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Was so looking forward to these, so great to hear that they more than live up to expectations. Don’t mind the standard grilles, at least from pics, but yes, would like to see another finish, preferably walnut. Taking the L100’s and Heresey’s off my list (would have been a stretch price-wise anyway) and will compare to the Lintons. Just wondering about price/availability in Canada, as KLH doesn’t seem to have much of a presence up here. Great review, Andrew and Kristi. Thanks!
I get the feel from alot of these Speaker/Audio channels that most of these speakers are only good for Rock/Pop and Electronic Music. Does that mean these aren't great for Blues & Jazz Albums? I have live albums like Bill Withers, SADE, Marvin Gaye Live...etc.
@@chrisbullock6477 While some speakers perform a little better with certain genres, these are going to work well with just about anything. We listened to a wide range of music with these and yes, those you mention will sound great with the KLH 5s.
@@KristiWright thanks Kristi for letting me know, especially considering those albums are going to have a wide range of acustic and rythmic percussion and bass guitar sounds
@James Fisher that's why I want to see a review of the KLH Kendalls compared to the Model 5 compared to the Polk Reserve r700 or r600. Which is more neutral? Which has better bass with texture? Which plays better at lower volume? Which has better microdynamics? Decisions, decisions...But I wish the reviewers would go for it.
Thank you for the incredible review Andrew. I am right on the cusp of remembering KLH from the early years and then knowing them through the "dark ages" when their products were less than desirable. A couple of years ago, David Kelley (CEO of KLH and long time friend) told me that he was restoring the brand back to their iconic stature and asked me to join the team. I am proud to be part of KLH and I could not be more excited for you to get your hands on our other products, as they truly redefine the ratio of quality and performance to cost. Dave sold me by sending me a set of headphones and speakers. I was so impressed that I gave notice and joined KLH that month. Your reviews are always informative and honest to me, and this review is exactly how I felt when I received my production sample. I have them hooked up to a McIntosh MA6900 integrated and they are simply the best sounding speakers I have ever had in my living room. All for $2K. It's insane. Thanks again and I am so pumped to have more product come your way for review. You will continue to be impressed!
@@jarms40 my soundstage doubled in depth and width. Andrew is not embellishing at all, it's really incredible that the speakers made that much difference in my set up. They have made me break out every favorite track I have, just to hear it on these speakers. It's fun!
People need to know that KLH was always a quality product until the company was bought by Kyocera in California in the 90s. Then it became a junk product. The newest owners are restoring the dignity the name once had.
It is nice to feel included in the conversation, isn't it? I don't have anything against ultra high-end, but sometimes I look at these $20K+ speakers and go, c'mon man, really!?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews But, those b&w flagships at $30k just might be worth it! They sound excellent! But at the same time, so do the 702 S2, and the signatures. I could be completely satisfied with these.
I got my KLH Model fives from ShopJustAudio on Tuesday. I am driving them with my Parasound A23 class AB. Very happy so far, can't stop listening in my large 18x18 room. The vocals are excellent, so is acoustic guitar and I am very surprised by the bass, tight and accurate but also those 10"s can pound down low when called upon. The cabinets are well built , just too reddish for our decor as mentioned, we have decided to live with the color only because the sound is so good.
My experience with the brand. I have completely restored multiple pairs of 5, 6, 9, 17, 20 and 24 speakers. KLH was designed and marketed from the beginning to punch above their weight. Everything Kloss touched provided a LOT of bang for the buck. Don't even get me started on Advent and the musical voodoo that is stacked Large Advents. Back to KLH. The 5s and 9s steal all the glory but the 6 is my all time favorite. It's just the most non fatiguing speaker ever made. Honestly you can keep a pair of 6s cranked all day and you don't feel beat up afterwards. Love KLH and am glad to have seen the marque return. Am holding out for different finishes. Gimme that old school walnut and I'll rescreen them myself in black.
One thing I truly appreciate is that your vids include Kristi’s opinion. It’s always good to have a 2nd opinion, which is something you don’t get on most audio channels.
If I want a second opinion I just search for an other reviewer. I get turned off by her commentary because she is off camera. She should get a second chanel if a lot of people value her opinion.
I’ve been an audiophile for something like 60 years. I remember the ORIGINAL KLH model 5s from the 1960s. They were outstanding then. It’s nice to know that they have gone back to their roots. The new model is very much like the original. Wonderful
I bought the Model 5s, a while back, and listened to Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of the Moon again for the first time. The subtleties in the midrange completely threw me off. I had never heard half of that stuff. I am becoming spoiled now. A lot of music has subtle detail in the midrange that you simply can't hear. These things bring it out. Great review, by the way. Thanks for that. I think you are spot on. They sound great. Recently I have been enjoying Dire Straits, Brothers in Arms again for the first time. I'd love to hear other folk's favorite hifi tracks.
In the mid 90s, I worked for Best Buy for a couple years running their audio department. At that time KLH was cheap brand that I detested… garbage in fact. There was an older gentleman that was my my assistant who educated me on their previous glory and implanted the name Henry Kloss in my head as a legendary audio guy. Towards the end of my tenure there Cambridge SoundWorks debuted and I immediately got it. Given Kloss started that brand as well, I understood the performance to value aspect. I remember the Cambridge sub satellite set up sounding way better than the Bose (that were all the rage back then) at a fraction of the price. I am happy to see KLH return to their heritage at delivering excellent performance for reasonable money. Nice review… can’t wait to hear them! Cheers!
I just hooked these up temporarily to the SVS Soundbase, played some streaming BT Apple Music from an iPad... All I can say is, OMG! I was hearing things, symbols sounded like they were right in the room. The bass, I have two SVS SB3000 subs, I do not believe I even need them. The bass is tight, and fast, not boomy in the least, thank you acoustic suspension. Mid range and the dynamics, the sound surrounds you, you feel like you are sitting right in front of the stage. Then the highs, not harsh in the least, nor bright, they sound like a mildly toned down Klipsch horn. This is simply a FUN speaker! I could listen to these all day long without any fatigue, and they play well at low volume, problem is, I just want to crank them up! They sound damn natural to me, just as good as the high dollar Klipsch I have heard. And these walk all over the SVS Ultra's I own, not even in the same league. These make the Ultra's sound like a $10 kit speaker. Even mom agreed, she said they are staying, and get rid of those other speakers, they stink. I have to agree with mom, I never realized how much the SVS Ultra's stunk up the place. I now understand all of the glowing reviews, they are true. And the build quality, these cabinets are solid, and I mean solid. They look fantastic on the stands, which are extremely beefy and of good quality. I really cannot say enough good things about these speakers. I through a few tracks at them over BT, and if they sound this good with BT, I cannot wait to set these up with the XTZ A2-400 amp, Schiit Gungnir DAC, Freya and the old TT. And I am going to break out the old OPPO BD SACD player, I am salivating...
KLH stands for Kloss, Lowe and Hoffmann. Henry Kloss, who first worked with Edgar Villchur at Acoustic Research, AR, and was later the founder of Advent speakers. In 1968 I visited the KLH factory at 30 Cross Street in Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139.
I still have, in my basement listening room, a pair of New Advent Loudspeakers from 1979 that I modded to replace the fried egg paper dome tweeters with the model 5002’s mylar dome tweeters (still have the originals). I replaced the foam surrounds once about 15 years ago but that’s all I’ve had to do to them. They still sound and look great. Henry Kloss added the tweeter switch in the back because tweeter drivers were capable of greater high frequency fidelity than most music media sources of its day, so adjusting the roll off frequency improved the listening experience. Putting the switches on the KLH 5 is just a gimmick and no attenuation should be applied when reproducing modern sources. I’m sure the tweeters and crossovers are more advanced than my Advents but one has to wonder where we are in the evolution of loudspeakers if retro products made from refined 50 year old technology can really compete with the most technologically advanced designs that are out there.
Spot on observation. I am finally enjoying music again with these old school but new Model 5's. I remember those big cabinets from the 60's and 70's. It seemed that just about everyone that came back from Nam dove right into Hi-Fi with big speakers, reel to reels, turntables and those killer stereos out of the US and Japan. God those were gorgeous, the old Marantz, Sansui, Pioneer, etc... You remember. They do not make gear like that anymore. I remember those days like yesterday, and THAT sound, a sound I have been chasing for years and have finally captured in the new Model 5's. I have had more than a few towers and bookshelf speakers, neither of which ever did it for me, I bought the marketing BS on this supposed superior sound this modern gear offers. All a pack of lies. Give me old school, and KLH did just that at an affordable price. And that is another thing, the price of these old school speakers, $4000 - $6000 for a pair of cabinet speakers, or MORE? C'mon, MDF, veneer and the rest of the components to make these is not that expensive. I bet the crossovers in those speakers cost $5 a copy, if that. I bet the packaging alone costs more than an entire finished speaker. Bottom line, I was very happy to pay $1800 for a demo set of these KLH Model 5 speakers, even at their current $2500 they are a steal when compared to the uber expensive JBL and Klipsch lineup. Ok, rant off, going to go home and enjoy my new speakers. Cheers.
