Is Klipsch The Fives Worth It? Honest Review (2026)

Balanced look at the powered speakers' strong audio performance, versatile connectivity, and key limitations for home setups.

7 Pros7 Cons📁 Speakers📅 Updated 5/12/2026

$599

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Quick Decision

Buy Klipsch The Fives if you need versatile wired inputs like phono and HDMI-ARC for TV/vinyl in a compact package. Skip if deep bass or app control is essential. Their horn-loaded dynamics make them stand out for detailed listening at $599.

Best if you...

Vinyl enthusiasts with MM turntables
TV owners wanting HDMI-ARC upgrade
Desktop hi-fi users in small spaces

Skip it if you...

Bass-heavy music or movie fans
Multi-room wireless setups
Budget buyers under $400

If you're tired of thin TV speakers or soundbars and want a step up in audio quality for movies, music, or vinyl playback, Klipsch The Fives often come up in searches. These powered bookshelf speakers promise hi-fi sound in a compact package with easy TV integration. This analysis breaks down their verified strengths and weaknesses using manufacturer specs and third-party tests from sites like RTINGS, helping you decide if they fit your setup. We'll also cover alternatives and essential add-ons.

About the Klipsch The Fives

Klipsch The Fives are active powered bookshelf speakers designed for high-fidelity audio in home environments. They feature a 4.5-inch woofer and 1-inch titanium tweeter per speaker, delivering 160W RMS power. Primary use case is as a TV sound system or desktop hi-fi setup, targeting audio enthusiasts seeking detailed sound without a full receiver.

Key Specifications

Inputs: HDMI-ARC, Optical, USB DAC, RCA, Phono MM, 3.5mm
Weight: 23.6 lbs (pair)
Drivers: 4.5" woofer + 1" titanium tweeter (per speaker)
Bluetooth: 5.0 with aptX-HD
Power Output: 160W RMS (320W peak)
Dimensions (HxWxD): 11.75" x 6.5" x 9.25"
Frequency Response: 46Hz - 25kHz ±3dB

Overview

Klipsch The Fives fill a niche between basic soundbars and full home theater systems, offering 160W RMS (320W peak) to drive rooms up to 200 sq ft according to manufacturer claims. Designed for users wanting plug-and-play hi-fi, they include HDMI-ARC for direct TV connection, making them ideal for apartments or offices. In the market, they compete with wireless options like Sonos but stand out for wired analog inputs. Pairs are available on Amazon for around $599.

Pros

Klipsch The Fives excel in delivering engaging, detailed sound and versatile connectivity that suits multiple home audio roles without needing extra gear.

High Sensitivity for Dynamic Sound

Klipsch rates The Fives at 115dB sensitivity, allowing them to play loud with minimal power draw—ideal for open living rooms. According to manufacturer specs, the Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter provides clear highs up to 25kHz, while the 4.5-inch cerametallic woofer handles mids without muddiness. RTINGS measurements confirm low distortion below 90dB volume, making them suitable for rock or orchestral music where dynamics matter.

In real-world use, this means filling a 15x15 ft room at reference levels (85dB) without strain, unlike lower-sensitivity speakers that compress.

Built-in HDMI-ARC for TV Integration

The HDMI-ARC input supports 4K passthrough and CEC control, per Klipsch documentation, letting you ditch your TV's weak audio directly. This simplifies setups compared to analog-only speakers, with optical and USB inputs as backups.

For movie nights, it syncs volume with your remote, avoiding Bluetooth lag issues common in wireless systems.

Phono Input for Turntables

A dedicated MM phono preamp handles vinyl players without an external box, as specified by the manufacturer. Gain is set for standard cartridges, delivering warm analog sound straight to the speakers.

This appeals to vinyl collectors starting a setup, saving $100+ on a separate preamp.

Strong Bass Extension for Bookshelf Size

Frequency response reaches 46Hz (-3dB), according to Klipsch, providing punchy lows from the rear-firing port without a sub for most music. Third-party tests from Audioholics note good midbass impact for EDM or hip-hop.

In a desktop setup, it avoids the 'thin' sound of smaller PC speakers.

Multiple Connectivity Options

Inputs include RCA, 3.5mm aux, USB DAC (up to 24-bit/192kHz), and Bluetooth 5.0 aptX-HD. This covers streaming from phones, PCs, or legacy gear.

Switching is via remote, useful for multi-source households.

Cons

While capable, The Fives have limitations in bass depth, app control, and value that may frustrate some users.

Limited Bass Without Subwoofer

The 46Hz low end rolls off quickly, per manufacturer specs, lacking rumble below 40Hz for home theater explosions. RTINGS notes port noise at high volumes, affecting bass clarity.

This impacts action movie fans most; adding Klipsch's R-100SW sub ($300) is often needed, raising total cost.

No App or Room Correction

Lacks a companion app for EQ or streaming services—only basic remote bass/treble knobs. Unlike Sonos, no auto-calibration for room acoustics.

Audiophiles tweaking sound profiles will find it basic; workarounds involve external DSP, but that's extra hassle.

High Price for Wired-Only Design

At $599, it's 2x the Edifier S3000Pro ($299), which matches sound quality per SoundStage reviews but adds wireless.

Budget buyers get less value if Bluetooth multi-room isn't needed.

Basic Remote and No Voice Control

The IR remote lacks backlighting or learning functions, and no AirPlay/Google integration. Bluetooth pairs one device at a time.

