KLH Model 5 Review: A Perfect Harmony between Retro and Modern
Picture this: You’re transported back to the swinging ’60s, surrounded by the groovy tunes of The Beatles and the stylish decor of mid-century modern homes. Now, fast forward to today, where KLH has brilliantly revived a classic with their Model 5 loudspeakers. It’s like stepping into a time machine, but with all the perks of modern audio technology. Let’s dive into this blast from the past that’s making waves in the present!
The Five isn’t just another speaker; it’s a reimagining of an iconic design that helped shape the audio industry. Originally conceived by the legendary Henry Kloss, one of the founding fathers of high-fidelity audio, this new iteration pays homage to its roots while embracing contemporary advancements.
KLH Model 5 Speaker Design and Build Quality
Construction and Finish
The KLH Model Five loudspeaker is built like a tank, but with the elegance of a vintage Cadillac. Its solid construction screams quality, reminding us that sometimes, they really don’t make ’em like they used to – except in this case, they do!
Material Used
KLH hasn’t skimped on materials here. The cabinet is wrapped in a luxurious real wood veneer that would make even Ron Swanson nod in approval. You can almost smell the craftsmanship (or is that just the new speaker smell?).
Design Features
One of the standout features of the Model 5 is its acoustic suspension design. It’s like the speaker equivalent of a well-tailored suit – it just fits right and performs beautifully. The 3-way driver system, consisting of a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, a 4-inch midrange driver, and a 10-inch woofer, works together like a well-oiled machine.
Color Options
You’ve got choices, folks! The Model 5 comes in two flavors: West African Mahogany and English Walnut. It’s like choosing between a fine scotch and a smooth bourbon – you can’t really go wrong either way.
Aesthetics
Let’s face it, these speakers are eye-candy. With their retro-chic design, they’re bound to be conversation starters at your next dinner party. The linen grille adds a touch of sophistication, but personally, I think they look even sexier with the grilles off. It’s like the speaker equivalent of unbuttoning your collar after a long day at the office.
KLH Model Five Features and Specifications
Physical Dimensions
These babies aren’t exactly petite. Measuring 26.5″ H x 13.75″ W x 12.75″ D, they’ve got presence. But hey, good things come in big packages too, right?
Frequency Response
The Model 5s boast a frequency response of 42-20,000 Hz (±3dB). That’s a fancy way of saying these speakers can handle everything from the lowest lows to the highest highs with ease. Whether you’re listening to the thunderous bass of an EDM track or the delicate highs of a classical piece, the Model 5 has got you covered.
Impedance, Sensitivity, Wattage & Power Handling
With an impedance of 6 ohms and a sensitivity of 90.5 dB, these speakers are fairly efficient. They can handle up to 200 watts of power, which means they can get loud enough to make your neighbors think you’re hosting a rock concert in your living room (not that we’re encouraging that, of course).
Connectivity
The Model 5 keeps it simple with a single pair of 5-way binding posts. No fancy wireless options here – just good old-fashioned wire connections. Sometimes, the classic way is the best way.
Compatibility & Pairing
These speakers play nice with a wide range of amplifiers. Whether you’re rocking a vintage tube amp or a modern solid-state powerhouse, the Model 5 will sing beautifully. Just make sure your amp can handle the 6-ohm load, and you’re golden.
Usability and Setup
Ease of Setup
Setting up the KLH Model 5 speakers is about as complicated as making a peanut butter sandwich. They come with their own riser bases, which tilt the speakers back slightly for optimal listening. Just plop them on the bases, connect your amp, and you’re ready to rock.
User Interface/Controls
The Model 5 keeps things refreshingly simple. There’s no remote control to lose between the couch cushions, no fancy touchscreen to smudge. Just a three-position switch on the back panel that lets you adjust the mid and high-frequency output. It’s like choosing your adventure: Hi for neutral, Mid for a slight reduction, and Low for when you want to tame those highs a bit more.
Sound Quality
Bass
The bass response of the Model 5 is like a well-trained golden retriever – obedient, accurate, and always there when you need it. Thanks to its acoustic suspension design, the bass is tight and controlled, never overpowering or boomy. It’s the kind of bass that makes you appreciate the low end without feeling like you’re being pummeled by it.
Midrange
The midrange is where the Model 5 really shines. Vocals come through with stunning clarity and presence. It’s like the singer is right there in the room with you, serenading you personally. Whether you’re listening to the gravelly tones of Tom Waits or the silky smoothness of Norah Jones, the Model 5 delivers the goods.
Treble
The high frequencies are crisp and detailed without being harsh or fatiguing. It’s like a perfectly brewed cup of tea – refreshing and invigorating, but never bitter. The aluminum dome tweeter does a fantastic job of revealing all the little nuances in your music without ever becoming overbearing.
Soundstage and Imaging
Close your eyes while listening to the Model 5, and you might forget you’re in your living room. The soundstage is wide and deep, with excellent imaging. Instruments and vocals are precisely placed within the sonic landscape, creating a truly immersive listening experience. It’s like having a front-row seat at your favorite concert, minus the overpriced beer and tall guy standing in front of you.
Volume Levels and Distortion
These speakers can handle whatever you throw at them, volume-wise. Crank them up, and they’ll fill even large rooms with clean, distortion-free sound. But they’re equally at home at lower volumes, maintaining their clarity and detail even when you’re keeping things low-key.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Stunning retro-inspired design
• Excellent build quality with real wood veneer
• Clean, uncolored sound across the frequency spectrum
• Powerful, controlled bass response
• Wide, deep soundstage with precise imaging
• Three-position switch for tailoring the sound to your room
• Comes with matching riser bases
Cons:
• Large size may not suit all room layouts
• No built-in wireless connectivity options
• Best sound achieved with grilles off, which some may find less aesthetically pleasing
• Lack of spikes for carpet placement
• Premium price point may be a stretch for some budgets
Comparison
Value Proposition
At $2,000 a pair, the KLH Model 5 isn’t exactly pocket change. But when you consider the build quality, sound performance, and the sheer coolness factor, it starts to look like a pretty sweet deal. It’s like buying a piece of audio history, but with modern performance.