My Dad bought the 5's and brought them to Iran when we moved there in the early 70's-great speakers-have never owned any even remotely as good-although the AR10 Pi's were also pretty nice sounding, too. I have paradigms Bookshelves with a great JBL sub. Am looking into these now also. Need a real speaker with some bass for my classical/jazz collection. Love your channel, keep it up!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews WOWW, that would have been something if you could have done the compare. Maybe a viewer will lend you a pair for a future compare.
The first real high fidelity speakers in my house were KLH 17's that my dad bought in the mid 60's. I still have them along with another pair I picked up along the way. Glad to see KLH getting back to their quality roots. Will have to find a pair of the 5's to listen to.
Hmmm Can’t wait till Sunday. Yes I remember KLH as cheap or I will say lower end speaker and never gave them a look nor listen. This review surprised me. I am looking at the Forte IV to replace my RP-6000f speakers pair with a SPL 100 sub. I love hearing Kristi’s comments because shows her growth in the audiophile world and gives the viewer other things to consider. Awesome Baby....
It's entirelly subjective. In terms of aesthetics, I love the look of those tall slim woodgrained floor standing speakers with dark brown stained cabinets and black grills. Especially the deep cabinets with curved sides. So that said, I see the style and color of these as being rather ugly. No offense intended.
Purchased a pair KLH Model 23 speakers from a garage sale about 20 years ago.Pink Floyd Animals is still playing out there,somewhere,I can still feel the warmth.
Been waiting 2 months for this review! Thanks Andrew, you rock! Glad to hear they are legit, this is exactly the type of speaker I've been waiting on. Just bought myself a pair!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks! Question for you if you have the time. I currently have a Doge 10 tube amp which gives me 30 watts into class A and 60 watts into class AB (I prefer AB sound) and I love it. In your expert opinion, do you think I would be doing myself any favors by getting say a Yamaha AS1200 for the KLH Model 5 or do you think the Doge 10 I already own is going to suffice?
In the early 70s my uncle wanted me to convert his mono system to stereo, YES, I chose KLH for his set up, he loved it.. once you hear a good thing you are spoiled, he was, forever. In the late 70s I chose wharfdale as my first really top choice paired with one of the first Sony amplifiers. Later I changed to Yamaha, A1, right now my ears fell in love with Magnepan in the 80s . Still in love with their sound, like you well say, it’s what makes you happy. Thank you and your wife, keep up the sound reining supreme
I remember when I was a kid my uncle had KLH's that were fantastic... I also remember in the 90's when KLH made cheap garbage. Interesting to see them making good stuff again.
As always, great and warm review. Just 3 months ago I bought the KLH Quincy's. Since I live on island without a decent audio store and due to the travel issues, I bought online in the US. I chose the Quincy's since we didn't want to have a subwoofer anymore and their specs say they go to 27 Hrtz. Well, they perform great. Pretty harsh for my ears, but was able to set this with the equalizer on my Yamaha receiver. Bass is really low and defined. For my other room I am saving for some vintage looking speakers and had set my mind on the Linton's. Seems I might adjust this choice. By the way, received great support from KLH.
Hi Andrew, just got my model 5s! Your review is spot on based on my listening experience. I have the klipsch heresy IVs and did a side by side comparison. The model 5s didn’t win overall, but did win in several ways. First was price, gotta say if the model 5s were available when I purchased my klipsch, I would have bought the 5s as they are so close in every way. The heresys win big in esthetics. They just look better! But I was really impressed with the sound stage, centered presence and bass response of the 5s. Overall, because of the price, I do have to give the nod to the 5s. Now, I’m gonna match them with the emotive pt100 receiver when it’s available again. Thanks again for your outstanding reviews. You and Christie make a great team
It was Christmas 1964. I was 13 years old. My first sound system was a KLH compact, Bravo. Along with that came 14 records. This was the start of my audiophile journey.
I love your enthusiasm for this product. It's time speaker companies start taking sound quality seriously again. For decades speaker companies have been selling the consumer dressed up garbage. When one looks at the internal parts one can see just how poor the quality is and how little thought has been given to sound quality. This formula kept consumers constantly 'upgrading' as soon as the novelty of the speaker's appearance wore off and the owner realized the speakers were not delivering the goods in terms of sound quality.
I have vintage Model 6 KLH speakers that I bought at a tag sale for $25 a pair....possibly the best item I ever bought. Back in the early 70's my college roommate, who was an audiophile had KLH speakers. Love their sound. Your review makes me want to get these new speakers from KLH. Thanks so much for your review Andrew.
The more hype I hear from various self appointed experts the less I'm usually impressed when I finally get to hear the things. Experienced ears are rare and so is the ability to discern the finer nuances that distinguish a truly great speaker from a merely good one.
Well Andrew & Kristi….. I was born in the early 1960’s, and have grew up in the 1970’s or so, so I do have some sort of familiarity with KLH. But KLH has been away and distant for I don’t know how long, and when they finally did re-appear, they were more in the mass market camp than they were often as quality hi-fi. And although the Model 5 may have been out a long time ago, I just didn’t hear that much about them up until now. But being a full-range 3-Way Stand Mounting Speaker System, and one selling for around $1,000.00 or so, and sounding awfully great 👍🏾 on top of that, then it looks like I may have found my new reference, and one that is in a FAR MORE OBTAINABLE price category than my other current favorite (the Vandersteen 2 Series….. the first and original ones were also about $1,000.00 back in 1977, and the current version of these speakers are now on the verge of being NO LONGER OBTAINABLE…. they are now $3,000.00. They are my favorite speaker system, but now, they’re more in the “dreamy” category and they are to be paired with equally dreamy amplification). On the last statement, on the other hand, with the KLH Model 5’s, I can now obtain a pair of these, pair them up with say, anything I care to dream up with (a 1970’s vintage stereo receiver like the Pioneer SX-780, a more modem integrated amplifier like one Cambridge Audio or Yamaha, or I could go high-end and go with a $2,000.00 to $3,000.00 separates preamplifier and power amplifier combination), and I’m still going to be happy with the KLH Model 5’s no matter what. And as for the finish, I do like the West African Mahogany finish, and I would like those with Linen Grill covers, and I’ll take the stands as well. I certainly hope that these speakers have the staying power like say……. Klipsch, B&W, or dare I say, the Bose 901’s. I definitely see myself putting these in my condo or townhouse when I get one. Over the years at least, I may see myself changing amplifiers and turntable/cartridge combinations even, but I would see the KLH Model 5’s as one of those speaker system that you will keep forever. After you get your hands on a pair of these, then what’s the point in changing over to other speakers (unless you just simply want to)? Great Review Andrew & Kristi. AND Great Job KLH! -Charles-
Hi Andrew, thanks for the review, I really appreciate your take on audio! Your reviews are to the point, don't focus on specs (let's not take any of this too seriously) - and have some fun!! The KLH Model 5 speakers remind me of my original experience and introduction to audio. When I began my audio journey in 1977, most of the speakers that appealed to me were Acoustic Suspension, Braun, ADS, EPI, Infinity, KEF, Advent, Celestion, Boston Acoustics... When done right the result is clean, controlled, articulate, musical bass. Looking forward to other color choices for the KLH Model 5 - I agree with Kristi - the reddish-orange - it's just an odd color. FYI: I too am a Recovering Audiophile...originally hooked due to my older brother having AR3's AR turntable, and Pioneer Separates, then later at a high-end audio store in Cali (Paris Audio), heard KEF 104 and Macintosh. Then started working at University Stereo and built my system. I had many listening sessions with friends after hitting the nearest Tower or Music +. Critically listening to the sound reproduction and to our favorite musicians, and the ever-changing tweaking, multiple cartridges, changing tonearms, preamps, amps, speakers, interconnects..... ahhhhhhhhhhhh... You know what that's like! Thanks again for all the time you put into your reviews, great production, and presentation, and the more recent - Kristies Take - is great! Best regards, Craig
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I expected you to say something like "the Mark 4/L100 are clearly better but the 5's get you really close and for a fraction of the price" (note: I've never listened to any of these, just taking a guess based on previous videos!). But you didn't even flinch in preferring the 5's! Didn't expect that. I've been crushing on the Ohm Walsh 2000's (do you have an opinion on those?) for a while now but I might need to consider the 5's. It's so hard to make these big purchases without listening to them, thankfully videos like this help. I got a NAD T778 at your recommendation and am super happy with it
KLH has been around forever and Henry Kloss (the K in KLH) passed away a number of years ago, but I still have one of the last speaker systems he designed - the Cambridge Soundworks Ensemble II. It's a satellite/subwoofer system that have an incredibly accurate sound. Glad to know KLH is still around!
Finally....been waiting for this review for awhile, and anticipating these since I first learned of them over a year ago. Nice to hear that they have absolutely been worth the wait! I do agree about the choice of finish....may hold out for a nice walnut if that will be available. Anyway, the Heresy’s and L100’s are off my shopping list....would have been a stretch price-wise anyway. May still compare them to the Lintons but that’s about it. I did track down Canadian pricing at 2999...ouch! That’s a steeper markup than the JBL,s at 5800 CAD. At least they are including the stands. Anyway, great review, Andrew and Kristi!
I’ve taken your recommendation to get a pair…arrived on Tuesday…just wanted to thank you for highlighting these speakers. My expectations were high…and I’m still blown away…early days yet…but the engagement is addictive. Great heads up from you both.
