The Klipsch Reference line on Speaker Ranking spans 2 generations and 8 models, from the Klipsch R-41M and Klipsch R-51M to the Klipsch Reference R-40M, Klipsch Reference R-50M and Klipsch Reference R-600F. Ratings run from 1.3/5 to 3.5/5. Of these, 8 are still sold.
Each column below is one generation, oldest on the left. Each row follows one model into the model that replaced it; a long arrow means a model skipped a generation. Ratings are out of 5, and an estimated rating comes from measured models in the same family.
More from this brand: every Klipsch speaker ranked.
Generation by generation
R-41M to Reference R-40M
The Klipsch Reference R-40M replaced the Klipsch R-41M. It rates higher, 1.4/5 against 1.3/5.
| Spec | R-41M | Reference R-40M |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers | 4” spun-copper IMG woofer, 1” Tractrix horn-loaded aluminum dome tweeter | 1” aluminum LTS tweeter on edge-to-edge Tractrix horn, 4” spun-copper TCP woofer |
| Sensitivity | 85dB (2.83V/1m, measured) | 91dB (2.83V @ 1m) |
| Weight | 7 lbs (3.18 kg) each | 7.1 lbs (3.2 kg) each |
R-51M to Reference R-50M
The Klipsch Reference R-50M replaced the Klipsch R-51M. It rates higher, 1.7/5 against 1.6/5.
| Spec | R-51M | Reference R-50M |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers | 1” aluminum LTS tweeter on 90x90 Tractrix horn, 5.25” spun-copper IMG woofer | 1” aluminum LTS tweeter on edge-to-edge Tractrix horn, 5.25” spun-copper TCP woofer |
| Sensitivity | 93dB (2.83V @ 1m) | 92dB (2.83V @ 1m) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many generations of the Klipsch Reference are there?
Speaker Ranking covers 2 generations of the Klipsch Reference, from the Klipsch R-41M and Klipsch R-51M to the Klipsch Reference R-40M, Klipsch Reference R-50M and Klipsch Reference R-600F.
What replaced the Klipsch R-41M?
The Klipsch Reference R-40M replaced the Klipsch R-41M. It is rated 1.4/5, against 1.3/5 for the Klipsch R-41M.
What replaced the Klipsch R-51M?
The Klipsch Reference R-50M replaced the Klipsch R-51M. It is rated 1.7/5, against 1.6/5 for the Klipsch R-51M.