The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II floor-standing speakers represent the pinnacle of Klipsch’s acclaimed audio engineering. Known for their ability to deliver high-fidelity audio with striking clarity and dynamic range, these speakers cater to audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. In this detailed review, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of these speakers, from their design and features to their sound performance and market positioning.

For over 70 years, Klipsch has been synonymous with horn-loaded designs that deliver efficiency and low distortion. The RP-8000F II continues this tradition, offering an immersive audio experience that stands out in a crowded market. These speakers claim to take your audio experience to the next level, whether gaming, watching movies, or listening to music.

With an approximate price of $1,200 to $1,400 per pair, the RP-8000F II is a premium option. But are they worth the investment? This article will address that question by offering a thorough analysis that includes competitor comparisons, advantages and disadvantages, and helpful purchasing guidance.

By the end of this review, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of what makes the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II a favorite among serious audio enthusiasts. Let’s start by exploring the features that set these speakers apart.

What is Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II?

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II is a premium floor-standing speaker designed to deliver exceptional audio performance for music lovers, audiophiles, and home theater enthusiasts. As part of Klipsch’s acclaimed Reference Premiere series, it features advanced acoustic engineering, including dual 8-inch Cerametallic™ woofers for deep, distortion-free bass and 1-inch titanium vented tweeter paired with a Hybrid Tractrix® Horn for crisp, detailed highs. With a sensitivity of 98 dB and a frequency response range of 32 Hz to 25 kHz, these speakers are incredibly effective and can provide loud, room-filling sound with little power. Its robust MDF cabinet construction minimizes resonance, while the sleek design and finishes like ebony, walnut, and piano gloss ensure it blends seamlessly with any interior. Priced in the premium category, the RP-8000F II is ideal for those who demand immersive, high-fidelity audio, elegant aesthetics, and long-lasting build quality.

Overview of the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II is the latest iteration in the company’s popular Reference Premiere series. Designed for high-performance sound, it is tailored for users who want to enjoy movies, music, and games with unparalleled clarity and impact. This floor-standing speaker boasts significant upgrades over its predecessor, the RP-8000F, including enhanced drivers, improved cabinet construction, and refined acoustic engineering.

Klipsch has a reputation for crafting speakers that not only perform exceptionally but also integrate seamlessly into a variety of spaces. The RP-8000F II is no exception, featuring a sleek design that fits modern and traditional home interiors. While these speakers are undeniably large, their aesthetic appeal ensures they complement your decor rather than overpower it.

The RP-8000F II excels in providing a balance between power and precision. The improved Cerametallic™ woofers deliver deep, distortion-free bass, while the titanium-vented tweeters ensure crisp, detailed highs. These speakers can effortlessly handle anything from delicate audio nuances to loud explosions, thanks to their sensitivity of 98 dB and frequency response range of 32 Hz to 25 kHz.

Priced in the premium range, the RP-8000F II is a long-term investment for those who refuse to compromise audio quality. Whether upgrading your home theater system or building a high-fidelity stereo setup, this model offers a combination of performance and versatility that’s hard to beat.

Key Features and Specifications

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II is packed with features that showcase Klipsch’s expertise in speaker design. Each element is carefully engineered to enhance performance and deliver an immersive audio experience.

Specifications

• Frequency Response: 32 Hz – 25 kHz, ensuring a full range of sound from deep bass to crystal-clear highs.
• Sensitivity: 98 dB @ 2.83V / 1m, which means they can produce loud, clear sound even with modest amplification.
• Power Handling: Rated at 150W RMS and 600W peak, these speakers can easily handle dynamic shifts.
• Woofer Size and Material: Dual 8″ Cerametallic™ woofers provide powerful, distortion-free bass.
• Tweeter Technology: A 1″ LTS titanium vented tweeter ensures exceptional clarity in the upper frequencies.
• Weight: Each speaker weighs approximately 60 pounds, reflecting its robust build.

Key Features

• Hybrid Tractrix® Horn Technology: Minimizes distortion and enhances clarity for a cleaner sound.
• Enhanced Voice Coils: Improve responsiveness and expand the dynamic range.
• Reinforced Cabinet Construction: Reduces unwanted resonance, ensuring accurate sound reproduction.
• Premium Finishes: Choose from ebony, walnut, or piano gloss to match your interior style.

These features make the RP-8000F II a standout option for anyone seeking high-performance audio with the convenience of modern engineering.

Design and Build Quality

Klipsch has mastered the art of blending functionality with aesthetics, and the RP-8000F II is a testament to this balance. These floor-standing speakers are not just designed to sound great; they are built to be a visual centerpiece in your living space.

Cabinet Design

The cabinets are constructed from MDF with reinforced internal bracing to minimize unwanted resonance. This design ensures the sound remains clean and accurate to the source. The scratch-resistant vinyl finish adds durability, making the speakers suitable for long-term use even in high-traffic areas.

