless ambient sound

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (January 5, 2010) — Klipsch, a leading global speaker manufacturer, has been named the U.S. distributor and licensee of what is possibly the most innovative design to hit the audio industry in recent years. Winner of a 2010 CES Innovations Award, the patented Klipsch® LightSpeaker®, developed by Kadence Designs LLC., is the first product to combine efficient LED lighting and wireless ambient sound into a single unit that installs like a light bulb. 

“Today’s consumers are overloaded with complex technologies, and the LightSpeaker is designed to enrich their lives without complication,” said Klipsch president Paul Jacobs. It offers brilliant light, reduces energy costs and creates a multi-room ambient music system in mere minutes. There’s no wiring, no retrofitting and no software to deal with.”

The LightSpeaker, which comes complete with a dimmable LED bulb and full-range speaker, fits 5- and 6-inch recessed light fixtures with a standard Edison socket. Upcoming accessories will allow the LightSpeaker to accommodate hanging light fixtures as well as floor and table lamps.

The speaker uses a 20 watt high-performance, low-distortion digital amplifier to deliver energy efficient sound. Furthermore, the LightSpeaker’s 2.5-inch wide dispersion driver uses digital signal processing to optimize high- and low-frequency output for a full spectrum of sound.

In order to deliver music wirelessly, the LightSpeaker relies on a standalone transmitter. A music source, such as a laptop, iPod or CD player, connects to the transmitter and it wirelessly sends the sound to the LightSpeaker. The transmitter’s 2.4GHz wireless technology accommodates up to eight LightSpeakers, equaling stereo sound in multiple rooms. You can connect two music sources to the transmitter, as well as establish two separate listening zones. The transmitter or remote will control the sources, zones, lighting levels and volume.

The LED bulb is rated for 40,000 hours of use and can last over 15 years. It also reduces daily lighting expenses by 80 percent, using 10 watts to produce light that’s bright enough to replace up to a 65 watt bulb. Unlike incandescent bulbs, the LightSpeaker LED bulb contains no mercury or halogen gases and produces almost no heat.

Ed Haase, president of Kadence Designs and acoustics engineer by trade, led the team responsible for developing the LightSpeaker. “We chose Klipsch to be our U.S. distributor because it’s a name in audio you can trust,” he says. “The brand has been around for over 60 years and finds continuous success because of its commitment to innovation and quality.”

According to Jacobs, Klipsch is completely thrilled about this opportunity. “The LightSpeaker is just an amazing product,” he notes. “It’s also exciting to work with Ed because he’s considered a legend in the custom installation business, having been one of the original co-founders of SpeakerCraft.”

A bundled package, consisting of two LightSpeakers, a transmitter, radio frequency remote, mini jack to RCA plug cable, lenses and trim, retails for $599. Single LightSpeakers are also available for $249 each. Klipsch will begin selling the LightSpeaker on klipsch.com later this month, with broader distribution slated for March.

“A LightSpeaker package eventually pays for itself, through savings on professional installation, separate audio components and energy consumption,” concluded Jacobs. “Plus you can take it with you if you move.”

Headphones and iPod speakers await the biggest names in music at The Luxury Lounge®

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 16, 2009) — Backstage retreats are common at major awards ceremonies. They let celebrities break from event preparation and check out the hottest new consumer products. At this year’s American Music Awards, top-name artists and entertainment industry elite will get to experience Klipsch premium speakers inside The Luxury Lounge, located backstage at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

Starting Thursday, November 19 and continuing until the American Music Awards broadcast live on Sunday, November 22, Luxury Lounge guests will get to hear Klipsch’s Palladium P-39F floorstander, a high-end luxury speaker that has been dubbed “A BMW for Your Room.” Plus, lucky VIPs will get to take home their choice of a Klipsch Image S4i in-ear headset or iGroove® SXT iPod speaker.

Made for the iPhone 3GS and iPod models with VoiceOver technology, the Image S4i in-ear headset offers powerful sound, unbeatable comfort, full music control and highly intelligible phone calls. Thanks to its advanced three-button mic and remote system, which Klipsch designed in conjunction with Apple, the Image S4i is the first third-party headset to offer full control of iPhone, iPod touch and iPod music and video content. It also features patented oval ear tips that naturally fit the contours of the ear canals, providing a secure fit and comfortable long-term wear. With these tips, users also get superior noise isolation, a characteristic that lets them enjoy music at lower, safer volumes, as well as achieve excellent bass response.

The iGroove SXT is Klipsch’s smallest and most affordable iPod speaker to date, yet it still fills a room with larger-than-life sound performance. It accomodates all of the newer iPod and iPhone models, including the iPhone 3GS. The iGroove SXT is a true stereo sound system that employs dual woofers in a ported enclosure and dual horn-loaded tweeters. The horns dramatically increase efficiency, which is important because it enables the iGroove to produce more output using less energy. This improves reliability and reduces distortion, so listeners hear exactly what the artist or director intended.

Nominees for the 2009 American Music Awards include Eminem, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, The Black Eyed Peas, Rascal Flatts, Jamie Foxx, Taylor Swift and Kings of Leon. Performers at the evening’s event include Kelly Clarkson, Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, Shakira, Jennifer Lopez and Carrie Underwood.

Klipsch is no stranger to star-studded events. Company chairman Judy Klipsch, along with event marketing company Explicit Events, has been devoted to creating buzz and awareness for Klipsch speakers by connecting the brand with celebrities at major events, including Sundance, the Academy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards and now The American Music Awards. Not only is she putting Klipsch premium sound solutions in the hands and homes of key influencers, she is also educating them on the importance of high performance sound, successfully turning them into Klipsch brand ambassadors.

About Explicit Events & Marketing, LLC
Explicit Events and Marketing (EEM) is an L.A.-based firm that uses unique entertainment-based initiatives to generate consumer interest in brands through event production, strategic partnership and sponsorship acquisition. Projects are executed efficiently and consistently, resulting in celebrity and tastemaker support, media placements, and end-user awareness. EEM can develop full entertainment marketing strategies or supplement an existing marketing plan by utilizing key relationships. For more information, email EEM at info@explicitevents.com.

About Klipsch®
For over 60 years, Klipsch has put its heart and soul into designing premium speakers that cater to those who are passionate about great sound. At the core of the brand’s success is a rebellious spirit mixed with a good dose of tenacity. Company founder Paul W. Klipsch started this legacy in 1946, and it continues today with owners Fred and Judy Klipsch.

For 20 years, Fred and Judy Klipsch have worked hard to maintain the family-owned company’s rich heritage, while also staying committed to innovation and delivering the world’s most powerful, detailed and emotional sound reproduction. From affordable, state-of-the-art high-definition 5.1 surround sound to luxury high-end speakers, and from tiny dynamic headphones to massive professional cinema systems, Klipsch has a premium product for every lifestyle, application and budget.

CEA honors in-ear headset that offers full music and voice control of iPhone 3GS and more

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 16, 2009) — The Klipsch® Image S4i in-ear headset has been named an honoree in the International CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Awards program for being one of the most impressive headphones on the market. It also marks the 24th time Klipsch has been named an Innovations honoree for its premium sound since 1999.

Products entered into this awards program are judged by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and media representatives to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting-edge consumer electronics products across 36 product categories. Entries are judged based on the following criteria: engineering and aesthetic design qualities, user value, unique features and how the product compares to others in the marketplace.

Intended for use with the iPhone 3GS and iPod models featuring VoiceOver technology, Klipsch designed its $99.99 Image S4i in-ear headset to offer premium sound at an affordable price point, unbeatable comfort, full music control and highly intelligible phone calls.

Thanks to its advanced 3-button mic and remote system, which Klipsch designed in conjunction with Apple, the Image S4i is the first third-party headset to offer full control of your iPhone, iPod touch and iPod music and video content.

Another major advantage the S4i has over competitive designs is its patented oval ear tips, which provide comfortable long-term wear. Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch’s oval ear tips naturally fit the contours of the ear canals. These ear tips also offer superior passive noise-cancellation, blocking out almost all ambient noise and providing excellent bass.

The prestigious Innovations Design and Engineering Awards have been recognizing achievements in product design and engineering since 1976. It is sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)®, the producer of the International CES, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, and endorsed by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the voice of industrial design, committed to advancing the profession through education, information, community and advocacy.

The Klipsch Image S4i will be displayed at the 2010 International CES, which runs January 7-10, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase will feature honorees by product category in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center and will also be featured at CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of the International CES on Tuesday, January 5.

Get the skinny on our latest computer speakers

How is the new ProMedia 2.1 considered wireless when I have to use wire to connect the speakers to the subwoofer and then plug it in?

There are many misconceptions about wireless audio. Often, when people see the words “wireless” and “speakers” together, they assume the entire sound system is wire and cable free. However, no such speaker system exists—unless it runs off of batteries. Speakers need a power source to drive them and that source needs to connect to electricity.

With the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless, the subwoofer is the power source. This heavy-hitter plugs into a wall outlet and the two speakers connect to it via wires. Wireless, in the case of the ProMedia, means no wires attach to the computer. This allows users to move their laptops freely around the room without ever losing their 2.1 sound.

How do I re-sync the ProMedia with its wireless transmitter?

The ProMedia and USB wireless transmitter are synced together when they leave the factory. It’s very rare they would ever become un-synced. However, should it happen, there is a button on the subwoofer and a button on the transmitter that you push to get them in tune again.

I hooked up my ProMedia 2.1 Wireless and don't get any sound?

Make sure your media player software, such as iTunes or Windows Media Player, is not running when you plug in the wireless transmitter.  Once your speakers are synced with the transmitter, launch your media player.

If trouble persists, try resetting the connection by pushing the "sync" button on the back of the subwoofer, then the button on the wireless transmitter.

You may be experiencing frequency interference from your wireless router.  You can change the router's frequency with the software provided with the router.

What type of software do I need for the ProMedia Wireless 2.1?

No software is needed. The ProMedia 2.1 Wireless is a plug-and-play design that uses an RF transmitter to send the sound signal from the computer to the ProMedia subwoofer.

Will the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless hook into my wireless internet at home?

No, because it is not a network-based system.

How do I use Apple’s Remote Application with the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless?

First you need to download Apple’s Remote Application to your iPhone or iPod Touch, and then you need a Wi-Fi connection at home. With that, you can use the iPhone or iPod Touch to wirelessly control the iTunes on your computer. The iPhone and iPod Touch do not control the speakers.

Can I use the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless with different wireless speakers?

No, the USB wireless transmitter that comes with the system only syncs with the ProMedia subwoofer.

Can I “retro-fit” my original ProMedia to have wireless capabilities?

No, you cannot alter your old system to work like the new wireless version.

Where can I purchase the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless?

The ProMedia 2.1 can only be purchased by U.S. residents on klipsch.com. The company’s web store is not set up to accommodate international orders at this time.

Will the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless work with gaming systems?

No, the system does not work with the USB output on gaming systems. 

New twist on award-winning system conveniently brings better sound to laptop and notebook users

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 3, 2009) — Today more and more people use laptops and notebooks to listen to music, watch movies and play games. And surprisingly enough, many of them will accept their computer’s poor sound performance just to stay mobile. But now they don’t have to thanks to the wireless technology Klipsch has added to its ProMedia 2.1 computer speakers.

The original ProMedia 2.1 system was introduced in 2000, and over the years it has become one of the highest praised, best-selling products Klipsch has ever produced. But given the increase in laptop and notebook usage, company officials decided to put a fresh spin on the classic setup by introducing a wireless version.

The new ProMedia 2.1 Wireless looks and sounds like the THX®-certified original, only the Klipsch logos are silver instead of copper. “The ProMedia is still the defacto 2.1 standard for computer speakers. It’s been known to put some home stereo systems to shame, and we want to keep it that way—with or without wires,” said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of product development for personal audio.

The real difference between the two designs lies within a USB wireless transmitter that plugs into the computer’s USB port. “Only a few simple steps are required to get the ProMedia Wireless up and running. Just plug, play and enjoy the full sonic impact of your music, movies and games without being tied down,” said Inmon. “No router or installation software is needed.”

Inmon, however, notes the misconception that many consumers have about wireless audio. Often times, when people see the words “wireless” and “speakers” together, they assume the entire sound system is wire and cable free. However, no such speaker system exists—unless it runs off of batteries. “Speakers need a power source to drive them and that source needs to connect to electricity,” he says.

With the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless, the subwoofer is the power source. This heavy-hitter plugs into a wall outlet and the two speakers connect to it via wires. Wireless, in the case of the ProMedia, means no wires attach to the computer. This allows users to move their laptops freely around the room without ever losing their 2.1 sound. The ProMedia and computer wirelessly connect via the USB wireless transmitter.

The wireless range of the ProMedia spans approximately 30 feet in a single room. The system is perfect for dorm rooms, offices, bedrooms and family rooms—really wherever people use their laptops and notebooks the most. ProMedia 2.1 Wireless owners with a Wi-Fi connection and an iPhone or iPod Touch can use Apple’s Remote Application to control their iTunes from anywhere in the house covered by Wi-Fi.

Technical Information:

The two-way ProMedia speakers are driven by exclusive MicroTractrix Horns that cleanly and accurately handle the high frequencies, creating a precise image and soundstage. Each speaker employs a 3-inch fiber-composite cone driver for smooth mid-bass reproduction. A preamplifier control pod, which features separate main volume and subwoofer level controls, a headphone jack and the miniplug input, is located on one of the speakers. Each speaker comes with a self-supporting pedestal, but Klipsch also sells adjustable WB-1 wall brackets through its online store for $21.99 a pair.

The high-output, low distortion subwoofer is a bass-reflex type with a flared, tuned front port and 6.5-inch side-firing driver. The 200-watt amplifier housed inside the subwoofer enclosure ensures that the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless can deliver superior sound over conventional multimedia systems.

Pricing and Availability:

Priced at $199, the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless is available exclusively at klipsch.com and only to U.S. consumers. The original ProMedia, which retails for $149.99, is available at Best Buy and klipsch.com.

Enhancements include WWi certification, bi-amplification and rapid 100mA charge circuit

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (August 31, 2009) — Klipsch has refreshed its popular pint-sized iGroove™ SXT docking speaker system, which originally launched in 2007, so that it will accommodate all of the newer iPod and iPhone models, including the latest iPhone 3G S, and perform better than ever. 

“The iGroove SXT has always been our smallest, most affordable dock speaker,” said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of marketing and product development for personal audio. “And even with all its new updates, we’re keeping the original system price of $149.99. I think consumers will be really pleased with the results.”

Like the original, the refreshed iGroove SXT is a true stereo sound system that employs dual long-throw 2.5-inch woofers in a ported enclosure and dual ¾-inch horn-loaded tweeters. However, the SXT is now bi-amplified, which means each driver is individually amplified, a feature that virtually eliminates distortion and significantly improves sonic performance. Klipsch has also re-tuned the bass ports on the sides of the system to remove any “port noise.”

The latest iGroove SXT accepts and charges any iPod with a 30-pin connector and has passed Apple’s “Works with iPhone” certification. When a system is “WWi,” it means that it has gone through cell phone radiation testing, certifying that a minimal amount of phone-related noise is audible.

The shuffle and other digital devices connect via a rear auxiliary input, while an S-video output lets users view videos on their TV. Klipsch has even added a 1000mA rapid charge circuit to the system, allowing users to quickly recharge their iPod, iPod touch or iPhone. According to Inmon, Klipsch is the first iPod speaker dock on the market to include this feature.

Available in a black finish with a silver trim and black cloth grille, the iGroove SXT fits comfortably into any office or living environment and comes with an IR remote. The iGroove SXT is currently available at Best Buy and will be sold through klipsch.com and other retail locations in September.

Latest Quintet™ home theater system will continue to raise the bar with new look and technology

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (August 14, 2009) — Introduced in 1998, the Klipsch® Quintet™ home theater system helped set the standard for big sound from small speakers. The company is now introducing a fourth-generation Quintet that features a fresh look and new horn-loaded technology, while keeping the same $900 price tag as the original when paired with the new, matching Klipsch SW-350 subwoofer. 

“The Quintet is our best-selling surround sound setup of all time,” said Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch. “Since its inception, it has always been the biggest sounding small system on the market.”

As with all previous Quintet designs, the new system consists of four speakers for main channel and surround sound use and a video-shielded center channel. Sold separately, the SW-350 subwoofer, which employs a high-output 8-inch driver, perfectly anchors the Quintet setup—making it a complete 5.1 system.

The speakers and center channel feature thick ABS enclosures that minimize vibration, so there’s no interference with the sound emanating from the drivers. Furthermore, the speakers’ elliptical shape and the center channel’s semi-circular shape increase cabinet rigidity and minimize resonance.

The rear tuned-flared port on each speaker and center channel ensures that all available driver energy converts to acoustical output for maximum bass efficiency and dynamic range. The port also reduces audible turbulence for higher clarity and fidelity.

When it comes to high-frequency components, the speakers and center channel employ lightweight, aluminum tweeters mated to Klipsch’s newest generation XT MicroTractrix™ Horns, as well as compact neodymium magnet motor structures. This latest horn design offers greater detail, a smoother response and a wider soundstage. “The Quintet is the first product at this price point to incorporate the XT design,” said Casavant. “It is a proprietary technology that allows us to generate classic Klipsch performance from smaller cabinets.”

Each speaker and center channel’s low-frequency response is handled by 3.5-inch woofers made of injection molded graphite, or IMG, polypropylene that yields top-end clarity and mid-bass definition. 

The Quintet’s phase-coherent crossover design ensures more dynamic impact then competitive designs. It also establishes extended listening at higher volumes, with even greater vocal clarity and detail.

Instead of spring-loaded speaker terminals that are commonly used on similar priced systems, the Quintet features high-quality binding posts that accept heavy gauge wire, spade connectors or banana plugs.

Each speaker incorporates a unique swiveling pedestal base, allowing it to also serve as a wall bracket. The base also features improved wire management for on-wall applications. Simply feed the speaker wires through the small hole that’s located on the base for a clean, discreet installation. The center channel wall mounts by fastening a compatible aftermarket wall bracket to its ¼”-20 threaded insert.

Regardless of where you put it, the Quintet has a clean, modern appearance that blends nicely with any décor. It features a satin black finish and black cloth grilles—a color scheme that also complements today’s HDTVs.

“Like every Klipsch product ever built, the new Quintet is designed to convey the power, detail and emotion of all types of music, movies and video games,” noted Casavant. “Our products deliver performances that are as close to a live event as you can get.”

The four Quintet speakers and center channel are packaged and sold together as a five-channel setup for $549.99. The recommended SW-350 subwoofer retails for $349.99.

Exclusive oval ear tips help S2 preserve hearing and outperform stock earbuds

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 30, 2009) — Imagine yourself on a loud, crowded bus or a stuffy airplane full of chitchat and all you want to do is phase out the public and tune into your own private world. The new Image S2 in-ear headphones from Klipsch are designed to make that vision an affordable, comfortable and safe reality.

The Image S2, priced at $49.99, is the company’s most affordable pair of headphones to date, with the most expensive design being $349.99. But what’s cool is that the S2 uses the same proprietary oval ear tips as its pricier predecessors, continuing the company’s extreme comfort with superior noise isolation story.

“People have less discretionary income these days. Therefore, we felt it was necessary to develop reasonably priced, high-performance headphones that go above and beyond what you’d expect from the stock earbuds that come with your MP3 player,” said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of marketing and product development for personal audio.

Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch’s patent-pending oval ear tips naturally fit the contours of your ear canals, providing comfortable long-term wear. These ear tips also offer superior passive noise-cancellation, blocking out almost all ambient noise and providing excellent bass.

“Once you have the right fit and seal, these headphones are virtually impossible to feel—letting you listen longer and better,” said Mark Blanchard, senior acoustic design engineer for Klipsch and inventor of the company’s oval ear tips. “When we began studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. We couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones.”

Blanchard also mentioned that when you wear Klipsch headphones, you don’t need to turn up the volume as loud because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise—a feature that could definitely help preserve your hearing.

The Image S2 is a moving coil design with controlled damping, allowing it to deliver smooth, full-bodied sound that is similar to a balanced armature. From heart-pounding bass to spine-tingling guitar riffs, the S2 delivers strikingly realistic sound through the use of a customized 5.8 mm moving coil driver in each ear piece. According to Inmon, these drivers, which were optimized by the Klipsch engineering team, dig deep into the musical spectrum with a level of dynamic detail that many loudspeakers can’t produce.

“We’ve been in the audio business for over 60 years and are continuously finding ways to value engineer our products without compromising our audiophile heritage,” said Inmon. “And our S2 is no exception—it is a superior performer at an everyday price point.”

The Image S2 features a piano black finish and includes three different-sized oval ear tips (small, medium and large) and a cloth “Snap-tite” carrying pouch. It carries a two-year warranty and works with the iPod, iPhone and other portable devices that feature a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. It will be available for purchase at klipsch.com, Amazon and InMotion in August.

Company takes performance and comfort of headphones a step further with in-line microphone

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 30, 2009) — It’s great that today’s phones let you enjoy your digital music files while on the go. But if you’re listening through standard headphones and a call comes in, you probably have to fiddle around before you can answer. The new Image S2m in-ear headset from Klipsch easily solves that problem.

“Not only do you get our stunningly precise sound and stellar comfort with the S2m, this affordable headset simplifies busy on-the-go lifestyles—you can take calls while commuting or exercising without skipping a beat,” said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of marketing and product development for personal audio. “And with Wi-Fi access, you can even use the S2m to place free Skype calls—a really great benefit for iPhone and iPod touch users.”

Compatible with virtually all phones that have a 3.5 mm headphone jack, the Image S2m features a compact in-line microphone that lets you answer or end calls with the touch of a button. Furthermore, the microphone has amazing intelligibility, so it easily picks up your voice without having to talk directly into it.

Durability is a major concern when it comes to headphone and headset cables; therefore, Klipsch has gone to great lengths to ensure the S2m cables are robust as well as discreet. The company has added appropriate strain relief at every cable connection point to help prevent wire damage, while also putting them through extensive “real world” testing. And because many phones have side-mounted headphone jacks, the S2m employs a right-angled plug that swivels to avoid the damage that’s often associated with straight plug designs. It’s also a feature that lets your phone fit comfortably in your pocket.

The Image S2m utilizes the company’s exclusive oval ear tips that provide comfortable long-term wear. Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch’s oval ear tips naturally fit the contours of the ear canals. These ear tips also offer superior passive noise-cancellation, blocking out almost all ambient noise and providing excellent bass.

“Once you have the right fit and seal, these headsets are virtually impossible to feel,” said Mark Blanchard, senior acoustic design engineer for Klipsch and inventor of the company’s oval ear tips. “When we began studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. We couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones.”

Blanchard also mentioned that when you wear Klipsch headphones or headsets, you don’t need to turn up the volume as loud because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise—a feature that could definitely help preserve your hearing.

From heart-pounding bass to spine-tingling guitar riffs, the S2m delivers strikingly realistic sound through the use of a customized 5.8 mm moving coil driver in each ear piece. According to Inmon, these drivers, which were optimized by the Klipsch engineering team, dig deep into the musical spectrum with a level of dynamic detail that many loudspeakers can’t produce.

Available in a piano black finish, the Image S2m comes with a two-year warranty and includes a cloth carrying pouch as well as small, medium and large ear tips. Priced at $59.99 (U.S. MSRP), the S2m will be available for purchase at klipsch.com, InMotion and Amazon in August.

Find out everything you ever wanted to know about our in-ear headsets.

Will the Image S4i work with any cell phone?
The Image S4i is designed to work seamlessly with the iPhone 3GS. It will work with the iPhone 3G and first generation iPhone, but with limited functionality. The S4i’s volume up and down feature will not work on these older products. Because the S4i features an Apple chip, we cannot guarantee what level of functionality it will have with other cell phone brands.  

Does the Image S2m work with all cell phones?
The Image S2m is compatible with virtually all phones that have a 3.5 mm headphone jack. Consult your cell phone owner’s manual for compatibility.

What makes the Image S4i so unique?
The Image S4i is one of the first third party headphones to feature Apple’s advanced three-button microphone and remote system; technology that handles the voice and/or music control of the iPhone 3GS, third generation iPod shuffle, second generation iPod touch, fourth generation iPod nano and the iPod classic 120GB. The remote is also among the first to be fully compatible with the VoiceOver feature on the latest iPod shuffle, letting you hear the name of the playlist, song or artist with the press of a button. 

Why is Image S4i mic and remote located at the yoke of the cable?
This is a unique trait that puts the mic and remote at chest level, creating a more natural feel when answering calls and controlling music. 

When taking calls do I have to talk directly into the microphone?
No. Both the S4i and S2m microphones have amazing intelligibility, which allows you to speak as if you are having a face-to-face conversation. Plus, the S4i offers echo cancellation, which keeps the headset from picking up the external noise around you.

Why does the Image S2m have a right-angled plug?
Because many phones have side-mounted headphone jacks, the S2m employs a right-angled plug that swivels to avoid the damage that’s often associated with straight plug designs. It’s also a feature that lets your phone fit comfortably in your pocket.

What is the difference between the Image S4i and S2m sound performance?
The S4i employs exclusive dual-magnet micro-speakers. By giving these micro-speakers larger diaphragms, the S4i delivers more output as well as category-leading musical accuracy and bass response. Klipsch believes the S4i sounds better than most headphones within the $100 to $150 range.

The S2m delivers superior bass response when compared to other models within the same price range, while also combining comfort and style. Like all Klipsch headphones, the S2m solves two of the biggest issues with all in-ear designs: they are extremely comfortable and offer a good seal for superior noise isolation—you won’t find these attributes anywhere else in this price range.

What makes Image in-ear headsets so comfortable?
Unlike other in-ear designs on the market, our patent-pending oval ear tips are anatomically shaped to accurately fit inside the human ear canal. These soft silicon tips reduce ear fatigue and provide excellent noise isolation for superior audio performance.

Why are Image ear gels oval-shaped instead of round?
When Klipsch started studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. The company couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones. Aside from their comfort value, our oval ear tips load quickly and easily into the ear canals as well as virtually disappear from view.

Why should I choose an in-ear design over a traditional on-ear headphone?
First of all, the music source is closer to your ear drum, which in turn, makes the sound more accurate. Secondly, your ear lobes won’t get hot and sweaty after hours of use. Not to mention, in-ear designs won’t mess up your hair.

Are in-ear headphone designs bad for your hearing?
Anytime you put something in your ear or listen to loud music, there is a health risk involved. However, when you wear an in-ear design, such as the S4i or S2m, with a good seal, you typically don’t have to turn up the volume as much because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise.

These headphones are too loud and my ears are ringing! What should I do?
You have your volume set too high. These products offer a far higher quality of sound than most people expect from headphones, and you might not always realize that you are listening too loud.

Why am I not getting enough bass response?
It’s probably because you don’t have a good ear seal. Be sure to try out the various ear tip sizes. You may also want to try pulling the ear tip out slightly, as it may have collapsed.

How do I know if I have a good seal?
When no music is playing, your voice should sound louder and ambient noise should sound quieter, very similar to wearing a pair of ear plugs. Creating a tighter seal is simple. Insert the ear tip (while connected to the nozzle) into the ear canal, gently rotate it left and right and then slightly pull it back. This adjustment eliminates virtually all external noise so you can play your music at a lower volume, for a longer period of time, without experiencing ear fatigue.

Will I still be able to hear my music if I am traveling on a noisy bus or plane?
Yes, that is the best reason to use our noise-isolation headphones. Keep in mind though; you must have a good seal. By inserting Image S4i and S2m properly, you’ll easily be able to tune out screaming children, brake sounds, tire squeals, and engine roars. You CHOOSE your audio environment.

What if my ears are wax magnets?
If used regularly, it is natural for you to experience wax buildup in the ear tips. Image S4i comes with an ear tip cleaning tool that easily removes wax buildup from the ear tip’s acoustic opening. Plus, you can clean the exterior of the silicon ear tip with rubbing alcohol.

One of the first third party headphones with integrated microphone and remote

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 21, 2009) — Klipsch plans to re-define the music listening experience with its new Image S4i, an in-ear headset that combines the company’s acclaimed sound performance and amazing comfort value with a unique in-line microphone and remote. 

“Designed for iPhone and iPod users, the Image S4i is a breakthrough product that simplifies on-the-go lifestyles—you can take calls while commuting or exercising, as well as control your music library,” said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of marketing and product development for personal audio.

The Image S4i works seamlessly with the iPhone 3GS, third generation iPod shuffle, second generation iPod touch, fourth generation iPod nano and the iPod classic 120GB. The headset features Apple’s advanced three-button microphone and remote system that easily handles the voice and/or music control of these Apple products.

Furthermore, the S4i remote is among the first to be fully compatible with the Apple VoiceOver feature on the third generation iPod shuffle, which allows you to hear the name of the playlist, song or artist with just the press of a button.

According to Paul Jacobs, president and COO of Klipsch Group, Inc., when you combine Apple’s incredible products with our 63 years of experience in high-performance audio, you can expect one of the coolest, most advanced headset designs out there. “It’s definitely a platform that will dynamically change the music experience for our customers.”

Unlike most headsets, the S4i positions its in-line microphone and remote at the yoke—where the two cables meet at chest level—to create a more natural feel when answering calls and controlling music. Because the microphone is a highly intelligible 360-degree design, you don’t have to talk down into it; you can speak as if you’re having a face-to-face conversation. Additionally, the microphone features echo cancellation, which keeps it from picking up the external noise around you.

Because durability is a major concern when it comes to headphone and headset cables, Klipsch has gone to great lengths to ensure the S4i cables are a well-balanced combination of being robust as well as discreet. The company has added appropriate strain relief at every cable connection point to help prevent wire damage, while also putting them through extensive “real world” testing.

The Image S4i utilizes the company’s exclusive oval ear tips that provide comfortable long-term wear. Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch’s oval ear tips naturally fit the contours of the ear canals. These ear tips also offer superior passive noise-cancellation, blocking out almost all ambient noise and providing excellent bass.

“Once you have the right fit and seal, these headsets are virtually impossible to feel,” said Mark Blanchard, senior acoustic design engineer for Klipsch and inventor of the company’s oval ear tips. “When we began studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. We couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones.”

Blanchard also mentioned that when you wear Klipsch headphones or headsets, you don’t need to turn up the volume as loud because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise—a feature that could definitely help preserve your hearing.

The key to the S4i’s dynamic music performance is a moving coil micro-speaker with controlled damping, a feature that allows it to deliver smooth, full-bodied sound similar to a more expensive design. A dual neodymium magnet motor structure, in each of the 8.5 mm drivers, establishes the S4i’s damping characteristics. It’s a quality that allows kick drums to “attack” and Intermodulation distortion, or IMD, to be significantly reduced.

The Image S4i is available in two color options, either a piano black finish with silver accents or a pristine white finish with black and silver accents. It comes with a two-year warranty and includes a premium carrying pouch, four pairs of different-sized ear tips, an ear tip cleaning tool and a clothing clip. Priced at $99.99 (U.S. MSRP), the black S4i is available for purchase at klipsch.com and select Klipsch retailers, while the white version is available through Apple.

Premium speaker manufacturer redesigns site as part of new brand awareness campaign

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (June 17, 2009) — It’s no secret that Klipsch has been a trusted speaker brand among audiophiles and home theater aficionados for over 60 years. But as listening preferences continue to evolve, the company is taking new steps to gain “top-of-mind” awareness among the masses, which includes the launch of a new web site.

We’re on a mission to make sure everyone has Klipsch on the ‘tip of their tongue’ when looking for premium sound—whether it comes from our luxury speakers or affordable headphones,” said Jill Escol, Klipsch marketing team leader. “Overhauling our site is just one of several marketing initiatives we’re moving forward with. The site’s name is also transitioning from klipsch.com to klipschspeakers.com, so the average buyer can better identify with what we do.”*

If you’ve visited the web site before, you’ll immediately notice a visual difference. This new online destination positions Klipsch as a modern company with a proud and longstanding heritage. “We’ve incorporated a harmonious blend of new and old imagery to illustrate how the brand looks to the future with an eye for the past,” Escol said.

The site’s improved navigation makes product searches quick and simple. For the first time, in addition to sorting products by type, visitors can sort by room size and line. “Once people come to our site, we don’t want them to lose interest because it’s too difficult to find the information they need. Therefore, we put a lot of time and effort into making the site more efficient,” Escol noted.

Due to the increased interest in social media and networking, Klipsch has added new employee blogs, including one written by the company president, interactive contests as well as MySpace, Facebook and Twitter links to the site. Plus, the Klipsch forum, which started in 1999, is now stronger than ever. With over 35,000 members, this audio enthusiast community has become a popular destination for sharing information, trouble shooting as well as venting.

“Not only do we want to give our online visitors a backstage pass into the heart and soul of the Klipsch brand through social marketing, we want to constantly provide fresh content that keeps them coming back regularly,” Escol said.

She also mentioned that the timing of the site is perfect because Klipsch recently launched several new “recession proof” products that appeal to larger audiences, including the Image S4 headphones and HD Theater 500 and 300 surround sound systems. The company also plans to launch more items this summer.

*Typing in klipsch.com will still direct you to the site.

New home theater speakers equally combine aesthetic and technical brilliance for today’s listeners

INDIANAPOLIS (April 22, 2009) — Today’s sleek flat-panel televisions are challenging speaker manufacturers to develop modern, space-saving products that look as good as they sound. Klipsch has responded with its Icon W Series of slim, furniture-grade home theater speakers.

According to Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch, the Icon W Series targets a new demographic, one that places equal value on form and function. He believes these speakers represent an all-new level of sound and beauty for the company.

“Icon W is intended for consumers who buy with both their eyes and ears. When compared to traditional box products, these speakers are more refined, taking up less space yet still delivering the high-output, low-distortion sound Klipsch is known for,” claims Casavant.

Dramatically reducing a speaker’s enclosure volume, as seen in the Icon W Series, poses some engineering challenges. It all boils down to the laws of physics. The larger the speaker cabinet, the more output and dynamics you are going to get. However, Klipsch engineers found a way to generate excellent output and dispersion from these slim Icon speakers by employing an all-new proprietary technology called the XT Tractrix® Horn.

For 63 years, horns have been the driving force behind Klipsch speakers. The XT engineering takes this time-proven philosophy to new levels of sophistication by altering the surface geometry of the horn with four “bumps” that are shaped like flower petals. It’s a technology that creates a wider dispersion pattern and provides more latitude in placement.

There are five models in the Icon W Series: the WF-35 and WF-34 floorstanding speakers, the WB-14 bookshelf speaker, the WC-24 center channel and the WS-24 surround speaker.

The WF-35 and WF-34 floorstanders each employ three high-output woven fiberglass cone woofers—5.25 inches and 4.5 inches respectively—with powerful ceramic motor structures to unleash the kind of bass you hear and feel. A premium 1-inch titanium tweeter mated to an 80-degree by 80-degree round XT Horn delivers the speakers’ precise high frequencies. Single-piece magnetic grilles allow you to expose the drivers for a more powerful stance, or cover them up to have the speakers fit more elegantly into the room.

The WB-14 bookshelf uses one 4.5-inch fiberglass cone woofer, while the WC-24 center channel and WS-24 surround have two. All of these models utilize 1-inch titanium diaphragm compression drivers mated to 80-degree by 80-degree round XT Horns. A threaded insert on the WB-14 and dual key hole brackets on the WS-24 allow for wall mount applications.

Even though the Icon W Series employs modern, technology advancements on the inside, it reflects a classic approach on the outside, featuring timeless wood veneer cabinets in espresso or cabernet finishes.

“We wanted a product with a beautifully unique finish, one that a discriminating consumer would associate as high-quality in both the audio and furniture industry,” said Casavant.

While competitors are using domestic veneers, such as cherry, oak and maple, Klipsch selected an exotic, non-endangered Berlinia veneer from West Africa, which has a strong, graphic grain. In fact, Berlinia is a sister veneer to Zebrawood—an endangered species in its native habitat—which is often featured on luxury goods.

Every Icon W cabinet is carefully sanded, sealed and stained. Much like in high-end furniture manufacturing, the stain is then top coated with a polyurethane finish. This spray application involves 10 coats, with sanding in-between each coat to achieve the proper thickness. The cabinets are also inspected at every sanding level to ensure clarity over the stained veneers.

The Icon W Series is available for purchase at select specialty retail outlets nationwide, including Magnolia Home Theater, Crutchfield, Rowe Photo, Stereo Advantage, World Wide Stereo, 6th Avenue Electronics, J&R Music World, Ultimate Electronics, ABT, Vann’s and OneCall. U.S. MSRP pricing is as follows: $1,499 for a pair of WF-35 floorstanders, $1,199 for a pair of WF-34 floorstanders, $599 for a pair of WB-14 bookshelf models, $499 for each WC-24 center channel and $749 for a pair of WS-24 surrounds. For added bass punch, either the Klipsch XW-500d ($999 U.S. MSRP) or XW-300d ($699 U.S. MSRP) subwoofer would complement these speakers.

Icon W Series System Recommendations:

- WF-35 Home Theater System ($3,746 U.S. MSRP): Two WF-35 floorstanding speakers, one WC-24 center channel, two WS-24 surrounds and an XW-500d subwoofer

- WF-34 Home Theater System ($3,146 U.S. MSRP): Two WF-34 floorstanding speakers, one WC-24 center channel, two WS-24 surrounds and an XW-300d subwoofer

- WB-14 Home Theater System ($2,396 U.S. MSRP): Four WB-14 bookshelf speakers, one WC-24 center channel and an XW-300d subwoofer

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 6, 2009) — While Earth Day, which takes place on April 22, is the perfect time to reflect on what you are doing to help protect the environment, Klipsch continuously looks at new, earth-friendly ways to build its products.

“We carry a strong sense of responsibility when it comes to preserving the environment,” said Paul Jacobs, president and COO of Klipsch Group, Inc. “Klipsch has been delivering highly efficient speakers since 1946, but that’s not enough when you consider climate change and how it’s negatively impacting our world today. We’re always looking for earth-friendly ways to run our business. From engineering and manufacturing to product packaging and displays, we want to remain committed to understanding “green” concepts as we shape our future product plans.”