Very nice review. You describe it’s performance to a tee. I would really love to have them. These speakers appearance is a real homage to Henry Kloss and all the speakers he designed that were so big in the 70s...Of course KLH, Advent, and AR.
I second this comment! And I wonder how the Model 5s compare to the AR-3a, AR-2ax, and Large Advent models of the past, especially for the reproduction of orchestral and other acoustic music. I’m also glad to see the return of wide-baffle speakers to the marketplace. I generally use Quad 63s, so I’m obviously not trying to make the speakers disappear. Function over form gets my vote every time.
I'm an old audio enthusiast so I was very aware of the original models of KLH and had always held them in high regard. I own a completely restored pair of original KLH Fives with perfectly restored walnut finish cabinets. They are in the same room with a pair of Dynaco A-25XL's. I am in audio heaven! Walnut finish is the only way to go for the vintage vibe in my opinion. I also have the model 23's which were a little fancier version of the Model 6's also a wonderful vintage speaker. The 5's took their place (maybe the only ones that could.) If these new models were patterned after the originals then there is reason to celebrate. The only design difference I see is that the originals had dual midrange drivers. the very dense cabinets and acoustic suspension design were Kloss trademarks. The bass response that would shake the fillings out of your teeth with a very warm non fatiguing listening experience. Hopefully what's old is new again. By the way I paid $112 for my pair at a thrift store and about that much more to restore them.
I love this review I can surely say this is the first time I can actually feel what you both are saying. Now I feel I need a pair of those speakers red wooden finish and all.
This is really a beautiful classic design speaker. And yes, I really, really like to finally see one without a port at all. Especially those with the a rear port have been always problematic in my room environment. Now, if they weren't that big they might have been an interesting option for me. Thanks for a yet another beautiful review!
man i loved kristi's take and your conversation together, that kind of sells the raw experience you guys had with them which is kind of what I'm trying to ascertain beyond the more traditional checklist and categorized review. If you guys just started and stopped the video with your perisomal experiences like that with a short conclusion at the end, I think it would be even better :) great review
Love your down to earth, very easy to understand reviews. This might be the go to speaker that I will go for selling my XR50´s and pair them (model 5) to my MA9000 amp. I picture this being my ultimate and last pair of speakers. Talk about a game changer.
Great review! I remember KLH from my teens. We loved Henry Kloss’ designs. This same simplicity is also evident in Tivoli Model 1. Other great vintage boxes came from Advent and Acoustic Research. I think the resurgence of hi/fi is coming from a generation looking for authenticity and moving away from earbuds to go deeper into their music.
My god these speakers look so much like my friends college apartment speakers that we first heard Hendrix on. Your review is so positive and a game changer by anyones standards. Perhaps KLH will give us a center channel and surrounds to match these for the ultimate home theater.
DONE! After much thought I pulled the trigger and bought the KLH Model fives with the Stone Wash Linen Cloth Grilles on back order. Thanks guys! Now I just wait...
So curious to know how these stack up to the Wharfedale Lintons!! Even at 60% the price I wonder how the Lintons would compare. So nice to see the bigger woofers getting somewhat popular again.
Being hungry for power is a hallmark of Acoustic Suspension loudspeakers, which by the way is not the same thing as "sealed box". It is a very specific alignment of sealed enclosure that uses an enclosure that is less than 1/3 of the equivalent compliance air volume (or Vas) of the woofer - which means that the air spring in the box dominates over the spring rate of the speaker suspension. The idea behind this is that the air in the box is more linear than the spring rate of a speaker's suspension as the diaphragm moves further inward or further outward, and this is supposed to specifically reduce bass distortion.
Great review as always. I will say that my most recent thoughts on the brand was mostly a shift to smaller HT systems. Surprising to hear this model has existed since 2017. I always had my eyes on the Heresy’s as an “end game” speaker some day. Maybe these will become those if they introduce a new finish and I get the chance to listen. Very nice. 👍
The Model 5s have not been around (at least in the states) since 2017, but the brand KLH has been back since then. These should be on everyone's must audition list!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Ah, got it. I must have misheard. I’ll definitely look to seek these out. But I’m sure they’ll vanish for awhile post this review.
Thanks for the review. I have about 6 hrs on the Model 5. I got them today. First things first. Make sure you have all of your wires properly connected 🤣🤣🤣. I was quite upset for the first 3 hours. Extremely boomy bass. Imaging was okay on the left side. Something was off. Then I used a test track to check phase. I then found the culprit. I’m still getting use to not hearing the “box” compared to the Heresy 4 and not having that in your face live sound. But overall, these speakers do have a live sound that is crisp. Imaging is fantastic. Bass is great. I will not be needing a sub in my room. Looking forward to putting in the break-in hours. Good stuff. Running them with Yamaha AS-2200. Perhaps a R2R DAC might be the magic with these.
Hi Andrew, Boy, you folks really hit this one out of the park! I also enjoyed Zero Fidelity’s review. You represent a new level in equipment reviews and I applaud you both for your excellent work. My KLH Six speakers are sitting in storage in my basement and my age and physical condition keep me from going to them and playing with them. I turned 84 this December and I am a retired network television executive with a strong production background as a stage manager and associate director, so do I know KLH? You betcha! We called KLH and Acoustic Research the “ East Coast Sound” and Altec, JBL, and Klipsch the “ West Coast Sound”. Westies were In your face type speakers with crisp hot sound while the east coast guys were more laid back and reserved with excellent bass clarity. We used the west coast guys in the recording studio where their definition was needed, but we took the East guys home with us to meet the wife😁 I purchased KLH, AR and Advent Deluxe speakers, read books by Roy Allison and knew Henry Kloss’s thoughts on speakers. So, yes I knew KLH and I am glad to see the brand back on the street. Thanks for you and Cristy describing it so well! Happy holidays !
I've been looking forward to this review for a while as I keep going back and forth between these and the Wharfedale Lintons. My current setup is a Marantz 2270 (which doesn't play well with low impedance speakers), New Large Advents, and a Pioneer PL-570 turntable. My plan was to get a modern amplifier so that I could start looking at low impedance speakers. I think I've settled on the Cambridge Audio CXA81 (supplemented with a Vincent PHO-701 preamp), but kept looking around at all the different speaker options available these days. The Lintons and these were the two top contenders and I still like the Linton speaker aesthetics better (minus those stands), but this review may have sold me on the Model Fives.
Did you get the Model 5 or the Linton? Now that the Lintons have increased to $1800 with stands, it makes me think the Model 5 for only $200 more might be the better deal...Hoping Andrew and Kristi will get that Linton review done soon and give us their take on that.
@@rosswarren436 in a turn of events, my wife and I got pregnant around this time and I decided to forego a new setup for the time being. From what I’ve heard, I would still go for the 5s. I never liked the stands for the Lintons and I think I would be satisfied with the 5s for longer
Good review, Kristi & Andrew! Three-way acoustic suspension speakers, when done right, have always sounded great. These look great, I love the classic KLH look............wish they were a bit cheaper, $1200-1500 maybe? I remember listening to The Beatles Sgt. Pepper album through a comparable pair of comparable KLHs at a friend's apt., on his father's stereo in the mid 70s..........it was fantastic!
After such rave reviews and feedback from the community, I had to visit the local distributor here in HK and demo it for myself. I must say my wife and I were very underwhelmed. Granted the dealer’s system had issues during the demo and resorted to using a small Russound amp @50WPC, we walked away very disappointed. My credit card was already half way out of my pocket coming in, but I was definitely comfortable to secure it back in my wallet after the demo. I am certainly no expert when it comes to Hifi but I can only trust my ears and what’s in between them. Unfortunately KLH5 does not get my vote. I’m contemplating if it’s worth my time to demo again with a higher end amp…
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I'm looking forward to hearing them. They were an innovative brand way back when and I'm glad they're returning to their roots.
Trawling through the comments, I love seeing that you’ve taken the time to respond to most. I know that it’s time-consuming and it’s no judgment on you if you didn’t have the time. Shame the KLH isn’t available in New Zealand
One of my favorite channels on this platform regardless of whether or not I am in the market for home audio equipment. Keep up the great work! I would love if, at some point in time, you do a review of the Sonos Arc (alone or with the sub and rear speakers).
thank you so much for the review. was just talking to family about the Advents we grew up with in the early 80's and these look EXACTLY like them (but for the midrange driver). Paired with the Yamaha receiver, I flashed back to 1984, as my parents had the Yamaha receiver with the wood surround. Crap, if you could've had a Sony tape deck and Techniques turntable with the system I would have thought time had warped....and would be looking for my Van Halen albums. Glad to see those fantastic speaker designs are coming back! I've been chasing the Advent tone for decades.
I have to say, I really love the input that is provided by Kristi. It's both interesting and extremely helpful for convincing my fiance that some of these things are actually worth it!