How does it stack up with its predecessor
Compared to the original Model 5 from the ’60s, this new version is like the difference between a classic Mustang and its modern counterpart. It keeps the spirit and style of the original but benefits from decades of technological advancements. The new Model 5 offers cleaner, more detailed sound, better driver integration, and improved build quality.
How does it stack up with other models within the brand
Within the current KLH lineup, the Model 5 stands out as a flagship product. It offers a level of performance and build quality that’s a step above their more budget-friendly options. If you’re looking for the best that KLH has to offer, the Model 5 is it.
How does it stack up with competing products in its category as well as price point
In the $2,000 price range, the Model 5 faces stiff competition from brands like KEF, B&W, and Focal. What sets it apart is its unique blend of retro styling and modern performance. While some competitors might offer more advanced features like built-in wireless streaming, the Model 5 focuses on delivering excellent sound quality in a package that’s as much a conversation piece as it is a speaker.
Users Feedback
The KLH Model 5 has been receiving rave reviews from audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Many users praise its ability to breathe new life into their favorite recordings, with comments like “It’s like hearing my music collection for the first time again” being common.
Positive feedback often centers around the speaker’s balanced and natural sound, its impressive soundstage, and its ability to handle a wide range of musical genres with equal aplomb. The vintage-inspired design has also been a hit, with many users appreciating how the speakers complement their home decor.
On the flip side, some users have noted that the speakers perform best with high-quality amplification and source material. A few have mentioned that the large size can be challenging in smaller rooms, and some wish for more modern connectivity options.
Overall, the sentiment seems to be that while the Model 5 represents a significant investment, it delivers a listening experience that justifies its price tag for those who prioritize sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
Who is this for
The KLH Model 5 is perfect for the discerning audiophile who appreciates both classic design and modern performance. It’s ideal for those who value a natural, uncolored sound and have the space to accommodate larger speakers. If you’re the type who enjoys sitting down for focused listening sessions and really immersing yourself in your music, these speakers will be right up your alley.
Who is this not suitable for
If you’re looking for a compact speaker solution or need something with built-in smart features and wireless connectivity, the Model 5 might not be your cup of tea. Similarly, if you’re on a tight budget or have a very small listening space, you might want to look at other options.
Key Takeaway & Final Verdict
The KLH Model 5 is a triumphant revival of a classic design, offering a compelling blend of retro aesthetics and modern audio performance. It delivers a clean, balanced sound that’s equally at home with vinyl records or high-resolution digital files. While it comes with a premium price tag, the combination of build quality, sound performance, and sheer coolness factor makes it a worthwhile investment for those who can appreciate it.
In the end, the Model 5 isn’t just a speaker – it’s a time machine that lets you experience the best of both audio worlds, past and present. If you’re ready to take your listening experience to the next level and own a piece of audio history reimagined for the modern era, the KLH Model 5 deserves a serious audition.
FAQs
How does the acoustic suspension design of the KLH Model 5 affect its sound?
The acoustic suspension design helps the Model 5 deliver tight, controlled bass from a relatively compact cabinet. It results in a more accurate low-end response compared to many ported designs, especially in the lower octaves.
Can I use the KLH Model 5 with a subwoofer?
Absolutely! While the Model 5 delivers impressive bass on its own, pairing it with a quality subwoofer can extend the low-end response even further. Just be sure to properly integrate the subwoofer to maintain the Model 5’s excellent tonal balance.
What kind of amplifier do I need to drive the KLH Model 5?
The Model 5 is relatively efficient but benefits from high-quality amplification. A good solid-state or tube amplifier capable of delivering at least 50 watts per channel into 6 ohms should work well. However, the speakers can handle up to 200 watts, so don’t be afraid to use a more powerful amp if you have one.
How does the three-position switch on the back panel affect the sound?
The switch allows you to adjust the mid and high-frequency output of the speaker. The ‘Hi’ position is neutral, ‘Mid’ reduces output by 1.5dB, and ‘Low’ by 3.0dB. This can be useful for tailoring the sound to your room acoustics or personal preferences.
Are the KLH Model 5 speakers good for home theater use?
While primarily designed for music, the Model 5 can certainly be used in a home theater setup. Their wide soundstage and clear midrange make them excellent for dialogue and music in films. However, you might want to consider matching center and surround speakers for a cohesive sound.
How do these compare to the original KLH Model Five from the 1960s?
The new Model 5 retains the classic look and acoustic suspension design of the original but benefits from modern driver technology, improved crossover design, and better cabinet construction. The result is a speaker that captures the essence of the original with significantly improved performance.
Do I need to use the included riser bases?
The riser bases are designed to tilt the speakers slightly backward, aiming the drivers at ear level for optimal listening. While not strictly necessary, using them will likely result in the best sound quality and imaging.
How much break-in time do the KLH Model 5 speakers need?
Like many high-quality speakers, the Model 5 benefits from a break-in period. Most users report noticeable improvements in sound quality after about 50-100 hours of playback. The bass tends to tighten up, and the overall presentation becomes more cohesive.
Can I bi-wire or bi-amp the KLH Model 5?
The Model 5 only has a single pair of binding posts, so bi-wiring or bi-amping isn’t possible without modifying the speakers (which isn’t recommended and would void the warranty).