All Klipsch products are RoHS (reduction of hazardous substances) compliant, meaning they do NOT contain substances that are harmful to humans or the environment. The company has also made energy improvements to its RoHS-compliant production plants, using more efficient heat sources and insulation.

At its Hope, Arkansas manufacturing facility, Klipsch is researching solar power as a way to service a variety of electrical needs, as well as investigating new finishing processes that have lower volatile organic compounds, or VOC, emissions and/or waste by-products.

Klipsch also secured funding from the state of Arkansas to conduct an energy study of the facility. As a result, the company implemented several recommended changes, including the installation of a new air make-up unit as well as re-routing heated air back into the factory, rather than allowing it to escape outside. Additionally, Klipsch has re-configured how it powers up and shuts down the factory each day, re-evaluated its nighttime security lights, and changed its lighting to lower consumption alternatives. These updates have resulted in a 30 percent reduction in electrical costs and a 52 percent reduction in gas consumption over the past two years.

Then again, Klipsch has been implementing “green” processes well before the environmentalism movement. Company founder Paul W. Klipsch discovered that the use of horn technology is the best way to achieve high efficiency and low distortion from a speaker. This classic observation—which remains the foundation of Klipsch products today—not only creates powerful, detailed audio performances, it also puts its speakers among the most efficient converters of electrical power into great sound on the planet.

While average home loudspeakers require 1 watt of audio power in order to produce 85 to 88dB sound levels, Klipsch speakers can produce 3 to 6dB more sound output using that same 1 watt. A 3 to 15dB range is more typical if you include the company’s founding product, the Klipschorn®. If you consider only a 6dB difference, that reduces amplifier power needs by a factor of four, cutting amplifier electricity utilization by 75 percent and ultimately helping save the environment.

For example, 35 percent of the homes in the U.S. have home theater or stereo equipment. If all of these homes used Klipsch products, our nation could save 764,400 megawatt hours per year—many nuclear power plants are in the 7,000,000 megawatt hours range per year. Also, if everyone used Klipsch speakers, the U.S. would save the equivalent of burning 1.12 million barrels of oil per year in a fossil fuel power plant.

In the professional cinema sound market, there is a 3dB difference between Klipsch and its competitors. If all 30,000 U.S. movie screens used Klipsch, each one could save up to 200 kilowatt hours per year—in total, that’s 6,000 megawatt hours per year. On a worldwide scale, if every theater screen used Klipsch products; energy savings would exceed 10,000 megawatt hours per year.

And last but not least, Klipsch speakers—across the board—are not built with obsolescence in mind. “We’ve been manufacturing long-lasting products for over 60 years, and we support them with repair parts and valuable customer service to keep them running. Therefore, these products are seldom disposed of and often get handed down from generation to generation,” concluded Jacobs.

Find out everything you ever wanted to know about our recession-proof headphones.

What is the difference between the Image S4 and S2?
Aside from price, design, finish and the type of accessories included with each model, there are a few other differences between the S4 and S2. The S4 has angled nozzles and larger housings, while the S2 has straight nozzles and smaller housings.

The S4 housings are larger because each employs exclusive dual-magnet micro-speakers. By giving these micro-speakers larger diaphragms, the S4 headphones deliver more output as well as category-leading musical accuracy and bass response. Klipsch believes the S4 sounds better than most headphones within the $80 to $150 range.

The S2 delivers superior bass response when compared to other models within the $50 price range, while also combining comfort and style. Like all Klipsch headphones, the S2 solves two of the biggest issues with all in-ear designs: they are extremely comfortable and offer a good seal for superior noise isolation—you won’t find these attributes anywhere else in this price range.

What makes Image headphones so comfortable?
Unlike other in-ear headphones on the market, our patent-pending oval ear tips are anatomically shaped to accurately fit inside the human ear canal. These soft silicon tips reduce ear fatigue and provide excellent noise isolation for superior audio performance.

Why are Image ear gels oval-shaped instead of round?
When Klipsch started studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. The company couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones. Aside from their comfort value, our oval ear tips load quickly and easily into the ear canals as well as virtually disappear from view.

Why should I choose an in-ear design over a traditional on-ear headphone model?
First of all, the music source is closer to your ear drum, which in turn, makes the sound more accurate. Secondly, your ear lobes won’t get hot and sweaty after hours of use. Not to mention, in-ear designs won’t mess up your hair.

Are in-ear headphone designs bad for your hearing?
Anytime you put something in your ear or listen to loud music, there is a health risk involved. However, when you wear an in-ear design, such as the S4 or S2, with a good seal, you typically don’t have to turn up the volume as much because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise.

These headphones are too loud and my ears are ringing! What should I do?
You have your volume set too high. These products offer a far higher quality of sound than most people expect from headphones, and you might not always realize that you are listening too loud. 

Why am I not getting enough bass response?
It’s probably because you don’t have a good ear seal. Be sure to try out the various ear tip sizes. You may also want to try pulling the ear tip out slightly, as it may have collapsed.

How do I know if I have a good seal?
When no music is playing, your voice should sound louder and ambient noise should sound quieter, very similar to wearing a pair of ear plugs. Creating a tighter seal is simple. Insert the ear tip (while connected to the nozzle) into the ear canal, gently rotate it left and right and then slightly pull it back. This adjustment eliminates virtually all external noise so you can play your music at a lower volume, for a longer period of time, without experiencing ear fatigue.

Will I still be able to hear my music if I am traveling on a noisy bus, train or plane?
Yes, that is the best reason to use our noise-isolation headphones. Keep in mind though; you must have a good seal. By inserting Image earphones properly, you’ll easily be able to tune out screaming children, brake sounds, tire squeals, and engine roars. You CHOOSE your audio environment.

Will Image headphones work with my iPhone?
Image S4 and S2 headphones are compatible with the iPod, iPhone and any device with a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.

What if my ears are wax magnets?
If used regularly, it is natural for you to experience wax buildup in the ear tips. Image S4 headphones come with an ear tip cleaning tool that easily removes wax buildup from the ear tip’s acoustic opening. Plus, you can clean the exterior of the silicon ear tip with rubbing alcohol.

What compression format should I use to get the most from my Image headphones?
When it comes to the superior delivery of your digital music, the compression format you choose to import your songs makes a huge difference—especially when you listen with high-end headphones. The more compression, the more sound quality is lost. In iTunes, you can select between five different compression encoders when ripping music files from your CD collection: AAC, AIFF, Apple Lossless, MP3 and WAV.

If you’re into serious audiophile listening and want to get the full impact of our headphones’ performance prowess, you’ll need to select a WAV, AIFF or Apple Lossless format for your music. While WAV and AIFF are raw audio files from CDs in computer-readable formats, Apple Lossless preserves a CD’s original quality, while cutting its size in half. You might compare this lossless encoding to a zip file: smaller than the original, but with no data loss. Keep in mind that these three formats take up a lot more file space than the standard AAC and MP3 encodings. In other words, you’ll get fewer songs on your iPod or other device, but they’ll be delivered at a much higher quality.

Another thing to consider when choosing these compression formats is that only iTunes and the iPod can support Apple Lossless files and just about every other piece of music-playing software will be able to play WAV files. AIFF files are specific to Macs, so if you are planning to listen to music on a PC, WAV is your best choice.

Because they sound pretty good and achieve the best compression of the five formats, most iPod users choose between AAC and MP3. AAC, or advanced audio coding, is the standard default on iTunes. When compared to an MP3 format, AAC gives better sound at the same bit rate. However, only iTunes and the iPod can support AAC; MP3s can be played on just about every digital music player.

PC users can make their compression selection in iTunes by going to the edit drop-down box, selecting preferences and then clicking on the importing tab. Mac users can go to the iTunes drop-down box, select their preferences, then click on the importing tab.

How does bit rate influence Image sound performance?
The second variable to consider when trying to get the best sound performance out of your digital music files is “bit rate.” Bit rate refers to the rate that data is flowing in bits per second. The greater the bit rate, the more data is played back every second.

Most often, files are compressed to 128 kbps, 160 kbps or 192 kbps. The standard bit rate default in iTunes is 128 kbps, but you can customize your rate to go as high as 320 kbps (you make your bit rate selection when choosing your compression format). Kbps means kilobits per second—the higher the number, the better the sound and the more space a music file will consume on your computer or iPod. Conversely, the lower the number, the lower quality of audio will be and the less file space you’ll take up.

To give you an example of how bit rates works, a 4-minute song requires about 3.7 MB of iPod/hard disk space at 128 kbps and about 4.7 MB at 160 kbps. If you go to 192 kbps, you’d have a 5.6 MB file, and file sizes increase accordingly each time you move to a higher bit rate.

You may find that your music sounds fine at the 128 kbps rate, but if you want true audiophile-quality sound to fully appreciate your Klipsch Image headphones, you should go to a 192 kbps or 256 kbps rate. Bit rate and file size don’t usually pose a problem unless you have tons of music and want to fit it all on your iPod. That’s when you have to make a choice: better sound quality and fewer songs, or lower sound quality and more songs.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 11, 2009) — Imagine yourself on a loud, crowded bus or a stuffy airplane full of chitchat and all you want to do is phase out the public and tune into your own private world. The new Image S4 and S2 in-ear headphones from Klipsch are designed to make that vision an affordable, comfortable and safe reality.

The Image S4 and S2, priced at $79.99 and $49.99 respectively, open up new channels of distribution for the company, as its other headphone models range from $129.99 to $349.99. But what’s cool is that the S4 and S2 use the same proprietary ear tips as their pricier predecessors, continuing the company’s extreme comfort with superior noise isolation story.

“People have less discretionary income these days. Therefore, we felt it was necessary to develop reasonably priced, high-performance headphones that go above and beyond what you’d expect from the stock earbuds that come with your MP3 player,” said Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch.

Unlike circular-shaped designs that put stress on the pressure points inside the ear, Klipsch’s patent-pending oval ear tips naturally fit the contours of your ear canals, providing comfortable long-term wear. These ear tips also offer superior passive noise-cancellation, blocking out almost all ambient noise and providing excellent bass.

“Once you have the right fit and seal, these headphones are virtually impossible to feel—letting you listen longer and better,” said Mark Blanchard, senior acoustic design engineer for Klipsch and inventor of the company’s oval ear tips. “When we began studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. We couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones.”

Blanchard also mentioned that when you wear Klipsch headphones, you don’t need to turn up the volume as loud because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise—a feature that could definitely help preserve your hearing.

Additionally, the Image S4 and S2 are moving coil designs with controlled damping, allowing them to deliver smooth, full-bodied sound that is similar to a balanced armature. In fact, the S4 has a “hot rod” dual magnet motor structure that increases the damping factor. It’s a feature that allows kick drums to “attack” and intermodulation distortion, or IMD, to be significantly reduced.

“We’ve been in the audio business for over 60 years and are continuously finding ways to value engineer our products without compromising our audiophile heritage,” said Casavant. “And our S4 and S2 are no exception—they are superior performers at everyday price points.”

The Image S4 is available in two color options, either a piano black finish with silver accents or a pristine white finish with black accents. It includes four different-sized oval ear tips (a small/medium dual flange design as well as small, medium and large single flange designs), an ear tip cleaning tool and a compact, crush-resistant aluminum case.

The Image S2 is available in a black finish and includes three different-sized oval ear tips (small, medium and large) and a cloth “Snap-tite” carrying pouch.

Both models carry a two-year warranty and work with the iPod, iPhone and other portable devices that feature a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. The S4 and S2 is available for purchase at klipsch.com and select Klipsch retailers. The white S4 is only available at Vann's.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (February 4, 2009) — The upcoming digital TV transition is prompting many consumers to upgrade their equipment, even if they are not affected by the analog broadcast shutoff. And as they shop for new HDTVs, Klipsch plans to enhance their entertainment experience with dynamic audio from three new, reasonably priced HD home theater systems.

According to Mike Klipsch, Klipsch brand president, consumers need to understand the important role high-performance audio plays in the entertainment experience before spending their entire home theater budget on just a TV. A good rule of thumb is to spend the same amount of money on a surround-sound system as the TV itself.

“While video technology has improved over the years, a TV’s factory-based audio components will never be up to par with a true high-performance speaker system. And the slimmer the set, the more deficient the sound will be, because there’s little room to house decent built-in speakers.”

In fact, because sound is so important, cinema operators spend 50 percent of their budget on audio—and Klipsch should know because it is the leading speaker supplier for half of all new theaters in North and South America as well as several other countries.

“If someone buys an HDTV and doesn’t have high-definition surround sound to go with it, it’s like buying a Ferrari without the engine or a Learjet without the wings. It’s the audio that drives the action, creates the mood and brings the video content to life,” Klipsch further noted.

With its new, compact and easy to set up HD Theater 1000, HD Theater 500 and HD Theater 300 packages, Klipsch plans to give its listeners the premium high-output, low-distortion sound reproduction the brand is known for—but at prices that are among the lowest in company history.

“These HD speaker systems are easy on the pocket book,” said Klipsch. “We’ve managed to take our decades of research and development experience to value engineer these products, while staying true to our audiophile heritage. They utilize durable, high-quality components and undergo rigorous testing before leaving the factory. They also use the same state-of-the-art horn-loaded technology that has made Klipsch an industry leader for over 60 years.”

These HD theaters are all 5.1 designs, which means they include five speakers—left, center and right front channels with two rear surrounds—and one powered subwoofer.

HD Theater 1000
All five speakers in this system are identical. Each magnetically shielded speaker is a bass-reflex design with a rear port for increased efficiency and mid-bass output. Inside their ABS enclosures rest dual 2.5-inch fiber composite woofers and a MicroTractrix Horn-loaded 0.75-inch aluminum dome tweeter. Finished in high-gloss black, these speakers stand 8.6-inches tall and include ¼-20 inserts for wall mount or stand attachment.

Available in a black pica vinyl finish, the subwoofer is a bass-reflex design with a front-firing slot port. It employs a 10-inch fiber composite driver and digital hybrid subwoofer amplifier, while also featuring traditional volume, crossover and phase controls.

Priced at $999.99 (U.S. MSRP), the HD Theater 1000 will be available for purchase at select mass and specialty retail locations this month.

HD Theater 500
Each main and surround speaker is a sealed enclosure finished in high-gloss piano black with a 2.5-inch IMG woofer and a MicroTractrix Horn-loaded 0.75-inch aluminum dome tweeter inside. The magnetically shielded center channel shares the same attributes, except it employs dual woofers. The speakers come with adjustable wall brackets that provide a 40-degree range of motion and ¼-20 inserts for stand mounting. The center channel includes a cradle base, giving it a 45-degree range of motion. Available in a black pica vinyl finish, the subwoofer is a bass-reflex design with a rear-firing flared port. It employs a down-firing 8-inch driver.

Priced at $599.99 (U.S. MSRP), the HD Theater 500 will be available for purchase at select mass and specialty retail locations in March.

HD Theater 300
Each main and surround speaker is a sealed ABS enclosure finished in high-gloss black with a 2.5-inch IMG woofer and a 0.75-inch MicroTractrix Horn-loaded textile tweeter inside. The center channel shares the same driver attributes except that it is magnetically shielded. The speakers come with adjustable wall brackets that provide a 40-degree range of motion and ¼-20 inserts for stand mounting. The center channel includes a cradle base, giving it a 45-degree range of motion. Available in a black pica vinyl finish, the subwoofer is a bass-reflex design with a rear-firing flared port. It employs a down-firing 6.5-inch driver.

Priced at $399.99 (U.S. MSRP), the HD Theater 300 will be available for purchase at select mass and specialty retail locations in April.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 25, 2008) — Klipsch® entered the professional cinema market in 1980. And today, with over 20 speaker offerings, including the first fully horn-loaded, THX®-approved four-way cinema system, the company has made its way into 50 percent of all the new theaters in the Americas, South Korea and Australasia. In order to continue to grow its leadership status worldwide, Klipsch found it necessary to realign its business strategy.

According to Paul Jacobs, president and COO of Klipsch Group, Inc., the company’s cinema segment is transitioning from a vertically integrated structure to a single management platform. “Nothing else will change. We are very much committed to remaining a technology leader in the industry and ensuring that all of our cinema partners have the best sound for their theaters,” he noted.

Sheldon Combs, a 10-year Klipsch employee, has been promoted to vice president of global cinema development. Combs has played a key leadership role in developing Klipsch’s cinema business in the Latin American and Asian Pacific markets. In addition to those regions, he will now direct all efforts in North America, Europe and the Middle East.

“Combs has an indisputable track record. For over a decade, he has been an integral part of our cinema business, giving us multiple advantages over the competition. Putting him in this new leadership role is one of the ways we’re making sure we keep our number one brand position within the cinema industry,” said Dave Kelley, president of global sales for Klipsch Group, Inc.

Chuck Mulhearn and Lance Jones, longtime members of the Klipsch cinema team, will work as part of a sales representative team. Jones will cover the U.S., while Mulhearn will represent the company worldwide.

As always, Klipsch cinema products will be designed, engineered and manufactured at the company’s Hope, Arkansas manufacturing facility. Roy Delgado, principal engineer for Klipsch commercial products, will stay committed to designing new cinema products that are easy to install and require less expense to get better sound. In fact, he developed the new Klipsch KPT-8-VB and KPT-12-VB surrounds that are the first to utilize exclusive Virtual Boundary Array Technology, which reduces the number of amplifier channels required for a typical cinema installation.

INDIANAPOLIS (October 24, 2008) —“What a great day to be a Klipsch® owner! I can't really describe the sound I experienced; it is absolutely breathtaking. I heard things in my music I never heard before.”

So began the online post from Scott Hurley, commenting on the Klipsch Palladium™ Series 7.2 system (two P-39F floorstanders, a P-27C center channel, four P-17B bookshelf speakers and two P-312W subwoofers) he had installed that day in his home. He closed with, “Got to go have my celebration cigar and get ready for bed, if I can sleep. I'm still giddy. I actually cried this afternoon from the emotion these speakers deliver. Never before have I been so moved by music.”

Nearly a decade ago, the quest began to create the ultimate expression of the Klipsch brand. After years of designing and refining world-class components, Palladium was introduced, first with a remarkable floorstander—the P-39F—followed by a complete family of speakers.

According to Paul Jacobs, president and COO of Klipsch Group, Inc., “In the past, we’ve made attempts to introduce an influential flagship line, but these products always fell short of our expectations as they failed to pass our most sophisticated test—our ears. Because we refused to lower our expectations, regardless of time or money, I feel confident in saying that we really hit the mark with Palladium. In fact, I consider this series a true work of art.”

This series now includes three floorstanding speakers (P-39F, P-38F, P-37F), one bookshelf model (P-17B), a center channel (P-27C), surround speaker (P-27S) and subwoofer (P-312W). Legendary Klipsch horn technology, significant transducer advances and unprecedented proprietary technologies combine with cutting-edge contemporary design to create the most luxurious balance of performance and style possible—and a thoroughly unique listening experience that owners like Scott are beginning to discover.

Professionals who regularly deal with high-end loudspeakers have also found Palladium to be beyond description. John Hurst, vice president of Sound Insights, Inc. in Jensen Beach, Florida, was present when Scott Hurley’s system was installed, which prompted this reply:

“Even after the 23 plus years that I have been in the high end custom electronics business, I found myself searching for words to describe this experience—and found none that were worthy…His system is unbelievable and will leave an impression on my soul for some time to come.”

John added, “I have heard many beautiful, well-built systems in my time—many of them from Klipsch. I found Palladium to be the absolute best to date. Scott is very satisfied with his purchase from Sound Insights. I am too!”

While audio transcendence is the Palladium Series’ core mission, its look is also second to none. Palladium Series was also engineered to be earth-friendly, with its “linia” veneer, which is very close in appearance to exotic, endangered zebrawood. Produced from real wood sources which are part of controlled harvests, linia is available in three different finish stains: natural, merlot and espresso. The result is both beautiful and environmentally sound.

Does the striking finish and unique boat-tail design resonate with consumers? Ron Lennox of Audio Advisors in West Palm Beach, Florida, knows first-hand: “Shortly after we received our first Palladium floorstanders, a husband and wife came in to place an order on another brand. While they were listening to those speakers, the wife noticed the P-38Fs and said, ‘The speakers over there are really beautiful; should we be considering them?’ As soon as I auditioned them for the couple, they placed their order—for the Palladiums. We at first wondered if the styling might be too modern for some buyers…but people have really warmed up to them.”

Power. Detail. Emotion. The Palladium Series was designed and engineered to deliver all three. Did it succeed? Scott Hurley might have the most conclusive answer yet: “… I'm sitting here in my office, still relishing the experience I had yesterday. It's going to be hard to focus on work today. They’re awe-inspiring and spiritual, at least for me! Thank you all for making a dream come true; I still get choked up.

INDIANAPOLIS (October 8, 2008) — Music and movie lovers across the nation now have the opportunity to enjoy premium sound at a not so premium price thanks to a fresh line of Klipsch® home audio speakers that are sold exclusively through Best Buy®.

The latest five-model Icon V Series—an all-new product class for Klipsch—was born out of feedback the legendary speaker company received from Best Buy’s employees and customers—information reflecting that people want superior, value-priced sound in the lifestyle speaker category.

“Giving our customers great entertainment experiences is what we’re all about—something that can only happen when you sell the best possible product solutions for their needs,” said Mike Mohan, senior vice president of home theater for Best Buy. “Over the years, we’ve worked closely with Klipsch to provide our shoppers with speaker products that deliver best-in-class performance and value.”

According to Mark Casavant, Klipsch vice president of product development, Klipsch was able to address all of Best Buy’s needs when building the Icon V line. “You’ll find that these home theater speakers are purpose built, equally focusing on sound, style and value. In fact, Icon V is a superb entry point into Klipsch sound performance. Never before has our power, detail and emotion been available in this size footprint and price point.”

Consisting of two floorstanders (VF-36 and VF-35) and single bookshelf (VB-15), center channel (VC-25) and surround (VS-14) models, each Icon V design uses highly reliable components and patent-pending horn technology to deliver rich, full-bodied sound performances from cabinets that are a lot slimmer than traditional speakers. “V fills the market gap for slender, cosmetically pleasing audio products that sound just as amazing as much larger, more expensive models,” said Casavant.

He also noted that horn-loaded tweeters have been the driving force behind Klipsch’s stunningly precise sound for over 60 years. The latest XT design found in Icon V Series takes the company’s time-proven philosophies to the next level by altering the surface geometry of each speaker’s Tractrix® Horn. As a result, listeners can enjoy amazingly broad sound coverage with smooth response and constant directivity. And as always, horn-loading makes Klipsch speakers easy to drive with a typical A/V receiver. 

Other sound enhancing features of the Icon V lineup include aluminum tweeters for improved tonal balance, fiber-composite lightweight woofer cones for high output dynamics and deep bass, as well as high-definition, precision-voiced crossovers for tighter tolerance and higher accuracy.

Featuring a stylish look that complements modern video and audio components, Icon V cabinets are made of sleek black medium density fiberboard with furniture-grade wood veneer top or side caps, depending on the model. Each cabinet is internally braced to eliminate vibration and create tight, natural bass performance. The series also has durable fixed grilles to protect the low frequency drivers from damage.

“We’re excited to be able to offer Icon V to our customers,” concluded Mohan. “It’s a great example of how companies can work together to find the best ways to meet customer needs.”

Best Buy is selling the Icon V Series for $950 for a pair of VF-36 floorstanders, $750 for a pair of VF-35 floorstanders, $300 for a pair of VB-15 bookshelf speakers, $280 for each VC-25 center channel and $330 for a pair of VS-14 surrounds. In January, Klipsch will introduce two new subwoofers in the Icon V Series.

INDIANAPOLIS (August 19, 2008)—Boston’s newest dining destination is guaranteed to be infused with flavor—and with great sound. BOKX 109, the latest culinary venture by noted restaurateur Lou Carrier, uses a custom music experience by Muzak, and Klipsch® and Mirage® speakers throughout, to make the audio experience as incredible as the fine dining.

Carrier and his partners at Normandy/Bluehawk designed BOKX 109 to combine luxury and function in a way never before seen in the Boston market. The restaurant features dining areas overlooking firepits from full-length glass windows; three private dining rooms feature advanced technology for meetings and social gatherings, while the BOKX Bar offers a club-inspired lounge area of sofas and rich leather chairs, complimenting the center of the restaurant. Together, Klipsch and Muzak have created a unique custom music experience to complement every part of the property.

The focal point of the music experience is the restaurant, where BOKX 109 and Muzak created a program with Muzak Elements™, a new custom music service. By using Elements, BOKX 109 was able to create the perfect program for their customer experience by mixing a variety of “elements”—targeted groups of songs selected from every music genre, era and style imaginable. “Our goal was to define a sound that’s as energetic, cool and stylish as the complete restaurant experience,” said Carrier. “With Muzak Elements, we were able to hand-pick the music that complements our brand and our guest environment.”

The use of Klipsch IC-650-T in-ceiling speakers and IC-8T-SW2 in-ceiling subwoofers ensures that power, detail and emotion are delivered with every song that’s played. Outside in the pool area, Mirage Oasis Omni outdoor speakers bring 360-degrees of sound to the festivities. Lou noted: “Choosing to partner with Klipsch, Mirage and Muzak on our music profile was as important as choosing the organic farm for our prime beef. Having worked with Klipsch during my years with Hard Rock Hotels, I was already familiar with their preeminence; that being said, I was blown away by the experience Klipsch and Muzak created.”

Muzak is the nation’s leading installer of commercial sound systems, and designed a totally custom audio profile and mix of Klipsch and Mirage speakers to maximize the sonic presence.

“When you combine amazing music with an incredible sound system, it just blows you away,” said Tom Gantert, chief operating officer for Muzak. “Muzak and Klipsch have a fantastic relationship, and we were thrilled to be working together on the BOKX 109 project. We’ve created music and sound experiences for some of the world’s most unbelievable arenas, casinos, resorts and more. What we designed for BOKX 109 brings that same excitement and passion to life for their guests.”

A BOKX 109 highlight is its eight-seat chef’s table, home to chef/partner, Evan Percoco. Carrier and Percoco have collaborated on a range of projects through the years, from the historic Mayflower Hotel in Washington D.C. to the Hard Rock Hotel, Orlando. Through his relationships with musical artists and celebrities, Carrier has brought many of them to his restaurants to cook their favorite meals with Percoco. The chef, deferring to the artists’ “culinary claim to fame,” has worked side by side with Joan Jett, Sammy Hagar, Dave Davies of The Kinks and others to prepare their favorite dishes.

Along with the experience of seeing their favorite musicians, BOKX 109's patrons will also have the opportunity to hear the performers’ music through the custom music program and a state of the art system, making the experience even more memorable.

“It’s amazing getting these folks in front of a different kind of audience,” said Carrier. “The chef’s ability to make guests comfortable on his’ stage was always a delight for those lucky enough to be there when the cooking began and for the artist themselves. We’ve got them lined up to ‘cook in the BOKX.’ You’ll never know who you might see behind the chef’s table with Evan.” He added, “When creating the restaurant, our goal was to present a true ‘performance in dining’. With Klipsch, Mirage and Muzak as partners, we’ve done that!” 

About Mirage® 

Established in 1977, Mirage® is known throughout the audio industry as an innovator, continuously setting new standards in speaker design and performance. The company has built its reputation around a different class of listener—one that wants to be completely immersed in sound. Unlike directional speakers, Mirage products are Omnipolar®, delivering the same direct-to-reflected sound ratio as a live event. Audiences don’t notice where the sound is coming from; they just know they’re enveloped in their favorite music and movies. Owned by Klipsch Group, Inc., Mirage is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. For more information, visit miragespeakers.com.

About Muzak 

As a leading provider of business music, Muzak creates experiences that reach more than 100 million people daily. Some of the biggest brands in business, from Ann Taylor to AT&T to McDonald’s, work with Muzak to enhance their brand image in hundreds of thousands of client locations. Muzak creates a wide variety of core and custom music experiences for clients around the world. Muzak creates custom on-hold and in-store voice messages, and designs and installs professional sound systems, commercial television, drive-thru systems, digital signage, soundmasking systems and more through its national network of sales and service locations. For more information, visit www.muzak.com.

Nearly a decade ago, the quest began to create the ultimate global expression of Klipsch® sound technology. After years of designing, refining and searching throughout the world for the best possible components, the stage was set. With the introduction of the flagship P-39F Palladium floorstander, we’ve achieved a new standard of excellence—one that is reflected in the entire Palladium family.

The Palladium Series brought together design and engineering teams from around the world. Top professionals from Indianapolis, Indiana; Los Angeles, California; Hope, Arkansas; Munich, Germany; Guangzhou, China; and Shenzhen, China participated in bringing this remarkable vision to fruition. While literally hundreds of men and women were closely involved with the Palladium Series, three Klipsch employees formed the core of this development team, seeing these unique speakers from inception to completion:

Larry Coan, director of mechanical engineering:
A significant portion of Larry’s two years at Klipsch have been spent working on the Palladium project. Prior to joining us, he was part of the senior technical staff at Thomson Consumer Electronics, involved with RCA television design and development. A native of Springfield, Ohio, Larry received his BS in mechanical engineering from Ohio University and his MBA from Indiana. He is 48 years old.

“The Industrial Design provided by BMW DesignworksUSA in California pushed the mechanical design envelope in every way—from the radically curved cabinets to the elegant aluminum trim pieces. Once the consumer gets past this product's amazing performance, they should be equally impressed with its form and finish.”

Greg Matuszak, senior program manager:
Greg’s program management experience with Bendix Corporation and Harman Motive led to a similar position at Klipsch—one which he’s held for the past seven and a half years. As with other members of the Palladium core team, Greg spent nearly two years overseeing the development of these flagship speakers. Born in South Bend, Indiana, he received his BS in mechanical engineering from Purdue University in 1987. Greg is 44 years old.

“Each time we came upon a major roadblock, we simply figured a way to get by it, as we knew—and still know—that the Palladium products will be special for years to come.” 

Chris Perrins, senior acoustics engineer:
Although he’s just 30 years old, Chris had significant experience with KEF Audio UK before arriving in the United States to join the Klipsch organization two years ago. His role as an acoustic engineer for the Palladium project took him around the world, working with suppliers here and abroad. A native of Kinver, West Midlands, UK, Chris is a graduate of Salford University.

“It’s been a fun project to work on, as everything was designed in-house with a no-compromise approach and no tight constraints.” 

Watch Palladium video that highlights our relentless quest to bring live-performance sound into the realm of high-end luxury audio.

INDIANAPOLIS (July 11, 2008) — When it came to selecting their favorite products for 2008, the editors of EH Publishing’s four magazines, which are all dedicated to the electronic house, chose the Klipsch® KL-7502-THX in-ceiling speaker for an Electronic House Product of the Year Award.

This annual awards program recognizes products that are dedicated to the connected home. Hundreds of entries were submitted this year and through a democratic voting process, the editors selected the most notable. Decisions were based on reviews that ran throughout the year, product demonstrations and talking with installers and users of the products. Topping the list of criteria was technological innovation, overall value and outstanding features.

With the launch of its THX® Ultra2 in-ceiling speaker series in May, Klipsch added an all-new premium category to its custom installation business. The KL-7502-THX makes a great left, center or right main channel speaker, as well as a back-channel surround. And, not only is it meticulously mapped to THX standards, it also puts a fresh spin on the company’s horn-loaded design principles.

The KL-7502-THX employs dual 5.25-inch Cerametallic woofers that operate in an enclosed tuned-port chamber. These exclusive rigid woofer cones offer superb damping characteristics that will not flex or resonate at frequencies within the drivers’ operating ranges, resulting in consistent bass response regardless of the installation or ceiling air space. A 1-inch titanium tweeter in a patented 60-90-110-degree horn that features Variable Coverage Technology, or VCT, lets the speaker create precise imaging and localized sound fields. The woofers are mated to the tweeter via precision-voiced, high-definition crossover networks, producing a flat in-room frequency response, as well as the company’s signature high efficiency, low distortion sound.

“While conventional in-ceiling speakers rarely “fool” listeners into believing the sound is coming directly at them, our KL-7502-THX model breaks the mold by providing articulate detail, powerful impact and excellent localization,” said Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch architectural.

Adding to its first-class sound, the KL-7502-THX also has a premium look and feel with its grille off, featuring a deluxe MDF baffle with aluminum fascia. But when covered, the speaker’s paintable grille allows it to blend in perfectly with any home décor. All-new sure-grip mounting dogs offer even pressure against drywall for long-term installation reliability.

Furthermore, this speaker comes with a lot of options. Timbre matched to all Klipsch THX Ultra2-certified products, you can choose between a variety of THX Ultra2 stereo and home theater configurations.

The winners for 2008 will be featured in the September issue of Electronic House, which will be distributed at the upcoming CEDIA trade show, as well as newsstands everywhere. The KL-7502-THX will also be featured on electronichouse.com for one year, where it is expected to reach 1.5 million page views in September alone.

INDIANAPOLIS (July 8, 2008) — The Indianapolis Art Center’s Frank M. Basile Auditorium has long been a showcase for many of the Art Center’s events. Now, it has moved into an entirely different—and more technologically advanced—realm, thanks to a new state-of-the-art cinema surround speaker system from Klipsch, an Indianapolis-based, global manufacturer of premium sound solutions for the home and commercial markets.

According to Tammy Bowman, major gifts officer for the Indianapolis Art Center and the Marilyn K. Glick School of Art, “Before the installation, the one glaring drawback in the auditorium was its sound system; this help from Klipsch takes us from second class to world class. The system sounds wonderful!”

A wide variety of Klipsch professional cinema speakers fill the 220-seat Basile Auditorium with powerful and detailed audio, including several KPT-325-N behind-the-screen systems and a KPT-418-SW subwoofer. But more notably, this is one of the first sound installations in the world to use Klipsch’s new wide coverage cinema surround speaker, the KPT-12-VB.

Featuring exclusive Virtual Boundary Array Technology, or VBAT, the KPT-12-VB is a high-output design with ultra-wide coverage, meaning that one of these surround speakers can replace two conventional units. VBAT also reduces the number of amplifier channels required for a typical cinema installation, as well as cuts labor costs and additional wiring. 

Indianapolis-based Advanced Residential & Commercial Electronics installed the entire sound system. According to Joe Monfort, president of Advanced, the Art Center wanted a system that was easy to use and flexible enough to accommodate future upgrades. “With the help of Klipsch engineers as well as input from the folks at the Art Center, we were able to design a state-of-the-art cinema audio system that can accommodate the auditorium’s many uses.”

Overall, this new equipment will allow the Art Center to add more film entertainment to its traditional mix of presentations and demonstrations.

“We’re really pleased that we were able to install our latest cinema sound technology in a venue so close to our headquarters,” said Mark Kauffman, Klipsch cinema technician. “It represents a great opportunity for the Indianapolis Art Center and for Klipsch.”

To celebrate the arrival of the new speakers and as part of Two Worlds, One Language Through Art, the Art Center, in conjunction with Klipsch, will present the Klipsch Chinese Film Festival. The free, four-part film series provides a range of insights into China and Chinese people from historic to contemporary times. This summer celebration runs now through August 23, 2008.

The films, shown on select Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. through the run of Two Worlds, One Language Through Art, include “Raise the Red Lantern,” to be screened on July 8; “Farewell My Concubine” on July 22; “Still Life” on August 5 and “Be There or be Square,” which will be shown on August 19.

The Art Center isn’t the only place in the Indianapolis area that relies on high-performance Klipsch speakers. The company’s products can also be experienced at: the Dinosphere Exhibit at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis; the NCAA Hall of Champions; the Junior Achievement building; the Eiteljorg Museum; the Keystone Art Cinema, owned by Landmark Theatres; the Galaxy Stadium 14; Regal Village Park Cinema 17; Clay Terrace outdoor shopping mall and the Jazz Kitchen, as well as several other restaurants and retail locations.

Globally, Klipsch is a leader in the professional cinema sound market. The world’s largest cinema chains, including Regal Cinemas and Malco Theatres, turn to Klipsch to provide the power, detail and emotion of today’s complex film soundtracks. In fact, 50 percent of all new theaters in North and South America, as well as Korea and Australasia install Klipsch products.

About the Indianapolis Art Center
As one of the foremost art centers in the Midwest, the Indianapolis Art Center designs programs and provides an environment to inspire and advance the creative process. Art classes in all media—from life drawing to glass blowing—are available to all ages and levels of experience. Designed by world-renowned architect Michael Graves, the Indianapolis Art Center is located in Broad Ripple Village along the banks of the White River. Web site: www.IndplsArtCenter.org

About Advanced Residential & Commercial Electronics
Established in 1992, Advanced Electronics is a Professional Contracting company principally engaged in the design, sales, installation, and service of electronics systems for residential and commercial applications. Systems consist of Audio, Video, Corporate Boardrooms, Hospitality & Nightclub A/V, Sports Bars, Security, Closed Circuit Surveillance, Home Theatre, Lighting Control, Telephone, and related products and services. Advanced Electronics has extensive experience in systems automation and integration. Web site: http://www.avdesigners.com

INDIANAPOLIS (May 27, 2008) — This month, Klipsch added three new LCR (left, center, right) speakers to its popular in-wall product portfolio. The R-2502-W, R-5502-W and KL-6502-THX—which follow a good, better, best scenario respectively—round out the company’s architectural lineup with great sound, maximum installation flexibility and reliability.

According to Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch architectural, Klipsch has always been about developing premium sound solutions for every lifestyle, application and budget, and these three new models help continue that philosophy. “From the entry-level R-2502-W to the more advanced THX® Select2-certified KL-6502-THX, these in-wall speakers deliver the company’s classic power, detail and emotion without taking up any valuable floor space,” he concluded.

Before describing what differentiates these LCR speakers from one another, it’s important to highlight their similarities. The R-2502-W, R-5502-W and KL-6502-THX are all horn-loaded, which means they generate flat in-room frequency response with high efficiency and low distortion. Each model also utilizes a precision-voiced crossover network to ensure that the high and low frequencies are faithfully reproduced. Furthermore, these in-wall designs consistently deliver lifelike sound, whether they are installed horizontally or vertically. They feature all-new sure-grip mounting dogs that provide even pressure against drywall for long-term installation reliability, while their paintable grilles blend in perfectly with any décor.