Years ago when we got married, I had a hard time convincing my wife to let me put together a home theater system. She didn't think it would make much difference. Now she just asks "will it sound better? Ok, go ahead"
I’ve owned the 5’s for almost a year now, had Heresy 3’s before. Equipment: Pass X150.5, Ayre preamp, Pontus dac. The real improvement over the Heresy’s is the balance through the entire frequency range. I can now listen to anything (solo piano especially wonderful) without worrying about frequency peaks. The Heresy was plagued by that. I also tried the Heresy 4’s and found them WAY too bright. Tried Buchardt 2’s and they weren’t nearly as open, big, and revealing as the 5’s. Listening tip with 5’s and Heresy’s: try sitting with ear level 1.5-2ft higher than tweeter (I use a bar stool seat). If your speakers are well out into the room, the elevated listening position will much improve the depth, and center vocals will still sparkle.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews My Definitive Technology BP7002's in Media Room & BP7006's in Master just won't stop kicking LOL its a good problem having for over 15 years! Took my 2010 Samsung 55" 11 years to finally tap out. The hardest part about loving Speakers & Technology is being disciplined with what you have otherwise overhead can get out of control. PASS! I am excited for the Kanto TUK's being in transit though for guest bedroom
This is excellent timing. I'm currently repairing some old classics. KLH Model 6, & 20. Also working on larger acoustic suspension Marantz Imperial Model 1's. All need some cabinet restoration, not damaged but they've been neglected. I believe I have a pair of model KLH 5's that will also need restoration. I have to upgrade the crossover on all of them. I would be interested in trying to listen to these new speakers to compare to the original. Your recommendations make them sound impressive.
KLH for the win. Only because of the sweet magnetic grilles. Wharfie's & the JBL's don't have that feature. I have the KLH model 3 2 way, mounted on VTI 3 foot tall stands...and they are beasts !!! Beautiful sound in a medium sized room. No need for a subwoofer. Paired with Yamaha 50wpc @ 8ohms amp. Just fantastic.
This is exactly what I have been looking for. The JBL L100s are out of my price range as well as the Klipsch heritage line. I just wish they came in other finishes like Walnut. I'll be pairing them up with a vintage Pioneer SX 780
When I was 14 years old my mom bought me my first stereo system for Christmas, It was the KLH compact. I could NOT stop listening to it. Until I saw your video on the KLH Model 5 I thought they had gone out of business decades ago. I just did a redo on my home theater system. Now I am blessed with Martin Logan, SVS speakers. Backed up by Emotiva Marantz AVR, Sony bluray & Nvidia shield Pro for streaming. My tv is. Sony 900E.
Just purchased a pair of these, hated them the first few days. Then I decided to download Tidal again, to use with my POWERNODE. This made a world of difference vs Amazon music. Now they sound like the review would lead me to believe. I also have a nice shiny silver model 40n in route for comparison. I strongly suspect source material/equipment is very important with these speakers.
I am sold on this review. Was looking for something off-the-beaten-path. A bit tired of the revel/focal/b&w sound - albeit all different still philosophically in the same camp. Waiting for delivery now.
I don't remember the Model 5, but I'm old enough to have had either the 20 or 24 complete system with the built-in turntable and clear plexiglass top. This in 1972, well before KLH became synonymous with junk. I loved the sound. I loved the look (I find these new 5's much more attractive than you do). And I was perfectly happy with my KLH system until my college apartment was robbed that summer, after which I bought Scott speakers and receiver, and a Dual turntable, which I kept for quite a few years.
So.... one of the “known secrets” of the high end industry is that most speaker designers buy their drivers from someone else, and most driver manufacturers make drivers for bass reflex designs. Now, there are some great bass reflex designs out there (Magico and Wilson, among others), but acoustic suspension bass just sounds different (and more “real” to a lot of folks - me included). Back in the mid-70s there were actually a good number of acoustic suspension designs, and KLH was right up there (along with AR and Advent). For the same money they just had better bass than comparable bass reflex designs. I couldn’t afford the models mentioned, but I COULD afford the EPI 100s that went on to be one of the best selling loudspeakers of all time. (I’ve kept mine. They are being handed down to my offspring.). Henry Kloss (the “K” in “KLH” went on to found Cambridge SoundWorks, and I currently run a pair of these (along with a separate CS center channel) in my bedroom surround system. Andrew is quite right that these designs don’t need crazy wattage to sound good, but they DO need high current. Fortunately, transformer coupled tube amps and most medium powered solid state amps are designed to be high-ish current. My suggestion is to find the highest current amp you can afford to drive these things. Oh.... and my “big rig” speakers for most of my adult life? Spica Angeluses....acoustic suspension. (Confession: I currently listen mostly to planar quasi-ribbon speakers. All of us non-recovering audiophiles eventually end up there.....)
We were always told the lie that a sealed box acoustic suspension speaker required twice as much wattage to sound as loud as a ported design. Glad that myth can be put to rest. And the fact that acoustic suspension speakers have a more gradual slope in bass roll off lets them at least articulate that lower bass to us. I have some ancient AR-9 speakers but am looking at these Model 5 as a more appropriately sized alternative for my 13' x 22' living room. Would love to have some Maggies, but I just don't have the space to do them justice.
Correct, 2017. David Kelley ex CEO of Klispch owns the company now. He’s got the rights to Henry Kloss blueprints and designs. Don’t confuse this KLH with the tchotchke of the 1990’s, moreover; compare it to the 1970’s Kloss era. I’ve got a Yamaha A-S2200 and KLH Kendall’s and it’s a superb match!
Thank God, a review on the KLH 5! Thank you. I have been chatting with the folk there at KLH about when this will be released. I purposefully put a hold on buying anything else until your review, or any review, or until they came out. I really don't remember KLH. Two years ago, I went to an open house at a local HIFI store, that were featuring the previous KLH models, but I found them a bit bright, and the Kevlar woofers were, eh. But the Model 5 with the paper cones, OMG, yes. I love paper. I am waiting for the store to notify me when they and the Forte IV's come in before getting the Wharfedale EVO 4.4. Although I can afford the IV's, I have a large house where I would like two rooms with a full stereo system but if I can save a bit of cash on the first system, then save up for the IV's later, that's what I will probably do. I totally agree with you guys about the red wood finish, the optional off white grill is better, but still, I would really love a different finish, hell I would take a dull black finish before the red, that is my only complaint and their only downfall. But I shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, that is, before I see it in person. Thanks Andrew and Kristi. Stay healthy you two. Peace
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Was so looking forward to these, so great to hear that they more than live up to expectations. Don’t mind the standard grilles, at least from pics, but yes, would like to see another finish, preferably walnut. Taking the L100’s and Heresey’s off my list (would have been a stretch price-wise anyway) and will compare to the Lintons. Just wondering about price/availability in Canada, as KLH doesn’t seem to have much of a presence up here. Great review, Andrew and Kristi. Thanks!
@@MH-rl9ep I believe Motet is doing distro in Canada
I get the feel from alot of these Speaker/Audio channels that most of these speakers are only good for Rock/Pop and Electronic Music. Does that mean these aren't great for Blues & Jazz Albums? I have live albums like Bill Withers, SADE, Marvin Gaye Live...etc.
@@chrisbullock6477 While some speakers perform a little better with certain genres, these are going to work well with just about anything. We listened to a wide range of music with these and yes, those you mention will sound great with the KLH 5s.
@@KristiWright thanks Kristi for letting me know, especially considering those albums are going to have a wide range of acustic and rythmic percussion and bass guitar sounds
I like this style of speaker over the typical modern towers.
So much better
@James Fisher that's why I want to see a review of the KLH Kendalls compared to the Model 5 compared to the Polk Reserve r700 or r600. Which is more neutral? Which has better bass with texture? Which plays better at lower volume? Which has better microdynamics? Decisions, decisions...But I wish the reviewers would go for it.
Thank you for the incredible review Andrew. I am right on the cusp of remembering KLH from the early years and then knowing them through the "dark ages" when their products were less than desirable. A couple of years ago, David Kelley (CEO of KLH and long time friend) told me that he was restoring the brand back to their iconic stature and asked me to join the team. I am proud to be part of KLH and I could not be more excited for you to get your hands on our other products, as they truly redefine the ratio of quality and performance to cost. Dave sold me by sending me a set of headphones and speakers. I was so impressed that I gave notice and joined KLH that month. Your reviews are always informative and honest to me, and this review is exactly how I felt when I received my production sample. I have them hooked up to a McIntosh MA6900 integrated and they are simply the best sounding speakers I have ever had in my living room. All for $2K. It's insane. Thanks again and I am so pumped to have more product come your way for review. You will continue to be impressed!
I was just thinking that the MA6900 would be perfect with these speakers.
@@jarms40 my soundstage doubled in depth and width. Andrew is not embellishing at all, it's really incredible that the speakers made that much difference in my set up. They have made me break out every favorite track I have, just to hear it on these speakers. It's fun!
@@joshfinkelstein8171 Not only is that amp a great match electrically, but it looks the part, too.
😂😂 loved that subtle subliminal message after the included stands 👌🏼 couldn’t agree more for the price point.
You like that 😈. Thanks for tuning in!
People need to know that KLH was always a quality product until the company was bought by Kyocera in California in the 90s. Then it became a junk product. The newest owners are restoring the dignity the name once had.
Yep, David Kelly, a former Klipsch exec...Now headquartered in Noblesville, IN...
@@rosswarren436it sucks the speakers are still made in China though 🤷🏻♂️
I love when great speakers aren't "donate a kidney" expensive. This is definitely acquirable!
It is nice to feel included in the conversation, isn't it? I don't have anything against ultra high-end, but sometimes I look at these $20K+ speakers and go, c'mon man, really!?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Absolutely. The times are changing, hi-fi is now get-fi!
