People expect nothing less than dynamic, no-holds-barred sound from Klipsch speakers. And Klipsch's Reference Series 5.1 Theater system tenaciously sticks to that core objective.

With Klipsch's high-frequency Tractrix Horn tweeters and beautiful copper-colored Cerametallic woofers, the center channel, mains, and surrounds are slightly larger and decidedly more powerful compared to the B&W CM series that we also tested. Custom-made Z-Series Monster Cable interconnect crossover networks and bi-wire connectors support components in each cabinet.

The Klipsch's throaty, grab-you-by-your-lapels sound elicited positive yet mixed results compared to the B&W setup. But one thing is for sure, you can't go wrong with the Klipsch Reference Series when it comes to movie sound and reproducing live recordings.

Bumpin' sub

The biggest selling point for the Klipsch system is its outstanding subwoofer. The self-powered dual 15-inch subwoofer (one front-firing passive cone radiator, one rear-firing cone woofer) is absolutely the most thunderous and ground-shaking sub we've ever heard. No matter where you place it in your listening space (we placed it in the corner) you get unbelievable sense of raw power with excellent timing accuracy.

Speaker specs at a glance

RF-7 main speakers Price: $1,100 each	The 250-watt continuous two-way mains pack two 10-inch Cerametallic cone woofers along with an 8-inch square Tractrix horn containing a 1.75-inch titanium dome tweeter.	Frequency response: 32 Hz to 20 KHz +/- 3dB Sensitivity: 102dB at 2.83 volts/1 meter Dimensions: 45 inches (h) by 11.6 inches (w) by 16 inches (d) Recommended power: 250 watts Weight: 90 pounds Connectors: Biwired
RC-7 center speakers Price: $800 each	The RC-7 center channel consists of two 8-inch Cerametallic woofers and a single 8-inch square degree Tractrix horn containing a 1.75-inch titanium dome tweeter.	Frequency response: 45 Hz to 20 KHz +/- 3dB Sensitivity: 98dB at 2.83 volts/1 meter Dimensions: 9 inches (h) by 26 inches (w) by 12 inches (d) Recommended power: 200 watts Weight: 42 pounds Connectors: Biwired
RS-7 surrounds Price: $450 each	Two, slightly wide surrounds combine two 8-inch square Tractrix horns with 1-inch titanium dome tweeters and a single 8-inch Cerametallic cone woofer.	Frequency response: 58 Hz to 20 KHz +/- 3dB Sensitivity: 98dB at 2.83 volts/1 meter Dimensions: 9.45 inches (h) by 22.5 inches (w) by 9.5 inches (d) Recommended power: 150 watts Weight: 24 pounds Connectors: Single
RSW- 15 subwoofer Price: $1,800	Nearly twice the size of the B&W ASW CM, the Klipsch BASH digital hybrid amplified subwoofer contains one 15-inch rear-firing woofer and one 15-inch front-firing passive radiator.	Frequency response: 19 Hz to 120 KHz +/- 3dB Max acoustic output: 121dB at 30 Hz 18 space at 1/meter Dimensions: 19.2 inches (h) by 18.6 inches (w) by 24.5 inches (d) Recommended power: 650 continuous, 2,400 watts maximum Weight: 85 pounds Functions: Low-pass filter, phase switch 0 to 180 degrees Inputs: Line-in RCA phono Output: Line-out RCA phono (unfiltered)

Good looks, too

The center channel, main speakers, and subwoofer are clad in a beautiful cherry wood veneer, giving a more traditional look and feel and helping the copper colored drivers stand out. Maple and black ash finishes are also available.

Summary

If you want powerful yet effortless sound that reflects the wide-open space of live music with the appropriate amount of nuance for movies, then the Klipsch Reference system is near perfect.