A value-priced option, the R-2502-W employs dual 5.25-inch polymer woofer cones for accurate sound with dynamic detail, while a 1-inch silk dome tweeter mated to a symmetrical pattern 90-degree by 90-degree conical horn produces more output using less energy. The speaker also includes IR receiver knockout holes for the discreet integration of infrared control systems. The R-2502-W is timbre matched to all of the company’s 2000 Series architectural products, so installers can create a variety of affordable stereo or home theater systems for their clients.

Next up, the R-5502-W employs dual 5.25-inch Cerametallic woofer cones for fast, accurate bass reproduction. These stiff, well-damped drivers feature specially treated aluminum that has been electrochemically transformed into ceramic on both outer surfaces. This ceramic compound allows the woofers to move at high speeds without blurring the sound. A 1-inch titanium tweeter mated to a pivoting square 90-degree by 90-degree Tractrix® Horn generates crisp, clear highs and perfect soundstage imaging. Bass and treble switches with custom EQ settings let installers tailor the speaker to its environment, while IR receiver knockout holes allow for the discreet integration of infrared control systems. The R-5502-W is timbre matched to all of the company’s 5000 Series architectural products, so installers can create a variety of stereo or home theater systems for their clients.

The advanced KL-6502-THX delivers effortless dynamic range and brings superior sound to larger areas, thanks to its highly regarded THX® Select2 certification. It employs dual 5.25-inch woven fiberglass woofers for amazingly accurate sound, as well as a 1-inch titanium tweeter mated to an exclusive 90-degree by 90-degree square Tractrix® Horn for thrilling, realistic performances. The KL-6502-THX is timbre matched to all of the company’s THX-certified products, so installers can mix and match to create an unbeatable stereo or home theater system for their clients.

Available for purchase through the residential contracting market, the R-2502-W, R-5502-W and KL-6502-THX are sold individually and carry a U.S. MSRP of $300, $400 and $500 respectively.

INDIANAPOLIS (May 27, 2008) — With the launch of its new KL-6504-THX in-wall speaker— designed specifically for flat-panel televisions—Klipsch proves that powerful floorstanding performance can come in a discreet, space-saving package.

According to Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch architectural, the KL-6504-THX is one of the first in-wall speakers to meet the stringent standards of THX® Select2 certification, meaning it’s capable of bringing consistent and compelling home theater sound to larger-sized rooms. “Never before has Klipsch offered such premium performance in an in-wall speaker,” he concluded.

The KL-6504-THX employs four high-output 5.25-inch fiberglass woofers for powerful bass impact, while a 1-inch titanium tweeter mated to a new symmetrical pattern 90 x 90 square Tractrix® Horn generates flat in-room frequency response with high efficiency and low distortion. This exclusive horn design also allows the speaker to consistently deliver high-performance sound, whether it’s installed horizontally or vertically.

The KL-6504-THX’s titanium horn-loaded tweeter is mated to the woofers using precision-voiced, high-definition crossover networks, creating high sensitivity. This makes the speaker easier to drive, so it requires a lot less amplification power than conventional designs.

Adding to its first-class sound, the KL-6504-THX also has a premium look and feel with its grille off, featuring a deluxe MDF baffle with aluminum fascia. But when covered, the speaker’s paintable grille allows it to blend in perfectly with any home décor. All-new sure-grip mounting dogs offer even pressure against drywall for long-term installation reliability.

Furthermore, this in-wall speaker has a lot of flexibility. Timbre matched to all Klipsch THX-certified products, installers can create a variety of— what Klipsch calls “unbeatable”—stereo and home theater configurations for their clients.

Available for purchase through the specialty retail and residential contracting markets, the KL-6504-THX carries a U.S. MSRP of $750 each.

INDIANAPOLIS (May 16, 2008) — Designed to capture all the sonic excitement of low-frequency effects without taking up valuable floor space, the Klipsch® RW-5101-C in-ceiling subwoofer, combined with the Klipsch RSA-500 subwoofer amplifier, perfectly anchors a high-performance architectural stereo or home theater system.

According to Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch architectural, the RW-5101-C is an all-new in-ceiling solution for the company. It’s designed to bring yet another no-compromise option to the company’s already comprehensive architectural series.

“Those who dread the thought of putting a big box in the corner of their room need not worry because the RW-5101-C is no eyesore,” said Casavant. “And just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean you won’t feel it. It takes a true subwoofer system approach, bringing top-of-the-line, deep-driving performance to in-ceiling installations.”

The RW-5101-C utilizes a 10-inch long-throw woofer for superb bass response with low distortion and high power handling (250 watts). The driver features a stiff, well-damped Cerametallic cone, a specially treated aluminum that has been electrochemically transformed into ceramic on both outer surfaces. This ceramic compound allows the woofer to move at high speeds without blurring the sound. Furthermore, the subwoofer features an MDF baffle and sealed back enclosure, so it delivers a consistent bottom end regardless of the ceiling space.

Easy-to-install, the RW-5101-C can accommodate new or existing ceiling structures, as the enclosure is designed to fit standard ceiling joists. It employs all-new sure-grip mounting dogs for even pressure against the drywall. These robust dogs pull tight, leaving no gaps in sight and providing long-term installation reliability.

The subwoofer is also timbre and style matched to Klipsch’s other in-ceiling speakers, so installers can recommend a variety of complete home theater systems in all shapes, sizes and prices to their clients.

The RW-5101-C must be used in conjunction with the company’s RSA-500 subwoofer amplifier, sold separately. Two of these subwoofers can be connected to a single amplifier. Available through the residential contracting market, the RW-5101-C retails for $600 each (U.S. MSRP) and the RSA-500 retails for $750 each (U.S. MSRP).

Special Note: The RW-5101-C only works with the updated version of the RSA-500 that has a serial number of 0813001 or higher.

INDIANAPOLIS (May 15, 2008) — With the introduction of its THX® Ultra2 in-ceiling speakers this month, Klipsch adds an all-new premium category to its custom installation business. The latest KL-7502-THX LCR and KS-7502-THX surround models are not only meticulously mapped to THX standards, they also put a fresh spin on the company’s horn-loaded design principles.

According to Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch architectural, in-ceiling speakers make up 70 percent of the custom loudspeaker market, and while Klipsch has been a major player in this segment for years, these new discreet THX® Ultra2 speakers establish a precedence for the company. In fact, the KS-7502-THX is the market’s first THX Ultra2-certified in-ceiling surround speaker.

“Both premium priced products, the KL-7502-THX and KS-7502-THX are now our top-of-the-line in-ceiling speakers, bringing superior sound performances to larger sized rooms,” said Casavant. “While conventional in-ceiling speakers rarely “fool” listeners into believing the sound is coming directly at them, our THX Ultra2 models break the mold by providing articulate detail, powerful impact and excellent localization.”

The KL-7502-THX makes a great left, center or right main channel speaker, as well as a back-channel surround. It employs dual 5.25-inch Cerametallic woofers that operate in an enclosed tuned-port chamber. These exclusive rigid woofer cones offer superb damping characteristics that will not flex or resonate at frequencies within the drivers’ operating ranges, resulting in consistent bass response regardless of the installation or ceiling air space. A 1-inch titanium tweeter in a patented 60-90-110-degree horn that features Variable Coverage Technology, or VCT, allows the speaker to create precise imaging and localized sound fields. The woofers are mated to the tweeter via precision-voiced, high-definition crossover networks, producing a flat in-room frequency response, as well as the company’s signature high efficiency, low distortion sound.

The KS-7502-THX utilizes the same low-frequency driver design and crossover networks as the LCR. The real difference lies in the top end. Dual 1-inch titanium horn-loaded tweeters lie in a patented vertically stacked Wide Dispersion Surround Technology array producing a smooth, seamless broad distribution of sound, as well as enveloping surround performances and precise localization of individual effects.

Adding to their first-class sound, the KL-7502-THX and KS-7502-THX also have a premium look and feel with their grilles off, featuring a deluxe MDF baffle with aluminum fascia. But when covered, the speakers’ paintable grilles allow them to blend in perfectly with any home décor. All-new sure-grip mounting dogs offer even pressure against drywall for long-term installation reliability.

Furthermore, these models come with a lot of options. Timbre matched to all Klipsch THX Ultra2-certified products, installers can create a variety of THX Ultra2 stereo and home theater configurations.

Available for purchase through the residential contracting market, the KL-7502-THX and KS-7502-THX carry a U.S. MSRP of $1,000 each.

What is the best way for me to hook up my subwoofer?
The optimal connection is to use the RCA (Phono) "sub" or "woofer" line out found on home theater receivers and pre-amps. Some subwoofers offer High Level inputs (speaker wire connections), they are there for use with a receiver or pre-amp without a sub RCA connection. You don't need to use both and in most cases it's not recommended. 

Just as receivers and preamplifiers are different across brands, subwoofer brands may be different as well. Every room may be unique in the way it supports or cancels low frequency information. The quantity of bass desired may differ for each listener. Additionally, hookups to the same amps or receivers and the same subwoofers can produce different results if "bass management" settings (speaker size selectors, etc.) or subwoofer settings are different. The best thing to do is to experiment until it sounds just right for your listening style. 

In some rare cases, you may find an RCA connector marked LFE (Low Frequency Effects) on a receiver or pre-amp; hooking up the "LFE" jacks usually only sends bass special effects of a 5.1- encoded movie to the subwoofer. In that case, when music is played on a two-channel source (for example, a CD), the subwoofer may not receive any signal at all. That situation would call for a hookup of both the "LFE" jacks and the speaker terminal jacks to a subwoofer, in order for the sub to produce bass with all sources. You would need to set the main speakers to "large" in the receiver or pre-amp set-up menu. If you have both LFE and sub out connections on a receiver or preamp, your best choice would be to use the ‘sub out’ connector, because the LFE signal may still be mixed in with the sub channel. 

Be sure to check the owner’s manual that came with the subwoofer about connecting to both LFE in and speaker wire inputs. With some older subwoofers, this was listed as "optional" and it's fine to connect to both; however with most subs today, this is not recommended, as it may damage the sub electronics. So double-check the manual or contact our tech support department to clarify any questions regarding Klipsch subs. 

In the end, it comes down to what sounds best to you, given your equipment and your individual tastes. It takes some time and experimentation, but when you have listened to all your options, you’ll know which one is best for you. 

Where is the best place to put a subwoofer in my room?
It is generally believed that the bass you hear below approximately 80 Hz is non-directional. This means that you can point the loudspeaker in any direction and the sound will still reach the listener's ears. Since much of the bass that subwoofers produce is below that frequency, you can place the subwoofer almost anywhere in the room. This is the opposite of full-range speakers, which have just a few placement options in a room that allow them to sound good, since they must be positioned for the best combination of imaging and tonal balance. Putting a subwoofer in a corner of the room may cause the sub to sound louder. If your subwoofer is a ported design, keep it at least twice the diameter of the port exit (probably 6-12 inches) away from the nearest wall, so that air flowing out of the port is not obstructed. If the bass seems too boomy, you can fine-tune the sub by moving it farther from the wall until it sounds smooth to your ears. 

The best way to find the ideal place for your subwoofer is to hook it up and put it right where you will be sitting in the room. Set the subwoofer to level, low pass and phase. Play something with consistent, deep bass and move around the room on your knees; this way your head is about where it would be when you are seated. The spot where the bass sounds best is a spot where you might put your subwoofer. You may find more than one location.

Corner placement of the subwoofer typically yields the loudest output (highest efficiency). This does not mean that it will always sound best in this position; experimenting with placement is always suggested. It's also important to have the sound from the sub reach the listener in sync with the sound from the main speakers; otherwise the sound may not blend properly. You should not be able to hear your subwoofer as a separate entity—it should seem that your main speakers go deeper with greater impact and authority. 

Can I put more than one subwoofer in my room?
Sometimes, adding a second subwoofer can smooth bass response throughout the room. This is due to strong acoustic standing waves in the room which are dependent on the basic room dimensions (height, length, and width) and the placement of the sub and primary listening area. With a single sub, it is possible to obtain strong bass at one spot, with very weak bass elsewhere in the room. You can hear this by carefully listening to bass as you move a few feet in any direction. If you have strong bass/weak bass problems, using a second sub in a different location may reduce the severity of the problem. The important thing to remember is to find what sounds best to you! Each room is different; experiment until you find the placement that produces the most pleasing bass to your ears.

Some people feel they can never have enough bass. So long as they are placed properly, multiple subwoofers typically produce more bass. It is important to note that unless the second subwoofer goes deeper than the first one, adding additional subwoofers will only raise the bass volume—it will not produce deeper base. You’ll need to experiment with different positions (as previously described) to find the best places for two or more subwoofers. Some people use one subwoofer for a certain frequency range and the second for another (such as the LFE channel in 5.1 recordings). Other options are to connect one subwoofer to the front channels and one to the rear channels, or one to the center channel and the other to the remaining channels.

What is the basic setup for the Quintet™ III and optional SUB 10 or 12 subwoofer?
For most home theater systems, you’ll use a standard RCA connector hookup. This is a shielded wire that is similar in construction to the wires leading from a DVD player to a receiver. It will connect to the single SUB or LFE jack on the back of your receiver and to either of the two inputs on the back of the sub. If you wish, you may obtain a ‘Y’ connector to hook up to both of the sub inputs; this will result in a slight increase in volume.

Cables specifically designed for subwoofer use typically are better shielded than standard ‘patch cables’ and may offer possible noise reduction or cancellation from electrical devices the cable may come in contact with. Some subwoofer cables are directional, (one end always hooks up to receiver, the other to the sub), so always read any instructions that come with your specialty cabling.

Settings in the receiver’s menu system are detailed in the owner’s manual. Here are some suggestions for getting the best possible sound and reliability from your Quintet III with subwoofer system:

• Set all speakers to SMALL setting within the speaker setup controls,
• Adjust the crossover (or Low Pass filter) to 110 or 120 Hz.
• Set the LFE out to SUB ONLY (options might include mains or sub + mains)

Settings on the SUB rear panel are as follows:

• Set the gain/volume to 8 to begin with; you’ll fine tune the balance with receiver remote control.
• Set the low pass/crossover dial fully clockwise to 120. This eliminates the sub’s filter system.
• Set the phase switch to ‘0’; you won’t be using this with the Quintet system.
• Set the ON/OFF switch near the power cable to ON. This is the master power switch.
• Set the auto/ON switch to AUTO. The sub will sense when music or a soundtrack is present and
automatically turn the power on. It will wait a few minutes after the end of the movie to shut off.

If your receiver came with an ‘optimizer’ microphone and setup system, make sure to check the receiver’s settings after running the auto-setup. It is important that your speakers remain set to the SMALL setting. Quintet III satellite speakers cannot reproduce bass tones; allowing the receiver to send bass to them at movie levels might damage them.

The back of the subwoofer is warm. Is this normal?
A subwoofer will run warm when in use, by design. However, it should not be uncomfortable to leave your hand on the back panel for 5 seconds.

I'm not getting any sound out of the subwoofer. What should I check?
Unplug the system to allow the subwoofer to “reset.” Also, test the speaker using another device. You can plug one end of an audio cable (you may need a RCA female to Mini-plug male adaptor) into the headphone output jack of devices such as a portable CD player or MP3 player; plug the other into either ‘line in’ RCA jacks on the sub to determine if the problem is with the subwoofer or the soundcard drivers. If problems persist, please email technical support at technicalsupport@klipsch.com.

Subwoofer Direct CD Test:
If you get little or no sound from your subwoofer, perform a "direct in" test to determine if the problem is more than a simple cable or level-setting issue. Start by using a different set of RCA connector cables, then connect the analog audio out from a CD player or DVD player directly into the subwoofer's LINE IN connections. Then, turn the volume level on the subwoofer all the way down. While playing a CD, raise the volume level on the subwoofer; you should hear the bass portion from the source material. If the subwoofer still duplicates the problem, then the issue may be a blown woofer or involve the sub amplifier. However, if the subwoofer functions correctly, then the issue may be with a cable, the receiver and/or a level setting.

How should I set my home theater receiver for a particular speaker size?
The "bass management" option on today's home theater receivers is designed to route mid- or low-bass or both frequencies to a subwoofer in the system. What setting you should select is based on the bass capabilities of the speakers in question.

In general, "satellite" and bookshelf speakers should be set to "small." Floor-standing speakers should be set to "medium" or "large" depending on their ability to accurately reproduce deeper bass. At the same time this option is set, the frequency of the subwoofer's bass reproduction should also be set. If, for example, you have small bookshelf speakers you have set to "small", you should set your subwoofer to 100-120 Hz. If you have big speakers set to the "large" setting, you should set the subwoofer lower (i.e. 50-80 Hz).

The correct settings on both the receiver and subwoofer will allow the subwoofer to pick up the bass where the speaker leaves off; creating a smooth transition that reduces boominess at frequencies both the subwoofer and the speaker are delivering. The correct settings are best obtained after experimentation yields the best sound to your ears.

How do I set subwoofer phase?
Depending on the absolute phase of your main speakers and amplifier and the distances of the subwoofer and the main speakers from the listening position, the bass in the crossover region may be smoother if you reverse the subwoofer’s phase. Typically, though, phase is left at 0° for most applications.

While seated in your listening sweet spot, play music with bass content that is familiar to you and then have someone switch the 0/180 phase switch on the sub to 180-degrees. This will let you determine if the bass sounds louder in your seating position. The more bass-heavy setting is where the output of the subwoofer and the main speakers are most in phase. Use whatever position (0/180) is louder at your seating location. (Note: some subwoofers may contain a “variable” phase control, which provides variable control between 0 and 180 for even more precise phase control of your subwoofer.) However, if you do not notice any difference when changing the 0-180 setting, it only means there are no issues in your room and all is fine.

I’m experiencing a humming or buzzing noise. What should I check?
This could be a ground loop hum/buzz or possibly a transformer hum through the speakers. In fact, large subwoofer transformers are more susceptible to a slight hum noise.

A speaker hum at your listening location is never normal. To determine if the sub amp is functioning correctly, the best thing to do is disconnect all of the connection inputs going into the subwoofer. Keeping the subwoofer plugged into the AC outlet, turn it on; if the hum still exists, there may be a ground loop issue or a problem in the sub amplifier. In that case, the amp should be serviced or replaced. If there is no hum at that point, the issue might involve the preamp or another ‘upstream’ source component. Some common causes of a ground loop hum are cable TV connections, digital recorders or satellite dish receivers. 

If the hum issue is found to be with a cable TV coax wire, then a device called a MAGIC box possibly may help eliminate the ground loop from cable TV, or an OTA antenna. Some, if not all surge protectors have a cable or satellite in and out cable connection; try that as well.

Can I program a “learning” remote to operate my subwoofer?
Although Klipsch has provided download files for remote control operation, we do not officially support any remote control issues. Our tech support group has not programmed any learning remotes to function with the RT series; they do, however, provide the IR codes. Any issues that might arise concerning the programming of remotes would be technical support issues for the individual remote control manufacturers.

Codes for the Phillips Pronto, RTI, and Universal Remote controls are not “read text” files. Unless your remote is programmable via PC, it’s unlikely these will be of any use. If your remote is not one of these brands, you should still be able to obtain files to program them. (See below) To use our codes, unzip them to your hard drive and connect the remote via cable to your computer; the codes are downloaded directly into the remote.

For example, to program UEI manufactured remotes, go to http://www.uei.com. Under products, you should see One-For-All, Kameleon and Nevo. The code should work, once you use a standard number code (1991) to program. In theory, after you have a working remote, a learning remote should be able to "learn" the codes from the programmed unit, just as it would for any other remote.

Logitech has the codes for all Harmony remotes for the Klipsch model subs noted below. All Harmony remotes should accept the same programming. Add the device from the Harmony software in the following manner. http://www.logitech.com

Add “Device”, choose “Amplifier”, choose “Amplifier” the second time, choose “Klipsch” from the manufacturers’ listing and type in the model precisely as they are below for the model you own:

• RW-10d
• RW-12d
• RSW-10d
• RT-10d
• RT-12d

INDIANAPOLIS (July 8, 2008) — With the introduction of its flagship Palladium™ P-39F floorstanding speaker last year, Klipsch established new standards for audio excellence and visual impact. Now, the company is bringing the same design principles and style to six other Palladium Series speakers: the P-38F and P-37F floorstanders, P-17B bookshelf speaker, P-27C center channel, P-27S surround and P-312W subwoofer.

“The entire Palladium family bears a sophisticated, modern design, incomparable craftsmanship and new proprietary technologies,” said Mike Klipsch, Klipsch brand president. “This new series is more than the ultimate expression of our sound; it is a triumph of passion.”

According to Mike Klipsch, while the Palladium family design process took a little over a year to complete, the company’s quest to bring live-performance sound into the realm of high-end audio dates back nearly a decade. “We wanted to pursue every innovative idea and surpass every expectation before entering the high-end luxury arena,” he said. “So, because we refused to ever lower our standards, we were able to bring Palladium to market—a series that is truly a work of art.”

The P-38F and P-37F floorstanding speakers feature the flagship P-39F’s technology and gallery-like appearance in slightly smaller, but equally stunning, packages. The P-17B raises the bar for bookshelf speakers, with full, rich sound that belies their smaller size and the same visual impact that sets the P-39F apart from other premium speakers. When combined with P-27S surround speakers, the P-27C center channel speaker and P-312W subwoofer in a home theater environment, the result is simply remarkable.

The Palladium P-17B and P-27C speakers feature 3-way design, while the floorstanding models offer 3.5-way performance. Trickle-down technology is represented in the floorstanding, bookshelf and center channel models by using the same Tractrix® Horn-loaded midrange and supertweeter as the P-39F.

“While many manufacturers depend on “off-the-shelf” drivers, even for their top of the line products, Klipsch engineers were convinced that these speakers deserved more,” noted Klipsch.

Proprietary hybrid drivers were designed in-house to deliver a higher level of performance than similarly sized components; all of these new speakers—including the subwoofer and surrounds—use this technology. The P-17B, P-27C, P-27S and P-37F all feature 7-inch woofers. The P-38F has three 8-inch and the P-312W three 12-inch woofers.

The entire Palladium family features what the company calls a “Linia” zebra-grain veneer, which is available in three different finish stains: natural, merlot and espresso. The horizontal linear grain matches that of the most popular contemporary furniture and emphasizes the elegance of the cabinets. 

The entire Klipsch Palladium Series will be available for purchase at select specialty retail locations around the world in July. U.S. MSRP pricing is as follows: the P-39F, P-38F and P-37F are priced at $20,000, $12,000 and $8,000 per pair respectively, the P-17B is $4,000 per pair, the P-27C is $3,500 each, the P-27S is $4,000 per pair and the P-312W is $4,000 each. 

Visit the Palladium Series mini-site for more information. Watch Palladium video.

What is KlipschCast?
KlipschCast is a proprietary wireless technology developed by Klipsch. It transmits and receives CD-quality audio to and from KlipschCast components. Currently, it is featured in our CS-700 home theater system and RoomGroove iPod® speaker. Together, the CS-700 and one or more RoomGrooves deliver the full-capability of a KlipschCast system—wirelessly sending music, TV or movie sound throughout your house. Best of all, there’s no messy wires, no holes to drill and no difficult, time-consuming set up. Watch KlipschCast demo.

Are the CS-700 satellite speakers wireless?
In order to function, these speakers must be connected to the system’s A/V center using the provided color-coded wires. However, set up is simple. You can have the entire CS-700 up and running in as little as 10 minutes.

If the CS-700 subwoofer is wireless, why do I still have to plug it in?
The subwoofer is wireless in the sense that you don’t need to hook it up to the A/V center using a subwoofer cable. All you have to do is plug in its power cord. The wireless feature allows the A/V center to transmit wireless signals to the subwoofer. With traditional subwoofers, you have to hook them up to the A/V center/receiver using a subwoofer cable as well as plug in its power cord. This creates limited placement flexibility, while a wireless subwoofer can go anywhere there is a power outlet.

What is the ideal placement for a CS-700 home theater system?
The CS-700 satellite speakers typically sound best when their tweeters are approximately at ear height for seated listeners. If possible, position the speakers the same distance apart as they are from the listening position. When they are placed in a cabinet, or on a rack or table, try to bring the speakers out so that they are at least flush with the cabinet’s front edge. When practical, arrange each speaker so that it is at somewhat different distances from the floor, the wall behind it and the wall beside it. It can also help to have the left and right front speakers at different distances from their nearest side walls. This staggering helps smooth the bass range. Each speaker can be set on its bottom or side (Note: the Klipsch logo can be turned to suit either orientation). As with most subwoofers, the output will increase as it is moved closer to walls, with maximum output when it is placed in a corner. Subwoofers deliver the smoothest bass response when placed near a wall away from openings, such as doors.

Can the CS-700 satellites be wall mounted?
Yes, but they only accept ¼ - 20 inserts, which are commonly sold at hardware stores.

Will KlipschCast interfere with my other home wireless products?
The robust 2.4GHz wireless technology found in both the CS-700 and RoomGroove “sniffs out” the entire 2.4GHz band to detect other wireless technologies in use, such as wireless routers, and then transmits around the spectrum used by those sources.

Can I use KlipschCast products with other wireless products?
KlipschCast products are designed to only work with other KlipschCast products.

Do I have to buy both the CS-700 and RoomGroove to take advantage of KlipschCast?
No, if you own just the CS-700 home theater system, the KlipschCast wireless feature allows the A/V center to transmit wireless signals to the subwoofer. However, if you own a RoomGroove without a CS-700, you need multiple RoomGrooves to take advantage of KlipschCast. In fact, you can create a multi-room music system using several RoomGrooves. A single RoomGroove by itself cannot take advantage of KlipschCast.

Can my CS-700 listen to my RoomGroove?
No, in a KlipschCast system that includes a CS-700 and one RoomGroove, the CS-700 serves as the main hub, meaning the RoomGroove can “listen” to what is being played on the CS-700, whether it’s DVDs, CDs or AM/FM radio. On the other hand, the CS-700 cannot “listen” to what is being played on the RoomGroove.

Up to what distance can KlipschCast products transmit and receive wireless signals?
These products were designed to have an average transmitting/receiving distance of 75 feet, broadcasting through walls, ceilings and floors. However, every scenario is different because every house is different. Homes that are primarily made of wood and drywall allow the KlipschCast wireless signals to travel great distances; homes featuring a lot of metal and concrete don’t always allow the wireless signals to travel as freely.

Will my CS-700’s wireless capability work inside a cabinet or entertainment center?
In most cases, the CS-700’s wireless capability will stream through cabinet doors.

If my neighbor and I both own KlipschCast products, will our systems interact?
The home code feature allows you to select a unique channel for all your KlipschCast components to keep your content private and unavailable to nearby systems. The home code default is 0 for all KlipschCast components and does not need to be changed unless other nearby KlipschCast systems interfere. All KlipchCast components (including the CS-700 subwoofer) in your multi-room system must be on the same home code to interact with one another.

If I have a multi-room music system made up of several RoomGrooves, how can I get two of them to transmit audio simultaneously?
If a RoomGroove is transmitting and a second RoomGroove is told to transmit, the second RoomGroove will bump the first RoomGroove by occupying its wireless channel. However, in systems not incorporating a CS-700, two RoomGrooves can transmit simultaneously. To enable this feature, all of the RoomGrooves must be assigned to a home code from 5 to 9. Selecting a home code from 5 to 9 will allow a second RoomGroove to occupy the wireless channel which was previously assigned to the CS-700.

The listen light on my RoomGroove is flashing, what does that mean?
The flashing light indicates that the RoomGroove is not receiving a wireless signal. At this point, you’ll need to do a little troubleshooting. If you have two RoomGrooves, make sure you pressed the “Transmit” button on the transmitting RoomGroove. If you are trying to listen to the CS-700, make sure it is turned on and that its wireless transmission setting is enabled. Also, make sure your components are all on the proper home codes. If that does not work, put the RoomGroove in the same room or near the CS-700 and try again.

Is the CS-700 always transmitting wireless signals?
Yes, the CS-700 is always transmitting wireless signals unless it is unplugged or the wireless setting is “off” in the menu.

What if I don’t want to utilize the CS-700 subwoofer’s wireless capability?
The subwoofer supports a wired connection and you can turn its wireless capability completely off if you wish.

Can I control the CS-700 wirelessly from the RoomGroove?
Yes, but with limited functionality. A RoomGroove remote cannot completely control the CS-700.
It can select CS-700 sources as well as play, pause and skip tracks on a CD/DVD and choose preset AM and FM radio stations.

Can I program my universal remote to work with the CS-700?
Universal remote manufacturers do not have our CS-700 codes; therefore your existing universal remote will not work with this system. However, the CS-700 remote is universal so you can choose to make it your primary remote to control all of your home theater devices. As a side note, most standard learning remotes are able to emulate the CS-700 remote’s functions.

The CS-700 doesn’t have an HDMI input. How do I get an HD signal through the system?
With the appropriate cables, connect your set-top box to the CS-700 A/V center using the component output on the set-top box and the sat/cable input on the A/V center. Then, you can use either the CS-700’s component output or HDMI output to connect to your TV’s component or HDMI input, using the appropriate cables.

What media does the CS-700 support? 
• DVD—DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, and DVD-ROM 
• CD—Audio CDs, CD-R, CD-RW, CD-ROM 
• AAC music files 
• VCD and Super VCD

What media is incompatible with the CS-700?
The CS-700 system does not support laserdiscs, CD-I, CD-ROM discs that do not contain music or video files, and discs recorded using other broadcast standards, such as PAL or SECAM; DVD-RAM discs or pirated discs also will not work with this system.

It’s also important to note that DVDs are divided into six major geographical regions, with two additional regions reserved for specialized use. This means DVDs are encoded for specific areas of the world. For example, the U.S. has region 1. So, all of the DVD players sold in the U.S. are made to region 1 specifications. As a result, region 1 players can only play region 1 discs. So, if you are in Europe or Japan, which is region 2, and are trying to play a DVD on a region 1 version of the CS-700, it will not work. Klipsch will have different market versions of the CS-700 to accommodate the various DVD regions.

Can I play MP3 music from a flash drive through the USB port?
Yes.

Does the CS-700 have a headphone out?
For private listening, you can hook a pair of headphones up to the CS-700 A/V center. The headphone jack is located on the AUX 2 input panel and positioned to the left of the USB port.

If my CS-700 is on standby, can my RoomGroove broadcast music from its AM/FM tuner?
Yes, the RoomGroove source request will “wake up” the CS-700. The CS-700 will automatically switch to the input the RoomGroove asked for, but it will turn its own volume down to 00. This way, when the CS-700 “wakes,” you won’t be startled by loud, blaring music.

Can I get longer speaker wire for my CS-700?
Inside the CS-700 box you’ll find 20 feet of speaker wire, which should be more than enough for standard applications. These speaker wires come with proprietary connectors so any other type of speaker wire will not work on the CS-700.

What if I lose my RoomGroove remote?
If you own a CS-700, the CS-700 remote can operate the RoomGroove. The only “non-intuitive” button is the input button on the CS-700 remote, which would be the listen button on the RoomGroove remote. 

What if my CS-700 subwoofer is not working?
Check to make sure that the subwoofer’s power cord is plugged in. Even though the subwoofer is wireless it still requires power from an outlet. If the power is on and you don’t hear a signal, try to connect a cable to the LFE output on the CS-700 to the LFE input on the subwoofer. If the wired connection works, unplug the cable from the subwoofer and make sure the CS-700 wireless output is set to either “Subwoofer Only” or to “On.”

The included IR remote will not turn my CS-700 on or off, what is wrong?
The remote might be in the incorrect input mode. The CS-700 remote is universal, so users must make sure that it’s in the correct input mode to control the system. You must be in “Disc” or “AM/FM” to control the CS-700. If a different input is selected, the remote is attempting to control the component plugged into that input (regardless of whether or not the remote is programmed to do so). If you are still experiencing problems after correcting the input mode, try replacing the remote’s battery. Then, if that does not work, contact Klipsch tech support at 1-800-KLIPSCH or support@klipsch.com.

Driven by a passion for music, Klipsch founder Paul W. Klipsch took his desire to hear a “live” orchestra inside his home and revolutionized the way people listened to recorded music when he introduced the Klipschorn®, a corner horn-loaded loudspeaker, in 1946.

Over 60 years later, the heritage and drive for perfection of Paul Klipsch’s early work is the standard by which the company produces loudspeakers today. In fact, Klipsch designers, acousticians and scientists are continuously pushing the laws of physics and developing new and improved ways for audio lovers to experience the company’s signature high-output, low-distortion sound.

Offering the highest level of perfection in every respect, the Klipsch Palladium Series is the pinnacle of modern-day horn-loaded technology and craftsmanship. Taking the “live” music concept into a new realm, this high-end seven-model lineup—three floorstanders (P-39F, P-38F, P-37F), one bookshelf model (P-17B), one center channel (P-27C), one surround speaker (P-27S) and one subwoofer (P-312W)—utilizes new materials, transducer advances as well as unprecedented proprietary technologies to create a luxurious balance of performance and lifestyle.

Conceptualized as the ultimate global expression of Klipsch, the carefully planned and executed Palladium Series brought in design and engineering teams from around the world. Top professionals from Indianapolis, Indiana; Los Angeles, California; Hope, Arkansas; Munich, Germany; Guangzhou, China; and Shenzhen, China participated in bringing this remarkable vision to fruition.

However, it was not a vision that came overnight. While the Palladium design itself was a 1½ year process, Klipsch’s quest to bring live-performance sound into the realm of high-end audio dates back nearly a decade. Setting no timeline and sparing no expense, Klipsch saw to it that every innovative idea was pursued and every expectation was surpassed. Time and time again, the company returned to the drawing board to push the boundaries of sound, style and technology as never before.

So, after years of refusing to ever lower its standards even the slightest degree, Klipsch brings you Palladium—a true work of art.

Watch Palladium video that highlights our relentless quest to bring live-performance sound into the realm of high-end luxury audio.

What is your name? 
Etienne Iliffe-Moon

What is your role at BMW?
Creative Director, in the Product Design team at BMW Group DesignworksUSA

What is your role on the Palladium project?
Designer and Creative Director

What was your first reaction when you were given the Palladium assignment? Was it a bit intimidating? Exhilarating? How does it rank with other projects you typically work on?
Every design challenge is exciting. What made the Palladium project special was Klipsch’s mission to redefine the brand in the high-end premium audio segment. The entire Klipsch team was committed to this, and in doing so remained very open to pushing the boundaries on the design and engineering of the speakers. Much of our work at DesignworksUSA focuses on addressing the needs of the clients’ brand; in this respect Klipsch ranks on par with our premium client base.

What role did Klipsch’s legacy of horn-loaded sound and audio innovation play in the design? 
In the creative search for a unique product signature for the Palladium Series, we’ve focused on a number of key elements of the design context. One of these elements is truly understanding what it means for a product to wear the Klipsch badge. Going beyond what today’s brand means, but delving into the Klipsch archives to discover the history behind founder Paul W. Klipsch and the brand.

Klipsch is synonymous with horn-loaded speakers. The Palladium Series celebrates the company’s proprietary Tractrix® Horn technology, in a package that clearly belongs in the modern lounge or home theater. Klipsch definitely has a bold approach to acoustic design—this led us to the idea of ‘Pure Sound.’ The horn delivers rich dynamics, capturing the true essence of a sound recording. We wanted to capture this in the design of the Palladium Series. That’s why the dual horns are the centerpiece of the design.

The design should be driven by the heart and soul of the loudspeaker—the Klipsch acoustic story. Immersed in the idea of ‘Pure Sound,’ Designworks created a resonating theme for the new loudspeaker concept: ‘Classic Audio—Contemporary Furniture Design.’ The theme felt like a natural and clear connection between the contemporary lifestyle aspirations of the Palladium Series and everything the Klipsch brand represents. Throughout the design process, this theme has been an important guiding principle to maintaining the design’s integrity. The result is an inspiring design language that successfully welds the Klipsch acoustic story with the industrial design.

Aesthetically, the P-39F is a striking advance for Klipsch. Talk about the departure from the traditional, boxier look. Were you nervous about moving so far, so quickly? Tell us about the acoustic reasons for the cabinet’s shape and the advantages it provides. What about the design reasons? Did Klipsch’s engineers give you a blank slate? If not, what were the parameters?
The modern listening room or living room has changed with both lifestyles and technology. People are filling their rooms with thin panel TVs and advanced digital technology. The speaker needs to evolve with these trends in home interiors, whilst staying true to the performance aspirations—delivering immersive entertainment experiences. The cabinet design is essential in pulling together Klipsch’s proprietary technology and expressing the idea of ‘Pure Sound.’

The Palladium Series has a provocative and progressive design language that boldly expresses power and performance yet retains an architectural sophistication and elegance. The controlled curvature of the cabinet and precise use of metal accents elevates the design to a feeling of fine cabinetmaking and bespoke tailoring. The profile of the cabinet is based on a catenary curve or Gothic arch that inherently offers structural, acoustic, and visual benefits. The curvature adds stiffness and integrity, whilst breaking up higher frequency standing waves. The curved form itself creates a rich sheen and reduces the perceived visual mass of the cabinet.

The Klipsch engineers were fabulous! They were as committed to the idea of ‘Pure Sound’ as anybody else on the design team. This shows how the speaker’s acoustic design, engineering, and technology stories are so intertwined with the industrial design. This synergy as a design team is critical in ensuring the integrity of the design vision and that it remains with the speakers as they are crafted in production.

Share your thoughts about the horizontal grain veneer and why you chose a zebrawood look. 
We talked earlier about needing to understand several elements of the design context. In addition to understanding the brand context, we also focused on looking at the context of the consumers themselves. Designworks evaluated how trends in lifestyle, furniture and interior design should influence and form aspirations for future Klipsch products. A third element was researching the market context; the team analyzed the competitive market as a basis to formulating differentiation strategies and revealing new opportunities for Klipsch.