What an interesting review Andrew - thanks! These sound like my type of soeakers. Hope they make it over to the UK soon. Cheers.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews But, those b&w flagships at $30k just might be worth it! They sound excellent! But at the same time, so do the 702 S2, and the signatures. I could be completely satisfied with these.
I got my KLH Model fives from ShopJustAudio on Tuesday. I am driving them with my Parasound A23 class AB. Very happy so far, can't stop listening in my large 18x18 room. The vocals are excellent, so is acoustic guitar and I am very surprised by the bass, tight and accurate but also those 10"s can pound down low when called upon. The cabinets are well built , just too reddish for our decor as mentioned, we have decided to live with the color only because the sound is so good.
“Oh god it’s so good”. A better review is not possible! And the way the two of interact on camera is flipping fantastic.
My experience with the brand. I have completely restored multiple pairs of 5, 6, 9, 17, 20 and 24 speakers. KLH was designed and marketed from the beginning to punch above their weight. Everything Kloss touched provided a LOT of bang for the buck. Don't even get me started on Advent and the musical voodoo that is stacked Large Advents. Back to KLH. The 5s and 9s steal all the glory but the 6 is my all time favorite. It's just the most non fatiguing speaker ever made. Honestly you can keep a pair of 6s cranked all day and you don't feel beat up afterwards. Love KLH and am glad to have seen the marque return. Am holding out for different finishes. Gimme that old school walnut and I'll rescreen them myself in black.
One thing I truly appreciate is that your vids include Kristi’s opinion. It’s always good to have a 2nd opinion, which is something you don’t get on most audio channels.
If I want a second opinion I just search for an other reviewer. I get turned off by her commentary because she is off camera. She should get a second chanel if a lot of people value her opinion.
I love her frankness....this is the way we do it here...if you want to do that way go start your own channel....Nailed it. Perfectly said. /salute
I’ve been an audiophile for something like 60 years. I remember the ORIGINAL KLH model 5s from the 1960s. They were outstanding then. It’s nice to know that they have gone back to their roots. The new model is very much like the original. Wonderful
I bought the Model 5s, a while back, and listened to Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of the Moon again for the first time. The subtleties in the midrange completely threw me off. I had never heard half of that stuff. I am becoming spoiled now. A lot of music has subtle detail in the midrange that you simply can't hear. These things bring it out. Great review, by the way. Thanks for that. I think you are spot on. They sound great. Recently I have been enjoying Dire Straits, Brothers in Arms again for the first time. I'd love to hear other folk's favorite hifi tracks.
Man. These remind me so much if my 80’s Kenwoods. I need to hear them.
I think you should do a review too. I think they fall into your category considering the price points they are claimed to compete with.
Very good to a women input on stereo speakers. Audio community needs much more of this.
In the mid 90s, I worked for Best Buy for a couple years running their audio department. At that time KLH was cheap brand that I detested… garbage in fact. There was an older gentleman that was my my assistant who educated me on their previous glory and implanted the name Henry Kloss in my head as a legendary audio guy. Towards the end of my tenure there Cambridge SoundWorks debuted and I immediately got it. Given Kloss started that brand as well, I understood the performance to value aspect. I remember the Cambridge sub satellite set up sounding way better than the Bose (that were all the rage back then) at a fraction of the price. I am happy to see KLH return to their heritage at delivering excellent performance for reasonable money. Nice review… can’t wait to hear them! Cheers!
I just hooked these up temporarily to the SVS Soundbase, played some streaming BT Apple Music from an iPad... All I can say is, OMG! I was hearing things, symbols sounded like they were right in the room. The bass, I have two SVS SB3000 subs, I do not believe I even need them. The bass is tight, and fast, not boomy in the least, thank you acoustic suspension. Mid range and the dynamics, the sound surrounds you, you feel like you are sitting right in front of the stage. Then the highs, not harsh in the least, nor bright, they sound like a mildly toned down Klipsch horn. This is simply a FUN speaker! I could listen to these all day long without any fatigue, and they play well at low volume, problem is, I just want to crank them up! They sound damn natural to me, just as good as the high dollar Klipsch I have heard. And these walk all over the SVS Ultra's I own, not even in the same league. These make the Ultra's sound like a $10 kit speaker. Even mom agreed, she said they are staying, and get rid of those other speakers, they stink. I have to agree with mom, I never realized how much the SVS Ultra's stunk up the place. I now understand all of the glowing reviews, they are true.
And the build quality, these cabinets are solid, and I mean solid. They look fantastic on the stands, which are extremely beefy and of good quality. I really cannot say enough good things about these speakers. I through a few tracks at them over BT, and if they sound this good with BT, I cannot wait to set these up with the XTZ A2-400 amp, Schiit Gungnir DAC, Freya and the old TT. And I am going to break out the old OPPO BD SACD player, I am salivating...
KLH stands for Kloss, Lowe and Hoffmann. Henry Kloss, who first worked with Edgar Villchur at Acoustic Research, AR, and was later the founder of Advent speakers. In 1968 I visited the KLH factory at 30 Cross Street in Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139.
Makes me want to run out and get them now - and I'm still watching the review!
I would grab a pair sooner than later if you think this is your cup of tea. Thanks for tuning in.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Reviews are very enjoyable. 🙂
Same. Searching dealers where I am is a bit frustrating especially under "essential travel only" covid restrictions. Ahhhhhh!!!
I still have, in my basement listening room, a pair of New Advent Loudspeakers from 1979 that I modded to replace the fried egg paper dome tweeters with the model 5002’s mylar dome tweeters (still have the originals). I replaced the foam surrounds once about 15 years ago but that’s all I’ve had to do to them. They still sound and look great. Henry Kloss added the tweeter switch in the back because tweeter drivers were capable of greater high frequency fidelity than most music media sources of its day, so adjusting the roll off frequency improved the listening experience. Putting the switches on the KLH 5 is just a gimmick and no attenuation should be applied when reproducing modern sources. I’m sure the tweeters and crossovers are more advanced than my Advents but one has to wonder where we are in the evolution of loudspeakers if retro products made from refined 50 year old technology can really compete with the most technologically advanced designs that are out there.
Spot on observation. I am finally enjoying music again with these old school but new Model 5's. I remember those big cabinets from the 60's and 70's. It seemed that just about everyone that came back from Nam dove right into Hi-Fi with big speakers, reel to reels, turntables and those killer stereos out of the US and Japan. God those were gorgeous, the old Marantz, Sansui, Pioneer, etc... You remember. They do not make gear like that anymore.
I remember those days like yesterday, and THAT sound, a sound I have been chasing for years and have finally captured in the new Model 5's. I have had more than a few towers and bookshelf speakers, neither of which ever did it for me, I bought the marketing BS on this supposed superior sound this modern gear offers. All a pack of lies.
Give me old school, and KLH did just that at an affordable price. And that is another thing, the price of these old school speakers, $4000 - $6000 for a pair of cabinet speakers, or MORE? C'mon, MDF, veneer and the rest of the components to make these is not that expensive. I bet the crossovers in those speakers cost $5 a copy, if that. I bet the packaging alone costs more than an entire finished speaker.
Bottom line, I was very happy to pay $1800 for a demo set of these KLH Model 5 speakers, even at their current $2500 they are a steal when compared to the uber expensive JBL and Klipsch lineup. Ok, rant off, going to go home and enjoy my new speakers. Cheers.
Love these videos. Especially the Kristi segments. Nice to hear an alternative perspective on why things are good/bad.
My Dad bought the 5's and brought them to Iran when we moved there in the early 70's-great speakers-have never owned any even remotely as good-although the AR10 Pi's were also pretty nice sounding, too. I have paradigms Bookshelves with a great JBL sub. Am looking into these now also. Need a real speaker with some bass for my classical/jazz collection. Love your channel, keep it up!
Thank you! I would love to hear a pair of original Model 5s. I tried to buy a pair on ebay for this review but was outbid at the LAST SECOND.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews WOWW, that would have been something if you could have done the compare. Maybe a viewer will lend you a pair for a future compare.
The first real high fidelity speakers in my house were KLH 17's that my dad bought in the mid 60's. I still have them along with another pair I picked up along the way. Glad to see KLH getting back to their quality roots. Will have to find a pair of the 5's to listen to.
Hmmm Can’t wait till Sunday. Yes I remember KLH as cheap or I will say lower end speaker and never gave them a look nor listen. This review surprised me. I am looking at the Forte IV to replace my RP-6000f speakers pair with a SPL 100 sub.
I love hearing Kristi’s comments because shows her growth in the audiophile world and gives the viewer other things to consider. Awesome Baby....
Hey, thank you!!!
This is how a speaker MUST look...like a speaker!!!
You dig the look then? It's beautiful!
It's entirelly subjective. In terms of aesthetics, I love the look of those tall slim woodgrained floor standing speakers with dark brown stained cabinets and black grills. Especially the deep cabinets with curved sides. So that said, I see the style and color of these as being rather ugly. No offense intended.
Purchased a pair KLH Model 23 speakers from a garage sale about 20 years ago.Pink Floyd Animals is still playing out there,somewhere,I can still feel the warmth.
Been waiting 2 months for this review! Thanks Andrew, you rock! Glad to hear they are legit, this is exactly the type of speaker I've been waiting on. Just bought myself a pair!