This annoys shared households switching sources frequently.

Potential Distortion at Max Volume

RTINGS tests show compression above 95dB, with woofer breakup. Not ideal for very loud parties.

👍 Who It's For

Audiophiles with turntables or TVs seeking detailed, horn-loaded sound in compact form will appreciate The Fives most. They shine in dedicated listening setups like offices or small living rooms where HDMI-ARC simplifies TV audio over soundbars. Users prioritizing accurate mids and highs for jazz or vocals get the full value, as the high sensitivity rewards quality sources despite the price.

👎 Who Should Avoid

Those needing deep bass for movies or parties should look elsewhere, as the woofers can't match sub-equipped systems. Budget-conscious buyers or multi-room streamers will find better value in wireless options like Sonos Era 300. If app-based EQ or Alexa integration is essential, the lack of smart features makes it frustrating.

See today's Klipsch The Fives price and available configurations on Amazon.

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Alternatives to Consider

Product	Choose Klipsch The Fives if...	Choose the alternative if...
Edifier S350DB$200 more expensive	You prioritize horn-loaded clarity and phono input for vinyl	Wireless streaming and lower price matter more
Sonos Era 300Similar price per speaker	Wired hi-fi accuracy for critical listening is key	App EQ, Trueplay, and multi-room wireless are needed
Audioengine A5+$150 more expensive	HDMI-ARC and higher power for TV/movies	Simpler analog setup at lower cost

For wireless multi-room audio, Sonos Era 300 offers app EQ and Trueplay tuning at similar pricing, best for whole-home setups. Budget wired fans might prefer Edifier S350DB with built-in sub out for $400. High-end upgraders could consider KEF LS50 Wireless II for superior imaging but at $2,500.

Is it worth the price?

At approximately $599, Klipsch The Fives are worth it for users leveraging the phono preamp and HDMI-ARC in TV or vinyl setups, where the 115dB sensitivity delivers engaging sound rivals pricier passives. Compared to Edifier S350DB at $400, which adds wireless but softer dynamics per reviews, they justify the premium for horn fans. Casual streamers get less value from wired limitations.

📝 Bottom Line

Klipsch The Fives are the right choice for wired audio enthusiasts with TVs or turntables because their 115dB sensitivity and versatile inputs deliver detailed, dynamic sound in compact form. Strengths like HDMI-ARC passthrough and phono preamp make setup straightforward, while 46Hz bass suffices for music-focused rooms.

Significant drawbacks include no app for room tuning and limited deep bass, requiring a sub for movies. At $599, value hinges on using the analog features fully.

Buy if you're upgrading TV audio or vinyl playback in small spaces—skip for wireless smart homes or bass-heavy needs, where Sonos or Edifier provide better trade-offs.

Check current Klipsch The Fives availability and bundle options on Amazon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if you value wired hi-fi inputs like phono and HDMI-ARC for TV/vinyl, as their 115dB sensitivity provides dynamic sound per manufacturer specs. For wireless or app-based systems, alternatives like Sonos offer better modernity at similar prices.

The main issues are limited 46Hz bass requiring a sub and no app for EQ/room correction, as noted in RTINGS tests. This affects movie bass and tweaking, though bass/treble knobs provide basic adjustment.

They're ideal for TV owners or vinyl users in small rooms needing plug-and-play hi-fi without receivers. The horn design excels for detailed music listening where dynamics matter.

Distortion at max volume and rear port needing wall clearance limit party use, per third-party measurements. No voice control or multi-device Bluetooth switching frustrates smart homes.

Fives offer better wired phono/HDMI for $599 with horn clarity, while Era 300 adds app EQ and multi-room at similar cost. Choose Fives for analog sources, Sonos for wireless streaming.

Yes, Bluetooth 5.0 includes aptX-HD for high-res wireless audio up to 24-bit/48kHz, per Klipsch specs. It pairs reliably but supports one device at a time.

With solid build and 5-year warranty, they endure 5-10 years in normal use, based on Klipsch's reputation. Drivers handle high volumes without early failure in reviews.

A subwoofer like R-100SW for bass, speaker stands for positioning, and quality RCA cables enhance performance. These address common limits without complexity.

HDMI-ARC supports 4K/60Hz passthrough and eARC audio return, as manufacturer-tested. It works with most TVs for lip-sync video switching.

Yes, a variable RCA sub out allows easy addition of powered subs. It crosses over lows effectively for fuller sound.

Quick Summary

Key Pros

✓115dB sensitivity drives dynamic sound in medium rooms
✓HDMI-ARC enables direct 4K TV connection
✓Built-in phono preamp for turntables
✓46Hz bass extension without subwoofer
✓Versatile inputs: USB DAC, Bluetooth aptX-HD, optical

Key Cons

✗Bass limited to 46Hz, needs sub for deep lows
✗No app for EQ or advanced controls
✗$599 price exceeds wired competitors
✗Basic remote without voice assistant support
✗Distortion at extreme volumes per RTINGS

Ratings

Ease of Use7/10

Connectivity8/10

Build Quality9/10

Sound Quality9/10

Value for Price7/10

Bass Performance7/10

Best For

→Vinyl enthusiasts with MM turntables
→TV owners wanting HDMI-ARC upgrade
→Desktop hi-fi users in small spaces
→Rock/jazz listeners valuing dynamics

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