From this research in interior and furniture design, we could clearly see that contemporary furniture is about horizontal lines. The horizontal grain reinforces the contemporary furniture feel; the veneer grain acts as contour lines that emphasize the curvature of the cabinet and a unique differentiator. We chose a zebrawood look because of its contemporary and exotic look and feel. However, because actual zebrawood is on the verge of extinction, Klipsch wanted to seek out an earth-friendly alternative. 

The P-39F features what Klipsch calls a ‘Linia’ veneer. Linia is a very close match to zebrawood. It is a hand-selected zebra-grain veneer produced from real wood; tree sources include the Ayous, Obeche and Italian Poplar. These trees are part of a government-sanctioned controlled harvest, so they are a renewable wood resource.

The P-39F has consistent linearity, tonal depth, and low cathedral; just right for a premium product. We wanted the veneer to feel natural and honest, to almost have an oiled Scandinavian feel. From our experimentation with many different kinds of veneers, stains and gloss levels, we quickly discovered that we could offer a single wood veneer with different colored stains to offer subtle color variations with dramatic results. This also allowed us to control the consistency of the design’s feel between different color options.

The horizontal veneer is unique to Klipsch, it gives us the bold look Paul W. Klipsch would be proud of and clearly differentiates the Palladium Series from its competitors.

At Designworks, we are fortunate to be a full service design consultancy from start to finish, with design strategy through to 3D modeling. Unlike many other design consultancies, we have a full department dedicated to color, material, and finish. Our CMF team works on cross-industry projects and is able to transfer unique color and material applications for various industries. The CMF team has created color, material, and finish programs for aircraft interiors, yacht interiors, consumer products, spaces, and more. This expertise greatly enhanced the end result of the P-39F.

Let’s talk about the journey of Palladium. How long did you work on it? How many teams/designers? How many ID sketches, CAD drawings, etc. did you go through?
It’s been a journey! We pulled a design team from all over the world, including American, British, French and Finnish designers! DesignworksUSA has a global outlook, thanks to our three studios in California, Munich, and Singapore. Our ability to understand and translate design influences in North America, Europe, and Asia were a critical factor in delivering a product with global potential, geared to global lifestyle tastes. Additionally, we were able to increase our global collaboration with a design exchange between the California and Munich studios specific to the Klipsch project. Olivier Molody, based out of our Munich studio, provided a European design perspective and expertise while on the project, which was led out of our California studio. Olivier was joined on the project by Holger Hampf, Director of Product Design, and Johannes Lampela, Senior Color, Materials, and Finish Designer for BMW Group DesignworksUSA.

We first started on this project in October 2006; we’ve been following it ever since. Following the product development cycle for well over a year, we’ve been through countless concept sketches, models, CAD models, computer simulations and manufacturing revisions in search of perfection. The results of our passion for—and dedication to—design are evident in the Palladium P-39F.

What was the biggest challenge—design-wise?
A design that makes a clear iconic statement and has beauty in its simplicity. On top of that, one of the significant challenges in the design work has again been maintaining the integrity of the design vision. Ensuring the design details make it through to production—design is in the details. We’ve been working hard to achieve a premium design, designed from the inside out, using premium materials and components, crafted in production.

Was there an ‘eureka’ moment for any part of the design? What are you most proud of? What gets you excited as a designer? Did your love for music/art play a role or serve as inspiration?
You don’t always have a ‘eureka’ moment in every design project. However, in the design of the Palladium Series, this particular moment came late one night as we played around with mock-ups (life-size preliminary models) of the speakers with veneer samples. We clearly saw the effect of turning the zebrawood veneer vertical; we went from the old paradigm that a speaker must appear like a solid block of wood (with grain vertical), to a new more sophisticated paradigm— that the speaker, with horizontal grain, can be crafted more like fine contemporary furniture. This gives a deliberate, executed feel that has honesty in stating the speaker is composed of panels, just like furniture.

Music is certainly food for the soul. A vital ingredient to creativity; it can lift the mood, create energy and help you reflect—I can’t work without it!

What was the design goal of Palladium? How is it supposed to make people feel as they see it from across the room? Up close? What’s your favorite accent or detail?
The goal has been ‘Pure Sound.’ One of the objectives has been to find the sweet-spot between the conceptual intersection of ‘classic audio’ and ‘contemporary furniture’ in speaker design.

The speakers are designed to have presence. To the extent that you can hear the sound with your eyes! My favorite part of the design is the sound. (That’s essentially why the presentation of food is so important in the restaurant industry.) It’s the ultimate goal of any designer to bridge the physical dimension and stimulate the emotional senses. It’s the essence of the experience, and capturing experiences is what designers do.

How long did it take to nail the perfect shape for both sound and style? How many designs were discarded?
The design team included not just the designers, but also Klipsch’s acoustic and mechanical engineers—we were engaged in a truly collaborative design process. Beyond the original concept selection process, the product development process was more evolutionary and iterative, fueled by simulation and testing.

Having said that, getting the cabinet shape has been important not just acoustically, but visually. The P-39Fs are big speakers; the curved sides and angled cabinet top took a lot of work to get right. The angled cabinet top conceals the true visual mass or size, but also (as every guy knows) prevents the speaker from being used as a stand for empty glasses, ornaments and nasty things that just don’t belong on the top of your speakers.

What was your reaction the first time you saw one fully assembled? What about other reactions you’ve witnessed? What’s your favorite finish? Why two grilles?
Elated! It’s great to see the culmination of a lot of hard work result in something that resonates with enthusiasts and is a compelling solution to what we originally set out to achieve in 2006.

I love the natural feel of the blonde zebra-grain Linia, especially with the horizontal grain showing off the curve of the cabinet. What’s interesting about the horizontal grain is it challenges people, it’s a little unexpected. It perhaps makes you stop and think if you like it or not; that’s intentional. We wanted to challenge people’s preconceptions to make a bold design statement.

The grilles were intended more to be modesty screens for those with better halves. The top horn grille allows you to liberate the high frequencies, while modestly concealing the 9-inch woofers. I feel the Palladium design sounds and looks best without the grilles on. You get the performance statement of the drivers and horns, plus you can display the horn grille with solid aluminum logo bar in the trophy cabinet.

What is the first thing you want someone to think when they see the P-39F?
Premium performance, contemporary design—that’s ‘Pure Sound!’

Why does it matter how a speaker looks if it sounds good?
As I said before, our different senses, to an extent, all play a role in our sensory perception. What we hear is affected by what we see, smell and touch, and vice versa. That’s why the smell of leather in a new car has such an emotional impact on consumers. And, that’s why you can’t taste anything when you have a cold!

Where did the European styling influences come from? What things were done to ensure that it works with all contemporary living spaces?
With DesignworksUSA’s global base, we have three studios in Munich, Los Angeles and Singapore. This allows us to tap into local cultural trends and understand the big picture of what’s happening globally, in this case with contemporary interiors, furniture and consumer lifestyles. By understanding what’s going on today, it allows us to uncover what the opportunities or possibilities are for the future.

Talk about the luxury lifestyle and how Palladium fits into modern, sophisticated living spaces… about how ore than a speaker, but also a piece of furniture, for those who expect only the finest, etc. Explain how the European influences that impacted Palladium’s design. Maybe share a few of the latest interior design trends that also played a role.
Luxury lifestyle is based on exclusivity, separating the standards of living from the mass consumables of everyday living. Having a product by appointment—designed for you and delivered to you, that is personalized, tailored and bespoke. The Palladium design uses only the finest materials: Titanium, gold, aluminum, reinforced BMC, exotic hard-woods. Crafted and detailed by hand, uncompromised in acoustic performance and design, where quality is utmost.

“Simplexity” is a design trend that looks to simplify the physical product, eliminating complexity to focus on the true experience. In designing the Palladium series, we set out to question everything and to eliminate anything that brings unnecessary complexity without net gain. This is demonstrated by the absence of visible fasteners or screws, the hidden magnets that secure the dual grilles and the flush mounted drivers and horns. The inverted surrounds on the woofers amplify this, creating a seamless acoustic baffle that looks incredibly simple. It’s ironic that simplicity is often incredibly difficult to achieve.

As far as interior trends go, we’ve been seeing a transition to horizontal living environments— both in furniture and technology. As the centerpiece of most living rooms, the flat-panel TV goes 9:16 wide screen aspect ratio and depth has been eliminated. We’ll be seeing full-size TVs less than 1 or 2 inches in a couple of years. This, in turn, is affecting how people live and is enabling new lifestyles. At the premium level, the Palladium Series is designed to live in this evolving, modern home interior environment.

What piece of music would you first play on a pair of P-39Fs if you had the opportunity?
I’ll need to think about that, some classics on vinyl no doubt…

What do you want to say about this project, this speaker that you want people to know?
The Palladium Series is designed to be a modern classic that’s true to Klipsch’s heritage. It’s about the true sound behind a recording and emotion of live music. You really can have that rock band, hip-hop crew, quartet or ensemble in your living room.

INDIANAPOLIS (April 18, 2008) — When the Klipsch® industrial design team set out to create the flagship Palladium™ P-39F floorstanding loudspeaker, their goal was to have it resemble a premium piece of handcrafted furniture. And, by looking at its striking boat-tail silhouette and exotic zebra-striped finish, it’s quite obvious they hit the mark. But, less apparent is the team’s environmentally friendly approach.

According to Paul Jacobs, president and COO of Klipsch Group, Inc., often, when building luxury goods, manufacturers will use a zebrawood veneer because their affluent target market is awed by its dramatic color banding of light and dark stripes. However, it’s a resource that is considered threatened in its native habitat, meaning it’s vulnerable to extinction in the near future. “With the P-39F, we too are trying to reach upper-echelon customers using a distinct, zebra-striped veneer, but we’ve found a way to lessen the impact it has on our mother Earth,” he said.

The Palladium P-39F features what the company calls a “Linia” veneer, which is available in three different finish stains: natural, merlot and espresso. According to Glen Fuller, Klipsch director of design, Linia is a very close match to zebrawood. It is a hand-selected zebra-grain veneer produced from real wood; tree sources include the Ayous, Obeche and Italian Poplar. These trees are part of a government-sanctioned controlled harvest, so they are a renewable wood resource. “By using the Linia zebra-grain veneer, we’re proving that the essence of nature can still be enjoyed without harming the environment,” noted Fuller.

There are several other advantages that Linia has over zebrawood. Five times as much zebrawood needs to be used to find an acceptable product finish, resulting in an incredible amount of waste material. Worse yet, it is wasting a natural resource that is not easily renewable. The non-threatened Linia is a more eco-friendly choice, in that its repeatable pattern/grain is consistent and offers graphic uniformity, leaving hardly any waste material behind. Fuller also mentioned that Linia’s stain and color consistency from model-to-model is good for manufacturing and matching models from run-to-run and year-to-year.

“Because we want to be an environmentally responsible company, while still setting the highest production standards, we decided to go with a zebra-grain Linia version rather than a zebrawood veneer on the P-39F,” said Jacobs.

Priced at $20,000 per pair (U.S. MSRP), the Palladium P-39F speakers will begin shipping to select  specialty retailers around the world in July. 

More information on this luxury product can be found on the Palladium mini-site. Watch Palladium video.

INDIANAPOLIS (April 3, 2008) — Since their introduction in 1999, Klipsch® Reference Series speakers have been sold exclusively through specialty A/V storefronts. Last month, however, this sales strategy shifted slightly when six retailers, authorized by Klipsch, began selling the fourth generation of this premium home audio lineup on their web sites.

After much consideration and planning, Klipsch selected the following retailers to help successfully launch the series online: Crutchfield, Vanns Electronics, ABT Electronics, OneCall, Sound Distributors and Sixth Avenue Electronics. All six retailers will carry the complete Reference IV line—everything from floorstanders to subwoofers.

According to Paul Jacobs, president and COO of Klipsch Group, Inc., there were two major reasons behind this new online distribution strategy.

First of all, over the past several years, Klipsch has filed multiple lawsuits against unauthorized companies selling its products over the Internet. Not only does this unfortunate scenario violate Klipsch’s trademarks and reputation, it also negatively impacts online shoppers who, unbeknownst to them, end up buying B-stock, or even used, products that are devoid of any warranty or customer support. “For those who prefer to purchase our Reference products online, we are making it possible for them to buy from a reputable source that provides A-quality products, expertise and support,” said Jacobs.

Secondly, in certain markets, especially areas where there has been retail consolidation, it can be difficult for consumers to find and purchase the Reference Series. “By having these products online, consumers don’t have to spend a lot of time and effort trying to find our speakers. They now have the ability to order product 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Jacobs.

When it came to choosing its online partners, Klipsch went about it very strategically. All six retailers had to meet the following criteria: MAP pricing adherence, call-in tech support at least 16 hours per day, ownership of all warranty repair, top-notch online security, clear privacy statements, real-time order status reporting, archival of sales records for two years, high-level business insurance, no eBay sales on current merchandise, sales to end-users only and strict adherence to Klipsch branding guidelines.

“These six retailers have been selling direct for many years and have earned a solid reputation with not only Klipsch, but the entire industry,” said Jacobs. “They know our products and know how to provide the absolute best customer care, so there was no doubt in my mind when it came to selecting them as our online partners.”

Jacobs also mentioned that in addition to serving a consumer segment that prefers the online shopping experience, he is confident the increased brand exposure in this controlled environment complements and strengthens Klipsch’s more traditional channels.

INDIANAPOLIS (March 26, 2008) — As a worldwide leader in professional cinema speakers, the Klipsch® brand is now bringing big movie sound to its award-winning CS-700 home theater system, sized to fit beautifully in any room. It is also part of a new line of KlipschCast™ products, featuring exclusive wireless capabilities.

Easier than buying separate audio components, this 2.1 home theater package—with two powerful satellites, a wireless subwoofer and an A/V center—is designed to deliver the most enveloping and realistic sound experiences in its class. It does so by using Dolby® Virtual Speaker technology, which simulates the effect of a five-speaker system. The system also applies a scaled-down version of Klipsch’s professional cinema Tractrix® Horn-loaded technology, creating genuine lifelike sound and producing more output using less energy. 

Each compact satellite employs dual magnetically shielded 3-inch woofers and a 0.75-inch magnetically shielded tweeter. The subwoofer utilizes an 8-inch, down-firing woofer and 200 watts of amplifier power to generate hard-hitting bass response. And, due to its compact size and wireless capability, it can easily be hidden away while still delivering dramatic low-end effects.

The CS-700 home theater’s A/V center has an up-converting DVD player that is capable of delivering a 1080i resolution via its HDMI output, so the signal matches the amazing resolution capability of an HD television. The A/V center also features an AM/FM tuner and three auxiliary inputs, allowing users to connect other audio devices to the unit. A universal IR remote control directs all system functions, as well as those of the TV and other entertainment devices. 

Available in a sleek black finish, the CS-700 offers a clean, modern design that fits comfortably into any living environment. Essentially plug-and-play, it can be operating in as little as 10 minutes. All it takes is hooking the satellites and TV up to the A/V center using the color-coded wiring, then plugging in the A/V center’s power cord. With respect to the subwoofer, all you have to do is plug its power cord into the wall; no other connections are needed.

Thanks to its KlipschCast™ wireless technology, the CS-700 not only transmits CD-quality audio to its local subwoofer, but also to one or more Klipsch® RoomGroove iPod® speakers, which also incorporates this unique wireless capability.

By themselves, the CS-700 and RoomGroove are top-flight performers; together, they deliver the full potential of a KlipschCast system—wirelessly sending music, TV or movie sound all over your home. There’s no wiring beyond the CS-700 satellites and power cords, no holes to drill and no difficult, time-consuming set up.

How does it work? Simply, through KlipschCast, the CS-700 sends a wireless audio signal to one or more RoomGrooves. This signal can be the same one playing on the CS-700 or something entirely different. The CS-700 is capable of playing up to two separate sources at the same time. For example, the CS-700 can play a DVD movie in the living room, while the RoomGroove broadcasts the CS-700’s AM/FM tuner in the kitchen.

The RoomGroove can also play music locally, utilizing its retractable iPod dock, or through its auxiliary input for other MP3 players. Since the RoomGroove is a transceiver, it can transmit as well as receive, allowing it to send this MP3 music signal to other RoomGroove units throughout the house. In fact, users can create a multi-room music system just with RoomGrooves.

The robust 2.4GHz wireless technology found in the CS-700 and RoomGroove products offers unlimited add-on opportunities. Plus, the technology “sniffs out” the entire 2.4GHz band to detect other wireless technologies in use, such as wireless routers, and then transmits around the spectrum used by those sources. 

Watch KlipschCast demo.

Price and Availability
Launching at select retail locations in May, the CS-700 will carry a $1,299.99 price tag (U.S. MSRP), while the RoomGroove can be purchased now for $299 (U.S. MSRP) at select retail locations and klipsch.com. A three-room KlipschCast system featuring a CS-700 and two RoomGrooves will retail for just under $2,000 (U.S. MSRP).

INDIANAPOLIS (February 28, 2008) —Two revolutionary ultra-wide coverage, high-output cinema surrounds—the Klipsch KPT-8-VB and KPT-12-VB—will be displayed for the first time at ShoWest 2008, March 10–13 at Bally’s and Paris in Las Vegas. These cinema speakers are the first to utilize the exclusive VBAT, or Virtual Boundary Array Technology. Along with these groundbreaking theater surround loudspeakers, new fully passive screen channel networks will make their debut on two of the most popular large three-way systems.

The new VBAT-equipped surround speakers feature a pair of patented skewed coverage horns, configured in a side by side array that achieves over 140 degrees of horizontal coverage. This produces more consistent, wider coverage over the full bandwidth than could be accomplished by a single horn.

VBAT refers to the effect of the two identical sound wave pressure fronts supporting each other along the axis perpendicular to the speaker’s front panel as they leave the mouth of the horns. In simple terms, this means that one Klipsch VBAT surround speaker can replace two conventional units in coverage and output. The new technology reduces the number of amplifier channels required for a typical cinema installation, as well as cutting labor costs and additional wiring. For many exhibitors, this reduction in total installation cost can help defray the expense of conversion to digital cinema.

The KPT-8-VB and KPT-12-VB also feature larger voice coil woofers for increased power handling and output, allowing them to achieve similar—or greater—output than twice as many conventional surrounds. They also achieve a greater degree of diffusion, delivering a more cohesive ambient effect and more seamless side to side and front to rear pans.

The new fully passive crossover screen channel networks expand this configuration to include the most popular Klipsch large three-way cinema speakers, the KPT-535 and KPT-535-4, which previously were bi- or tri-amp only. Like the new VBAT speakers, the primary advantage of this technology is lower cost, realized through the use of fewer amplifier channels and electronic crossovers, as well as reduced labor charges for wiring and installation.

INDIANAPOLIS (February 7, 2008) — On February 5, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) announced the finalists of its 2008 Mark of Excellence Awards. The Klipsch Palladium™ P-39F floorstanding loudspeaker was among them, recognized for its outstanding achievement and innovation in the best freestanding speaker category.

The Klipsch name has been synonymous with horn-loaded technology since 1946. And since then, the company has been guided by the four design principles established by its founder Paul W. Klipsch: high efficiency with low distortion, controlled directivity, flat frequency response and wide dynamic range.

According to Klipsch officials, the Palladium P-39F represents the latest advancement in horn technology and purest application of those design principles yet. The carbon-infused, thermoset composite dual-horn configuration is unique to the P-39F. It consists of a proprietary tweeter design combining a chambered phase plug and Tractrix® Horn for extended high-frequency response; a second 90-degree by 60-degree acoustically dampened Tractrix Horn is coupled to the midrange driver. The result is remarkably precise and detailed reproduction of music.

The P-39F’s cabinet features no parallel walls and extensive internal bracing; the structure minimizes resonance and maximizes acoustic performance. The 27mm constrained layer side panels feature multiple laminations of medium density fiberboard that are molded through a proprietary process. When combined with the angled top panel and 31mm steel-reinforced front baffle, the finished cabinet enclosure offers ideal rigidity, strength and sound.

Next to its uniquely built enclosure, the P-39F’s most striking visual element is its beautiful zebra-grain Linia veneer finish. The horizontal linear grain matches that of the most popular contemporary furniture and emphasizes the elegant curvature of the cabinet. Three different finish stains are available: natural, merlot and espresso. 

The Mark of Excellence Awards program, presented by CEA's TechHome Division, recognizes the best in custom home electronics products, services, and installed technology. Each year, manufacturers, distributors, and systems integrators enter to compete in award categories for this coveted honor. A four-member judging team comprised of systems integrators, manufacturers and members of the trade press/industry consultants evaluate the entries.

All of the winners will be announced at an awards dinner on Friday, March 14 at the Rosen Centre Hotel, during the ninth annual Electronic House Expo (EHX) Spring 2008.

About CEA
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $161 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,200 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. For more information, visit www.ce.org.

INDIANAPOLIS (January 30, 2008) — Things haven’t come easily to Patrick Henry Hughes. The 19-year-old was born without eyes and has been confined to a wheelchair since childhood. Despite these challenges, Patrick has excelled; today, he is majoring in Spanish at the University of Louisville and performs as a trumpeter in the marching band with his father, who wheels him through the band’s choreographed segments.

His remarkable story recently came to the attention of the ABC hit series “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” Through the efforts of the program and local volunteers, the Hughes family recently took possession of a new, highly automated 3,200-square-foot home built from the ground up in just 106 hours. And Klipsch was a part of it all, providing surround speakers for the Hughes family’s new home theater systems.

According to Phil Deddens, owner of Super Home Systems in Louisville, the project was one of the most comprehensive his firm has undertaken, requiring 15 people working eight hours each to install all of the major pre-wiring for the two home theatres, telephones and security systems. “We worked ahead of the electricians, installing the wiring in the rafters even before roofing was begun,” Deddens noted. The final home theater installation included Klipsch CDT-3650-C in-ceiling speakers and RW-5802 subwoofers.

The Klipsch architectural loudspeakers are part of a unique voice-operated system that allows Patrick to change channels on the flat-screen televisions, adjust the audio levels, open doors, get the time and temperature and even operate the security system through simple spoken commands.

In addition to the ABC series’ cast and crew, hundreds of laborers from the Louisville area worked around the clock to make the dream house a reality. Deddens’ schedule was particularly hectic: “Our crew of 15 worked alongside 30 electricians, 20 HVAC installers and two plumbers per bathroom. It was definitely a crazy day.”

A crowd of over 5,000 greeted the Hughes family at the unveiling of their home. Patrick was given a 3-D model so that he could “see” his new residence. The episode is slated to air on February 17.

INDIANAPOLIS (January 25, 2008) — Nearly 600 attendees gathered at the Body English nightclub inside the Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel and Casino on January 8—evening two of the International Consumer Electronics Show—to witness Klipsch unveil its custom designed chopper as built by Orange County Choppers. Watch footage from event.

“Our bike rocks—literally! For us to be part of something like this is too cool for words, but you definitely feel it once you sit on it,” said Mike Klipsch, president of Klipsch Audio Technologies. “High performance all-around—it’s ‘eye-catching style meets sheer brute strength’.”

Like everything built by Orange County Choppers, the Klipsch bike is unique. It reflects the legendary 62-year-old company’s true personality by featuring its signature copper and black color scheme, horn and woofer assemblies, a working iPod dock, detailed Paul W. Klipsch (PWK) logos on each chrome wheel’s blade-like spokes, as well as Klipsch logos on the air filter and black leather seat.

For those who are unaware, proprietary horn-loaded technology has—and will always be—the driving force behind Klipsch’s highly acclaimed and stunningly precise sound. In fact, Paul W. Klipsch founded the company in 1946 on the promise of a corner horn-loaded speaker design.

Also as part of the partnership, OCC is currently building a new 92,000-square-foot corporate facility in Newburgh, N.Y. and has chosen Klipsch as its preferred audio provider. From the retail area to the shop floor more than 100 Klipsch speakers will bring dynamic sound to the entire building.

On February 4, Klipsch hosted a special bike unveiling at its corporate headquarters in Indianapolis, Ind. for employees. “This is a big, once-in-a-lifetime deal for us and we wanted everyone inside the company to be a part of it,” said Klipsch. Watch footage from event.

Additional Chopper Details

• 10 ft. long and weighs 600 pounds 
• Back tire is 300 mm 
• Size and type of engine: A S&S 117 cubic-inch motor (1916CC) 
• 120 horsepower with 135 foot-pounds of torque 
• Six-speed transmission 
• 3.5-gallon gas tank with a half-gallon reserve 
• Features a pair of Klipsch K-77D horns and an RVX-42 woofer

INDIANAPOLIS (January 16, 2008) — Klipsch has introduced an advanced new line of 70-volt IC-T Series business music system speakers, including three in-ceiling models and a subwoofer. These products offer several improvements over the popular models they replace, but still maintain the previous units’ value-driven philosophy.

Consisting of the all-new IC-400-T, the IC-525-T, IC-650-T and the IC-8T-SW2 subwoofer, this rugged lineup is suitable for a wide variety of business and residential applications. The smaller IC-400-T provides great sound at a new, lower price point, while the IC-525-T and IC-650-T offer deeper, richer bass sound than their predecessors, the IC-5T and IC-6T. IC-T Series products have been used in major installations from Bloomingdale’s in New York City to the Ron Jon Surf Shop in Orlando.

Additionally, with their added performance capabilities, these new speakers mix and match beautifully with existing Klipsch CA-T Series surface mount products.

The newest addition IC-400-T provides legendary Klipsch quality and horn-loaded technology at a value price. It employs a 5-inch cone and 1-inch titanium compression driver tweeter that is mated to a new 2-inch Tractrix® Horn design. This provides a wider frequency response, while a 1-inch Tractrix port also delivers a deeper bass sound.

The IC-650-T, which replaces the IC-6T, utilizes the same materials, porting and horn technology as the IC-400-T but employs a larger 6.5-inch woofer and new patent pending 3.5-inch horn with XT technology that delivers smooth response and constant directivity. Similarly, the IC-525-T, with its 5.75-inch woofer and 3.5-inch horn, replaces the IC-5T. All of the new speakers are rated at 8 ohms nominal.

To add additional clear, powerful bass to any business audio system, the Klipsch IC-8T-SW2 is the ideal solution. The IC-8T-SW2 subwoofer replaces the previous IC-8T-SW model. It features an 8-inch woofer and 8-inch drone with polypropylene cones and high temperature voice coils. A new design that eliminates the need for a transformer increases bass for remarkable performance in a compact package.

The new IC-T Series speakers are wider and lower than the previous models to facilitate low-ceiling installs. A tile bridge is included with each speaker for installation in ceiling tiles, or where additional reinforcement is required. The IC-400-T, IC-525-T and IC-650-T are available in black or white.

The new IC-T Series—with the exception of the IC-8T-SW2 subwoofer—are priced and sold in pairs.

INDIANAPOLIS (March 25, 2008) — For over 60 years, Klipsch engineers have sought the ultimate: a loudspeaker that could reproduce recorded music with all the passion of a live performance. The new Palladium™ Series approaches aural perfection, while making a visual statement that is every bit as elegant and passionate as the sound.

The Palladium Series P-39F floorstander represents the epitome of loudspeaker technology, with remarkable clarity throughout the dynamic range and bold styling. Today, Klipsch Group, Inc. is a global force, and this flagship loudspeaker reflects that leadership status; design and engineering teams from the United States collaborated with colleagues from Germany and China to plan and execute the Palladium project.

To ensure that the new speaker exceeded consumer expectations, the Klipsch team enlisted the assistance of BMW Group DesignworksUSA—a global design consultancy that has done projects for BMW Group vehicles as well as other premium brands. The result is simply spectacular; a clean, contemporary look that enhances any living space. According to Mark Casavant, Klipsch vice president of product development, “The Palladium Series is intended to represent the highest levels of achievement in engineering and style; the look and finish of these speakers certainly achieve that goal.”
In designing the Palladium P-39F cabinet, Designworks first considered the Klipsch heritage and unique approach to acoustic design. Trends in home interior and furniture were also factored in, as was the current audio market landscape.

The result is a speaker that flawlessly melds classic Klipsch® audio with the latest in home furniture trends. The striking “boat-tail” design hints at the power and performance inside, while maintaining a high degree of sophistication and beauty. More importantly, the arched shape of the P-39F flagship loudspeaker actually contributes to its remarkable sound by breaking up standing waves at higher frequencies. 

Next to its unique shape, the most striking visual element is the beautiful stained zebra-grain Linia veneer finish. The horizontal linear grain matches that of the most popular contemporary furniture and emphasizes the elegant curvature of the cabinet. Three different finish stains are available: natural, merlot and espresso.

When in place, the two magnetically attached speaker grilles are designed to subtly reveal the classic Klipsch horn at the top and the hybrid drivers below; those who desire a more functional, powerful look may choose to remove them entirely to display the components.

The P-39F’s side-firing ports are another example of the marriage of form and function. The ports themselves increase bass response, while their metallic finish mirrors the horn and driver trim rings. Because Palladium P-39F loudspeakers are sold as matched left-right pairs, the ports make an easily seen visual statement.

An adjustable brushed aluminum floating base supports the cabinet at just four points, rather than the entire area of the base. This raises the cabinet from floor level but maintains absolute stability.

Power. Detail. Emotion. Combined, these qualities are the embodiment of the Klipsch core philosophy. And all are expressed—beautifully—in the brilliant new Palladium P-39F loudspeaker.

Priced at $20,000 per pair (U.S. MSRP), the Palladium P-39F speakers will begin shipping to select specialty retail outlets around the world in July. 

Visit the special Palladium mini-site.

Watch Palladium video.

INDIANAPOLIS (December 19, 2007) — As part of the International CES Best of Innovations Design and Engineering Awards program, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and the Industrial Designers of America (IDSA) have recognized Klipsch’s Image headphones and XF-48 floorstanding speaker as being among the best designed and engineered products for 2008. 

Since 1989, the Innovations program has provided a showcase for the industry’s top creative products. This year a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the trade press honored exceptional consumer electronics products in 32 categories. Image and the XF-48 were selected as honorees in the headphone and home theater divisions respectively.

About Image Headphones 

Image is the world’s smallest, lightest full-range in-ear headphone design.

It utilizes patent-pending Contour Ear Gels that are anatomically designed to accurately fit inside the human ear canal. These soft, oval silicon tips reduce ear fatigue as well as provide an amazing seal for excellent noise isolation and increased bass response.

In order to continue Klipsch’s 60-plus years of delivering stunningly precise audio, Image employs extended-frequency exclusive KG926 balanced micro-armatures.

Image headphones features aluminum bodies finished in anodized copper and sleek, aerodynamic-shaped black “tails.” These flexible “tails” reduce cable stress and serve as an acoustic dampener to minimize cable noise.

Priced at $349, Image works with the iPhone™ and virtually any device that has a standard headphone jack. These headphones also come with a carrying case and pouch, a ¼-inch adaptor, an airline adaptor, five sets of different-sized ear gels, and an ear gel cleaning tool.

About the ICON Series XF-48 

A perfect complement to flat-panel displays, the fully active XF-48 floorstander—the flagship model in Klipsch’s ICON Series—employs dual high-output fiberglass cone woofers with powerful neodymium motor structures and two passive radiators to unleash the kind of bass you hear and feel.

But what makes this speaker remarkably superior is an all-new, patent-pending Tractrix® Horn-loaded tweeter with XT™ technology. For over 60 years, horns have been the driving force behind Klipsch’s stunningly precise sound, and this latest design moves the company farther ahead by allowing the slender XF-48 to deliver an extremely smooth response with constant directivity.

The XF-48 has a beautifully crafted aluminum extruded enclosure that features an anodized black-grain finish and high-gloss black accents. It is shipping now and can be purchased through the specialty retail market for $2,498 a pair.

Image and the XF-48, along with all of this year’s Innovations winners, will be on display in the Innovations Showcase at the Sands Expo and Convention Center/The Venetian at the 2008 International CES.

Why are Image headphones unique and worth the price?
Made up of the X10 and X5, the Image Series is among the world’s smallest, lightest full-range earphone family. Meant to be heard and not seen, these tiny headphones are big on performance, style and comfort. Image is loaded with our most advanced comfort features, plus its remarkably lightweight design places minimal pressure on the ears.

What is the difference between Image X10 and X5?
The X5 is a slightly larger—by only 2mm in diameter—than the flagship X10, so it’s easier and somewhat less expensive to manufacture, so we can pass the savings on to the end user. However, the X5 is still considered a very small, lightweight design and will continue the Image legacy of being the least fatiguing in-ear headphones around. 

With respect to technology and sound performance, the X5 employs a balanced full-range driver with a tuned bass-reflex system, while the X10 uses an exclusive full-range micro-driver with a tuned bass-reflex system. If you like a lot of bass, we recommend purchasing the X10; however, if you like want a superior top end with more forward voicing than the X5 is the right choice for you.

According to the Klipsch engineering team, the X5 continues Klipsch’s sound signature by performing accurately in the frequency and time domain, minimizing any phase distortion with its linear acceleration. As a result, you’ll hear things in your favorite recordings you never noticed before. 

Read review that compares the X10 and the X5.

Why is it beneficial for Image to be small and light?
First of all, your ear is a sensitive area; the lighter the headphone the better, as it puts less pressure on the ear canal, resulting in extreme comfort. Secondly, Image’s small size allows it to automatically adjust to the center of the ear canal, meaning users can easily insert and remove the headphones, as well as find the perfect seal. Thirdly, Image’s compact dimensions make toting them around virtually hassle-free.

What makes Image headphones so comfortable?
Unlike other in-ear headphones on the market, our patent-pending oval ear tips are anatomically shaped to accurately fit inside the human ear canal. These soft, oval silicon tips reduce ear fatigue and provide excellent noise isolation for superior audio performance.

Why should I choose an in-ear design over a traditional on-ear headphone model?
First of all, the music source is closer to your ear drum, which in turn, makes the sound more accurate. Secondly, your ear lobes won’t get hot and sweaty after hours of use. Not to mention, in-ear designs won’t mess up your hair.

Are in-ear headphone designs bad for your hearing?
Anytime you put something in your ear or listen to loud music, there is a health risk involved. However, when you wear an in-ear design with a good seal, you typically don’t have to turn up the volume as much because a good seal dramatically reduces background noise.

These headphones are too loud and my ears are ringing! What should I do?
You have your volume set too high. These products offer a far higher quality of sound than most people expect from headphones, and you might not always realize that you are listening too loud.

Why am I not getting enough bass response?
It’s probably because you don’t have a good ear seal. Be sure to try out the various ear tip sizes, as you may find that you need the double flange design for the best possible seal. You may also want to try pulling the ear tip out slightly, as it may have collapsed.

How do I know if I have a good seal?
When no music is playing, your voice should sound louder and ambient noise should sound quieter, very similar to wearing a pair of ear plugs. Creating a tighter seal is simple. Insert the ear tip into the ear canal and then gently pull it back. This adjustment eliminates virtually all external noise so you can play your music at a lower volume, for a longer period of time, without experiencing ear fatigue.

What is a full-range acoustic experience?
It’s the perfect acoustic situation where a listener gets a true-to-life sound experience with crisp highs and deep lows.

What is a balanced armature speaker?
A balanced armature is the tiny specialized speaker that’s inside your headphones. You have one for each ear and they turn electrical signals into acoustical sound waves. Like a traditional speaker, an armature features an internal diaphragm that’s driven by an electromagnetic motor system to produce sound. Armature benefits include: smaller size, higher output, extended frequency response and improved high frequency detail compared to a traditional moving coil speaker.

What compression format should I use to get the most from my Image headphones?
When it comes to the superior delivery of your digital music, the compression format you choose to import your songs makes a huge difference—especially when you listen with high-end headphones. The more compression, the more sound quality is lost. In iTunes, you can select between five different compression encoders when ripping music files from your CD collection: AAC, AIFF, Apple Lossless, MP3 and WAV. Which is best?

If you’re into serious audiophile listening and want to get the full impact of our headphones’ performance prowess, you’ll need to select a WAV, AIFF or Apple Lossless format for your music. While WAV and AIFF are raw audio files from CDs in computer-readable formats, Apple Lossless preserves a CD’s original quality, while cutting its size in half. You might compare this lossless encoding to a zip file: smaller than the original, but with no data loss. Keep in mind that these three formats take up a lot more file space than the standard AAC and MP3 encodings. In other words, you’ll get fewer songs on your iPod or other device, but they’ll be delivered at a much higher quality.

Another thing to consider when choosing these compression formats is that only iTunes and the iPod can support Apple Lossless files and just about every other piece of music-playing software will be able to play WAV files. AIFF files are specific to Macs, so if you are planning to listen to music on a PC, WAV is your best choice.

Because they sound pretty good and achieve the best compression of the five formats, most iPod users choose between AAC and MP3. AAC, or advanced audio coding, is the standard default on iTunes. When compared to an MP3 format, AAC gives better sound at the same bit rate. However, only iTunes and the iPod can support AAC; MP3s can be played on just about every digital music player.

PC users can make their compression selection in iTunes by going to the edit drop-down box, selecting preferences and then clicking on the importing tab. Mac users can go to the iTunes drop-down box, select their preferences, then click on the importing tab.

How does bit rate influence Image sound performance?
The second variable to consider when trying to get the best sound performance out of your digital music files is “bit rate.” Bit rate refers to the rate that data is flowing in bits per second. The greater the bit rate, the more data is played back every second.

Most often, files are compressed to 128 kbps, 160 kbps or 192 kbps. The standard bit rate default in iTunes is 128 kbps, but you can customize your rate to go as high as 320 kbps (you make your bit rate selection when choosing your compression format). Kbps means kilobits per second—the higher the number, the better the sound and the more space a music file will consume on your computer or iPod. Conversely, the lower the number, the lower quality of audio will be and the less file space you’ll take up.

To give you an example of how bit rates works, a 4-minute song requires about 3.7 MB of iPod/hard disk space at 128 kbps and about 4.7 MB at 160 kbps. If you go to 192 kbps, you’d have a 5.6 MB file, and file sizes increase accordingly each time you move to a higher bit rate.