ENJOY THEM!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks! Question for you if you have the time. I currently have a Doge 10 tube amp which gives me 30 watts into class A and 60 watts into class AB (I prefer AB sound) and I love it. In your expert opinion, do you think I would be doing myself any favors by getting say a Yamaha AS1200 for the KLH Model 5 or do you think the Doge 10 I already own is going to suffice?
In the early 70s my uncle wanted me to convert his mono system to stereo, YES, I chose KLH for his set up, he loved it.. once you hear a good thing you are spoiled, he was, forever.
In the late 70s I chose wharfdale as my first really top choice paired with one of the first Sony amplifiers. Later I changed to Yamaha, A1, right now my ears fell in love with Magnepan in the 80s . Still in love with their sound, like you well say, it’s what makes you happy. Thank you and your wife, keep up the sound reining supreme
I remember when I was a kid my uncle had KLH's that were fantastic... I also remember in the 90's when KLH made cheap garbage. Interesting to see them making good stuff again.
Yeah, I'd say they're back to making good, scratch that, GREAT stuff again.
A new company owner who cares about sound quality makes all the difference! Glad David Kelly decided to give it a go. I hope it works out.
"Attainable aspirational market" aaahhhh, warms my heart ❤
As always, great and warm review.
Just 3 months ago I bought the KLH Quincy's. Since I live on island without a decent audio store and due to the travel issues, I bought online in the US.
I chose the Quincy's since we didn't want to have a subwoofer anymore and their specs say they go to 27 Hrtz.
Well, they perform great. Pretty harsh for my ears, but was able to set this with the equalizer on my Yamaha receiver. Bass is really low and defined.
For my other room I am saving for some vintage looking speakers and had set my mind on the Linton's.
Seems I might adjust this choice.
By the way, received great support from KLH.
Good to know KLH took care of you. Thank you for sharing your personal experience!
Hi Andrew, just got my model 5s! Your review is spot on based on my listening experience. I have the klipsch heresy IVs and did a side by side comparison. The model 5s didn’t win overall, but did win in several ways. First was price, gotta say if the model 5s were available when I purchased my klipsch, I would have bought the 5s as they are so close in every way. The heresys win big in esthetics. They just look better! But I was really impressed with the sound stage, centered presence and bass response of the 5s. Overall, because of the price, I do have to give the nod to the 5s. Now, I’m gonna match them with the emotive pt100 receiver when it’s available again.
Thanks again for your outstanding reviews. You and Christie make a great team
These speakers are really a Gift for Audiophiles all over the world, at 2000$ certainly a "Dream" Sound that can be afforded.
It was Christmas 1964. I was 13 years old. My first sound system was a KLH compact, Bravo. Along with that came 14 records. This was the start of my audiophile journey.
Sounds like a great Christmas and memory. Thanks for watching.
I love your enthusiasm for this product. It's time speaker companies start taking sound quality seriously again. For decades speaker companies have been selling the consumer dressed up garbage. When one looks at the internal parts one can see just how poor the quality is and how little thought has been given to sound quality. This formula kept consumers constantly 'upgrading' as soon as the novelty of the speaker's appearance wore off and the owner realized the speakers were not delivering the goods in terms of sound quality.
Well, not really surprising. Whereas image has gone from sd to 4k or 8k, sound has gone to mp3 / streaming, and the decline in sales of cd's.
I have vintage Model 6 KLH speakers that I bought at a tag sale for $25 a pair....possibly the best item I ever bought. Back in the early 70's my college roommate, who was an audiophile had KLH speakers. Love their sound. Your review makes me want to get these new speakers from KLH. Thanks so much for your review Andrew.
The more hype I hear from various self appointed experts the less I'm usually impressed when I finally get to hear the things. Experienced ears are rare and so is the ability to discern the finer nuances that distinguish a truly great speaker from a merely good one.
Nice Review bro. Adding them to my short list. I am a fellow former audiophile who is cautiously stepping back in
Definitely put them on the list! Put them near the top at this price point.
Well Andrew & Kristi…..
I was born in the early 1960’s, and have grew up in the 1970’s or so, so I do have some sort of familiarity with KLH.
But KLH has been away and distant for I don’t know how long, and when they finally did re-appear, they were more in the mass market camp than they were often as quality hi-fi.
And although the Model 5 may have been out a long time ago, I just didn’t hear that much about them up until now.
But being a full-range 3-Way Stand Mounting Speaker System, and one selling for around $1,000.00 or so, and sounding awfully great 👍🏾 on top of that, then it looks like I may have found my new reference, and one that is in a FAR MORE OBTAINABLE price category than my other current favorite (the Vandersteen 2 Series….. the first and original ones were also about $1,000.00 back in 1977, and the current version of these speakers are now on the verge of being NO LONGER OBTAINABLE…. they are now $3,000.00. They are my favorite speaker system, but now, they’re more in the “dreamy” category and they are to be paired with equally dreamy amplification).
On the last statement, on the other hand, with the KLH Model 5’s, I can now obtain a pair of these, pair them up with say, anything I care to dream up with (a 1970’s vintage stereo receiver like the Pioneer SX-780, a more modem integrated amplifier like one Cambridge Audio or Yamaha, or I could go high-end and go with a $2,000.00 to $3,000.00 separates preamplifier and power amplifier combination), and I’m still going to be happy with the KLH Model 5’s no matter what.
And as for the finish, I do like the West African Mahogany finish, and I would like those with Linen Grill covers, and I’ll take the stands as well.
I certainly hope that these speakers have the staying power like say……. Klipsch, B&W, or dare I say, the Bose 901’s. I definitely see myself putting these in my condo or townhouse when I get one.
Over the years at least, I may see myself changing amplifiers and turntable/cartridge combinations even, but I would see the KLH Model 5’s as one of those speaker system that you will keep forever.
After you get your hands on a pair of these, then what’s the point in changing over to other speakers (unless you just simply want to)?
Great Review Andrew & Kristi.
AND
Great Job KLH!
-Charles-
Hi Andrew, thanks for the review, I really appreciate your take on audio!
Your reviews are to the point, don't focus on specs (let's not take any of this too seriously) - and have some fun!!
The KLH Model 5 speakers remind me of my original experience and introduction to audio.
When I began my audio journey in 1977, most of the speakers that appealed to me were Acoustic Suspension, Braun, ADS, EPI, Infinity, KEF, Advent, Celestion, Boston Acoustics... When done right the result is clean, controlled, articulate, musical bass. Looking forward to other color choices for the KLH Model 5 - I agree with Kristi - the reddish-orange - it's just an odd color.
FYI: I too am a Recovering Audiophile...originally hooked due to my older brother having AR3's AR turntable, and Pioneer Separates, then later at a high-end audio store in Cali (Paris Audio), heard KEF 104 and Macintosh. Then started working at University Stereo and built my system. I had many listening sessions with friends after hitting the nearest Tower or Music +.
Critically listening to the sound reproduction and to our favorite musicians, and the ever-changing tweaking, multiple cartridges, changing tonearms, preamps, amps, speakers, interconnects..... ahhhhhhhhhhhh... You know what that's like!
Thanks again for all the time you put into your reviews, great production, and presentation, and the more recent - Kristies Take - is great!
Best regards,
Craig
Thank you so much Craig! I really appreciate it!
the comparisons section completely bamboozled me. guessed all wrong, wow. high praise
What did you guess?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I expected you to say something like "the Mark 4/L100 are clearly better but the 5's get you really close and for a fraction of the price" (note: I've never listened to any of these, just taking a guess based on previous videos!). But you didn't even flinch in preferring the 5's! Didn't expect that. I've been crushing on the Ohm Walsh 2000's (do you have an opinion on those?) for a while now but I might need to consider the 5's. It's so hard to make these big purchases without listening to them, thankfully videos like this help. I got a NAD T778 at your recommendation and am super happy with it
@@RafaelMaia The T778 is a great receiver! And yes, ZERO hesitation, the L100s are my pick.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews you mean the Model 5?
KLH has been around forever and Henry Kloss (the K in KLH) passed away a number of years ago, but I still have one of the last speaker systems he designed - the Cambridge Soundworks Ensemble II. It's a satellite/subwoofer system that have an incredibly accurate sound.
Glad to know KLH is still around!
Finally....been waiting for this review for awhile, and anticipating these since I first learned of them over a year ago. Nice to hear that they have absolutely been worth the wait! I do agree about the choice of finish....may hold out for a nice walnut if that will be available. Anyway, the Heresy’s and L100’s are off my shopping list....would have been a stretch price-wise anyway. May still compare them to the Lintons but that’s about it. I did track down Canadian pricing at 2999...ouch! That’s a steeper markup than the JBL,s at 5800 CAD. At least they are including the stands. Anyway, great review, Andrew and Kristi!
I’ve taken your recommendation to get a pair…arrived on Tuesday…just wanted to thank you for highlighting these speakers. My expectations were high…and I’m still blown away…early days yet…but the engagement is addictive. Great heads up from you both.
Very nice review. You describe it’s performance to a tee. I would really love to have them. These speakers appearance is a real homage to Henry Kloss and all the speakers he designed that were so big in the 70s...Of course KLH, Advent, and AR.
I second this comment! And I wonder how the Model 5s compare to the AR-3a, AR-2ax, and Large Advent models of the past, especially for the reproduction of orchestral and other acoustic music.