Magnetic Grilles

The grilles attach magnetically, providing a clean look when in place and an industrial, high-tech aesthetic when removed. The exposed woofers showcase Klipsch’s signature copper-colored Cerametallic™ material, which adds a pop of elegance.

Aluminum Feet

The aluminum feet are designed to provide stability while reducing contact with the floor. This minimizes vibrations and ensures the sound remains focused and free from external interference.

Finish Options

The RP-8000F II is versatile enough to match various interior designs and is available in ebony, walnut, and piano gloss finishes. The finishes are visually appealing and resistant to scratches and stains, ensuring they look new for years.

The RP-8000F II’s design reflects Klipsch’s commitment to quality, ensuring that the speakers are as durable as they are attractive.

Sound Performance: The Klipsch Signature

High Frequencies

The RP-8000F II excels at reproducing high frequencies with remarkable clarity. The titanium vented tweeter, paired with the Hybrid Tractrix® Horn, ensures that vocals, strings, and high-pitched instruments are delivered precisely. Unlike many speakers that struggle to balance brightness with detail, the RP-8000F II avoids harshness while maintaining an engaging top end.

Midrange Performance

These speakers shine in the midrange by delivering rich, warm tones. The advanced voice coil technology ensures that instruments like guitars, pianos, and vocals are rendered with a lifelike presence. Whether you enjoy a live concert recording or a dialogue-heavy movie, the RP-8000F II provides exceptional clarity and depth.

Bass Response

Dual 8″ Cerametallic™ woofers deliver powerful, punchy, deep, and controlled bass. The low-frequency extension reaches 32 Hz, making these speakers suitable for bass-heavy music genres and cinematic soundtracks. Notably, even at higher volumes, the bass is free from distortion, a testament to Klipsch’s engineering prowess.

Soundstage and Imaging

The RP-8000F II creates an expansive soundstage that immerses you in the audio experience. Instruments and effects are precisely placed, allowing you to pinpoint their location in a three-dimensional space. This makes these speakers ideal for both music and home theater applications.

With such a well-rounded sound performance, the RP-8000F II is a top-tier option for discerning listeners.

Setup and Compatibility

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II is designed to be user-friendly, but proper setup is essential to maximize its potential. These speakers have a high sensitivity of 98 dB and are compatible with various amplifiers and AV receivers because they are relatively straightforward to drive. However, pairing them with quality equipment is recommended for optimal performance.

Placement Tips

To achieve the best sound quality, the placement of the RP-8000F II should follow these guidelines:

• Distance from Walls: Position the speakers at least 2 feet away from the walls to reduce bass resonance and maintain clarity.
• Speaker Separation: Place the speakers 6-10 feet apart for optimal stereo imaging.
• Toe-In Positioning: Angle the speakers slightly toward the primary listening position to enhance the soundstage.
• Floor Considerations: If placing on hard flooring, consider using area rugs to minimize reflections.

Amplifier and Receiver Pairing

While these speakers are efficient and perform well with mid-tier AV receivers, pairing them with higher-quality amplifiers will unlock their full potential. Brands like Denon, Marantz, and Yamaha offer robust power and precise signal delivery. A receiver with a power output of 150W RMS per channel is ideal, ensuring the speakers can handle dynamic shifts in music or movie soundtracks.

Ease of Setup

The RP-8000F II provides flexibility for advanced configurations thanks to its bi-amp and bi-wire capability. Standard speaker cables work well, but high-quality wires are recommended for audiophiles who want to extract every detail.

With proper setup, the RP-8000F II can transform any room into an audio haven, offering an immersive experience that rivals professional-grade systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional Sound Quality: The RP-8000F II delivers a well-balanced sound signature with detailed highs, warm mids, and powerful bass.
• Efficiency: With a sensitivity of 98 dB, these speakers produce high output levels even with modest amplification.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The sleek design and premium finishes make them a visually pleasing addition to any room.
• Versatility: Whether used for movies, music, or gaming, the RP-8000F II delivers an immersive audio experience.
• Build Quality: The reinforced cabinet construction and durable finishes ensure these speakers can withstand years of use.

Cons

• Price Point: At $1,200–$1,400 per pair, these speakers may be out of reach for budget-conscious buyers.
• Size and Weight: Their considerable 60-pound weight may be challenging for smaller rooms or spaces with limited setup options.
• Amplifier Dependence: While efficient, the RP-8000F II benefits significantly from pairing with higher-quality amplification.

Comparison with Competitors

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II stands out in a crowded market, but it must be compared with some notable competitors to understand its positioning.

Klipsch RP-8000F II vs. KEF Q950

• Sound Profile: The KEF Q950 offers a more neutral sound, while the RP-8000F II emphasizes dynamic highs and deep bass, making it more engaging for specific music genres and movies.
• Sensitivity: The KEF Q950 needs more power than the RP-8000F II to reach comparable volume levels, with a sensitivity of 91 dB.
• Build Quality: Both speakers are well-built, but Klipsch’s finishes and design aesthetics offer a slight edge.