You may find that your music sounds fine at the 128 kbps rate, but if you want true audiophile-quality sound to fully appreciate your Klipsch Image headphones, you should go to a 192 kbps or 256 kbps rate. Bit rate and file size don’t usually pose a problem unless you have tons of music and want to fit it all on your iPod. That’s when you have to make a choice: better sound quality and fewer songs, or lower sound quality and more songs.

How durable are Image headphones?
Klipsch put Image through extensive “real world” testing to ensure long-lasting durability. You’ll find reliable strain relief at every cable connection point to help prevent wire damage. Furthermore, Image’s sleek, streamlined black “tail” reduces cable stress and strain, as well as serves as an acoustic dampener that minimizes cable noise. However, cable wear occurs over time, so you should always take special care of your headphones.

Why are Image ear tips oval-shaped instead of round?
When Klipsch started studying three-dimensional ear impressions, it was discovered that nearly everyone has an oval-shaped ear canal. The company couldn’t believe that no one else had yet considered the anatomical shape of the ear canal when designing in-ear headphones. Aside from their comfort value, our oval ear tips load quickly and easily into the ear canals as well as virtually disappear from view.

Why does Image include a variety of ear tip sizes?
Ear canal measurements vary. Therefore, each Image model comes with five different ear tip sizes: small, medium, and large single flange designs as well as small and large double flange designs. Such variety allows Klipsch to fit more of the population than its competition.

How do I know which ear tip size is right for me?
We recommend trying on various sizes. The tip that offers the most comfort and the best ear seal is the right one for you. You may even find that using a different size tip in each ear is the best option.

Will the ear tips get stuck in my ears?
While we can’t guarantee this will not happen, Klipsch’s patent-pending earphone nozzles are designed with mechanical retention rings to help reduce the chance of the tips getting lodged in the ear canal. However, make sure that the ear tip is fully seated on the nozzle and that the ring is engaged by pulling on the ear tip before inserting into your ear. If it comes off easily, then it is not positioned properly.

What if my ears are wax magnets?
If used regularly, it is natural for you to experience wax buildup in the ear tips. Image headphones come with an ear gel cleaning tool that easily removes wax buildup from the ear tip’s acoustic opening. Plus, you can clean the exterior of the silicon ear tip with rubbing alcohol.

Will I still be able to hear my music if I am traveling on a noisy bus, train or plane?
Yes, that is the best reason to use our noise-isolation headphones. Keep in mind though; you must have a good seal. By inserting Image earphones properly, you’ll easily be able to tune out screaming children, brake sounds, tire squeals, and engine roars. You CHOOSE your audio environment.

Will Image headphones work with my iPhone?
Image headphones are compatible with the iPod, the iPhone and any device with a standard 3.5mm headphone jack.

INDIANAPOLIS (October 24, 2007) — Since 1946, Klipsch has trusted horn-loaded technology to deliver its accurate, efficient and compromise-free acoustics. While Klipsch founder and audio pioneer Paul W. Klipsch received his first loudspeaker horn patent in February 1943, the company’s latest horn patent was issued earlier this month.

Roy Delgado, Klipsch principal engineer of commercial products, designed the skew horn for a loudspeaker, which was issued as patent #7,275,621. Delgado, who has worked for the company for 21 years and secured a total of three patents, also has two other horn designs awaiting patent approval and one in the application stage.

“It took me eight months to design the skew horn. I had some issues along the way but stayed completely motivated as I love a challenge,” said Delgado. “I am glad I stuck with it, as it is now a proprietary technology that lets Klipsch manufacture wide dispersion speakers that fill a broad area with smooth, consistent sound, while also reducing the number of speakers required in an installation.”

The company’s customary horn technology allows its traditional “box” products to deliver a focused, symmetrical sound coverage, but it is a design that doesn’t always suit surround speakers, especially in-wall models. Because they lie flush with the wall, it is very difficult for in-wall surround speakers to cover a wide area with high-performance sound.

The skewed horn solves the problem by providing extraordinarily wide and consistent coverage. It does so by applying either two vertically or horizontally stacked exclusive Skewed Tractrix® Horn-loaded tweeters that point in opposite directions. The technology, currently featured in the Klipsch R-5650-S and KS-7800-THX in-wall surround speakers, outperforms conventional designs by maximizing dispersion, clarity and efficiency, while minimizing room interactions that blur sonic detail.

According to Jim Hunter, Klipsch senior director of engineering operations, applying for a patent is not an easy task. It is a long process that is measured in years. In fact, the company applied for the skewed horn patent in 2004. The process, however, can be drawn out even longer as Klipsch is still waiting to receive a patent on a separate application that was filed six years ago.

Once a “unique” idea is established, it is then up to the Klipsch engineering team to do a patent search. And according to Hunter, many times it is discovered that an idea is not so “unique.” “There’s the old saying, ‘the ancients are stealing our inventions,’" he laughs. “With the millions of patents that are out there, it’s really difficult to be the first one to come up with an exclusive design.”

When a company deems a design concept unique, a patent attorney typically gets involved. The attorney puts a legal spin on the patent application before it is submitted. Then, the application sits in an examiner cue where it waits to be reviewed. Hunter mentioned that an application may have to be re-filed several times before it gets approved.

In addition to be being a lengthy process, patent applications can be very expensive. According to Hunter, it can cost as much as $20,000, with the majority of the amount going towards legal fees, and that’s if everything goes smoothly.

United States patents are good for 17 years. After that, anyone can utilize the information for free. “A patent is an exchange,” said Hunter. “The inventor shows the world how to do something, and the world lets him or her use it exclusively for 17 years.”

List of 30 patents associated with Paul W. Klipsch and/or the Klipsch company: 

Patent #	Date	Description
2,205,982	June 1940	Firearm Design
2,230,803	February 1941	Wave Network
2,231,013	February 1941	Prospecting with AC Current
2,232,612	February 1941	Recording Seismic Waves
2,232,613	February 1941	Seismic Prospecting
2,238,023	April 1941	Equalizer
2,243,418	May 1941	Electrical Prospecting
2,251,549	August 1941	Electrical Mixing Circuit
2,293,024	August 1942	Methods of Electrical Prospecting
2,302,699	November 1942	Firearm Vibration Control
2,310,243	February 1943	Loudspeaker Horn
2,373,692	April 1945	Loudspeaker Design
2,450,003	September 1948	Rotating Band Tester
2,537,141	June 1951	High Frequency Horn
D-163700	June 1951	Room Corner Loudspeaker
2,612,558	September 1952	Crossover Network
2,731,101	January 1956	Rebel Loudspeaker
3,330,966	July 1967	Logarithmic Converter Circuit
D229566	December 1973	Belle Klipsch Loudspeaker
4,138,594	February 1979	Folded Horn Loudspeaker
D253699	December 1979	Professional Loudspeaker System
D253700	December 1979	Professional Midrange Speaker
D253819	January 1980	Low Frequency Loudspeaker
D254491	March 1980	High Frequency Loudspeaker
4,210,233	July 1980	Bifurcated Path Low Frequency Horn
4,237,340	December 1980	LB-76 Crossover Network
4,387,786	June 1983	Anechoic Chamber Design
5,000,286	March 1991	Modular Loudspeaker System
5,898,138	April 1999	Loudspeaker Having Horn Loaded Driver and Vent
7,275,621	October 2007	Skew Horn for a Loudspeaker

INDIANAPOLIS (October 16, 2007) — Last May, Fred S. Klipsch, chairman and CEO of multi-brand global loudspeaker company Klipsch Group, Inc., donned a dark robe and angular cap and shook several Ph.D.-level hands while receiving an honorary degree at Purdue University’s spring commencement ceremony.

The Purdue Trustees and state of Indiana selected Mr. Klipsch for a doctor of technology based on his lifelong credentials. Mr. Klipsch has successfully distinguished himself as an entrepreneur and philanthropist whose record of significant accomplishments and contributions to business, industry, higher education and charitable organizations spans nearly half a century.

“To be recognized by your peers in any area is clearly a great honor,” said Klipsch. “For that recognition to be an honorary Ph.D. from Purdue University exceeds any reasonable expectation.”

In addition to his Klipsch Group involvement, Mr. Klipsch serves as vice chairman of Health Care REIT, Inc. (NYSE:HCN). His most important charitable contribution has been working with the Educational Choice Charitable Trust, an organization that provides alternative private school education options to economically disadvantaged families in Indianapolis, Ind.

According to Dr. Matthew Stephens, a professor in Purdue’s industrial technology department and steward of Mr. Klipsch’s nomination, an honorary degree is one of higher education’s most significant accolades.

“We do not take honorary degrees lightly,” said Stephens. “Recipients are people who have done great things for industry and mankind. They must be a true citizen of the world and Dr. Klipsch falls into that category.”

The honorary degree process starts with a preliminary evaluation and if considered valid, moves through several committees consisting of professors, deans and department heads before finally reaching the university president and board of trustees where the final decision is made. Additionally, friends, co-workers, business partners and the like are asked to submit testimonial letters to Purdue on the nominee’s behalf.

Stephens said it is an extremely tough evaluation process, and many times nominees don’t even realize they are being considered for the degree. “We try to keep everything confidential as we don’t want to get someone’s hopes up. It’s that hard to get this kind of recognition from our university,” he said.

Mr. Klipsch is an avid, ongoing supporter of Purdue University and its College of Technology. According to Dennis Depew, dean of the College of Technology, Mr. Klipsch is a highly valued member of the Dean’s Executive Council. “We are very appreciative of his sincere commitment and involvement with our university,” he said.

Fred S. Klipsch Biography
Raised in Indianapolis, Ind., Mr. Klipsch earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial education from Purdue in 1964. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and stationed in Southern California, where he worked on his master’s of business administration at California State College at Long Beach, earning the degree in 1968. 

He returned to Indianapolis and worked four years for IBM, gaining valuable insight into corporate structure. That led to an opportunity with Overhead Door Co. of Indianapolis, where he eventually became president, co-chairman and co-owner. His success at Overhead set the stage for several other business opportunities, including the acquisitions of Hospital Affiliates Development Corporation and Klipsch & Associates in 1989. While Hospital Affiliates Development Corporation developed into Windrose Medical Properties Trust after a 2002 IPO, Klipsch & Associates became Klipsch Group, Inc. in 2006. Also, in 2006, Windrose merged with Health Care REIT. 

Furthermore, Mr. Klipsch was inducted into Junior Achievement’s Central Indiana Business Hall of Fame in 2006 and named Indiana Heartland’s Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year® in 2000. 

Mr. Klipsch also enjoys volunteering his services and support, including being active with the President's Council and the John Purdue Club at his alma mater. He has served on the Indianapolis Campaign Steering Committee and the College of Technology Dean's Executive Council.

INDIANAPOLIS (September 11, 2007) — When it came to selecting products that, in the past year, have garnered the most excitement in the consumer electronics industry, the editorial staff at CustomRetailer magazine chose the Klipsch XF-48 floorstanding loudspeaker for a 2007 Excite Award.

As the flagship speaker in the company’s new Icon Series, a six-model lineup designed to bring stunning audio to today’s stunning flat-panel displays, the fully-active XF-48 floorstander utilizes an all-new wide dispersion Tractrix® Horn-loaded tweeter with XT™ technology.

This proprietary design allows the XF-48 to diffuse a smooth, enveloping 80-degree by 80-degree sound pattern from its extremely thin aluminum extrusion enclosure. As with all Klipsch horn-loaded technology, this version also produces more output using less energy, meaning you don’t need a lot of amplifier power to drive the speaker.

Furthermore, the XF-48 achieves full-range, deep bass response by employing dual high-output 5.25-inch black fiberglass cone woofers that utilize powerful neodymium motor structures as well as two passive radiators that are 8.5-inches high by 5.25-inches wide.

Featuring a sleek, black grain anodized finish with black gloss accents; the XF-48 proves that you don’t have to sacrifice great sound for great style. The XF-48 will begin shipping to the specialty retail and contracting markets next month and carry a U.S. MSRP of $2,498 a pair.

All of the 2007 Excite winners were recognized at a special awards party that took place in Denver, Colo. during the CEDIA trade show. Each nominated product was required to be available and shipping between January 1, 2007 and October 15, 2007. Judging was based on product photos, product descriptions as well as a 50-words or less answer to “What makes this product exciting?”

INDIANAPOLIS (April 16, 2008) — Engineered to look and feel like a natural rock, the new AWR-650-SM outdoor speaker from Klipsch takes over six decades of audio experience and wraps it into a high-performance, weatherized package that blends in perfectly with most landscapes.

Expanding on the company’s already comprehensive outdoor series, the AWR-650-SM is a true two-way design that employs a 6.5-inch dual voice coil polymer woofer and dual ¾-inch polymer dome tweeters. It's also important to note that these woofer and tweeter components are highly efficient, allowing the speaker to produce more output using less energy. And, unlike most rock speakers, the AWR-650-SM is a ported design, so it provides great low-frequency performance. 

The speaker’s dual tweeter design allows it to play both left and right stereo signals with precision and clarity. Additionally, it can be wired for mono output in instances where several models are needed to bring smooth and even coverage to larger areas.

According to Mark Casavant, vice president of product development for Klipsch architectural, the AWR-650-SM is a truly engaging all-weather product. He noted that people often think of outdoor speakers as only being able to deliver low-level background music. Klipsch outdoor products, however, have the ability to engage listeners with dynamic sound that can really turn a yard into a legitimate entertainment space.   

“For over 60 years, we’ve been about no-compromise audio performance and our rock design is no exception. Just listen and you’ll discover that it delivers an amazing, full-bodied bass response for its price range,” said Casavant.

Available in a granite, sandstone or red rock finish, the AWR-650-SM features a durable UV-resistant enclosure so that consumers can enjoy clean, clear sound all year long. Carrying a U.S. MSRP of $299 each, the speaker is now shipping to the specialty retail and custom installation markets.

Other full-range speakers in the Klipsch outdoor series include the AW-650, AW-525, AW-400, AW-500-SM and AW-800-SW. All of these speakers, except for the AW-800 subwoofer, feature 90-degree by 90-degree Tractrix® Horns for a consistent wide sound field whether mounted vertically or horizontally. Each speaker also comes with durable heavy-gauge zinc C-brackets, improved input cups for better drainage and back-panel threaded inserts that are compatible with popular wall and ceiling brackets.

INDIANAPOLIS (April 30, 2008) — Klipsch focused on performance, quality and beauty when designing its new Icon X speaker series for flat-panel displays. These elegant speakers with delicately curved forms and slender proportions utilize an all-new patent-pending horn design that is unlike anything else on the market. 

There are six models within the Icon X Series: the award-winning XF-48 floorstander, XL-23 and XL-12 LCR speakers, XB-10 bookshelf speaker as well as the XW-500d and XW-300d subwoofers.

All of these speakers, except for the subwoofers, feature an exclusive 80-degree by 80-degree round Tractrix® Horn with XT technology. For over 60 years, horns have been the driving force behind Klipsch’s signature high-output, low-distortion sound. This latest XT version builds upon the company’s tried-and-true engineering philosophies by allowing the extremely thin Icon speakers to deliver an extremely smooth response with constant directivity. 

According to Tony Ostrom, Klipsch director of product marketing, the entire Icon Series is performance art at its best, capturing the spirit of the company’s past and pushing it into the future. “It is a brilliant representation of how our products have evolved and remained desirable over time,” he said. “After just one listen, the Icon X sound will be imprinted in your consciousness forever.”

As the flagship model in the series, the XF-48 floorstander intelligently employs two high-output 5.25-inch black fiberglass cone woofers with powerful neodymium motor structures and two passive radiators to unleash the kind of bass you hear and feel. A premium 0.75-inch titanium diaphragm compression driver delivers the speaker’s precise high frequencies. Plus, the XF-48 is a fully active design with built-in amplification, meaning you don’t need an A/V receiver to power it. You can plug these speakers directly into your TV, as long as your set has the right audio out jacks. With the appropriate cables, you can even plug an iPod directly into these floorstanders.

While the XL-23 LCR features dual high-output 4-inch black fiberglass cone woofers, the XB-10 bookshelf and XL-12 LCR use one. All of these models utilize single 0.75-inch titanium diaphragm compression drivers. For increased placement flexibility, these models can be paired with the company’s optional XFS floor stands.

The sealed XW-500d subwoofer achieves its hard-hitting intensity and clean output via a 10-inch driver and a 500-watt Bash® amplifier. For the quick and easy adjustment of all functions, the subwoofer features Klipsch’s unique Digitally Controlled Subwoofer (DCS™) technology that includes three equalization modes (flat, depth, and punch) and three user-adjustable presets (music, movie, and night) to create specific listening preferences. The XW-300d subwoofer offers the same features as the XW-500d, but employs an 8-inch driver and a 300-watt Bash amplifier.

The Icon X Series performance has but one rival: style. All of the speakers, except the subwoofers, are crafted of extruded aluminum and feature an anodized black-grain finish with high-gloss black accents. The subwoofers feature a black aluminum-look finish with high-gloss black accents.

To achieve the ultimate Icon X home theater experience, Klipsch recommends the following setup: a pair of XL-48 floorstanders to serve as main channels, an XL-23 LCR for a center channel, a pair of XB-10 bookshelves for surrounds and an XW-500d subwoofer. However, because all of the speakers within the Icon X line are cosmetically and sonically matched, any combination will yield high-performance results.

The XF-48, XL-23, XL-12, XB-10, XW-500d and XFS are shipping now, while the XW-300d will become available in July. They are sold at the following U.S. MSRP pricing: $2,498 for a pair of XF-48s, $499 for each XL-23, $499 for a pair of XB-10s, $299 for each XL-12, $999 for each XW-500d, and $699 for each XW-300d. The optional XFS stands are $299 per pair.

INDIANAPOLIS (March 25, 2008) — Klipsch developed its new flagship Palladium™ P-39F floorstanding speaker to be a universal masterpiece of sound and design. The company plans to use this ultra-luxury product with unprecedented proprietary technologies to fulfill the most exacting demands of select customers around the world.

“Offering the highest level of perfection in every respect, this speaker is the pinnacle of modern-day horn-loaded technology and craftsmanship,” said Mark Casavant, Klipsch vice president of product development. “Steady global growth of the Klipsch® brand has proven to more and more people that horn-loaded speakers just sound better. Now that the Klipsch name is highly recognized and trusted on a much broader scale, we believe the market is ready to experience our more esoteric side.”

According to Casavant, a large percentage of high-end speakers utilize “off-the-shelf” drivers; the P-39F drivers were carefully designed and tested in the company’s advanced engineering and technology center in Indianapolis, Ind.

A 3.5-way Tapered Array design, the P-39F employs a new, proprietary horn-loaded tweeter assembly made of unique acoustically-damped materials, a sophisticated inverted dome midrange, and three high-output woofers to create a stunningly precise audio experience with high sensitivity and extremely low distortion.

Developed from the ground up, the speaker’s ¾-inch titanium diaphragm tweeter utilizes two powerful neodymium magnets and a resistively damped back chamber. A uniquely chambered phase plug and exclusive Tractrix® Horn combination delivers an extended high-frequency response that is inherently flat from 3kHz to 30kHz. Additionally, this arrangement reduces heat levels so that the driver will maintain its full dynamic capability at any volume level.

Housed in its own acoustically-tuned, sealed enclosure, the P-39F midrange employs a 4.5-inch inverted aluminum diaphragm driver powered by three high-temperature neodymium magnets, allowing it to operate effortlessly from 500Hz to 3kHz. A copper-capped pole piece reduces inductance modulation, giving a low-distortion, clean sound. The 1-inch voice coil not only delivers high sensitivity, but also generates a very responsive and accurate moving system.

The midrange’s lightweight foamed rubber surround allows the P-39F to achieve improved linear excursion, especially in the high-frequency range. The midrange driver is coupled to a 90-degree by 60-degree acoustically-damped Tractrix Horn via a four-to-one compression phase plug, which is specifically designed to operate over the midrange frequencies.

The P-39F’s three low-frequency drivers employ 9-inch hybrid cone woofers (made of aluminum, Rohacell® and Kevlar®), powered by a unique three-part neodymium magnet structure with dual stabilizing rings that reduce nonlinear flux. Triple ports further enhance low-distortion bass response. Each woofer’s 1.5-inch voice coil responds accurately to the smallest signal modulation, yet can also handle the high power of the most demanding soundtracks.

For signal purity and perfect driver integration, the P-39F’s crossover network features the finest components. When combined with the smooth, natural roll off of the drivers, the network creates a fourth-order electro-acoustic filter. Found in a damped region of the speaker’s base plate, the network also allows the tri-wire input connectors to be hidden from view.

Featuring a “boat-tail” enclosure, the P-39F’s cabinet walls are up to 30mm thick with multiple laminations of medium density fiberboard that have been molded through a proprietary process. Extensive internal bracing gives the speaker a more rigid and structurally sound enclosure.

It is also important to note that every P-39F comes as a “matching” left and right speaker pair. Not only are all of the driver components within each particular set acoustically matched, their cabinets also coordinate with one another by positioning their triple ports on opposite sides and sharing the same wood grain finish.

Having worked in conjunction with BMW Group DesignworksUSA—a global design consultancy that has done projects for BMW Group vehicles as well as other premium brands—Klipsch was able to make the P-39F a truly unique and elite statement piece.

Palladium P-39F floorstanders will begin shipping to select U.S. specialty retailers this summer. For a complete home theater experience, six other globally-inspired high-end models which use the same technology and design principles as the P-39F will launch during the same timeframe.

P-39F Technical Highlights: 

• Acoustically inert, carbon-infused, thermoset composite 90 x 60-degree Tractrix Horns and
phase plugs 

• 19mm (0.75-inch) titanium diaphragm super tweeter with twin N38H neodymium magnet motor
structure mated to 4:1 high-compression chambered phase plug 

• 114mm (4.5-inch) inverted aluminum diaphragm midrange with triple N35H neodymium
magnet motor structure with dedicated sub-enclosure mated to 4:1 high-compression
chambered phase plug 

• 3 x 228mm (9-inch) hybrid aluminum / Rohacell® / Kevlar® diaphragm woofers with triple
N35H neodymium magnet motor structures and dual Faraday aluminum shorting rings 

• High-flow, low-restriction, die-cast aluminum midrange and woofer frames with integrated
heatsinks 

• Optimized Tapered Array 3.5-way (4th order electro-acoustic) networks with high-linearity, low
insertion loss air-core inductors, Solen metalized polypropylene fast capacitors and ultra low
inductance power resistors mounted on double-sided, plated-thru PCB’s 

• Tri-wire, gold-plated brass Klipsch binding posts with gold-plated bus bars 

• All drive units and networks are hand sorted and factory matched within 0.5dB

All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 

Visit the special Palladium mini-site.

INDIANAPOLIS (March 12, 2008) — Alone, the Klipsch® RoomGroove makes a great iPod® speaker, but combine it with other RoomGroove units and you get an affordable, high-performance wireless home audio system. The speaker is also part of a new line of KlipschCast™ products, featuring exclusive wireless capabilities. Watch KlipschCast demo.

“With intelligent wireless technology and dynamic sound performance, our RoomGroove fills the market gap for a high-quality multi-room music platform that’s simple to install and operate,” said Mike Klipsch, president of Klipsch Audio Technologies. “It’s a product that allows users to easily expand their Klipsch sound from room-to-room without being tripped up or tied down.”

The RoomGroove is a true two-way stereo sound system that utilizes premium woofers, crossovers, and horn-loaded tweeters to deliver accurate, efficient, and compromise-free acoustics. It features a retractable dock that charges all iPods with 30-pin connectors and includes Apple universal well inserts to accommodate multiple iPod sizes. Other digital players, as well as devices with a line level audio output, easily connect via an auxiliary input.

Requiring no wiring beyond a power cord, each RoomGroove also acts as a transmitter or receiver, meaning it can wirelessly send CD-quality music to other RoomGroove units or receive CD-quality music from a transmitting RoomGroove. Additionally, the RoomGroove lets users listen to sources connected to, or integrated into, other Klipsch products with wireless KlipschCast™ technology, such as the CS-700 home theater system. For example, with a CS-700 and two or more RoomGrooves, users can wirelessly send music, TV or movie sound all over their house. 

The robust 2.4GHz wireless technology found in the RoomGroove offers unlimited add-on opportunities. Plus, the technology “sniffs out” the entire 2.4GHz band to detect other wireless technologies in use, such as wireless routers, and then transmits around the spectrum used by those sources. The home code dial on each of these wireless speakers allows users to select a code specific to all of the units in their homes to avoid interference with neighboring systems.

And, a RoomGroove gives you a choice. If a home has three RoomGrooves and “Song A” is playing in the bedroom and “Song B” is playing in the office, then the RoomGroove in the kitchen can listen to either song or play what’s on its own iPod.

Priced at $299 (U.S. MSRP), the RoomGroove and its accompanying IR remote is currently available for purchase on klipsch.com and at select retail locations. 

Audio Tip
 
The RoomGroove not only brings out the best in your iPod, it will also work with your computer. All you have to do is connect the RoomGroove to your computer via its auxiliary input. This allows you to broadcast your computer's entire music library, including content from your favorite Internet radio station, to other RoomGrooves around your house.

INDIANAPOLIS (July 6, 2007) — With the Los Angeles area hosting some of the nation’s highest-grossing movie theaters, competition runs high. However, Landmark Theatres, with the installation of industry-leading Klipsch speakers and other state-of-the-art amenities, is more than ready to compete in this aggressive market with its new flagship theater.

On Friday, June 1, the popular specialized theater chain, which currently entertains 24 markets nationwide, opened ‘The Landmark,’ a 2,000-seat, 12-screen theater located at the intersection of Pico and Westwood Boulevards in West Los Angeles. Each movie is dynamically presented via the latest in film, digital projection and sound technology.

According to Bobby Parry, Landmark Theatres’ chief engineer, every aspect of this flagship venue is far ahead of the curve. It is equipped with Sony SXRD 4K digital projection, which Parry says has four times greater resolution than the best DLP projectors available. Additionally, Parry states that Klipsch professional cinema speakers, Dolby Digital EX surround sound processors, and QSC amplifiers are the only products that can complement an image of this quality.

“Klipsch builds the most advanced, best-sounding professional speakers for the cinema industry,” said Parry. “They have the smoothest response curve of any cinema speaker I’ve ever used.”

According to Chuck Mulhearn, Klipsch’s director of professional cinema, Klipsch uses advanced Tractrix® Horn geometry and compression driver technology that reproduces a more genuine, lifelike sound in theaters. Horn design dramatically increases efficiency, which is important, because it enables Klipsch speakers to produce more output using less energy. This improves reliability and reduces distortion, so you hear exactly what you’re supposed to, instead of speaker coloration.

“The highest quality, horn-loaded speakers are an absolute must for delivering the powerful, detailed soundtracks of today’s demanding films,” said Mulhearn. “Perhaps that’s why one of every two new theaters in North and South America installs Klipsch cinema products.”

Over 230 Klipsch speakers fill The Landmark's auditoriums with detailed and immersive audio, including KPT-535-4-T and KPT-435-N behind-the-screen systems; KPT-8001, KPT-1201 and KPT-250 surround speakers; as well as KPT-884, KPT-684 and KPT-418 subwoofers.

In addition to its cutting-edge technology, The Landmark features reserved stadium seating, extra leg room, leather seats, and unobstructed sight lines. It also offers a wide variety of food and beverage options. The concession stand features gourmet, health conscious, and specialty snacks, including not only freshly-popped popcorn with real melted butter, but also unique items such as Pizza Rustica pizza made fresh on location, Yogurberry frozen yogurt with fresh fruit toppings and La Brea Bakery hot pretzels with gourmet mustards.

About Landmark Theatres 

Landmark Theatres is the nation's largest theatre chain dedicated primarily to exhibiting and marketing independent film. Landmark is a recognized leader in the industry for providing consistently diverse and entertaining film product in a sophisticated adult-oriented atmosphere to its customers. Since its inception in 1974, Landmark has grown to 61 theaters in 24 markets. Landmark Theatres is part of the Wagner/Cuban Companies, a vertically-integrated group of media properties co-owned by Todd Wagner and Mark Cuban that also includes Magnolia Pictures, Magnolia Home Entertainment, HDNet Films, 2929 Productions, HDNet and HDNet Movies. For more information, visit landmarktheatres.com.

INDIANAPOLIS (July 6, 2007) — Much like the Grateful Dead generated a tightly-knit community of “Deadheads” through its concert experiences, the Klipsch speaker company has inspired its own set of dedicated cult-status followers by way of an online forum, consisting of over 25,000 active members.

For the past six years, Klipsch has honored its passionate fans by hosting an annual summer Pilgrimage. An event that allows them to meet Klipsch staff and fellow forum members, tour the company’s facility, listen and comment on product demonstrations, win high-performance audio products, as well as enjoy a commemorative meal.

This year’s gathering, which took place at the company’s headquarters in Indianapolis, Ind. on June 23, brought in 80 forum members from all over the country, including one from Canada. In fact, half were return attendees from the previous year.

Forum member Mike Hurd, 29, of Nipigon, Ontario drove 998 miles to participate in the one-day event. “The trip was absolutely worth it,” he said. “Meeting the forum fanatics face-to-face was priceless, as well as listening to wonderful new product.”

According to Hurd, he first heard Klipsch when he was 16 years old and it turned him into a fan for life. “Listening to those Klipschorns burned an image in my mind, one of utter disbelief of how good they sounded,” he commented. “As far as I am concerned, Klipsch makes performance their number one priority, regardless of product category. Their speakers consistently deliver top-notch performance for less than their closest competitors.”

A visit to the klipsch.com forum will further demonstrate the devotion these folks hold for the Klipsch brand. Christy Luquet, screen name D’tel’s wife, of Picayune, Miss. made this post after attending this year’s Pilgrimage, “Klipsch as always … is one of the best companies in America to do business with.”
Additionally, Chad Miller, screen name Mace, of West Lafayette, Ind. posted, “Wow. What a great day! Many thanks to the Klipsch team … Great facility, great people, great products. First class all the way around …”

“These online ambassadors, many of which have earned ‘industry expert’ reputations, are essentially trusted ‘human yellow pages’ for us,” said Mike Klipsch, president of Klipsch. “It’s because we understand their value and appreciate their devotion that we host our annual Pilgrimage.”

Mr. Klipsch also said that Klipsch is one of the few manufacturers in the consumer electronics industry to offer such a broad, unregulated forum for consumers to share information, troubleshoot, and, in some cases, blow off a little steam.

“We don’t edit anything on the Klipsch.com forum,” said Klipsch. “We leave it all there—good and bad. We’ve received a lot of great feedback from this free-expression experiment. And it’s resulted in a Klipsch community with an incredibly high level of genuine customer intimacy and positive interaction. And to give you an idea of how this forum has grown, we had a little over 5,000 members in 2001, today we have over 25,000!”

INDIANAPOLIS (June 4, 2007) — With the Quintet™ Satellite Microsystem being the all-time best-selling home theater bundle for speaker manufacturer Klipsch, the company recently launched a new step-up flat-panel version called the Quintet SL.

“The Quintet Microsystem has been wildly popular for us so it makes perfect sense to turn it into a family affair,” said Jim Garrett, Klipsch director of product planning. “The Quintet SL once again proves that compact dimensions and sophisticated style can coexist with dynamic sound.”

Comprised of three slender LCR (left, center, right) speakers and two satellites for surrounds, the five-channel Quintet SL system incorporates over 60 years of class-leading research and development experience. For increased low-frequency power, Klipsch recommends pairing the system up with its Synergy Series Sub-12 subwoofer that’s sold separately.

“Listening to movies through a flat-panel TV’s built-in speakers often yields a lackluster entertainment experience. A great picture with mediocre sound won’t deliver the cinematic effect most folks crave,” said Garrett. “The Quintet SL and Sub-12 easily and affordably allow flat-panel owners to complete the movie theater experience at home. As the leader in professional cinema sound, no other brand offers the same energy and intensity we do.”

Each magnetically shielded LCR speaker employs dual 3.5-inch high-output woofers and a 0.75-inch aluminum dome tweeter mated to an exclusive Tractrix® horn, a design that delivers genuine lifelike sound as well as produces more output using less energy. Each also offers easy keyhole wall mounting and includes a pedestal foot for free-standing use as a left/right main speaker or center channel.

The two satellites that serve as surrounds are the same speakers featured in the Quintet Microsystem. Each utilizes a 3.5-inch long-throw woofer for remarkable detail and clarity and a 0.75-inch aluminum dome tweeter coupled to a MicroTractrix™ Horn for precise high frequencies. Additionally, these magnetically shielded satellites feature a swiveling pedestal foot for convenient wall mounting or bookshelf placement.

The optional Sub-12 gets its hard-hitting intensity from a 12-inch, down-firing driver coupled to a highly efficient BASH amplifier that creates 300 watts of continuous power and 650 watts of dynamic power. Its built-in, steep-slope (24dB/octave) low-pass crossover is continuously adjustable from 40 to 120Hz. A phase control facilitates acoustical integration of the subwoofer with the other speakers in the system. An "auto power" feature enables the subwoofer to turn itself on and off (standby) automatically, based on the presence or absence of an audio signal.

In addition to using premium components throughout, the Quintet SL system has a modern, refined industrial design. While the LCRs and satellites feature a dark gray finish with medium gray accents, the Sub-12 is available in a black ash vinyl finish with titanium accents.

The five-channel Quintet SL bundle is priced at $950 (U.S. MSRP), while the separate Sub-12 carries a price tag of $499 (U.S. MSRP). They are available at Best Buy stores throughout the United States and Canada and regionally at hhgregg.

LOS ANGELES (January 22, 2007) — Klipsch Audio Technologies announced today that it is hosting the upcoming post-premiere parties for two of Sundance Film Festival’s most anticipated films: Black Snake Moan, starring Samuel L. Jackson, Justin Timberlake and Christina Ricci, and Chapter 27, with Jared Leto and Lindsay Lohan. The post-premiere party for Black Snake Moan will be held on January 24 and Chapter 27’s will be held on January 25 in Park City, UT. Both events promise to be main destinations for top stars, and will serve as a celebration of Klipsch Audio Technologies’ growing commitment to organically supporting cinema’s most compelling independent films.

“Klipsch Audio Technologies has chosen to support Black Snake Moan and Chapter 27 because these two extraordinary films and its stars echo our core values of power, detail and emotion,” said Judy Klipsch, vice chairman of the Klipsch Group. “Partnering with these films and supporting their releases is a natural fit for the brand, as the stars in these films have made successful crossovers from film to music, music to film, just as Klipsch has expanded beyond its core strength of audio technology to achieve greatness.”

The collaboration between both films and Klipsch, a leader in home entertainment and audio technology, is part of the company’s ongoing involvement in the entertainment industry at large. As part of their commitment to supporting the film industry, in 2005, Klipsch outfitted the historical Aidikoff Theater in Beverly Hills with a state of the art cinema sound system in order to provide the ultimate sound experience for screenings for celebrities, industry influencers and the press. In addition, Klipsch has executed numerous entertainment marketing initiatives in both film and music at marquee events such as the MTV Video Music Awards, the ESPY Awards, the Grammys, and the Sundance Film Festival.

About the Films:
Black Snake Moan, a Paramount Vantage film, stars Samuel L. Jackson, Justin Timberlake, and Christina Ricci. Set in a small Tennessee town, Black Snake Moan tells the story of two unlikely souls who are about to be drawn together at the sticky crossroads between rage and love. It will premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 24.

Chapter 27 is set in New York City, December 1980 and tells the story of a young man, Mark David Chapman (Jared Leto), who arrives in New York with the intent to kill John Lennon. A depressed and unstable soul, Chapman is torn between his love and awe for John Lennon's persona and his desire to kill Lennon in order to gain notoriety for himself. Scheduled to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 25, Chapter 27 also stars Lindsay Lohan as Judy, a fan of John Lennon who makes friends with Champman.

For inquires on both post-premiere events:
Tom Meyer-Klipsch
Explicit Events
323.525.1024
info@explicitevents.com

For inquiries about Black Snake Moan:
Bladimiar Norman
Paramount Vantage
732.979.3340
Bladimiar.Norman@paramountvantage.com

For inquiries about Chapter 27:
Craig Bankey
PMK/HBH Public Relations
310.289.6200
craig.bankey@pmkhbh.com

INDIANAPOLIS (January 8, 2007) — As part of the International CES Innovations 2007 Design and Engineering Awards program, the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) and Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) recognized the Klipsch® CS-700 home theater system as being among the best designed and engineered products unveiled in 2007.

As a 2007 Innovations honoree, the CS-700 was given this prestigious accolade by a preeminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the trade press. With a record number of more than 1,000 product entries, product evaluations were based on the following criteria: user value, aesthetics, contributions to the quality of life as well as innovative design and qualities. Since 1989, the Innovations Awards program has given consumer electronics manufacturers and developers the opportunity to have their products judged by industry experts.

The CS-700 is a compact 2.1 home theater system with a wireless subwoofer and Dolby® Virtual Speaker technology. Incorporating 60 years of audio expertise, it is designed to deliver the most powerful, most lifelike virtual surround sound performances on the market. The system’s wireless subwoofer and easy set up also make it one of the most flexible.

But wait, there’s more. The CS-700 features exclusive KlipschCast™ wireless technology. Therefore, not only does it wirelessly transmit CD-quality audio to its local 200-watt subwoofer, but also to other KlipschCast products such as the award-winning Klipsch® RoomGroove iPod® speaker. Sold separately, the RoomGroove requires no wiring beyond a power cord and has a retractable iPod® dock. Alone, each product is engineered to be a top performer in its category; together, the CS-700 and one or more RoomGroove units let users “build” a high-performance multi-room audio system that wirelessly streams music, TV or movie sound all over the house.

While the CS-700 will become commercially available spring 2008, the RoomGroove is available for purchase now at select retailers and klipsch.com. The CS-700 will carry a $1,299.99 price tag (U.S. MSRP), while the RoomGroove costs $299 each (U.S. MSRP). A three-room KlipschCast system featuring a CS-700 and two RoomGrooves will retail for just under $2,000 (U.S. MSRP).

INDIANAPOLIS (October 18, 2007) — Designed for users who want high-performance surround sound minus the hookup hassle, the new straightforward Klipsch CS-500 DVD Entertainment System is the ticket to dynamic music and movie sound with fewer wires and components. It begins shipping early next month.