I’m also glad to see the return of wide-baffle speakers to the marketplace. I generally use Quad 63s, so I’m obviously not trying to make the speakers disappear. Function over form gets my vote every time.
So happy to hear KLH is back in the quality game. Great review.
I am too. It was dicy there for a bit back in the 90s, but this new KLH seems like they've got things back on track.
I owned KLH in the 90s. They were very good. And they were $200/pair for 15" three way . Prices have gone crazy
Wow!! Glowing words for an older respected brand. Glad to see KLH back! Thanks for the great review!
Thanks for watching Stephen!
When Andrew Robinson talks, I listen...
That's very kind of you.
Meanwhile, nobody listens to poor EF Hutton any more.
I'm an old audio enthusiast so I was very aware of the original models of KLH and had always held them in high regard. I own a completely restored pair of original KLH Fives with perfectly restored walnut finish cabinets. They are in the same room with a pair of Dynaco A-25XL's. I am in audio heaven! Walnut finish is the only way to go for the vintage vibe in my opinion. I also have the model 23's which were a little fancier version of the Model 6's also a wonderful vintage speaker. The 5's took their place (maybe the only ones that could.) If these new models were patterned after the originals then there is reason to celebrate. The only design difference I see is that the originals had dual midrange drivers. the very dense cabinets and acoustic suspension design were Kloss trademarks. The bass response that would shake the fillings out of your teeth with a very warm non fatiguing listening experience. Hopefully what's old is new again. By the way I paid $112 for my pair at a thrift store and about that much more to restore them.
0:46 Andrew getting REAL fancy with the special effects 😲
I love this review I can surely say this is the first time I can actually feel what you both are saying. Now I feel I need a pair of those speakers red wooden finish and all.
This is really a beautiful classic design speaker. And yes, I really, really like to finally see one without a port at all. Especially those with the a rear port have been always problematic in my room environment. Now, if they weren't that big they might have been an interesting option for me. Thanks for a yet another beautiful review!
Keep it tuned to KLH if you like this speaker 😉
man i loved kristi's take and your conversation together, that kind of sells the raw experience you guys had with them which is kind of what I'm trying to ascertain beyond the more traditional checklist and categorized review. If you guys just started and stopped the video with your perisomal experiences like that with a short conclusion at the end, I think it would be even better :) great review
Love your down to earth, very easy to understand reviews. This might be the go to speaker that I will go for selling my XR50´s and pair them (model 5) to my MA9000 amp. I picture this being my ultimate and last pair of speakers. Talk about a game changer.
Thanks for watching!
I agree . The New KLH is doing a great Job! I actually compare them to a Modern Boston Acoustics.
Super High Value, Efficient, Descent construction.
Great review! I remember KLH from my teens. We loved Henry Kloss’ designs. This same simplicity is also evident in Tivoli Model 1. Other great vintage boxes came from Advent and Acoustic Research. I think the resurgence of hi/fi is coming from a generation looking for authenticity and moving away from earbuds to go deeper into their music.
My god these speakers look so much like my friends college apartment speakers that we first heard Hendrix on. Your review is so positive and a game changer by anyones standards. Perhaps KLH will give us a center channel and surrounds to match these for the ultimate home theater.
Great review...thank you. Your enthusiasm for this speaker is compelling. Keep it up.
DONE! After much thought I pulled the trigger and bought the KLH Model fives with the Stone Wash Linen Cloth Grilles on back order. Thanks guys! Now I just wait...
Can't wait to hear what you think of them!
So curious to know how these stack up to the Wharfedale Lintons!! Even at 60% the price I wonder how the Lintons would compare.
So nice to see the bigger woofers getting somewhat popular again.
With stands, 75%
@@nacarp2000 yeah true. So curious how they compare as I do really like the Linton smooth sound
I was expecting this review to go this way. I am excited to see something I can actually afford review this well. Good job KLH!
Got myself these speakers and using a NAD M33 to power them - AMAZING!!! All that you described and more
Do they not sound lean or bright with class D? Cheers.
Being hungry for power is a hallmark of Acoustic Suspension loudspeakers, which by the way is not the same thing as "sealed box". It is a very specific alignment of sealed enclosure that uses an enclosure that is less than 1/3 of the equivalent compliance air volume (or Vas) of the woofer - which means that the air spring in the box dominates over the spring rate of the speaker suspension. The idea behind this is that the air in the box is more linear than the spring rate of a speaker's suspension as the diaphragm moves further inward or further outward, and this is supposed to specifically reduce bass distortion.
Great review as always. I will say that my most recent thoughts on the brand was mostly a shift to smaller HT systems. Surprising to hear this model has existed since 2017. I always had my eyes on the Heresy’s as an “end game” speaker some day. Maybe these will become those if they introduce a new finish and I get the chance to listen. Very nice. 👍
The Model 5s have not been around (at least in the states) since 2017, but the brand KLH has been back since then. These should be on everyone's must audition list!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Ah, got it. I must have misheard. I’ll definitely look to seek these out. But I’m sure they’ll vanish for awhile post this review.
My very first investment in speakers was the KLH 17 in 1973, my son is still using them.
Very entertaining as always! Love living vicariously through you guys, see you Sunday!
Thanks Mike! See you Sunday!
I only remember KLH as a white van speaker in the 90s.
That said, it’s nice to see more big woofer three ways these days in an attainable price range.
Thanks for the review.
I have about 6 hrs on the Model 5. I got them today. First things first. Make sure you have all of your wires properly connected 🤣🤣🤣. I was quite upset for the first 3 hours. Extremely boomy bass. Imaging was okay on the left side. Something was off. Then I used a test track to check phase. I then found the culprit.
I’m still getting use to not hearing the “box” compared to the Heresy 4 and not having that in your face live sound.
But overall, these speakers do have a live sound that is crisp. Imaging is fantastic. Bass is great. I will not be needing a sub in my room. Looking forward to putting in the break-in hours. Good stuff. Running them with Yamaha AS-2200. Perhaps a R2R DAC might be the magic with these.
Denafrips Ares ii will give you the rounder sound
Hi Andrew,
Boy, you folks really hit this one out of the park! I also enjoyed Zero Fidelity’s review. You represent a new level in equipment reviews and I applaud you both for your excellent work. My KLH Six speakers are sitting in storage in my basement and my age and physical condition keep me from going to them and playing with them. I turned 84 this December and I am a retired network television executive with a strong production background as a stage manager and associate director, so do I know KLH? You betcha!
We called KLH and Acoustic Research the “ East Coast Sound” and Altec, JBL, and Klipsch the “ West Coast Sound”. Westies were In your face type speakers with crisp hot sound while the east coast guys were more laid back and reserved with excellent bass clarity. We used the west coast guys in the recording studio where their definition was needed, but we took the East guys home with us to meet the wife😁
I purchased KLH, AR and Advent Deluxe speakers, read books by Roy Allison and knew Henry Kloss’s thoughts on speakers. So, yes I knew KLH and I am glad to see the brand back on the street.
Thanks for you and Cristy describing it so well!
Happy holidays !
I've been looking forward to this review for a while as I keep going back and forth between these and the Wharfedale Lintons.
My current setup is a Marantz 2270 (which doesn't play well with low impedance speakers), New Large Advents, and a Pioneer PL-570 turntable.
My plan was to get a modern amplifier so that I could start looking at low impedance speakers.
I think I've settled on the Cambridge Audio CXA81 (supplemented with a Vincent PHO-701 preamp), but kept looking around at all the different speaker options available these days.
The Lintons and these were the two top contenders and I still like the Linton speaker aesthetics better (minus those stands), but this review may have sold me on the Model Fives.
Thank you so much for watching. Let us know what you ultimately decide!
Did you get the Model 5 or the Linton? Now that the Lintons have increased to $1800 with stands, it makes me think the Model 5 for only $200 more might be the better deal...Hoping Andrew and Kristi will get that Linton review done soon and give us their take on that.
@@rosswarren436 in a turn of events, my wife and I got pregnant around this time and I decided to forego a new setup for the time being. From what I’ve heard, I would still go for the 5s. I never liked the stands for the Lintons and I think I would be satisfied with the 5s for longer
@@kevinsartin6681 thanks. Good luck with the baby. Teach him or her to appreciate music for sure!
Good review, Kristi & Andrew! Three-way acoustic suspension speakers, when done right, have always sounded great. These look great, I love the classic KLH look............wish they were a bit cheaper, $1200-1500 maybe? I remember listening to The Beatles Sgt. Pepper album through a comparable pair of comparable KLHs at a friend's apt., on his father's stereo in the mid 70s..........it was fantastic!
After such rave reviews and feedback from the community, I had to visit the local distributor here in HK and demo it for myself. I must say my wife and I were very underwhelmed. Granted the dealer’s system had issues during the demo and resorted to using a small Russound amp @50WPC, we walked away very disappointed. My credit card was already half way out of my pocket coming in, but I was definitely comfortable to secure it back in my wallet after the demo. I am certainly no expert when it comes to Hifi but I can only trust my ears and what’s in between them. Unfortunately KLH5 does not get my vote.