Klipsch RP-8000F II vs. Polk Signature Elite S60

• Price: The Polk S60 is more affordable, making it a good option for budget-conscious buyers. However, it lacks the refinement and performance of the RP-8000F II.
• Bass Performance: Klipsch’s dual 8″ woofers outperform Polk’s smaller drivers in terms of depth and impact.

Klipsch RP-8000F II vs. JBL Studio 590

• Sound Signature: The JBL Studio 590 delivers a warmer tonal balance, while the RP-8000F II excels in clarity and dynamic range.
• Design: While both have unique aesthetics, the Klipsch speakers are more versatile in blending with various interiors.

Verdict

Compared to competitors, the Klipsch RP-8000F II offers superior efficiency, detailed sound reproduction, and premium aesthetics, making it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles.

Who Should Buy the Klipsch RP-8000F II?

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II is not a one-size-fits-all product. It caters to specific needs and preferences, making it ideal for certain audiences.

Best Fit For:

• Home Theater Enthusiasts: These speakers deliver cinematic soundscapes with clear dialogue and room-shaking bass.
• Music Lovers: The RP-8000F II reproduces music with remarkable detail, making it suitable for audiophiles who appreciate nuanced sound.
• Large Rooms: The powerful output and wide soundstage are best appreciated in medium-to-large spaces.
• Aesthetic-Conscious Buyers: With its sleek design and premium finishes, the RP-8000F II is as much a visual centerpiece as an audio powerhouse.

Who Might Look Elsewhere?

• Budget Buyers: Those looking for affordable options may find these speakers too costly.
• Small Spaces: Compact rooms may need more space for optimal placement and performance.

Similar Products

Here is a comparison table of floor-standing speakers similar to the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II:

Feature	Klipsch RP-8000F II	KEF Q950	Polk Audio Signature Elite S60	JBL Studio 590
Frequency Response	32 Hz – 25 kHz	44 Hz – 28 kHz	26 Hz – 40 kHz	35 Hz – 40 kHz
Sensitivity	98 dB	91 dB	90 dB	92 dB
Impedance	8 ohms	8 ohms	8 ohms	6 ohms
Power Handling	150W RMS / 600W Peak	200W	20-300W	250W
Woofer Configuration	Dual 8″ Cerametallic™ woofers	Single 8″ Uni-Q driver array with 8″ LF driver	Triple 6.5″ drivers	Dual 8″ PolyPlas woofers
Tweeter	1″ Titanium Vented Tweeter with Hybrid Tractrix® Horn	1.5″ Aluminum dome	1″ Terylene dome tweeter	1″ Compression driver with Bi-Radial horn
Dimensions (H x W x D)	43.3″ x 10.9″ x 17.6″	44.5″ x 12.2″ x 14.2″	44.5″ x 11.7″ x 15.7″	49.75″ x 12.75″ x 16.75″
Weight	60 lbs.	45.2 lbs.	52 lbs.	80 lbs.
Price Range	$1,200–$1,400 per pair	$1,800 per pair	$1,000 per pair	$2,000 per pair

Note: Specifications are based on manufacturer data and may vary. Prices are approximate and subject to change.

This table compares key specifications side-by-side to help you evaluate which speaker best suits your audio needs and preferences.

FAQs

What is the Klipsch RP-8000F II?

The RP-8000F II is a premium floor-standing speaker for high-fidelity audio, ideal for music and home theater setups.

What are its standout features?

Key features include dual 8″ Cerametallic™ woofers, a 1″ titanium tweeter with Hybrid Tractrix® Horn, and a wide frequency response (32 Hz – 25 kHz).

Is it suitable for small rooms?

The RP-8000F II’s size and power output allow it to operate best in medium-to-large settings.

What amplifier power does it require?

It pairs well with amplifiers rated between 150W and 600W per channel.

How much does it cost?

The price ranges from $1,200 to $1,400 per pair, depending on the retailer and finish.

Is it easy to set up?

It supports bi-amp/bi-wire connections and offers flexible placement options for optimal sound quality.

What finishes are available?

The RP-8000F II comes in ebony, walnut, and piano gloss finishes.

Does it come with a warranty?

Yes, Klipsch offers a limited warranty; specifics depend on your region and retailer.

Conclusion

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-8000F II is an excellent option for anyone looking for a strong, adaptable, and visually appealing floor-standing speaker. Its cutting-edge technology, premium materials, and exceptional sound quality ensure a listening experience that few competitors can match.

Although the cost may seem high, it is a worthwhile investment due to its functionality, robustness, and visual appeal. These speakers are particularly well-suited for audiophiles, home theater enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to enhance their audio experience.

Whether upgrading your home theater or building a music-focused setup, the RP-8000F II delivers on every front, making it a standout addition to any audio enthusiast’s collection.