With just two satellites, a subwoofer and an A/V center, the compact CS-500 uses digital processing circuitry to simulate the effect of a larger, six-speaker home theater system. “The cinematic depth of this little system is so great, you’ll find yourself scanning the room for the hidden center channel and rear speakers,” said Tony Ostrom, director of product planning.

Each satellite employs dual magnetically shielded 2.5-inch high output woofers and a 0.75-inch magnetically shielded tweeter mated to an exclusive Klipsch Tractrix® Horn, a design that delivers genuine lifelike sound as well as produces more output using less energy. Klipsch is the only speaker manufacturer to utilize horn technology in all of its product lines. In fact, the cutting-edge research that drives the development of the company’s leading movie cinema speakers is also applied to the CS-500.

The down-firing subwoofer utilizes a powerful 6.5-inch woofer. Due to its compact size, this subwoofer can easily be hidden away while still delivering dramatic low-end effects. (Unlike the CS-700, the CS-500 subwoofer is NOT wireless.)

The A/V center features a built-in Class D amplifier that distributes 35 watts of power to each satellite and 100 watts of power to the subwoofer. It also includes Dolby® Virtual Speaker technology along with a progressive scan DVD player, an AM/FM tuner with 20 station presets and three auxiliary inputs. The CS-500 even has the ability to pass high-definition signals through a component output and can simplify all of the auxiliary input connections into a single convenient output to the TV. An easy-to-use universal IR remote control directs all system functions as well as those of the TV and other entertainment devices.

Available in a black finish, this system offers a clean, modern design that fits comfortably into any living environment. Essentially plug-and-play, the CS-500 can be operating in as little as 10 minutes. All it takes is hooking the satellites, subwoofer and TV up to the AV center using the color-coded wiring and then plugging in one power cord. A step-by-step set up guide is included to walk users through the process.

The CS-500 system will carry a U.S. MSRP of $999.99.

INDIANAPOLIS (March 26, 2008) — Most home theater products available today lack expansibility and confine owners to one room of the house. In response, Klipsch is launching a high-end multi-room product series that wirelessly streams the company’s high-performance sound throughout the home. 

The new KlipschCast™ family lets users “build” a superior multi-room audio system for music and movies without having to wire, cut holes or retrofit in any way. Watch KlipschCast demo.

To begin, the award-winning CS-700 home theater system is a 2.1 setup with a wireless subwoofer. Applying over 60 years of engineering expertise and Dolby® Virtual Speaker technology, this compact package is designed to deliver the most powerful, most lifelike virtual surround sound performances on the market. The system’s wireless subwoofer and easy set up also make it one of the most flexible. 

Additionally, the CS-700 serves as a hub for wirelessly transmitting CD-quality audio not only to its local subwoofer, but also to other KlipschCast products such as the award-winning RoomGroove. Sold separately, this iPod® speaker requires no wiring beyond a power cord and has a retractable dock.

“With unmatched wireless competency and dynamic sound performance, our KlipschCast products fill the market gap for a high-quality multi-room audio system that’s easy to install and simple to operate,” said Mike Klipsch, president of Klipsch Audio Technologies. “This platform allows users to easily expand their Klipsch sound from room-to-room without being tripped up or tied down.”

Alone, each product is designed to be a top performer in its category; together, the CS-700 and one or more RoomGrooves really deliver the full-capability of a KlipschCast system—wirelessly sending CD-quality music, TV or movie sound all over the house. 

KlipschCast™ Wireless Technology Basics
Simply, through KlipschCast, the CS-700 home theater system sends a wireless CD-quality audio signal to one or more RoomGroove iPod speakers. This signal can be the same one playing on the CS-700 or something entirely different. The CS-700 is capable of playing up to two separate sources at the same time. For example, the CS-700 can play a DVD movie in the living room, while the RoomGroove broadcasts the CS-700’s AM/FM tuner in the kitchen.

The RoomGroove can also play music locally, utilizing its retractable iPod dock or through its auxiliary input for other MP3 players. Since the RoomGroove is a transceiver, it can transmit as well as receive, allowing it to send this MP3 music signal to other RoomGroove units throughout the house. In fact, users can create a multi-room music system with just RoomGroove units if they desire. The robust 2.4GHz wireless technology found in these products offers unlimited add-on opportunities.

CS-700: Home Theater Made Simple
This sleek, simple and small home theater package uses digital processing circuitry to simulate the effect of a larger, five-speaker system with just two satellites, a subwoofer and an A/V center.

Each satellite employs dual magnetically shielded 3-inch woofers and a 0.75-inch magnetically shielded tweeter mated to an exclusive Tractrix® Horn, a design that delivers genuine lifelike sound as well as produces more output using less energy. Furthermore, the cutting-edge research that drives the development of the company’s leading movie cinema speakers is also applied in the CS-700.

The subwoofer utilizes an 8-inch down-firing woofer and 200 watts of amplifier power to generate hard-hitting bass response. Due to its compact size and wireless capability, this subwoofer can easily be hidden away while still delivering dramatic low-end effects.

The CS-700 home theater’s A/V center has an up-converting DVD player that is capable of delivering a 1080i resolution via its HDMI output, so the signal matches the amazing resolution capability of an HD television. The A/V center also features an AM/FM tuner and three auxiliary inputs, allowing users to connect other audio devices to the unit. A universal IR remote control directs all system functions, as well as those of the TV and other entertainment devices. 

Available in a black finish, this system offers a clean, modern design that fits comfortably into any living environment. Essentially plug-and-play, the CS-700 can be operating in as little as 10 minutes. All it takes is hooking the satellites and TV up to the A/V center, using the color-coded wiring and then plugging in the A/V center’s power cord. With respect to the system’s subwoofer, all you have to do is plug its power cord into the wall; no other connections are needed. A step-by-step set up guide is included to walk users through the process.

RoomGroove: A Digital Music Genius
A true two-way design, this iPod speaker utilizes dual 2.5-inch high-output woofers in a ported enclosure, premium crossover networks and dual MicroTractrix™ Horn-loaded tweeters.

While the RoomGroove’s hidden dock accepts and charges all iPods with 30-pin connectors, it also comes with Apple universal well inserts to accommodate multiple iPod sizes. The dock opens and closes via the Klipsch logo touch sensor that’s located on the front of the unit. The RoomGroove is also compatible with other MP3 players via an auxiliary input.

Available in a black finish, the RoomGroove is ready to perform as soon as you plug it in and dock an iPod. An IR remote control lets users select different KlipschCast sources.

Price and Availability
Launching at select retail locations in May, the CS-700 will carry a $1,299.99 price tag (U.S. MSRP), while the RoomGroove can be purchased now for $299 (U.S. MSRP) at select retail locations and klipsch.com. A three-room KlipschCast system featuring a CS-700 and two RoomGrooves will retail for just under $2,000 (U.S. MSRP).

INDIANAPOLIS (November 27, 2006) — Klipsch Audio Technologies, a leading global manufacturer of loudspeakers, has secured an audio niche at the 2008 summer Olympics, taking place in Beijing, China, to further extend its international presence.

The company’s initial steps involve supplying the theatrical and speaker products for the Humanistic Olympics Studies Center’s (HOSC) multi-media digital cinema and official Beijing Olympic learning center. The digital cinema will include a proprietary virtual video conferencing platform that will be presented as a potential model for standardizing Olympic communications and training.

Both of these Klipsch-branded venues, slated to be complete in early 2007, will be located on the top floor of the HOSC facility at Renmin University of China, which is the official site for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG).

According to Mike Klipsch, president of Klipsch Audio Technologies, being involved with the prototype projects at Renmin is key because there are primary Olympic committee members using them as design templates for as many as 40 citywide conference centers to service the Olympic Games.

“We understand Klipsch will be the lead sound provider for all of the conference centers and venues,” he said. “Effective communications play an important role in carrying out the Olympic spirit and our high-performance speakers can help make that happen.”

Additionally, the company hopes to parlay the Renmin projects into larger opportunities around Beijing that would include Klipsch installations at the Olympic village, stadiums and various hotels. Mike Klipsch said that the Olympic Committee is focused on finding unique technological solutions for the Beijing 2008 exhibitions and that many of the individuals involved with the Renmin projects are also working on the above-mentioned developments.

Assisting Klipsch with its Olympic movement is professor Philip Cacayorin, an official producing director for the Beijing Olympic Games films who specializes in three-dimensional sound technology and high definition production. 

According to Cacayorin, when he was approached with this Olympic opportunity, his immediate response was “I would never consider any other speaker product by my side except Klipsch.” He also said that based on the feedback he has received, the Olympic officials are quite impressed with his production and exhibition solutions.

“I have used Klipsch on several projects, such as The Centre for Performing Arts in Vancouver and a themed attraction at Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia, because I truly believe in their design philosophy,” said Cacayorin. “Klipsch speakers have the ability to reproduce and deliver higher frequencies accurately to larger audiences, therefore, I’ve chosen them as the exclusive manufacturer of my three-dimensional speaker product.”

Cacayorin is also partnering with professor Hu Bo on several filmmaking projects. They plan on capturing the opening and closing ceremonies as well as the torch relay that is scheduled to reach the top of Mount Everest. Hu Bo has been involved with the Olympic Bid Committee for 10 years and is the high definition film producer who created the footage that helped Beijing win the Olympic bid.

Cacayorin and Hu Bo are establishing the Renmin University HOSC facility as the showcase venue for all their efforts. Cacayorin mentioned they are both excited about being able to provide effective presentations within close proximity to the sanctioned Olympic sites and local officials.

INDIANAPOLIS (September 29, 2006) — Klipsch Audio Technologies, a leading provider of premium audio products, today announced that its Hope, Arkansas-based manufacturing facility has been chosen by the Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence (AIPE) as a 2006 Commitment Award winner.

The Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence, formerly Arkansas Quality Award, provides opportunities for all organizations within the state to measure their progress in striving for performance excellence.

Using the nation’s prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award program as a guide, the AIPE offers a four-tiered award sequence that quantifies company growth. State businesses can apply at any one of the following levels: Challenge, Commitment, Achievement or Governor’s Award, which is the top honor.

Handpicked by a select panel of judges, Klipsch was evaluated for the Commitment Award based on the following seven criteria: leadership; strategic planning; customer and market focus; measurement, analysis and knowledge management; human resource focus; process management; and results.

“It’s truly an honor to be chosen for this esteemed accolade that recognizes quality and performance achievements,” said Mike Klipsch, president of Klipsch Audio Technologies. “We’ve been manufacturing loudspeakers in Hope for over 60 years and this Commitment Award is a testament to our dedicated employees who have helped make Klipsch a global leader within the consumer electronics industry.”

The Commitment Award level is for companies that have progressed to the point of demonstrating serious dedication to the use of quality principles to attain performance excellence. Recognition is given to those organizations that have advanced the knowledge and skills gained from the initial steps and have a solid plan to move towards larger goals.

Klipsch was one of three organizations to receive a Commitment Award. A special ceremony was held on September 25 at the Hot Spring Convention Center in Hot Springs, Ark., to honor award recipients at every level. President Mike Klipsch, director of manufacturing Jack Sparks and human resources manager Donna Garner were present to accept the award on Klipsch’s behalf. More than 250 businesses and civic leaders throughout the state attended the event.

The Klipsch manufacturing facility employs 82 individuals and manufactures the wooden speaker cabinets for the company’s highly acclaimed Reference Series as well as the vintage Heritage Series, which was developed by audio pioneer and company founder Paul W. Klipsch during the early days of Hi-Fi. Additionally, the company’s professional cinema products, which are used by top theater operators around the world, are built at this location.

About The Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence (AIPE) 

The private business community created the Arkansas Institute for Performance Excellence program in 1995. This not-for-profit organization provides a framework that encourages Arkansas organizations to engage in continuous quality improvement and to provide education and recognition to these organizations. Based on the broad representation attending the September 25 celebration, the program has achieved statewide acceptance through organizations that understand the value of quality in today’s workplace.

INDIANAPOLIS (September 13, 2006) — On September 8, Klipsch Audio Technologies, a leading manufacturer of loudspeakers, filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana against the following Internet sites for sales violations: DigitalCraze.com, ReliableAudioVideo.com, and SoundCityExpo.com.

Klipsch is seeking recovery of damages as well as an injunction to prevent the defendants from inducing authorized dealers to transship Klipsch products, interfering with the contractual relationships between Klipsch and its authorized dealers, infringing on Klipsch trademarks, illegally using Klipsch’s copyrighted materials, and otherwise competing unfairly with Klipsch.

President Mike Klipsch said that the lawsuit filed against these three sites is nearly identical to the lawsuits Klipsch filed against brandnamez.com in December 2004 and crazyeddie.com, 50TopSellers.com, AuthorizedElectronics.com, TheBestPriceStore.com and HomeTheaterPhiles.com in January 2004. He explained that Klipsch accomplished everything it set out to do with the previous lawsuits including securing a lifetime ban that prevents the web sites, their owners and any future businesses they own from ever selling Klipsch brand products.

“The web sites we’ve sued in the past removed any trace of Klipsch from their web sites just days after we filed the lawsuits,” Mike Klipsch said. “Unfortunately, there are still some hold-outs trying to capitalize on the hard work and substantial investment that Klipsch and its authorized dealers have made in our brand identity. Our solid resolve in this matter simply will not allow free-riders and their unscrupulous, corrupt business practices to damage the quality, integrity and value of the authorized Klipsch dealer network.”

Mike Klipsch said DigitalCraze.com, ReliableAudioVideo.com and SoundCityExpo.com illegally use Klipsch’s trademarks and copyrighted materials -- critical pieces of the positive image Klipsch has projected since 1946. He said the Klipsch brand is registered in over 30 countries and that the Indianapolis-based company would not permit this relative newcomer to damage the global brand image Klipsch has spent 60 years building. 

Klipsch is continuing its relationship with NetEnforcers.com, a brand protection company that assists Klipsch with shutting down auctions by unauthorized dealers using third party web sites such as Ebay and Yahoo. Klipsch officials said NetEnforcers.com has the bandwidth to continuously and tirelessly investigate Internet sales violations, file the appropriate paperwork with the third party web sites, and remove illegal auctions the same day they are found.

The R-5650-C2 and R-2650-C2 are priced per pair at U.S. MSRPs of $599 and $399 respectively. 

INDIANAPOLIS (August 26, 2006) — When it came to selecting their favorite products for 2006, the editors of EH Publishing’s four magazines, which are all dedicated to the electronic house, chose the Klipsch KS-7800-THX in-wall surround speaker for an Electronic House Product of the Year Award.

This annual awards program recognizes those products that are dedicated to the connected home. Hundreds of entries were submitted this year and through a democratic voting process, the editors selected the most notable. Decisions were based on reviews that ran throughout the year, product demonstrations and talking with installers and users of the products. Topping the list of criteria was technological innovation, combined with overall value, and outstanding features.

The winners for 2006 will be featured in the September issue of Electronic House, which will be distributed at the upcoming CEDIA trade show, as well as newsstands everywhere. The KS-7800-THX will also be featured on electronichouse.com for one year where it is expected to reach 1.5 million viewers.

Engineered to bring real cinema sound to the comforts of home, the KS-7800-THX offers the ultimate in surround performance for a hidden solution loudspeaker. It employs an 8-inch aluminum woofer and a patented horn array, consisting of two vertically stacked, proprietary Tractrix® Horn-loaded tweeters.

In order to create enveloping sound fields and precise localization of individual effects, this speaker also utilizes Klipsch's Wide Dispersion Surround Technology™. Also referred to as WDST, this no-compromise approach gives the KS-7800-THX much more placement flexibility than conventional designs.

The KS-7800-THX carries a U.S. MSRP of $750 each and is available through the residential contracting market.

INDIANAPOLIS (August 15, 2006) -- Klipsch Group, Inc., parent company of Klipsch Audio Technologies, announced today the acquisition of Audio Products International Corp. (API), one of the largest speaker manufacturers in the world and the makers of the Mirage®, Energy® and Athena® Technologies brands.

"The acquisition of API will assist Klipsch in our commitment to greatly improve business operations on a global level," said Fred Klipsch, chairman, Klipsch Group. "This purchase is another step in our strategic plan of adding unique and successful loudspeaker companies to our portfolio of products."

Klipsch Group is the parent company of Klipsch Audio Technologies, Jamo International and API brands, with companies remaining independently operated entities. The product design and engineering of the API brands will also remain separate to maintain their respective unique character and personality. Nonetheless, the Klipsch, Jamo and API brand teams will work in a cooperative fashion to develop global technology platforms and product strategies that leverage investments in R&D ensuring the Klipsch Group of brands stay on the cutting-edge of product, technology and brand development.

"API is world renowned for product design, particularly as it relates to speaker size, mobility and performance," added Klipsch. "The move allows us to enhance the way we develop innovative products and solutions that bring added-value offerings to all of our customers in the audio products industry."

The acquisition of API will also allow the Klipsch Group to expand its vision of offering and producing no-compromise, premium-quality audio products to multiple markets worldwide. As one of the first U.S. loudspeaker companies, Klipsch has continued to be the high-performance brand of choice for audiophiles and home theater aficionados around the world and this will only strengthen that relationship. In addition, each of the Klipsch Group brands will be featured at CEDIA EXPO 2006, held in Denver, Colo., September 13 through the 17.

About API

Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Audio Products International Corp. (API) is one of the top manufacturers of high-performance loudspeakers in the world. API manufactures over 200 models of speakers and exports to over 50 countries under the company's three world-renowned brands: Energy Speaker Systems, Mirage and Athena Technologies. In 2006, API is entering the professional market with the launch of its Energy Pro division. The API headquarters includes a state-of-the-art research and design facility. Lead by Ian Paisley, API's VP of Engineering and world-renowned acoustic researcher, API was a pioneering member of the Canadian National Research Center's studies to determine the design characteristics of a great sounding loudspeaker. API's continued psycho-acoustic research along with their three anechoic test chambers, maintain the highest levels of engineering excellence and product performance.

Unlike other docking speaker systems on the market, the Klipsch iGroove speaker system works with most all MP3 player brands, as well as devices that have audio out or headphone jacks utilizing standard miniplugs. All third and fourth generation dockable iPods dock into the iGroove for charging. The system comes with special iPod mini and nano adaptors for sturdy and secure docking. The shuffle may also be connected to the iGroove via the included J-cup adaptor. The Klipsch iGroove is also easy to operate - just plug it in, pop in an iPod and hit play. The included remote handles full system control.

"Based on the surge in black iPod sales, it made sense for us to create a complimentary version of our premier all-in-one iPod sound solution. While the iGroove HG's contemporary design and high-gloss finish perfectly flatters black iPods and blends well with today's popular décor trends, it also looks great with traditional white iPods," said Tony Ostrom, director of product marketing.

The iGroove HG is a true two-way system that employs dual 2.5-inch woofers, crossovers and dual 1-inch MicroTractrix™ Horn-loaded tweeters. It is the only speaker system in this category utilizing horn technology, a design that reproduces genuine, lifelike sound as well as produce more output using less energy.

With over 60 years of experience with horn technology and speaker design, Klipsch offers the fullest, widest frequency response of any all-in-one shelf system. Plus, by building on the performance prowess of the silver iGroove, the HG version provides improved acoustic performance through an increase in dynamic range.

On top of everything else, the iGroove HG is a ported system, which allows it to play louder and reproduce more deep bass frequencies than competitive models. The low-turbulence, tuned port is located on the rear of the cabinet. Placing the unit two to four inches from a wall or corner will further enhance the low-end performance of the system.

This system integration software streamlines the complicated design, engineering, documentation and estimating processes that accompany installation projects. Additionally, by using a single, shared project file, the software lets users download free product information from a comprehensive database of thousands of products, including Klipsch speakers.

As a D-Tools Manufacturer Vantage Point (MVP) Program member, Klipsch manages its product specifications within the D-Tools database so that its installing dealers can create accurate designs and proposals using the most up-to-date Klipsch product information, while saving hours of research time.

Klipsch has also invested in the SmartShapes™ software enhancement so that its installers can drag and drop realistic speaker images into their designs and proposals rather than generic product shapes. These SmartShapes have detailed product specifications attached to them so that the proposals not only impress customers but also provide installers with accurate views of their system designs to scale.

"We joined the D-Tools MVP program to support our dealer network. It is a great solution that helps our business partners formulate precise client designs and proposals," said Ross Sexter, national AVIT manager for Klipsch. "D-Tools is especially great for contractors who don't have a retail location because the impressive graphics in the drawings and proposals serve as a virtual showroom."

"We're proud to name Klipsch as an MVP member. Klipsch is a globally recognized and well respected leader in the audio industry," said Adam Stone, president and CEO of D-Tools. "The addition of Klipsch product data combined with the ability to accurately portray the products visually in their designs will provide Klipsch dealers with the most efficient way to specify Klipsch products - directly within our software."

D-Tools System Integrator 4.5 also enables system integrators and custom installation professionals to create detailed projects managed with automated proposals, scheduling, pick lists, purchase orders and additional documents that simplify the integrated installation of audio and video products.

SI 4.5 is sold in a variety of package options - professional, standard, basic, lite and text - to accommodate every type of installer and budget. D-Tools also offers a wide range of training methods, including custom training at places of business, regional training sessions and online training modules.

About D-Tools

D-Tools is a worldwide leader in easy-to-use, highly accurate system design software. The company, founded in 1998 and based in Concord, California, offers a wide range of products and services created to simplify the complicated design, engineering, documentation and estimating processes that accompany residential and commercial installation projects of any size. Over 2,000 leading companies use D-Tools software to reduce time and costs and streamline the system integration process. D-Tools is the recipient of the Consumer Electronics Association's Mark of Excellence Award (2004, 2005), National Systems Contractors Association and Sound and Video Contractor's Innovations in Technology for Business Productivity Award (2004, 2005), CE Pro's High Impact Award for Design Software, the 2005 EHX Multi-Room Audio/Video Award, and the 2006 IHTA award for best computer Aided Design and Drafting product.

INDIANAPOLIS (August 25, 2006) — In response to installer demand for a powerful subwoofer system that delivers deep-driving bass without taking up valuable floor space, Klipsch will begin shipping its new in-wall subwoofer with matching rack mountable amplifier in September. 

Fitting standard 2- by 4-inch construction, the easy-to-install RW-5802 in-wall subwoofer can accommodate any new or existing structure with a minimum 0.5-inch dry wall surface. Because it features an MDF baffle with a reinforced composite sealed enclosure, this high-powered, passive module subwoofer provides guaranteed performance and minimizes sound transfer into adjacent rooms. 

The enclosure houses dual 8-inch long-throw woofers. These exclusive drivers feature stiff, well-damped Cerametallic™ cones, a specially treated aluminum that has been anodized, or electrochemically transformed into ceramic on both outer surfaces. Second only to diamond in strength, this ceramic compound allows the woofers to move at high speeds without blurring the sound like conventional designs.

While the dedicated RSA-500 subwoofer amplifier was primarily designed for use with the RW-5802, it also features custom settings for Klipsch’s AW-800-SW outdoor subwoofer. This high-powered device can drive up to two of these subwoofer modules and delivers 300 watts into an 8-ohm load (one subwoofer module) and 500 watts into a 4-ohm load (two subwoofer modules).

To keep end users from inadvertently tampering with performance levels, the majority of the RSA-500’s controls are housed on its rear panel. A detachable IEC power cord allows for the simple removal and reinstallation of the entire amplifier unit. The RSA-500 was also designed to “play nice” by offering standard input/output connectivity that will support any type of system.

While the RW-5802 and RSA-500 are sold separately, they must be used in conjunction with one another. Available through the residential contracting channel, the RW-5802 subwoofer retails for $500 each (U.S. MSRP) and the RSA-500 amplifier retails for $750 each (U.S. MSRP).

INDIANAPOLIS (August 25, 2006) — Klipsch recently launched in-wall versions of its THX Ultra2 custom home theater system. Engineered to bring real cinema sound to the comforts of home, the new KL-7800-THX in-wall LCR and KS-7800-THX in-wall surround offer the ultimate performance in hidden solution loudspeakers.

THX Ultra2 certification indicates that the speakers work well with multi-channel music and movie presentations playing up to reference levels in rooms of 3,000 cubic feet or larger. The KL-7800-THX and KS-7800-THX deliver the same high-output, low distortion signature sound as their traditional enclosure counterparts.

The KL-7800-THX features an 8-inch aluminum woofer and a 1-inch titanium-dome compression driver mated to a Tractrix® Horn. This advanced horn design dramatically increases efficiency and allows the loudspeaker to produce more output using less energy. The KL-7800-THX also has a back box enclosure, making its response predictable and repeatable. Because the back box fits nicely within the speaker’s footprint, the KL-7800-THX can easily be installed into new or existing construction.

The KS-7800-THX produces a smooth, seamless broad distribution of sound by employing an 8-inch aluminum woofer and two vertically-stacked Tractrix Horn tweeters in a Wide Dispersion Surround Technology™ (WDST) array. This unique horn design incorporates the same patented technology as the company’s new WDST in-wall surround but on a larger sonic scale. The KS-7800-THX also features the same back box enclosure design as the KL-7800-THX.

Klipsch's WDST is the industry’s no-compromise approach to surround speaker design because it offers both rich, immersive surround sound and precise localization of individual effects from a speaker that has much more placement flexibility than conventional designs.

These THX in-wall models can create a complete THX Ultra2-certified in-wall system when installed with Klipsch’s KW-120-THX subwoofers and a KA-1000-THX subwoofer amplifier. They can also be mixed and matched with the Klipsch THX Ultra2 box product.

Now shipping, the KL-7800-THX and KS-7800-THX are priced individually at U.S. MSRPs of $1,000 and $750 respectively.

The company's latest Controlled Dispersion Technology, or CDT, speakers can direct both high and low frequencies towards the listening area. Because the tweeters on these models are independently adjustable from the woofers (except on the surround model), they offer even more precise localization.

In total, there are seven speakers in the Klipsch CDT series:

• CDT-5800-C - 8-inch Cerametallic™ woofer, 1-inch titanium tweeter, premium network and treble and bass contour switches

• CDT-5650-C - 6.5-inch Cerametallic woofer, 1-inch titanium tweeter, premium network and treble and bass contour switches

• CDT-3800-C - 8-inch copper-colored IMG woofer, 1-inch aluminum tweeter, high-quality network and treble contour switch

• CDT-3650-C - 6.5-inch copper-colored IMG woofer, 1-inch aluminum tweeter, high-quality network and treble contour switch

• CDT-2800-C - 8-inch polymer woofer, 1-inch silk tweeter

• CDT-2650-SC (surround) - 6.5-inch polymer woofer, dual .75-inch silk fixed tweeters, exclusive Wide Dispersion Surround Technology™ (WDST)

• CDT-2650-C - 6.5-inch polymer woofer, 1-inch silk tweeter

Each speaker (except for the surround model) has a tweeter that is mated to a swiveling 100-degree Tractrix® Horn. This horn-loaded design dramatically increases efficiency by enabling the speakers to produce more output using less energy. Additionally, a horn-loaded tweeter works well in instances where you want to point the sound to a specific location because it has more natural controlled directivity than a conventional dome tweeter.

The woofers on these models can rotate a full 360 degrees and then shift 15 degrees in any direction. This flexibility combined with the swiveling tweeter puts the system designer in complete control of where the sound will go.

The CDT-2650-SC surround model features Klipsch's Wide Dispersion Surround Technology, which offers both rich, immersive surround sound and precise localization of individual effects from a speaker that has much more placement flexibility than conventional designs. Careful alignment of two silk tweeters, angled opposite one another, yields an exceptionally wide dispersion pattern, delivering a smooth, broad distribution of sound ideal for every surround-sound format and for music as well as movies.

Available in a white finish, these CDT speakers are paintable and can be paired with a corresponding Klipsch installation kit that is sold separately. Each kit incorporates a mud ring, breakaway wire tie and color-coded brackets for easy speaker size identification. They also include perforated metal wings that easily fasten to studs via screws, staples or nails. Painted white for easy marking and placement, these metal wings can be folded around the edge of the studs if necessary.

Designed for the residential contracting channel, each Klipsch CDT model is sold separately and carries the following U.S. MSRP pricing: $375 for the CDT-5800-C, $300 for the CDT-5650-C, $325 for the CDT-3800-C, $250 for the CDT-3650-C, $225 for the CDT-2800-C, $249 for the CDT-2650-SC and $200 for the CDT-2650-C.

Designed specifically for use in home theater applications, the R-5650-S employs a 6.5-inch Cerametallic™ woofer and dual 1-inch titanium compression drivers. Because of its patented horn array - two vertically stacked Skewed Tractrix® Horn-loaded tweeters pointing in opposite directions - the R-5650-S outperforms conventional designs by maximizing diffusion, clarity and efficiency, while minimizing room interactions that blur sonic detail.

The R-5650-S draws listeners into the middle of the action through the use of Klipsch's proprietary Wide Dispersion Surround Technology™ or WDST. The careful alignment of the two controlled-directivity Tractrix Horn tweeters, angled opposite of one another, yields an incredibly wide dispersion pattern.

"By taking a no-compromise approach, the R-5650-S brings dynamic and realistic performances to virtually any installed home theater configuration," said Jim Garrett, director of product marketing. "In fact, no other company has been able to achieve such a high-performance level in this type of package."

Able to function in any standard wall, ceiling or drop ceiling, the R-5650-S can be paired with the Klipsch IK-650-W installation kit (sold separately). This revolutionary kit design incorporates a mud ring, breakaway wire tie and color-coded brackets for easy speaker size identification. The kit also comes with perforated metal wings that easily fasten to the studs via screws, staples or nails. Ribbed for increased rigidity, these wings enable a kit to span up to 24 inches easily. Painted white for easy marking and placement, these metal wings will fold around the edge of the studs if necessary.

The R-5650-S carries a U.S. MSRP of $699 per pair and is available through the residential contracting channel.

INDIANAPOLIS (August 25, 2006) — Home theater fans and music lovers can now easily customize the level of bass performance that goes into their entertainment experiences with Klipsch’s five new powered subwoofers with proprietary Digitally Controlled Subwoofer (DCS) Technology. The RT-12d, RT-10d, RSW-10d, RW-12d and RW-10d bring substantial performance enhancement to the company’s acclaimed Reference Series.

The flagship, triangular-shaped RT-12d and RT-10d subwoofers are small footprint, high-output models with powerful front-firing Cerametallic™ woofers and dual rear-firing passive radiators. These subwoofers easily fit into corners where they are less intrusive. This unique enclosure style also allows the passive radiators to face both corners of a wall for maximum bass performance. In fact, corner loading a subwoofer creates a six-decibel increase in output without an increase in power.

Through Digital Signal Processing (DSP), the RT subwoofers give users more control and flexibility with different source material. They both feature a top-side digital control panel that allows users to quickly and easily adjust all functions. The RT-12d and RT-10d also offer three equalization modes (flat, depth and punch) and five user-adjustable presets (music, movie, night and two name-your-own settings) to establish specific listening preferences. By utilizing a patent-pending auto room correction process, formally known as Adaptive Room Correction™ or ARC, and the included calibration microphone, these RT models ensure ideal performance in every listening area. They also come with an IR sensor for operation from any learning remote or control system.

Available in either a cherry or black wood veneer finish, the RT-12d employs three 12-inch drivers and an 800-watt continuous amplifier, while the RT-10d has three 10-inch drivers and a 700-watt continuous amplifier.

As the most compact subwoofer in the line, the RSW-10d features substantially increased amplifier power and all-new high-excursion drivers. The RSW-10d offers three user-adjustable presets (music, movie and night) and features the same digital control panel and equalization modes as the RT models. Available in a cherry or black woodgrain vinyl finish, the RSW-10d also comes with an IR sensor for operation from any learning remote or control system.

The RW-12d and RW-10d enhance the performance qualities that made the preceding RW-12 and RW-10 models so popular. These two new subwoofers still retain critical performance features such as exclusive Corner Port™ technology but now offer the same digital control panel, three equalization modes (flat, depth and punch) and three user-adjustable presets as the RSW-10d. While both the RW-12d and RW-10d come in a black woodgrain vinyl finish, the RW-10d is also available in silver.

The new entry-level RPW-10 subwoofer employs a 10-inch fiber-composite woofer and a 200-watt RMS amplifier. This model features traditional volume, crossover and phase controls and has a front-firing slot port for easy installation into custom cabinetry. Available in a black matte vinyl finish, the RPW-10 brings a new level of performance to the value-priced subwoofer category.

These subwoofers are sold at the following U.S. MSRP pricing: $1,999 for the RT-12d, $1,599 for the RT-10d, $1,199 for the RSW-10d, $699 for the RW-12d, $499 for the RW-10d and $349 for the RPW-10.

Klipsch has already introduced 14 other speakers in its Reference Series, including five floorstanding models, three bookshelf speakers, three center channel speakers and three surround speakers.

Replacing the entire existing lineup, except for the RS-10, the latest RS-62, RS-52 and RS-42 WDST surround speakers adopt a completely new cabinet and driver layout that is similar to the Klipsch THX® Ultra2 KS-525-THX surround speaker. This configuration establishes greater output, improved coverage and increased power handling to further extend Klipsch's best-in-class surround sound performance.

All of these new models come in a matte black vinyl finish and feature titanium tweeters coupled to new generation square Tractrix® Horns with improved throat geometry, Cerametallic™ aluminum woofers with inverted copper dust caps and powerful motor structures. Exclusive Klipsch Wide Dispersion Surround Technology creates enveloping surround sound fields and precise localization of individual effects. Side-firing ported enclosures, back-panel keyholes and ¼"-20 threaded inserts further simplify installation, while single-wire inputs and Klipsch custom internal wiring ensure high-quality connection.

While the RS-62 employs dual 6.5-inch woofers and dual 1-inch tweeters with nine-ounce ceramic motor structures, the RS-52 utilizes dual 5.25-inch woofers and dual 1-inch tweeters with neodymium magnet motor structures. The smaller RS-42 features the same tweeters and motor structures as the RS-52, but has dual 4-inch woofers.

"By featuring drivers that are set diagonally, the new Reference Series WDST speakers are able to minimize output interference and captivate audiences like never before," said Jim Garrett, Klipsch director of product marketing. "These advanced models smoothly cover a 180-degree horizontal arc so that the sound points at you no matter where you are seated."

These models will be packaged individually and sold at the following U.S. MSRP pricing: $998 for a pair of RS-62s, $698 for a pair of RS-52s and $448 for a pair of RS-42s.

Klipsch also introduced 17 other speakers in its Reference Series, including five floorstanding models, three bookshelf speakers, three center channel speakers and six powered subwoofers.

With a limited run of 200 pairs, the 60th anniversary Klipschorn is crafted for high-quality sonic performance and adorned with distinct aesthetic features that will never be available again.

While each speaker's high-frequency cabinet is decked out in a high gloss black piano finish, the front panel of the low-frequency cabinet comes in a sophisticated Lacewood veneer. The black anodized aluminum kick plate at the bottom of the speaker features a silver PWK logo with a real diamond inset, the stone that represents 60 years.

For the first time ever, the rear of the speaker has received a cosmetic "facelift." Solid panels now enclose the rear high frequency and low frequency cabinets to add a more elegant appearance, eliminate any corner and response issues and allow for toe in or out.

Two display windows are also included on the back of each anniversary Klipschorn to show off an updated crossover network and a silver, engraved plaque that honors PWK and lists the speaker's production number.

For signal purity and perfect driver integration, the crossovers are made with premium components and feature high-end Van den Hul internal wiring. Magnetic grille posts allow for secure attachment and easy removal of the low-frequency grilles, while top-grade WBT binding posts ensure secure connection to any type of cable.

"Even though the Klipschorn has been around since the early days of Hi-Fi, it is still one of the best performing speakers on the market," said Mark Kauffman, senior product specialist. "Aside from contributing to the birth of the Hi-Fi era, it is the only speaker in the world that has been in continuous production for 60 years."

Sold in pairs, customers will receive a certificate of authenticity signed by Klipsch Chairman and CEO Fred Klipsch for their limited-edition speakers. 

Klipschorn History

Unsatisfied with the sound quality of phonographs and early speaker systems, Paul W. Klipsch used scientific principles to develop a "corner horn" speaker that sounded more lifelike. He called it the Klipschorn.

Movie theaters and concert halls had long used horns to reproduce motion picture soundtracks, however those horns, at over nine feet long, were much too large for use in the home. PWK's solution was to fold the horn back onto itself and place the speaker cabinet in a corner, making the walls of the room an extension of the horn.

An unquestionable success, the Klipschorn, patented in 1945, represents a legacy that has guided Klipsch speaker engineering throughout the years. Every Klipsch loudspeaker is designed to the same live-sound philosophy that inspired the Klipschorn.

Patented in 1945, the Klipschorn is still considered by many to be the finest loudspeaker ever made and is the only speaker in the world that has been in continuous production for almost 60 years. While maintaining its classic look and performance, the Klipschorn has a restructured high-frequency cabinet that eliminates the inset collar, or spacer, between upper and lower cabinets for a cleaner aesthetic appearance. A horizontal wall seal has also been added to improve the low frequency horn's connection to the wall.

When the La Scala first launched in 1963, it was not designed for home use. Paul Klipsch made it for Arkansas gubernatorial candidate Winthrop Rockefeller to use as a public address speaker. However, because some considered it a "portable" and more affordable version of the revolutionary Klipschorn, the La Scala found success beyond the campaign. Despite its raw, unfinished look, the fully horn-loaded, three-way La Scala sounded so good that people still wanted to put it in their living rooms.

Virtually unchanged since those campaign days, Klipsch decided to cosmetically improve the La Scala by making it available in a variety of wood veneer finishes, including cherry, walnut and black ash. The La Scala II also has a grille to cover the mid and high frequency horns. The bass horn cabinet walls are now constructed of 1-inch thick MDF rather than ¾-inch plywood to offer more support, resulting in decreased resonance and cleaner bass response.