I’m contemplating if it’s worth my time to demo again with a higher end amp…
I grew up with the KLH model sixes (my dads stereo) and loved them so it’s good to see KLH making a serious comeback
I’d say they’re making a strong early comeback.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I'm looking forward to hearing them. They were an innovative brand way back when and I'm glad they're returning to their roots.
I think you guys are the first to review these on CZcams.
Trawling through the comments, I love seeing that you’ve taken the time to respond to most. I know that it’s time-consuming and it’s no judgment on you if you didn’t have the time. Shame the KLH isn’t available in New Zealand
One of my favorite channels on this platform regardless of whether or not I am in the market for home audio equipment. Keep up the great work! I would love if, at some point in time, you do a review of the Sonos Arc (alone or with the sub and rear speakers).
We will, and we're trying to get it. Thanks so much for the compliment. Thanks for watching!
Hey you're nice!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Highly looking forward to it when the time comes. And thanks again to you and Kristi for all the quality content.
@@KristiWright Haha, thank you!
thank you so much for the review. was just talking to family about the Advents we grew up with in the early 80's and these look EXACTLY like them (but for the midrange driver). Paired with the Yamaha receiver, I flashed back to 1984, as my parents had the Yamaha receiver with the wood surround. Crap, if you could've had a Sony tape deck and Techniques turntable with the system I would have thought time had warped....and would be looking for my Van Halen albums. Glad to see those fantastic speaker designs are coming back! I've been chasing the Advent tone for decades.
I have to say, I really love the input that is provided by Kristi. It's both interesting and extremely helpful for convincing my fiance that some of these things are actually worth it!
👍
Years ago when we got married, I had a hard time convincing my wife to let me put together a home theater system. She didn't think it would make much difference.
Now she just asks "will it sound better? Ok, go ahead"
I’ve owned the 5’s for almost a year now, had Heresy 3’s before. Equipment: Pass X150.5, Ayre preamp, Pontus dac. The real improvement over the Heresy’s is the balance through the entire frequency range. I can now listen to anything (solo piano especially wonderful) without worrying about frequency peaks. The Heresy was plagued by that. I also tried the Heresy 4’s and found them WAY too bright. Tried Buchardt 2’s and they weren’t nearly as open, big, and revealing as the 5’s. Listening tip with 5’s and Heresy’s: try sitting with ear level 1.5-2ft higher than tweeter (I use a bar stool seat). If your speakers are well out into the room, the elevated listening position will much improve the depth, and center vocals will still sparkle.
Just got these . DO they sound significantly better after the break end period? Doesn't sound that present in the mids.
Great review & wow the praise here....I have never heard of KLH excuse my ignorance.....but they are on the radar now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's all good. Glad to introduce you to them as they are worth keeping an eye on!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews My Definitive Technology BP7002's in Media Room & BP7006's in Master just won't stop kicking LOL its a good problem having for over 15 years! Took my 2010 Samsung 55" 11 years to finally tap out. The hardest part about loving Speakers & Technology is being disciplined with what you have otherwise overhead can get out of control. PASS! I am excited for the Kanto TUK's being in transit though for guest bedroom
This is excellent timing. I'm currently repairing some old classics. KLH Model 6, & 20. Also working on larger acoustic suspension Marantz Imperial Model 1's. All need some cabinet restoration, not damaged but they've been neglected.
I believe I have a pair of model KLH 5's that will also need restoration. I have to upgrade the crossover on all of them.
I would be interested in trying to listen to these new speakers to compare to the original.
Your recommendations make them sound impressive.
Wow. Impressed with your enthusiasm about these speakers. Great review.
Thanks! Appreciate the support!
KLH for the win. Only because of the sweet magnetic grilles. Wharfie's & the JBL's don't have that feature. I have the KLH model 3 2 way, mounted on VTI 3 foot tall stands...and they are beasts !!! Beautiful sound in a medium sized room. No need for a subwoofer. Paired with Yamaha 50wpc @ 8ohms amp. Just fantastic.
Nice that the stands are included
Well, I just did it. Ordered a pair of Walnut KLH 5's with an XTZ Edge A2-300. Looking forward to years/decades of musical enjoyment.
I think you're going to be a very happy listener. Enjoy!
This is exactly what I have been looking for. The JBL L100s are out of my price range as well as the Klipsch heritage line. I just wish they came in other finishes like Walnut. I'll be pairing them up with a vintage Pioneer SX 780
Lucky you. I stupidly sold my SX-780 about 20 years ago for peanuts...Dumbest decision I ever made...
When I was 14 years old my mom bought me my first stereo system for Christmas, It was the KLH compact. I could NOT stop listening to it. Until I saw your video on the KLH Model 5 I thought they had gone out of business decades ago. I just did a redo on my home theater system. Now I am blessed with Martin Logan, SVS speakers. Backed up by Emotiva Marantz AVR, Sony bluray & Nvidia shield Pro for streaming. My tv is. Sony 900E.
I like the size of theses speakers like the heresay also
It looks like something for music fans
They're great for music AND movies!
Just purchased a pair of these, hated them the first few days. Then I decided to download Tidal again, to use with my POWERNODE. This made a world of difference vs Amazon music. Now they sound like the review would lead me to believe. I also have a nice shiny silver model 40n in route for comparison. I strongly suspect source material/equipment is very important with these speakers.
I am sold on this review. Was looking for something off-the-beaten-path. A bit tired of the revel/focal/b&w sound - albeit all different still philosophically in the same camp. Waiting for delivery now.
How are they?
I don't remember the Model 5, but I'm old enough to have had either the 20 or 24 complete system with the built-in turntable and clear plexiglass top. This in 1972, well before KLH became synonymous with junk. I loved the sound. I loved the look (I find these new 5's much more attractive than you do). And I was perfectly happy with my KLH system until my college apartment was robbed that summer, after which I bought Scott speakers and receiver, and a Dual turntable, which I kept for quite a few years.
So.... one of the “known secrets” of the high end industry is that most speaker designers buy their drivers from someone else, and most driver manufacturers make drivers for bass reflex designs. Now, there are some great bass reflex designs out there (Magico and Wilson, among others), but acoustic suspension bass just sounds different (and more “real” to a lot of folks - me included). Back in the mid-70s there were actually a good number of acoustic suspension designs, and KLH was right up there (along with AR and Advent). For the same money they just had better bass than comparable bass reflex designs. I couldn’t afford the models mentioned, but I COULD afford the EPI 100s that went on to be one of the best selling loudspeakers of all time. (I’ve kept mine. They are being handed down to my offspring.). Henry Kloss (the “K” in “KLH” went on to found Cambridge SoundWorks, and I currently run a pair of these (along with a separate CS center channel) in my bedroom surround system. Andrew is quite right that these designs don’t need crazy wattage to sound good, but they DO need high current. Fortunately, transformer coupled tube amps and most medium powered solid state amps are designed to be high-ish current. My suggestion is to find the highest current amp you can afford to drive these things. Oh.... and my “big rig” speakers for most of my adult life? Spica Angeluses....acoustic suspension. (Confession: I currently listen mostly to planar quasi-ribbon speakers. All of us non-recovering audiophiles eventually end up there.....)
We were always told the lie that a sealed box acoustic suspension speaker required twice as much wattage to sound as loud as a ported design. Glad that myth can be put to rest. And the fact that acoustic suspension speakers have a more gradual slope in bass roll off lets them at least articulate that lower bass to us.
I have some ancient AR-9 speakers but am looking at these Model 5 as a more appropriately sized alternative for my 13' x 22' living room.
Would love to have some Maggies, but I just don't have the space to do them justice.
@@rosswarren436 I'm pretty sure you'll do well with the Model 5s. I'm looking forward to hearing them myself.
Correct, 2017. David Kelley ex CEO of Klispch owns the company now. He’s got the rights to Henry Kloss blueprints and designs. Don’t confuse this KLH with the tchotchke of the 1990’s, moreover; compare it to the 1970’s Kloss era. I’ve got a Yamaha A-S2200 and KLH Kendall’s and it’s a superb match!
Been waiting on a review of these! Can’t wait to hear them.
Definitely worth seeking out a dealer and demoing them!
Finally ,. A true value high-end speaker..... Looks great too , big fast paper drivers and comes with the stands ....
Love your subliminal JBL message.
I’d love to get these KLH 5, but for now have to stick with my still-working-after-48-years KLH 23’s
Man these speakers have such a cool vibe to them! Good job Andrew.
Thanks. They’re a vibe for sure.
Thank God, a review on the KLH 5! Thank you. I have been chatting with the folk there at KLH about when this will be released. I purposefully put a hold on buying anything else until your review, or any review, or until they came out. I really don't remember KLH. Two years ago, I went to an open house at a local HIFI store, that were featuring the previous KLH models, but I found them a bit bright, and the Kevlar woofers were, eh. But the Model 5 with the paper cones, OMG, yes. I love paper. I am waiting for the store to notify me when they and the Forte IV's come in before getting the Wharfedale EVO 4.4. Although I can afford the IV's, I have a large house where I would like two rooms with a full stereo system but if I can save a bit of cash on the first system, then save up for the IV's later, that's what I will probably do. I totally agree with you guys about the red wood finish, the optional off white grill is better, but still, I would really love a different finish, hell I would take a dull black finish before the red, that is my only complaint and their only downfall. But I shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, that is, before I see it in person. Thanks Andrew and Kristi. Stay healthy you two. Peace