First introduced in 1957, the Heresy, a three-way design, started out as a compact center channel speaker to accompany the Klipschorn in three-speaker stereo arrays. In 1985, Klipsch made some changes and improvements to this model and re-released it as the Heresy II. Today, Klipsch has given the Heresy a bi-wire network, titanium diaphragm tweeter and larger magnet assembly. The midrange has moved from a phenolic to a titanium diaphragm. All of these changes result in improved tonal balance and increased output. In fact, the Heresy III is two decibels louder (96 to 98dB), improving on its already high sensitivity. The Heresy III ships with a slant riser that can be removed for cabinet installations. Because of its relatively "compact" size, this model offers the greatest degree of placement flexibility in the Heritage Series line.

"The Klipschorn, La Scala and Heresy are among the most revered and highly acclaimed loudspeakers in the history of high fidelity audio," said Paul Jacobs, president of Klipsch Group, Inc. "These three classic speakers are a big part of what has made our company the success story it is today."

The new Heritage Series speakers are available in cherry, walnut and black ash wood veneer finishes and can be ordered through a Klipsch specialty A/V retailer at U.S. MSRPs of $3,750 for each Klipschorn, $2,750 for each La Scala II and $750 for each Heresy III. Orders for the soon-to-be discontinued Belle Klipsch can also be placed through a Klipsch specialty A/V retailer while supplies last. The Belle Klipsch carries a U.S. MSRP of $3,000 each. To locate a Klipsch retailer near you, visit www.klipsch.com and click on "Find a Dealer."

"We are building a structure that allows us to support the company's current brands but also gives us the flexibility to support additional future expansion," said Fred Klipsch, chairman and chief executive officer, Klipsch Group Inc. "This reorganization gives us the opportunity to place the right products with the right retailers on a global level while keeping Klipsch's legacy of delivering quality branded products intact."

In support of this reorganization multiple promotions are announced. First, T. Paul Jacobs has been appointed president and chief operating officer of Klipsch Group, Inc. Previously Paul had been president of both Klipsch and Jamo. Prior to his promotion as president, Jacobs served as executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Klipsch Worldwide Products Group where he was responsible for overall direction of the company's sales, marketing, engineering and product development functions, as well as being a critical member of the senior management team.

The Klipsch Group also today announced the promotion of Michael F. Klipsch to president and chief operating officer of Klipsch Audio Technologies and the appointment of John Frank to managing director, Jamo International. Klipsch and Frank will be responsible for all operations including engineering, product development, marketing, sourcing and logistics for their respective brands. Both men will report to Paul Jacobs, president of the Klipsch Group. "We are confident that Mike and John will lead Klipsch and Jamo to continued global growth and expansion," said Jacobs. "Mike's knowledge of the audio industry combined with John's global product development management skills will be incredible assets in Klipsch's evolution."

Michael Klipsch, who most recently held the position of executive vice president and COO, Klipsch Audio Technologies, will be responsible for global brand management of Klipsch loudspeakers. As president, he will guide the company's strategic direction and manage day-to-day operations of the organization.

Since joining Klipsch in 1996, Michael Klipsch has held several leadership positions including chief counsel, senior vice president of operations, executive vice president and chief operating officer. Prior to joining Klipsch Audio Technologies, Klipsch was a partner with the law firm of Bingham, Summers, Welsh and Spilman. He has 10 years of law practice experience with specializations in complex business transactions, debt/equity offerings and business reorganizations

Managing director John Frank will be responsible for the Jamo brand worldwide for Jamo International. With his role, he will capitalize on the technological innovation and Danish design that has defined the company. John was previously at Kompan A/S (a subsidiary of Lego Holding Company) and brings with him over 20 years of experience in global product development. John has received numerous awards during his career including the prestigious Danish Design Award in 1997.

Replacing the Reference Series III lineup, except for the entry-level RC-10, the latest RC-64, RC-62 and RC-52 video-shielded center channels all feature titanium tweeters coupled to new generation square Tractrix® Horns with improved throat geometry, Cerametallic™ aluminum woofers with inverted copper dust caps and powerful motor structures. Exclusive Klipsch Tapered Array™ technology along with Klipsch custom internal wiring provide perfectly balanced sound over the entire listening area. Low-diffraction magnetically attached grilles bring a sleek appearance to the line.

Designed to be one of the most unique and powerful center channels on the market, the RC-64 employs four 6.5-inch high-output woofers and a new 1.25-inch compression driver tweeter for extended high-frequency response. Available in either a cherry or black wood veneer finish, this flagship center channel also features bi-wire inputs with premium binding posts.

The RC-62 employs dual 6.5-inch woofers, twin front-firing ports and a 1-inch tweeter with a nine-ounce ceramic motor structure, while the RC-52 utilizes dual 5.25-inch woofers, twin front-firing ports and a 1-inch tweeter with a neodymium magnet motor structure. The RC-62 is available in a cherry or black woodgrain vinyl finish, while the RC-52 only comes in a black woodgrain vinyl finish.

"The design requirements for a center channel speaker are typically among the most challenging," said Jim Garrett, Klipsch director of product marketing. "The new Reference Series center channels overcome the limitations of conventional designs and deliver a seamless, engaging soundstage."

These models will be sold individually at the following U.S. MSRP pricing: $899 for the RC-64, $449 for the RC-62 and $299 for the RC-52.

Klipsch also introduced 17 other speakers in its Reference Series, including five floorstanding models, three bookshelf speakers, three surround speakers and six powered subwoofers.

"There are very few companies in this industry that have been around as long as Klipsch has so we are really proud to be celebrating six decades of success and longevity," said Fred S. Klipsch, chairman and CEO of Klipsch Group, Inc. "I believe our accomplishments lie in our ability to continually innovate and find ways to address an ever-broadening range of customers' needs."

To commemorate its 60th anniversary, Klipsch will host a series of year-long activities starting with the introduction of the limited edition 60th Anniversary Klipschorn® at the 2006 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. With only 200 pairs available, this speaker is crafted for high-quality sonic performance and adorned with distinct aesthetic features that make it a collectors' item.

Founded by legendary audio pioneer Paul W. Klipsch in 1946, Klipsch is one of the longest-established North American loudspeaker companies. From humble beginnings in Hope, Ark., the company has evolved into a globally recognized speaker brand that employs 262 employees worldwide and is sold in 75 countries.

The Four Laws of the Klipsch Universe

Klipsch has always been devoted to producing no-compromise, premium-quality audio products. The company has been able to achieve and maintain its superior, best-in-class performance status by consistently following the theory "efficiency is inversely proportional to distortion." As efficiency rises, distortion falls. This classic observation applies to every Klipsch loudspeaker and results in reliable, durable products that deliver powerful, detailed audio performance.

Based on sound acoustical science, Paul W. Klipsch discovered that the use of horn technology was and is the best way to get high efficiency and low distortion from a loudspeaker. In addition, horn technology also brings the added benefits of controlled directivity, flat frequency response and wide dynamic range. Together, these design principles are and will always be the foundation for every Klipsch product.

As Klipsch moves into the future, it will continue to keep an eye on the past. As the industrial design of its products continues to advance to keep up with the times, the foundation of its work - horn-loaded technology - remains constant.

Klipsch History

Paul W. Klipsch founded the company on the promise of a corner, horn-loaded speaker design. Movie theaters and concert halls had long used horns to reproduce motion picture soundtracks, however those horns, at over nine feet long, were much too large for use in the home. Klipsch's solution was to fold the horn back onto itself and place the speaker cabinet in a corner, making the walls of the room an extension of the horn. An unquestionable success, the Klipschorn®, patented in 1945, is still considered by many to be the finest loudspeaker ever made and is the only speaker in the world that has been in continuous production for 60 years.

In the mid-80s, Fred Klipsch saw a loudspeaker advertisement in a magazine that bore a familiar name - his. He tore out the then Klipsch & Associates ad and carried it around with him for three years before calling the company's founder. Although they had never met, Fred Klipsch and Paul Klipsch discovered that they were cousins and, without an heir Paul Klipsch began talking about a way to keep his privately held company in the family.

In 1989, Fred Klipsch and his wife Judy bought the promising loudspeaker company and moved the headquarters to their hometown of Indianapolis, Ind., keeping manufacturing in Hope, Ark. Since then, the company has significantly grown its product portfolio and business operations. In fact, last month Fred Klipsch announced a reorganization of the company's operations into five business divisions, each categorized by brand or distribution geography. The two brand management companies are Klipsch Audio Technologies and Jamo International (Klipsch purchased the Jamo brand in February 2005). The three newly formed distribution management divisions are Klipsch Group Americas, Klipsch Group Europe and Klipsch Group Asia. Overseeing these is a new parent company Klipsch Group, Inc.

*Source: NPD Techworld market tracking data Jan. - Nov. 2005.

"Headphones, headsets and speakers for mobile music, in particular for phones, are becoming increasingly important. The alliance with Klipsch will enable us to expand our share of the mobile music market and further strengthen our mobile music offering. With its exceptional engineering, design capabilities and respected brand name, Klipsch was the clear choice to bring enhanced music performance to our products. By coming together with Klipsch, we are able to combine both companies' voice and Bluetooth® capabilities along with acoustic expertise to provide customers with the absolute best in terms of design, quality and functionality in mobile music accessories," said Morten Steen Jørgensen, president, GN Mobile.

"We are delighted to work together with GN Mobile and are confident that GN Mobile's market position and heritage in voice and wireless Bluetooth technology combined with our experience in high-performance audio reproduction will produce the most advanced products available for this growing market segment," said Mike Klipsch, president, Klipsch Audio Technologies. "The partnership with GN Mobile not only facilitates our entry into the headphone and headset market, but it also gives us increased brand exposure in channels in which we do not currently compete."

With approximately 35 percent of the global Bluetooth headset market, GN Mobile is the leading provider of hands-free communication solutions, including its Jabra brand of products, and a global innovator in mobile personal communications. Jabra branded products, including industry-leading Bluetooth headsets, are available in more than 80,000 retail outlets worldwide making it one of the most successful brands of Bluetooth headsets on the market today. Several of GN Mobile's range of Jabra products has achieved international acclaim and numerous industry awards, including the Red Dot and IF Design Awards.

GN Mobile's mission is to provide customers with essential lifestyle-enabling mobile accessories that enhance the mobile experience. Most recently GN Mobile has concentrated its efforts on mobile headsets for the fashion and music market including the Jabra JX10 designer Bluetooth headset and the Jabra BT620s Bluetooth stereo headset, one of the world's first headsets to provide users with hi-fi stereo music direct from their Bluetooth stereo mobile phone, MP3 player or PC. In addition to Jabra, GN Mobile has a strong OEM business and designs and produces Bluetooth headsets and accessories for leading handset and mobile device manufacturers.

Some of the world's largest and best known brands use Klipsch technology including international names such as Hard Rock Cafe, Microsoft, Apple and Dell. One of America's very first speaker companies and celebrating its 60-year anniversary in 2006, Klipsch is committed to best-in-class audio solutions. The company boasts one of the most advanced professional audio research facilities in the world at its headquarters in Indianapolis.

The Klipsch brand is well known to music and movie lovers and gaming enthusiasts everywhere for its excellent two-channel and surround sound systems for home theaters, computers and game consoles. In addition, Klipsch has a long history as a provider of commercial cinema products. It develops audio products designed to create the most engaging, emotional and dynamic entertainment experiences.

The market for mobile music is experiencing considerable growth rates with convergence between mobile phones and digital music opening up new product categories and products such as MP3 Players and iPod helping to drive consumer demand. IMS Research predicts that the market for music phones will grow at a CAGR of over 100 percent to 2009. By 2008, around half of all handsets shipped will be music enabled (MP3 or other format). This equates to 475 million units. (Source: IMS Research 2005)

Replacing the existing Reference Series III lineup, except for the entry-level RF-10, the latest RF-83, RF-63, RF-82, RF-62 and RF-52 floorstanders all feature titanium tweeters coupled to new generation square Tractrix® Horns with improved throat geometry, Cerametallic™ aluminum woofers with inverted copper dust caps and powerful motor structures. While bi-wire inputs and Klipsch custom internal wiring ensure the line's high-quality connection, the low-diffraction magnetically attached grilles provide a sleek appearance.

Designed to be the best of the best, the RF-83 and RF-63 flagship floorstanders are available in either a cherry or black real wood veneer finish. The RF-83 employs three 8-inch woofers, while the RF-63 has three 6.5-inch woofers. Rigid cast frames help maintain perfect alignment of the large, high-temperature voice coils. Both utilize three rear-firing ports to eliminate turbulence noise and 1.25-inch compression drivers for extended high-frequency response.

The RF-82, RF-62 and RF-52 utilize Tractrix Horn-loaded 1-inch titanium tweeters for improved midrange and treble and high-output woofers for enhanced bass performance. While the RF-82 and RF-62 employ dual 8-inch and dual 6.5-inch woofers respectively, they both feature twin rear-firing ports and ceramic motor structure tweeters. The RF-52 has two 5.25-inch woofers, a single rear-firing port and a neodymium motor structure tweeter with integrated heat sink.

While the RF-82 comes in either a cherry or black woodgrain vinyl finish, the RF-62 and RF-52 are only available in black.

"Raising the bar from an already very high point, these new Reference Series floorstanders deliver smoother overall sound together with more bass power and detail," said Jim Garrett, Klipsch director of product marketing.

These models are sold at the following U.S. MSRP pricing: $2,498 for a pair of RF-83s, $1,798 for a pair of RF-63s, $998 for a pair of RF-82s, $798 for a pair of RF-62s and $598 for a pair of RF-52s.

Klipsch also introduced 15 other speakers in its Reference Series, including three bookshelf models, three center channel speakers, three surround speakers and six powered subwoofers.

These advanced Reference bookshelf models all feature titanium tweeters coupled to new generation square Tractrix® Horns with improved throat geometry and powerful Cerametallic™ aluminum woofers for extended bass response. While Klipsch custom internal wiring ensures the line's high-quality connection, the low-diffraction magnetically attached grilles provide a sleek appearance.

The flagship RB-81 bookshelf speaker employs a high-output 8-inch woofer and a 1-inch compression driver with nine-ounce ceramic magnet motor structure. Available in either a cherry or black woodgrain vinyl finish, it also features bi-wire inputs and a front-firing port for easy installation into custom cabinetry.

The RB-61 has the same high-end content and finish as the RB-81, but comes with a 6.5-inch woofer. The RB-51 utilizes a 5.25-inch woofer and a 1-inch compression driver with a neodymium magnet motor structure. Available in a black woodgrain vinyl finish, the RB-51 also features a single-wire input.

"From the drivers to the cabinets and from the crossovers to the cabling, these new Reference Series bookshelf speakers are designed to deliver maximum performance for years to come," said Jim Garrett, Klipsch director of product marketing.

These models are sold at the following U.S. MSRP pricing: $698 for a pair of RB-81s, $448 for a pair of RB-61s and $348 for a pair of RB-51s. The current RB-10 will continue to retail for $248 a pair.

Klipsch also introduced 17 other speakers in its Reference Series, including five floorstanding models, three center channel speakers, three surround speakers and six powered subwoofers.

"These changes to our structure will not effect the customer-facing portion of our business," said David Kelley, president, Klipsch Group Americas. "Business partners will continue to work with the same brand-specific sales reps and independent distributors that they always have. This is a strategic and structural change to allow for centralized distribution decision-making for all the current Klipsch Group brands and any additional brands that we may acquire."

Klipsch Group President, Paul Jacobs, states that the company's strategy is to accelerate global growth with multiple brands: "This new structure is the foundation we need to reach our very aggressive growth objectives. We now have in place a distribution operation that can support any acquisition activity we choose to pursue, helmed by two of our most experienced and knowledgeable executives."

In addition to overseeing and optimizing the distribution relationships and practices, Kelley and Jespersen also manage the sales teams and distributor networks in their respective geographies. Kelley and Jespersen report to Paul Jacobs, president of Klipsch Group, Inc. which is the parent company for the distribution companies. Klipsch Group Americas will be located at Klipsch Group global headquarters in Indianapolis, IN, and Klipsch Group Europe and Klipsch Group Asia Pacific will be headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark with a subsidiary being opened in Asia.

This anticipated growth must be managed in a coordinated and orderly fashion within each market," said Managing Director Jespersen. "Markets where one brand makes sense, another may not, and this new organization gives us the ability to place the right products with the right retailers and contractors. The singular corporate structure will help avoid market conflicts and maximize established supplier/reseller relationships."

Since joining Klipsch in 1992, Kelley has held several leadership positions including key account manager, regional manager, director of sales, national sales manager, international sales manager, vice president of sales and senior vice president of worldwide sales. With over 20 years in the industry, Kelley began his career at Highland Superstores where he started as a sales associate and later held a variety of management positions. At the time, he was the youngest manager in the company's history.

Jespersen joined Klipsch in March 2005 as director of global distribution strategy. He brings to Klipsch more than 30 years of international consumer electronics sales and distribution experience. He served as president of the International Division of Harman Consumer Group and director of European activities for JBL and Harman Kardon. Jespersen most recently established distribution activities in Denmark for Marantz electronics and Audio Pro speakers.

In total, there are five new floorstanding speakers (RF-83, RF-63, RF-82, RF-62 and RF-52), three bookshelf models (RB-81, RB-61 and RB-51), three center channel speakers (RC-64, RC-62 and RC-52), three WDST™ surrounds (RS-62, RS-52 and RS-42) and six powered subwoofers (RT-12d, RT-10d, RSW-10d, RW-12d, RW-10d and RPW-10). This fourth generation of product will replace the current Reference line except for the entry-level 10 series models. 

"Since its initial launch in 1999, the Klipsch Reference Series has created a whirlwind of success for the company and its business partners," said Jim Garrett, Klipsch director of product marketing. "By introducing a fourth generation of product with new and better features, we will strengthen our position in the specialty retail channel."

The RF-83 and RF-63 flagship floorstanders each utilize three high-output Cerametallic™ woofers and a 1.25-inch titanium compression driver with exclusive Tractrix® Horn-loaded technology. Available in either a cherry or black wood veneer finish, the RF-83 and RF-63 also feature bi-wire inputs with premium binding posts and Klipsch custom internal wiring for high-quality connection. The RF-82, RF-62 and RF-52 floorstanders offer improved Tractrix horn-loaded tweeters and extended low-frequency capability among other added high-performance benefits.  

The latest bookshelf speakers all offer improved bass response and feature high-output Cerametallic woofer cones and titanium compression drivers mated to the latest generation of square Tractrix Horns. The RB-81 flagship bookshelf model utilizes an 8-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter with a ceramic motor structure for extended low and high frequency responses. Available in either a cherry or black woodgrain vinyl finish, the RB-81 also includes bi-wire inputs and Klipsch custom internal wiring for high-quality connection.

The new RC-64, RC-62 and RC-52 center channel models utilize Klipsch's exclusive Tapered Array™ technology and custom internal wiring to deliver perfectly balanced sound over the entire listening area. Cerametallic woofers with inverted copper dust caps, new titanium compression driver tweeters with enhanced Tractrix Horns and full video shielding are also featured throughout the line. The RC-62 and RC-52 offer improved low frequency extension, while the flagship RC-64 is an all-new, class-leading design with four 6.5-inch high-output woofers flanking a central 1.25-inch titanium compression driver.

The RS-62, RS-52 and RS-42 surround speakers, featuring exclusive Wide Dispersion Surround Technology, adopt a completely new cabinet and driver layout that is similar to the Klipsch THX Ultra2® KS-525-THX surround. This configuration establishes greater output, improved coverage and increased power handling to further extend Klipsch's best-in-class surround sound performance. Available in a matte black vinyl finish, all three of these models employ dual Cerametallic woofers and dual titanium tweeters coupled to Tractrix Horns for enveloping surround sound fields, as well as precisely localized rear surround effects. Side-firing ports, back-panel keyholes and ¼"-20 threaded inserts simplify installation.

Designed to deliver staggering bass intensity, the new triangular-shaped RT-12d and RT-10d flagship subwoofers are small footprint, high-output models with powerful front-firing Cerametallic woofers and dual rear-firing passive radiators. Available in either a cherry or black wood veneer finish, these subwoofers easily fit into corners where they are less intrusive. This unique enclosure style also allows the passive radiators to face both corners of a wall for maximum bass performance. In fact, corner loading a subwoofer creates a six-decibel increase in output without needing an increase in power.

Through DSP, the RT subwoofers deliver a new level of customized bass performance. They both feature a digital control panel display that allows users to quickly and easily adjust all functions. The RT-12d and RT-10d also offer three equalization modes (flat, depth and punch) and five user-adjustable preset modes (music, movies, night and two name-your-own settings) to establish specific listening preferences. By utilizing a patent-pending auto room correction process, formally known as Adaptive Room Correction™, and the included calibration microphone, these RT models ensure ideal performance in every listening area.

As the most compact subwoofer in the line, the RSW-10d has an even smaller enclosure than its predecessor as well as substantially increased amplifier power and all-new high-excursion drivers. The RSW-10d offers three user-adjustable preset modes (music, movies and night) and features the same digital control panel and equalization modes as the RT models.

The RW-12d and RW-10d enhance the performance qualities that made the preceding RW-12 and RW-10 models so popular. These two new subwoofers still retain critical performance features such as exclusive Corner Port™ technology but now offer the same digital control panel and three equalization modes (flat, depth and punch) as the RSW-10d.

The entry-level RPW-10 is a powerful front-firing 10-inch subwoofer with a fiber-composite cone that brings a new level of performance to the value-priced subwoofer category. It also features a front-firing slot port for installation into custom cabinetry.

With this new diverse lineup, the Klipsch Reference Series now covers U.S. MSRP price points ranging from $498 to $2498 for a pair of floorstanding speakers, $248 to $698 for a pair of bookshelf models, $199 to $899 for a center channel, $298 to $998 for a pair of surrounds and $349 to $1,999 for a powered subwoofer.

On Friday, December 9, Landmark will open its 60th theater location inside the mall's upper Parisian wing. The new Keystone Art Cinema & Indie Lounge features seven state-of-the-art auditoriums that dynamically present the best independent cinema, foreign language films and classic and documentary features.

Tailored to mature audiences, this 1,400-seat cineplex offers gourmet concessions, stadium-style seating and Dolby Digital sound. The full-service Indie Lounge features live music, plasma televisions and allows moviegoers to take their drinks into the auditoriums.

According to Bobby Parry, chief engineer for Landmark Theatres, the complex utilizes advanced digital projection equipment and best-in-class professional Klipsch speakers to give audiences the best in cinema presentation. In fact, it is the most technology-advanced Landmark Theatre location to date.

"Digital projection is easily the most astonishing technology innovation to hit the film industry," he said. "Better than traditional film, digital projection doesn't get scratched or dusty and you get the same presentation quality from the first to the last showing."

While over 100 Klipsch cinema speakers fill the auditoriums with detailed and immersive audio, the lobby and bar areas also benefit from high-performance Klipsch in-ceiling and surface mount products.

Because the auditoriums have limited space behind their screens, Landmark engineers used Klipsch's new line of powerful, shallow-depth speakers to accommodate them - the KPT-435-N, KPT-335-N and KPT-418. While the KPT-435-N and KPT 335-N three-way systems are the best space-saving performers in their class, the high-output, bass-reflex KPT-418 subwoofer delivers great bottom-end performance along with high power handling.

"While I have used Klipsch on retrofit projects, this is the first brand-new Landmark complex to utilize all Klipsch products throughout," Parry said. "As far as I am concerned, Klipsch builds the best speakers for the cinema market. They have good solid construction and deliver no holds barred sound."

This Landmark location also features other technological advancements that are typically not found elsewhere, including video walls of plasma monitors that publicize current and upcoming films.

About Landmark Theatres

Landmark Theatres, the nation's largest art-house chain, features first-run independent and foreign films, restored classics and non-traditional studio fare in 60 theaters representing 215 screens in 22 markets. In exhibiting indie hits such as Garden State, Monster, The Pianist, Memento, Fast Runner, Monsoon Wedding, Bowling for Columbine, The Blair Witch Project, Run Lola Run and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Landmark has never veered from its commitment to present cutting edge entertainment or shied away from controversial films, such as Fahrenheit 9/11, Y Tu Mamá También, Kids, Romance or The Last Temptation of Christ.

As part of the fourth annual Multi-Room Audio/Video Awards sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association, EHX recognized the R-5650-S for its exceptional innovation, functionality and value at the EHX Fall 2005 trade show. A panel of five industry experts judged a total of 70 products before determining the best in each of the 23 award categories.

Designed specifically for use in a home theater application, the Klipsch R-5650-S is engineered to deliver great sound while remaining unobtrusive wherever it is installed. The speaker features a patent-pending horn array, which is two vertically stacked Tractrix® Horn-loaded tweeters pointing in opposite directions. The result is a flush-mount speaker that creates enveloping sound fields and localizing specific surround effects through the use of Klipsch's proprietary Wide Dispersion Surround Technology™. The careful alignment of the two controlled-directivity Tractrix Horn tweeters, angled opposite one another, yields an incredibly wide dispersion pattern.

"By taking a no-compromise approach, the R-5650-S brings dynamic and realistic performances to virtually any installed home theater configuration," said Jim Garrett, Klipsch director of product marketing. "In fact, no other company has been able to achieve such a high-performance level in this type of package."

The R-5650-S has a U.S. MSRP of $699 per pair and is available through the residential contracting channel.

Located in Vancouver, Wash., the 50,000-square-foot Cinetopia features a grand 300-seat theater with 50-foot screen, two 180-seat theaters, two 100-seat theaters and three "living room" theaters that provide food and wine service for 65 viewers each. All of these auditoriums offer advanced technologies that enhance the look and sound of the films, plush leather chairs, greater space between rows and higher stadium seating for uninterrupted viewing.

According to Coltman, Cinetopia was born from his vision of creating the ultimate movie experience. "In order to create the ideal place to watch films, I believe it's necessary to provide customers with a luxurious and artistic environment that utilizes the industry's best technology."

While the grand auditorium features Klipsch KPT-MCM-4-T Grand behind-the-screen systems, KPT-1201 surrounds and dual KPT-684 subwoofers, the smaller theaters are outfitted with a variety of other high-performance Klipsch products. The KPT MCM-4-T Grand is the world's first and only fully horn-loaded, THX-Certified® four-way cinema system.

Inside the cozy, more intimate "living room" theaters, the Klipsch speakers do more than just deliver lifelike sounding movie presentations; they also support the live musicians who perform during intermissions.

According to Coltman, he hired experts to ensure the highest level of sound quality inside his complex. "My designers and I uniformly agreed that Klipsch offered the finest sound presentation in the industry so it was a clear choice who we would go with."

Scott Hicks of American Cinema Equipment Inc., the company responsible for handling Cinetopia's A/V installations, said he has received several compliments regarding the cinema's amazing sound capabilities. "I've gotten calls from patrons who are so impressed with the sound that they ask where they can buy Klipsch for their homes." Hicks also mentioned that Klipsch is by far, the number one speaker brand in sales volume at his company.

In addition to its state-of-the-art film presentation, Cinetopia features Vinotopia, a unique high tech wine bar with indoor and tropical garden seating and wine tasting cellar. Both feature the enomatic automated tasting system that allow customers to experience over 100 world-class wine selections by the taste or glass.

Featuring some of the Northwest's finest as well as artists from around the world, the Cinetopia art gallery spans the entire complex and all of the art is for sale.

Using the best of everything - including Klipsch professional cinema systems - Coltman poured nearly $10 million into the design of Cinetopia. This combination film complex features a gourmet restaurant, a 105-selection wine bar with indoor and tropical garden seating, an art gallery and a state-of-the-art business conferencing facility - to give people a new reason to come back to the silver screen.

Located in Vancouver, Wash., this 50,000-square-foot complex has eight auditoriums consisting of a grand 300-seat theater with 50-foot screen, two 180-seat theaters, two 100-seat theaters and three unique "living room" theaters that offer food and wine service and accommodate 65 viewers each. All of these auditoriums utilize advanced technologies that enhance the look and sound of the films, comfy leather chairs, greater space between rows and higher stadium seating for uninterrupted viewing.

"In order to create the ideal place to watch films, I believe it's necessary to provide customers with a luxurious and artistic environment that utilizes the industry's best technology," Coltman said.

While the grand auditorium features Klipsch KPT-MCM-4-T Grand behind-the-screen systems (the first and only fully horn-loaded, THX®-Certified four-way cinema design), KPT-1201 surrounds and dual KPT-684 subwoofers, the smaller theaters are outfitted with a variety of other Klipsch products. Inside the cozy, more intimate living room theaters, the Klipsch speakers do more than just deliver lifelike sounding movie presentations; they also support the live musicians who perform during intermissions.

According to Coltman, he hired experts to ensure the highest level of sound quality inside his complex. "My designers and I uniformly agreed that Klipsch offered the finest sound presentation in the industry so it was a clear choice who we would go with," he said.

Scott Hicks of American Cinema Equipment Inc., the company responsible for handling Cinetopia's A/V installations, said he has received several compliments regarding the cinema's amazing sound capabilities. "I've gotten calls from patrons who are so impressed with the sound that they ask where they can buy Klipsch for their homes." Hicks also mentioned that Klipsch is by far, the number one speaker brand in sales volume at his company.

Guests from all over the country visit Cinetopia, including employees of major movie studios and film companies in L.A. Coltman said Cinetopia's success couldn't be better and that it is getting tons of great press and support from the local community. Holding future cinema plans, Coltman hopes to keep an on-going relationship with Klipsch so that he can always offer "the best in sound" to his customers.

Following the success of its large, fully horn-loaded KPT-MCM-4-T Grand four-way system, Klipsch designed the new KPT-745-Q four-way model to deliver dynamic movie thrills and chills but from a much shallower cabinet. Less than 24 inches in depth, the fully horn-loaded KPT-745-Q system is the perfect choice for larger theater venues that require a rich auditory experience but can't accommodate the 45-inch depth of Klipsch's Grand speaker.

The KPT-745-Q's low-frequency punch is provided by the high efficiency KPT-415-LF quad 15-inch bass unit, aided by a separate, single 12-inch, Tractrix® Horn-loaded mid-bass device, the KPT-XII-MB. The KPT-402-MF Tractrix Horn and K-1133 two-inch exit titanium compression driver effortlessly reproduce the system's mid frequencies. For the added kick that is required by grandiose locations, the KPT-Grand-HF-T extended high-frequency horn module easily handles the system's smooth treble reproduction. This powerful system is also available with a mid/high passive crossover for a tri-amp configuration and referred to as the KPT-745-N.

Already the preferred loudspeaker brand of leading cinema operators that include Regal Cinemas, Malco Theatres, Harkins Theatres, Krikorian Premiere Theatres, Cinépolis Mexico, Cinemex Mexico and Caribbean Cinemas, Klipsch plans to further serve the market by adding the KPT-745-Q to its extensive and diverse list of professional cinema and stage offerings. Klipsch has held a 50 percent market share of the new and retrofitted screens in the U.S. since about 2000. The numbers are closer to 60 percent in Latin America and the Caribbean.

All four Quintet satellite speakers employ a 0.75-aluminum diaphragm tweeter coupled to an exclusive MicroTractrix™ Horn for crisp, precise high frequencies and a dynamic, three-dimensional soundstage. The 3.5-inch graphite-injected, long-throw woofers produce remarkable detail and clarity. The ported bass reflex design on these models maximizes bass response, allowing ultradynamic performance and a seamless blend with the Quintet center channel and the Sub-10. Each magnetically shielded satellite features a swiveling pedestal foot for convenient wall mounting or bookshelf placement.

The two-way, magnetically shielded bass reflex design Quintet center channel uses the same MicroTractrix Horn tweeter and two of the 3.5-inch woofers found in the satellites to ensure an ideal sonic match and proper driver transition across the listening area.

The high-impact, down-firing 10-inch woofer on the Sub-10, which is the recommended subwoofer for use with the Quintet, is powered by a BASH Class D digital amplifier and generates 200 watts of continuous power and 420 watts of dynamic power. Because of its ample-sized enclosure made of medium density fiber board and a large, rear-firing port with flared ends, the Sub-10 offers increased bass response with low distortion. Stylish outrigger feet secure the down-firing system at the optimum height to ensure consistent performance.

In addition to its high-end components, the Quintet III incorporates a modern industrial design that is refined and aggressive. While the Quintet satellites and center channel feature a dark gray finish with medium gray accents, the Sub-10 is available in a black ash vinyl finish with titanium accents.

Slated to hit the mass retail market in October, the Quintet satellites and center channel will be packaged and sold together and the Sub-10 will be merchandised separately.

Launched last December, the ProMedia Ultra 2.0 is designed to deliver sub/sat level performance from the simplicity of a two-speaker setup. Retailing for just $99.99, the system was created for consumers who want superior, full-range sound quality but do not want to give up the space or run the wire required for a subwoofer.

Celebrating its 23rd year, the respected World Class Awards honor products that meld practical features with innovation and reflect the rapidly changing technology marketplace. To select the winners, PC World's editors examined hundred of products, including those that have appeared in the magazine over the past 12 months. The winning products were selected for their exemplary design and usability, features, performance, innovation and price.

The ProMedia Ultra 2.0 will be showcased in the July 2005 issue of PC World, which hits newsstands June 14, along with the winners of the other World Class Award categories.

"The ultimate buyers guide, World Class Awards set the standard for excellence in the high-tech and consumer electronics industries," stated Harry McCracken, editor in chief of PC World. "From desktop publishers to travel routers to satellite radio and video instant messenger services, the editors reward the finest products and most outstanding performers in this annual award program. Congratulations to the Klipsch ProMedia Ultra 2.0."

Brandnamez.com conceded all five points of the lawsuit and agreed to a lifetime ban that prevents Brandnamez.com, its owners and any future businesses they own from ever selling Klipsch brand products.

Klipsch has also terminated another dealer that was proven to have engaged in transshipping, or providing products to unauthorized resellers in violation of the established Klipsch dealer agreement. To date, Klipsch has severed ties with 19 dealers in accordance with its zero tolerance policy, which represented well over $6 million in business annually.

"Winning our case against Brandnamez.com eliminates another unauthorized Internet reseller that was very visible and harmful to our legitimate dealer network," said Mike Klipsch, executive vice president and chief operating officer. "We will continue to track down and stop any and all unauthorized activity."

FactoryDirectSound.com, another unauthorized web site, has signed a cease and desist agreement with Klipsch that mimics the settlement with Brandnamez.com. FactoryDirectSound.com was one of many web sites infringing on Klipsch's copyrights and trademarks that have removed the brand from their pages, presumably to avoid being named as defendants in a future lawsuit. Klipsch pursued and obtained the additional requirement of a binding lifetime ban on any sales of Klipsch products.

Since January 2004, Klipsch has obtained agreements, settlements or judgments against the following unauthorized Internet resellers:

1. Syris Holding Corporation, parent company of the web site HomeTheaterPhiles.com
2. 50TopSellers.com
3. AuthorizedElectronics.com
4. TheBestPriceStore.com
5. Crazyeddie.com
6. Brandnamez, LLC dba brandnamez.com
7. FactoryDirectSound.com

"When we began this effort to eliminate unauthorized Internet sales there were more than 80 offenders," said Mike Klipsch. "Today, there are only a few holdouts and we are closing in on them quickly. We have succeeded by educating the public, enforcing our zero tolerance policy and following through on our promise to take legal action against violators."

Klipsch is continuing its relationship with NetEnforcers.com, a brand protection company that assists Klipsch with shutting down auctions by unauthorized dealers using third party web sites such as Ebay and Yahoo. Through April 2005, NetEnforcers has terminated 395 unauthorized Ebay auctions on behalf of Klipsch.

The new Synergy subwoofers feature powerful down-firing drivers coupled to efficient BASH Class D digital amplifiers. While the Sub-12 employs a 12-inch woofer and generates 300 watts of continuous power and 650 watts of dynamic power, the Sub-10 has a 10-inch driver and delivers 200 watts of continuous power and 420 watts of dynamic power. Because these models have ample-sized enclosures made of medium density fiber board and large, rear-firing ports with flared ends, they offer increased bass response with low distortion. Stylish outrigger feet secure the down-firing system at the optimum height to ensure consistent performance.

"The new Sub-12 and Sub-10 are powerhouses that deliver the energy and intensity of a real movie theater or live musical performance," said Tony Ostrom, Klipsch director of product marketing for mass retail. "These subwoofers are loaded with class-leading technology that allows them to go deeper, hit harder and deliver more realism than anything else in their class."

Inputs on these subwoofers include two line level RCA phono jacks and two high level speaker terminals. Both subwoofers have a built-in, steep-slope (24dB/octave) low-pass crossover that is continuously adjustable from 40 to 120Hz. A phase control facilitates ideal acoustical integration of each subwoofer with other speakers in the system. An "auto power" feature enables these subwoofers to turn on and off automatically, based on the presence or absence of an audio signal. A blue/red dual color LED display located on the front of each subwoofer indicates whether the unit is on or in standby mode.

In addition to their high-end components, the Sub-12 and Sub-10 incorporate a new industrial design that is refined and aggressive. Available in a black ash vinyl finish with titanium accents, these subwoofers perfectly complement the entire Synergy Series lineup in both style and performance.

The Synergy Series subwoofers are available at U.S. MSRPs of $499.99 for the Sub-12 and $399.99 for the Sub-10.

Having been rehabilitated and reopened in January 2005 by American Cinematheque, a non-profit Hollywood-based film society, the Aero Theatre has updated projection and sound equipment and enhanced acoustics to superbly showcase the best in cinema.

The Aero's 425-seat auditorium is equipped with 35 mm and 70mm projection capabilities and a 45 feet by 25 feet screen, three times its previous size. Designed in the 1950s as part of Michael Todd's development of the wide film process, the projectors are European-made Norelco DP 70s that have been outfitted with the newest Schneider Premiere Series optic lenses. The new high-performance Klipsch sound system includes five THX-Certified KPT-535-4-T behind-the-screen systems, 16 THX-Certified KPT-1201 surround speakers and two THX -Approved KPT-684 subwoofers.

Michael Thomson, vice president of operations and technology for Malco Theatres, was a key consultant on the design and installation of the theater's technical overhaul. "Because Klipsch speakers are superior in sound and efficiency, the Aero Theatre now has one of the finest audio systems in Los Angeles," he said.

Bill Hogan, a 30-year veteran in the TV and motion picture industry, volunteered his time to make the Aero project a success. Helping with the coordination and installation of the projection and sound equipment, Hogan mentioned that American Cinematheque evaluated several speaker brands before choosing Klipsch. After taking a trip to Memphis, Tenn. and hearing the Klipsch speakers that are installed inside Malco's Majestic and Paradiso Theatres, Aero management was confident Klipsch was the best choice.

"What I like most about Klipsch speakers is that they deliver a uniformity of coverage and the clarity of the dialogue is phenomenal," said Hogan. "We've gotten a lot of feedback from industry officials regarding how great the Aero sounds."

American Cinematheque also owns and operates the legendary Grauman's 1922 Egyptian Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard's Walk of Fame. According to Hogan, because American Cinematheque is so pleased with the Aero Theatres' sound performance, they may also consider upgrading the Egyptian with Klipsch.

Taking on a French Norman architectural style, the Aero Theatre opened its doors for the first time on Jan. 10, 1940 and operated with a small staff showing double features that changed three times weekly. In the first month of business, it played films that included On Borrowed Time, The Mysterious Miss X, The Angels Wash Their Faces, In Old Monterey, The Old Maid and Hawaiian Nights.

Nowadays, it presents a variety of old, new and independent screenings. Many of the movies offered include discussions with filmmakers and stars. The historic venue also hosts film festivals that highlight new independent films and filmmakers from around the world.

Already the preferred loudspeaker brand of leading cinema operators that include Regal Cinemas, Malco Theatres, Harkins Theatres, Krikorian Premiere Theatres, Cinépolis Mexico, Cinemex Mexico and Caribbean Cinemas, Klipsch plans to further serve the market with the latest KPT-435-N, KPT-335-N, KPT-884, KPT-418 and CA-800T. Currently, Klipsch has earned approximately a 50 percent share of the new and retrofitted screens in the U.S. market. The numbers are closer to 60 percent in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Unlike many three-way cinema and stage systems on the market, the KPT-435-N and KPT-335-N are less than 20 inches in depth, making them two of the smallest behind-the-screen products in their performance category. In fact, the KPT-435-N is the first full three-way passive system on the market.

Based on the proven KPT-904-LF dual 15-inch bass unit, the KPT-435-N delivers powerful bass from a shallow cabinet that is 17.75 inches deep. In order to reproduce critical dialogue range, this system also features the new KPT-335 HF/MF, which consists of a K-510 Tractrix® Horn, 2-inch throated compression driver and the K-703 horn with a 1.75-inch titanium diaphragm. It is perfect for exhibitors who want to utilize a fully passive or bi-amplified three-way system in their small- to medium-sized auditoriums.

Designed for small auditoriums and engineered to save space, the KPT-335-N has a depth of 12.25 inches and serves as a high output single 15-inch three-way system. It features the KPT-315-LF for enhanced bass output and the same KPT-335 HF/MF configuration as the

KPT-435-N for the critical dialogue range. This system also utilizes a fully passive or bi-amplified three-way network.

The KPT-884 is a high-output, bass-reflex cinema subwoofer that features an advanced low-frequency 4-inch voice coil driver design. Less than 23 inches in depth, this system utilizes a single 18-inch driver that gains its high efficiency through the use of large, geometrically optimized structures and lightweight cones. In fact, the KPT-884 is capable of delivering an earth-shaking low frequency of 18Hz.

Less than 11 inches in depth, the new KPT-418 cinema subwoofer is even more compact than the KPT-884. Serving as a replacement for the Klipsch KPT-484, this high-output, bass-reflex subwoofer system delivers true bottom-end performance along with high power handling capability and high efficiency. It can be used as the main subwoofer system in a small auditorium or as the subwoofer for surrounds in small- to medium-sized auditoriums.

The CA-800T compact full-range system works well in professional cinema surround applications where flexible mounting and extended range are required. It includes a high-power 8-inch extended low-frequency driver and a titanium diaphragm compression driver mated to a 90-degree by 90-degree Tractrix Horn. This dual port bass-reflex loudspeaker can also handle 100 watts of continuous power for an AES sensitivity of 96dB. The CA-800T ships complete with a mounting bracket.

These new all-weather products have the following improvements over their previous versions:

• 90-degree by 90-degree Tractrix® Horns allow for better outdoor coverage whether mounted in a vertical or horizontal orientation (except for the AW-800-SW)
• New C-brackets are made from sturdier, more durable heavy-gauge zinc
• New input cup design drains better than before
• A back-panel threaded insert is compatible with popular wall and ceiling brackets such as OmniMount and other brands
• New grilles are more durable and stay put even in extreme weather conditions

All of these speakers are sold in pairs, except for the exclusive AW-500-SM wide-coverage model (dual voice coil woofer and dual tweeters may be configured in either summed mono or left/right stereo) and AW-800-SW subwoofer (dual voice coils and a high-pass crossover with pass-through capability for stereo and mono configurations). U.S. MSRP pricing is as follows: AW-400 $230, AW-500 $300, AW-525 $400, AW-650 $500, AW-500-SM $350, AW-800-SW $400.

The RVX-42 perfectly complements 42-inch plasma and LCD screens. It also features keyhole mounts (sized to fit a single-gang electrical box), plus dual 3/8"-20 threaded inserts for popular wall mounts. There are two insert locations on the RVX-42 where the included pedestal base can be positioned - one in the center and one on the bottom so the loudspeaker can either serve as a center channel or bookshelf. Another key feature is a bass compensation switch that tailors the speaker's crossover network for maximum performance whether placed on-wall or off-wall.

Both RVX models are available in the same black or silver finishes as the Klipsch Reference Satellites so that they can be combined to create complete systems. For example, consumers can design a 5.1-channel surround sound system using a pair of RVX-54 main channels, a pair of Reference Satellite RSX-5s for surrounds, an RVX-42 for a center channel and a Reference Series RW-12d subwoofer.

The Klipsch Reference Series RVX speakers are packaged individually for mix-and-match simplicity. The RVX-54 has a U.S. MSRP of $799 each and the RVX-42 has a U.S. MSRP of $449 each.

Designed with a minimalist sensibility, the Klipsch SLX speaker has a depth and style that perfectly complements a variety of popular plasma and LCD televisions. It employs dual 4.5-inch, magnetically shielded IMG long-throw woofers for remarkable detail and clarity. A 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter coupled to an exclusive round Tractrix® Horn allows this speaker to deliver a dynamic, three-dimensional soundstage. Powerful magnet structures provide high efficiency and low distortion. It also features two custom-engineered, sculpted ports on the front baffle for intense low-frequency extension.

In the drive for simplicity, the SLX can be positioned horizontally or vertically and serve as a main, surround or center channel speaker. Furthermore, it can be mounted to a wall or stand. A Positive Lock Attachment™ on the back of the speaker ensures simple and reliable wall mounting to the included wall bracket without requiring additional hardware. While on the wall bracket, magnetic positioning allows for precise rotation within a 30-degree range, meaning the user can widen or constrict the soundstage based on audience size. Mounting to a stand is made possible via two ¼"-20 threaded inserts located on the rear of the enclosure.

Available in a silver/titanium finish, the smooth and sculpted shape of this dramatic speaker nicely matches today's striking flat-panel displays. With its gray magnetically-attached grille in place, the SLX offers a sense of elegance that flatters a variety of home décors, but take the grille off and you get an aggressive and powerful statement that exudes extreme performance.

The Synergy SLX speakers will be packaged individually for mix-and-match simplicity for two-channel or multi-channel configurations. It will be sold at a U.S. MSRP of $349.99 each.

The acquisition immediately expands the global footprint of Klipsch Audio, Inc. and improves the operational cost structure of both subsidiaries. Jamo, recognized for its technological innovation and Danish design, is a premier European speaker brand that also has significant distribution in Asia including 135 company-operated retail stores in China. Klipsch Audio Technologies is one of America's very first speaker companies-established in 1946-and ranked number one in all U.S. speaker distribution channels maintaining a 13 percent market share, according to NPD Techworld, a point-of-sale market tracking firm.

"We acquired Jamo as part of our strategy to accelerate global growth with multiple brands," said Fred Klipsch, Chairman and CEO of Klipsch Audio, Inc. "We will maximize our resources and buying power to benefit both Klipsch and Jamo. We are pleased to have such a quality, Danish brand as part of our family of products."

"The stability of Klipsch supports the continued growth of the Jamo brand," said Poul Henning Pedersen, interim managing director and director of product creation for Jamo International Aps. "Our partners will be pleased to learn that distribution stays the same and Jamo is a fully funded, independently operated company under the Klipsch Audio parent company."

Paul Jacobs, president of Klipsch Audio Technologies, will also serve as president of Jamo International Aps. Product development and design will be completely separate to maintain the distinctive character of both brands. Jamo headquarters will remain in Glyngøre, Denmark and Helge Fischer will continue to guide Jamo U.S. operations out of the Chicago office.

About Jamo International Aps
Based in Glyngøre, Denmark, Jamo designs, manufactures and markets a range of high-quality consumer speakers, electronics, control systems and accessories for retail and residential contracting distribution channels. Jamo was founded in 1968 with a focus on innovative technology and Danish design. Today, the Jamo brand is highly regarded and its products are sold in more than 80 countries. Jamo's mission is to create sound solutions that make a difference. Jamo International Aps is a wholly owned subsidiary of Klipsch Audio, Inc.

As part of the relationship with VantagePoint, Klipsch named two new senior executives to the management team from VantagePoint portfolio company Aurora, Inc. John Carter, former chief engineer of Bose Corporation, has been named chief technology officer of Klipsch. The former CEO of Harman Consumer Group, Tom Jacoby, joined Klipsch as chief development officer and vice chairman.

In 2004, Klipsch Audio Technologies reported double-digit annual sales growth for the seventh consecutive year. The Company is ranked as the number one speaker brand in all U.S. distribution channels maintaining a 13 percent market share, according to NPD Techworld, a point-of-sale market-tracking firm. During the last five years, approximately 50 percent of new and retrofitted movie theatres around the world have installed Klipsch loudspeakers.

"The partnership with VantagePoint is exciting because we are working together to execute a global strategy that will extend our market impact well beyond the 75 countries and 5,000 storefronts we're in today," said Fred Klipsch, chairman of the board of directors and CEO of Klipsch. "VantagePoint brings the resources and knowledge to help us build a high-growth global company."

"As the market leader, Klipsch has a premier management team, reputable brand and well established distribution, providing the right platform for growth," said Cynthia Ringo, managing director, VantagePoint Venture Partners. "The company is also well positioned to tap into exciting changes in audio technology, readily meeting new demands for high-quality speakers across multiple categories."

Management Team Expansion

The executive management team at Klipsch, which was formed in the early 1990s, has expanded with the addition of John Carter and Tom Jacoby, two accomplished senior level executives with extensive backgrounds in consumer electronics and global organizations. John Carter has been named to the newly created position of chief technology officer and Tom Jacoby joined as chief development officer and vice chairman, also a new position.

Carter brings 29 years of technology and product development expertise to Klipsch. As Chief Engineer of Bose Corporation, he managed the development of technologies such as the Acoustic Wave® Music System, Lifestyle® Home Theatre, QuietComfort® Acoustic Noise Canceling® Headset and others. Carter was instrumental in Bose's entry into the automobile OEM business and led the product and business development of Bose's patented noise reduction technology.

Jacoby brings 25 years of high-level consumer electronics industry management experience to Klipsch. He served as president of JBL Consumer Products, Inc.; president and CEO of the Harman Consumer Group, a market-leader in consumer electronics; and executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Harman International Industries, Inc. He has an extensive background in corporate operations, global management and strategic consulting.

"We have built a strong executive management team over the last ten years and we welcome Tom and John as new members," said Chairman Fred Klipsch. "They bring invaluable experience to Klipsch, particularly in the areas of technology and global operations."

About VantagePoint Venture Partners

VantagePoint Venture Partners is one of the world's most active venture capital firms with more than $2.8 billion in committed capital. As a multi-stage investor, the firm funding and resources for all stages of a company's lifecycle from seed round through late stage and privately negotiated investments in public companies. Founded in 1996, VantagePoint is based on a full-service 'Partner-Team' approach that provides entrepreneurs with a blend of technology, marketing, legal, operations, and corporate-finance expertise. The firm is organized around five technology practice groups including CleanTech, Communications, Healthcare, Semiconductor & Components, and Software and Internet sectors.

With a circulation of 35,000, CE Pro covers the installation and integration of the connected home in its entirety. For a third year in a row, this leading trade publication polled thousands of its readers who gave a case for their favorite time-saving, money-making, customer-pleasing high-impact products, all which have been sold, installed and tested in the field.

With hundreds of hot new products launched this year, only 13 received this "high-impact" honor. With categories ranging from home control to calibration tools, readers nominated the products and then members of the CE Pro community made the final selections. The complete list of winners is featured in the magazine's December issue.

Designed to bring powerful cinema-style sound to the comforts of home, the Klipsch THX Ultra2 has been gaining a lot of recognition since its introduction to the A/V specialty retail channel last March. In addition to the praise it has received within the market, this setup won a 2004 CES Innovations Award and was called an "extremely well designed, meticulously engineered and thoughtfully executed speaker system" in Robb Report Home Entertainment and a "custom-installation speaker package even an audiophile can love" in Home Theater Magazine.

The Klipsch THX Ultra2 family consists of two sizes of LCR front speakers, one surround, one subwoofer and a sub amplifier. These models can be assembled in a variety of combinations including a true THX Ultra2 system in a 7.1 configuration.

Because this system is built for optimal versatility, any combination of the sonically matched LCR speakers will deliver the desired performance, and the LCRs may also be used as surrounds. Proprietary Klipsch Tractrix® Horn tweeters and Cerametallic™ woofers are used throughout to deliver the ultimate in power, detail and emotional impact from durable, easy-to-install cabinets.

Dave Wexler, owner of The Little Guys in Glenwood, Ill., said, "the Klipsch THX Ultra2 sounds better than any movie theater I have ever been to." He also mentioned that he has done thousands of demonstrations in his store and the Klipsch Ultra2 is by far the most impressive.

Blake Jochum, manager of residential systems at All Pro Sound in Pensacola, FL., said the Ultra2 is an absolute home run for Klipsch and called it "simply awesome."

The Klipsch THX Ultra2 family consists of two sizes of LCR front speakers, one surround, one subwoofer and a sub amplifier. These models can be assembled in a variety of combinations including a true THX Ultra2 system in a 7.1 configuration.

Because the Klipsch THX Ultra2 System is built for optimal versatility, any combination of the sonically matched LCR speakers will deliver the desired performance, and the LCRs may also be used as surrounds. Proprietary Klipsch Tractrix® Horn tweeters and Cerametallic™ woofers are used throughout to deliver the ultimate in power, detail and emotional impact from durable, easy-to-install cabinets.

According to Bruce Cullom, president of Sound Towne in Texarkana, TX., he has been selling Klipsch products for 33 years, and, for the money, the THX Ultra2 delivers the most dynamic performances he has ever heard, calling it an experience in "you-are-there realism."

While each THX Ultra2 component is sold separately, a complete 10-piece system in a 7.1 configuration has a U.S. MSRP of $10,750 and consists of three KL-650-THX LCRs, two KL-525-THX LCRs, two KS-525-THX surrounds, two KW-120-THX subwoofers and one KA-1000-THX subwoofer amplifier. The smaller KL-525-THX LCRs serve as surround back speakers.

According to Mark Casavant, vice president of multimedia for Klipsch, most of the 2.0 products available today are space-saving devices with a focus on overstated features. In contrast, Klipsch created the ProMedia Ultra 2.0 to fill a gap in the market for a straightforward 2.0 system that is easy-to-use with a focus on high-performance sound.

"The ProMedia Ultra 2.0 provides the most satisfying detailed and dynamic sound reproduction and is more powerful than anything else in its price range," Casavant said. "It is the perfect solution for high-quality sound in tight spaces."

The ProMedia 2.0 easily connects to Apple iPods and other MP3 players, laptop and desktop computers, and portable audio/video devices such as televisions, CD and DVD players. Listeners may choose to simultaneously feed a laptop PC signal and an MP3 signal to the speakers for mixed sound playback, making this system an excellent choice for both multimedia presentations and entertainment. Casavant said that the ProMedia Ultra 2.0 is also expected to be a hit with the home recording studio market because of its superior near-field playback.

The ProMedia Ultra 2.0 consists of two magnetically shielded satellite speakers. Each satellite is a highly efficient two-way design that utilizes dual 2.5-inch fiber-composite cone drivers with rubber surrounds for long throw excursion and a 1-inch metalized polymer tweeter. An exclusive Klipsch MicroTractrix™ Horn is coupled to the tweeter for maximum clarity and efficiency. It is this exclusive horn-loaded technology that gives the ProMedia Ultra 2.0 its dynamic Klipsch signature sound. Horns are what allow all Klipsch speakers to play louder and cleaner with plenty of power to spare. The woofers are long-throw units powered by unique neodymium motor structures. This audiophile design approach provides rich midrange clarity, extended airy highs and a satisfying bass punch, creating balance throughout the audio spectrum.

One of the satellites-the control speaker-hosts a bass level control along with the main volume, a headphone jack and auxiliary input jack. The satellites have a sleek appearance with floating grilles for low diffraction, accurate sound.

The Klipsch ProMedia Ultra 2.0 is reasonably priced at $99.99, and is currently available for purchase from the Klipsch web store (www.klipsch.com). It will be available at all Best Buy locations in January.

As part of the third annual Distributed Audio Awards sponsored by the Consumer Electronics Association, EHX recognized the RVX-42 and 16 other multiroom audio products for their exceptional innovation, functionality and value at last month's EHX Fall 2004 trade show. A panel of five industry experts judged a total of 55 products before determining the best in each of the 17 award categories.

Available in black or silver, the RVX-42 perfectly complements a 42-inch flat-panel display. It has a single-piece extruded aluminum enclosure and employs dual 4-inch aluminum woofers and a 1-inch titanium-dome compression driver mated to a round Tractrix® Horn. Other features include keyhole mounts (sized to fit a single-gang electrical box), plus dual 3/8"-20 threaded inserts for popular wall mounts and a pedestal base. There are two insert locations on the RVX-42 where the pedestal can be positioned - one in the center and one on the bottom so the loudspeaker can either serve as a center channel or bookshelf. Another key feature is a bass compensation switch that tailors the speaker's crossover network for maximum performance whether placed on-wall or off-wall.

Available at Best Buy stores now, the latest Synergy lineup covers price points from $230 to $850 per pair for loudspeakers and from $1,089 to $2,129 for home theater systems. Striking new cosmetics, detailed industrial design, increased high-frequency extension and advanced horn geometry are highlights of the numerous physical, technological and acoustic advancements included with the 11 new models.

"The newest Synergy speakers are muscle cars with plenty under the hood," said Mark Casavant, vice president for Klipsch. "No other brand offers the energy and intensity of a real movie theater as well as nuanced, lifelike music performance at these prices."

The 11 sonically matched models consist of three passive towers (F-3, F-2 and F-1), two bookshelf models (B-3 and B-2), three center channels (C-3, C-2 and C-1) and three surround speakers (S-3, S-2 and S-1), which include Klipsch's exclusive Wide Dispersion Surround Technology (WDST™). WDST is the industry's no-compromise approach to surround speaker design because it provides rich, immersive surround sound and precise localization of individual effects from a speaker that has much more placement flexibility than conventional designs.

All of the new Synergy Series loudspeakers feature lightweight IMG woofer cones with linear rubber surrounds to ensure minimal distortion and tight bass response. The tweeters have 1-inch aluminium domes, except in the B-2, C-1 and S-1 models, which use 3/4-inch domes, mated to proprietary 90-degree by 60-degree Tractrix® Horns for excellent midrange control and high frequency dispersion.

Available in a black finish with titanium accents, each of these speakers has a sleek and contemporary look. With their grilles on, these models offer a sense of elegance that nicely blends in with almost any home décor, but take the grilles off and they make an aggressive and powerful statement that exudes extreme performance.

Harkins' Cine Capri theater in Scottsdale features a large 29-foot by 70-foot screen and can accommodate up to 600 guests. This large format auditorium is part of a 14-screen multiplex that opened last year.

In order to fill this auditorium with dynamic and lifelike sound, Harkins chose five stage channels consisting of dual Klipsch KPT-415 bass cabinets and a KPT-402 and Grand-HF horn, eight KPT-684 subwoofers and 28 KPT-250 surround speakers.

According to Kirk Griffin, director of engineering for Harkins Theatres, he prefers the performance of Klipsch loudspeakers because they provide superior coverage from the first row to the back of the house, and their quality control and power handling are excellent.

"We have yet to lose a driver in the 83 screens we have installed using Klipsch," said Griffin. "Customer service is great and Harkins worked personally with Klipsch engineers to create the custom stage speaker system used in the Scottsdale Cine Capri."

With 40,900 watts of RMS amplifier power, this large auditorium currently presents films in 6.1 Dolby Digital EX but has the speakers and amplifiers in place to convert to 10-channel Digital Cinema sound when it debuts.

The Cine Capri is named after the last of the Valley's movie palaces. The original Cine Capri, also owned by Harkins, charmed Biltmore area audiences for more that 30 years prior to its untimely demise in 1998.

In an effort to capture the essence of the original Cine Capri, the new theater features similar luxurious pleated gold drapes and a gold curtain that opens and closes for each show. The new Cine Capri, however, includes stadium seating that meets the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers guidelines for optimum viewing.

The multiplex's 13 other auditoriums also feature Klipsch loudspeakers for the highest level of performance for the space and an ideal rotation of blockbuster films. These screens utilize KPT-535-T stage speakers, KPT-684 subwoofers and KPT-8001 and KPT-1201 surrounds.

"The Klipsch sound experience is state-of-the-art, best of class audio solutions for the cinema industry," said Lance Jones, senior vice president of corporate development for Klipsch. "Harkins' guests who have never experienced Klipsch will witness the dynamic range and realistic reproduction from the quietest whisper to the most massive explosion."

Griffin said Harkins prides itself in presenting the finest movie-going experience to its patrons by using the latest technology, maintaining well-stocked snack bars and providing exceptional management and customer service.

"Every last detail is taken care of, whether it's the imported German projection systems or state-of-the-art Klipsch speaker systems, nothing is left to chance," said Griffin. "You will not find a better 35mm film presentation anywhere."

Harkins has been entertaining audiences since 1933, making it the oldest theater chain in Arizona. The company currently operates 259 screens in 22 locations throughout the Phoenix metro area and Northern Arizona, but recently expanded into Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where a second Cine Capri opened this past summer.

Slated to ship this fall, the extensive new lineup includes seven different levels of in-wall and in-ceiling products and six outdoor models. On select models, Klipsch is introducing a new patent-pending gimbal mechanism, known as Controlled Dispersion Technology (CDT™), which allows the speaker's sound to be directed toward the listening position. Additionally, the in-wall speakers feature a new and exclusive KWIC-Lock™ frame design. This advanced two-screw mounting solution expedites the installation process and increases cosmetic appeal.

Classified by content, the seven different levels of new in-wall and in-ceiling products are as follows:

8000 High-Power Series (two in-wall models) features square 90- by 60-degree pivoting Tractrix® Horns, an 8- or 6.5-inch Cerametallic™ woofer with massive voice coil and motor structure, 1-inch titanium tweeters with 9-ounce ceramic motors, extra rigid low resonance baffles, premium 4th order networks, as well as treble and bass contour switches

7000 High-Power Series (two in-wall models) features square 90- by 60-degree pivoting Tractrix Horns, an 8- or 6.5-inch IMG woofer with massive voice coil and motor structure, 1-inch aluminum tweeters with 9-ounce ceramic motors, extra rigid low resonance baffles, premium 4th order networks, as well as treble and bass contour switches

CDT 8000 Series (two in-ceiling models) - Controlled Dispersion Technology featuring complete woofer and tweeter focus capability, 8- or 6.5-inch Cerametallic woofer cone, 1-inch titanium tweeters, premium networks, no-hassle grille, as well as treble and bass contour switches

CDT 7000 Series (two in-ceiling models) - Controlled Dispersion Technology featuring complete woofer and tweeter focus capability, 8- or 6.5-inch IMG woofer cone, 1-inch aluminum tweeters, premium networks, no-hassle grille, as well as treble and bass contour switches

5000 Series (three in-wall and two in-ceiling models) - features Cerametallic woofer cones, 1-inch titanium tweeters, pivoting Tractrix Horns on in-wall models and rotating Tractrix Horns on in-ceiling models, as well as treble and bass contour switches

3000 Series (two in-wall and two in-ceiling models) - features copper-colored IMG woofer cones, 1-inch aluminum tweeters, pivoting Tractrix Horns on in-wall models and rotating Tractrix Horns on in-ceiling models, as well as treble contour switches

2000 Series (one in-wall and four in-ceiling models) - features black polymer woofer cones, 1-inch soft/silk dome tweeters, aluminum grilles and stainless steel hardware

The new all-weather loudspeakers feature IMG cones and employ either a 4-, 5-, 5.25- or 6.5-inch woofer, and the subwoofer uses an 8-inch woofer with a pass-through network that simplifies system connection. With the ability to handle stereo or mono configurations, the

AW-500-SM, our first wide-coverage outdoor speaker, employs two horns and one woofer for the widest coverage possible. All of these outdoor products include an updated input cup for improved weather resistance, a more dent resistant grille design and a rear threaded insert for added mounting options.

According to Paul Jacobs, president of Klipsch Audio Technologies, no single brand stands out as a leader in the minds of the custom install consumer. "No other company is in a better position than Klipsch to change that and emerge as the brand asked for by name," Jacobs said.

In addition, Klipsch is introducing new installation kits that offer increased mounting flexibility. This revolutionary kit design will fit all of Klipsch's existing architectural models, except the CS-650-W, and all of the new 2004 products. The kits incorporate a mud ring and universal metal mesh wing for multi-position placement. The brackets will be color-coded by size for easy identification. The Klipsch logo, web address and phone number will also be molded into the frames.

As with all Reference Satellite models, the new RSX-3 monitor and RCX-3 center channel are unobtrusive, stylish and versatile loudspeakers that fit almost anywhere, in any type of system, in any type of environment.

Both of these models have integrated pedestal stands with ball joints that allow them to be adjusted in almost any direction by simply using the provided allen wrench. Keyholes are provided on the underside of the stand base for no-hassle wall mounting. Grilles magnetically snap into place over the front baffles, while sturdy five-way binding posts ensure secure connection to any type of cable.

Available in a black or silver finish, the RSX-3 and RCX-3 are both two-way, magnetically shielded speakers that employ 3.5-inch aluminum woofers and 0.75-inch titanium-dome compression drivers coupled to Klipsch's new round MicroTractrix™ Horns for maximum clarity and efficiency. These loudspeakers also feature high-quality network components and top-of-the-line internal wiring.

The woofers are long-throw units driven by powerful ceramic magnetic motor structures. The Cerametallic™ cones are lightweight with excellent rigidity, which dramatically reduces any resonance. As a result the RSX-3 and RCX-3 are capable of robust bass extending low enough for comfortable operation with today's built-in A/V preamp/processor and receiver crossovers.

The RSX-3 and RCX-3 are sold together in a single box that includes four RSX-3s and one RCX-3 for a U.S. MSRP of $650. The Cinema 6 package has a U.S. MSRP of $949.

The new CMS 4.1 Commercial Music System was designed with a high level of operational convenience and versatility in mind. It combines performance, style and functionality for businesses that are seeking dynamic sound and an elegant appearance, but require small, unobtrusive speakers for their environments.

This system consists of four low-profile 7.5-inch tall commercial satellites, four durable commercial mounting kits, a flexible commercial outboard network and the choice of either a surface mount or in-ceiling subwoofer. However, these components are all sold separately so that additional models can easily be configured into the system to meet the specific needs of any size installation.

"The CMS 4.1 is a real problem solver," said Jim Breen, business unit manager of commercial contracting and corporate development for Klipsch. "This compact-sized audio solution is the high-performance, high-style answer for commercial venues that refuse to trade off great sound for style and convenience."

Available in black or white, the smoothly shaped satellite is a marvel of miniature technology that maximizes output and dynamics. This two-way, magnetically shielded speaker employs a 3.5-inch poly cone woofer and uses a 0.75-inch polymer dome compression driver coupled to Klipsch's exclusive MicroTractrix™ Horn. The horn is formed right into the cabinet baffle offering the lowest diffraction and maximum release of energy into the listening area. The rear ported, bass-reflex enclosure maximizes bass response for a clean and seamless sound.

Also available in black or white, the mounting kit features a UL-listed metal wall plate and a fiber reinforced polymer arm that offers both tilt and swivel options. Once properly positioned, the mounting arm can easily be locked into place with the provided adjustment tool. To enhance the cosmetics of the finished installation, a wire cover is also included in the kit to conceal the satellite's color-matched wire.

As one of the subwoofer options, the compact, installer-friendly CA-SW-8T is an all-purpose, indoor/outdoor passive surface mount model with an internal multi-tap transformer. This product delivers deep, driving sound through an 8-inch, long excursion driver that has a high-temperature voice coil attached to an IMG (injection-molded graphite) cone that combines light weight, excellent rigidity, and water resistance. For easy wall or ceiling mounting, the CA-SW-8T comes with a C-bracket assembly that attaches to threaded studs in the cabinet with oversized knobs, ensuring positive lock.

Also compact and easy-to-install, the IC-SW-8T in-ceiling subwoofer option features a transformer-less design that delivers high-impact, robust bass. This model adds more dimension to any in-ceiling configuration by using an 8-inch woofer with a high-temperature voice coil and an 8-inch passive radiator with a polypropylene cone. While most subwoofers use a port to increase output, the IC-SW-8T employs a bandpass design that utilizes a passive radiator. This eliminates a lot of distortion and minimizes turbulence that is often found in ported designs. The IC-SW-8T is shipped complete with tile bridge for installation in a suspended ceiling or wherever additional reinforcement of the ceiling material is required.

Specifically designed for this system, the advanced outboard network is housed in a UL-approved metal box and features 70V/100V tap-settings and serves as a hub for up to four satellites and the chosen subwoofer.

"Dinosphere" will be the largest, most immersive display of real juvenile and family dinosaur fossils in the United States. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, which is the nation's largest children's museum, has created three reenactment scenes demonstrating how these fascinating creatures might have lived and interacted during their reign. The species of dinosaur fossils featured include the ferocious Tyrannosaurus rex, the duck-billed Hypacrosaurus and the T. rex's cousin the Gorgosaurus.

By resting the carefully prepared fossilized bones of each dinosaur on custom-constructed steel armatures, these ancient wonders have returned to their life-size state and inhabit an environment full of convincing vegetation and rock formations.

A high-impact 20-minute sound and light show accompanies the scenes, providing insight into a typical day of "dino-life." Several compact, indoor/outdoor Klipsch loudspeakers are hidden throughout the reenactments to deliver the voice narration and ambient sounds of each environment.

In the areas surrounding the main exhibit space, families can experiment and explore at various interactive learning stations as they search for clues about dinosaurs and how they lived and died. These learning stations, designed to encourage an interest in science, will include activities such as touching real fossils, piecing together dinosaur anatomy, and sniffing for T. rex's "dinner." The computer-based learning stations utilize powerful Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 multimedia systems for sound reinforcement.

With several Pteranodons, or "flying lizards" hanging overhead, a dinosaur-inspired mural and ambient cricket chirp sounds, even the exhibit's entryway is a captivating experience. Klipsch in-wall speakers are positioned along the entryway corridor in a left/right stereo configuration to begin transporting visitors from the 21st century back to the Cretaceous Period.

"Klipsch has a solid reputation for delivering some of the best loudspeakers available so we are excited to be using their products inside Dinosphere," said Dr. Jeffrey H. Patchen, president and CEO of The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. "Klipsch acoustic engineers are world-class and they will be fine-tuning the sound environment in the Dinosphere."

Because audio plays such an important role in this exhibit, the Children's Museum relied on two locally-based A/V specialists to bring the exhibit to life. Charles Shriner, owner of MCSD Studio, produced and mixed the soundtrack for this exhibit based on scientific research to ensure that the "Dinosphere" reflects current theories of how these animals sounded and what the Cretaceous world was like. Ted Gregorek, owner of All Systems Go, was responsible for installing the audio equipment and making sure that visitors receive the full dynamic impact of this one-of-a-kind exhibit.

"Dinosphere is an extraordinary education-oriented and scientific-focused learning experience that will enrich the lives of children and their families," said Fred Klipsch, chairman and owner of Klipsch Audio Technologies. "This exhibit employs cutting-edge A/V technologies that will make it one of the top dinosaur experiences in the world and Klipsch is honored to be a part of it."

About The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the largest children's museum in the United States and was recently rated the No.1 children's museum in the nation by "Child Magazine." Situated on 13 acres of land in Indianapolis, it features 11 major galleries and hosts more than 1 million visitors annually.

For the last nine years, The Jazz Kitchen has been serving up a wide variety of jazz music six nights a week. It also promotes new musical diversity by hosting Latin Dance Nights every Thursday and presenting the more contemporary sounds of jazz.

Despite its small location, this intimate, 140-seat club has featured leading jazz artists that include singer Harry Connick Jr., bass virtuoso Ray Brown, jazz-rock fusion band the Yellowjackets, and J.J. Johnson with his slide trombone.

In order to achieve the best possible sound reinforcement for its acts and events, The Jazz Kitchen has always used Klipsch loudspeakers. Because the club has expanded over the years, Klipsch recently upgraded its sound system using three KI-362 three-way flown loudspeaker systems, two KP-682 subwoofers, two KI-102 two-way flown loudspeaker systems, a KSW-15 subwoofer for extra bass response and a KSM-15 stage monitor to help the musicians deliver crisp, dynamic sound throughout the venue.

Dave Allee, owner of The Jazz Kitchen, said because of jazz's diversity and the fact that he presents a variety of styles at his club, it is important to use a loudspeaker brand that meets the sonic demands of different artists. He also looks at sound from a reinforcement standpoint in that he does not want to diminish the acoustics of a performance.

"Our sound capabilities allow every seat in the house to hear exactly what's happening on stage," said Allee. "Klipsch loudspeakers work really well for us because they are highly efficient and deliver a very clean sound."

Trey Cannon, Klipsch's lab technician responsible for the recent install, said the club's new Klipsch products will allow jazz lovers to experience the true passion, detail and emotion of every performance.

Over the years, The Jazz Kitchen has progressed and transformed by undergoing bouts of remodeling and expansion. In addition, when Allee opened the club in 1994 he knew little of the restaurant industry and offered a very small menu. Since then he has become more experienced and now presents a full menu that includes dishes from around the world.

The results of Allee's hard work have not gone unnoticed. In 2002, Nuvo magazine readers voted The Jazz Kitchen the best venue for jazz and in 2001 Citysearch.com voted it Indianapolis' best live jazz venue.

As with all Reference Satellite models, the new RSX-3 monitor and RCX-3 center channel are unobtrusive, stylish and versatile loudspeakers that fit almost anywhere, in any type of system, in any type of environment.

Both of these models have integrated pedestal stands with ball joints that allow them to be adjusted in almost any direction by simply using the provided allen wrench. Keyholes are provided on the underside of the stand base for no-hassle wall mounting. Grilles magnetically snap into place over the front baffles, while sturdy five-way binding posts ensure secure connection to any type of cable.

Available in a black or silver finish, the RSX-3 and RCX-3 are both two-way, magnetically shielded speakers that employ 3.5-inch aluminum woofers and 0.75-inch titanium-dome compression drivers coupled to Klipsch's new round MicroTractrix™ Horns for maximum clarity and efficiency. These loudspeakers also feature high-quality network components and top-of-the-line internal wiring.

The woofers are long-throw units driven by powerful ceramic magnetic motor structures. The Cerametallic™ cones are lightweight with excellent rigidity, which dramatically reduces any resonance. As a result, the RSX-3 and RCX-3 are capable of robust bass extending low enough for comfortable operation with today's built-in A/V preamp/processor and receiver crossovers.

Expected to ship in June 2004, the RSX-3 and RCX-3 will be sold together in a single box that includes four RSX-3s and one RCX-3 for a U.S. MSRP of $600. The Cinema 6 package, including the RW-8 subwoofer, will carry a U.S. MSRP of $950.

"The Reference 10 models push our acclaimed Reference Series technology and styling to more affordable prices allowing more people the opportunity to enjoy the dynamic Klipsch sound experience in their homes," said Jim Garrett, Reference Series brand manager. "The RF-10 and RB-10 take us into new territory because Klipsch has never designed a floorstander and bookshelf this small before."

The RF-10 employs dual 4.5-inch woofers and a 1-inch titanium-dome compression driver loaded with a 5-inch square Tractrix® Horn. The remaining Reference 10 models utilize 4-inch woofers and 4-inch horns with 1-inch titanium-dome compression drivers.

The woofers on the Reference 10 loudspeakers feature Klipsch's distinctive, copper-colored Cerametallic™ cones. Made from anodized aluminum, these cones are strong and dent resistant. The anodizing process converts their inner and outer surfaces to ceramic. The outcome is a rigid cone with superb damping characteristics that will not flex or resonate at frequencies within the woofer's operating range.

As in all Reference Series speakers, the Reference 10 crossover networks are constructed using extremely high-quality components including top-of-the-line internal wiring, polyester film-type capacitors and air-core inductors, to ensure signal purity and proper driver integration.

The RF-10, RB-10 and RC-10 feature low-diffraction sculpted baffles and magnetically attached grilles for an elegant fit and finish. These unique grilles snap easily into place for a low-profile look. To simplify the installation process, the RB-10 and RS-10 come with back-panel keyholes for on-wall mounting and threaded inserts for attachment to popular adjustable wall and ceiling brackets.

The Reference 10 products come in a black vinyl finish and will be available this May at U.S. MSRPs of $500 for a pair of RF-10s, $250 for a pair of RB-10s, $300 for a pair of RS-10s and $200 for an RC-10. A 5.1-floorstanding system with a Reference RW-8 will cost $1,350, while the bookshelf version will cost $1,100.