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Klipsch Vs. Paradigm (Choosing the BEST Speaker Brand for You)

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One of the greatest things you can do for your music is playing it with good speakers. A good-quality speaker will bring your music to life, helping the audience enjoy and sway to the music as they mean it.

A good speaker at any concert, party, or gathering will make you popular even if you are not the real DJ.

Two of the greatest speakers you will encounter are the Klipsch and Paradigm speakers. While both these companies are known for an absolute no-compromise on their products policy, some differences set them apart.

Not every decent product has to be ideal for everyone. Some certain specifications and features make a product, a speaker in this case, fit for you.

In this article, we will discuss the Klipsch and Paradigm speakers, but it comes down to Klipsch vs. Paradigm: Which is better?

There are also other options, such as Paradigm vs. Klipsch vs. B&W vs. Monitor Audio. So, how do you pick one out of all of these? Which one is a better pick for you?

While all these speakers work well, it all comes down to your requirements and the features you can or cannot overlook.

Klipsch Vs. Paradigm

Let’s talk about the similarities and differences between the Klipsch and Paradigm speakers. If we talk about the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F and Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F, both models have bass reflexes and have similar shades.

The Klipsch speaker has an MDF/ Wood-grain vinyl finish, while the Paradigm speaker has an MDF/ Vinyl finish.

The tweeter for the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F is Tractrix Horn, while the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F has a hard-dome tweeter.

Additionally, the tweeter size on the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F is 1-inch size, and so does the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F. The Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F also has a midrange size of 5.5 inches.

The woofer composition of the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F is cerametallic, and Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F speaker showcases mineral-filled propylene. Both the speakers have a rubber woofer surrounding and no built-in powered subs.

The Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F speaker also does not have bi-amp inputs. Both the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F and Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F speakers come with 5-year parts and a labor warranty.

As far as specifications are concerned, the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F is a power range of 150, while the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F speaker has 15 – 100 of the power range.

The frequency response for the former is 32 – 25 kHz and 53 – 21 kHz for the latter.

The sensitivity of the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F speaker is 98 dB and 93 dB for the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F speaker. The impedance, however, remains the same for both- 8 ohms.

The Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F speaker’s height is 43 – 1/16 inches, and Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F speaker measures to 41-3/8.

In height, the Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F speaker is 17-3/8, and the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F speaker is 14 3/16 inches. If we talk about the width, the former is 10 9/16 inches, while the latter is 8 15/16 inches.

The Klipsch Reference Premier RP-280F speaker weighs 62.5 lbs., while the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F weighs 44 lbs., so the latter is a better option if you want a lighter speaker or travel often with your speakers.

Paradigm Monitor SE

A popular speaker from the Paradigm is the Monitor SE with two drivers, a shelf, and a 2-way bass reflex. It has not come into existence just like that but is built on research.

Paradigm has conducted this research in conjunction with the Canadian National Research Council. It has resulted in several innovative materials along with patent audio technologies.

The Paradigm Monitor SE speaker gives you a lifelike performance regardless of where it is. The wonderful effects combined with the realistic sound details make the tracks, as well as movies, come to life.

It features X-PAL Pure Aluminum dome tweeters with a patented perforated phase aligning (PPA) Lens.

The exclusive design is a refined phase plug that blocks a wide range of out-of-phase frequencies, giving you a soothing output without a colored sound.

Both functionally and visually stunning, the Paradigm Monitor SE speaker features the PPA lens technology that enhances performance while simultaneously protecting the tweeter against damage.

The bass/ midrange is high-performance, to say the least, as it has mineral-filled polypropylene cones along with inverted dust caps.

They are rigid but also lightweight, ensuring a long-term use. The down-roll surrounds offer a low-profile, clean look.

The Paradigm Monitor SE speaker’s enclosure is definitely something to obsess over since it comprises speaker cabinets.

The European fit and finish give it a modern décor look. All the models are available in high-gloss form with matte black finishes.

The crossover of the Paradigm Monitor SE speaker is 2nd order electro-acoustic at 2.3 kHz. The frequency response on the axis is +/- 3 dB from 61 – 21 kHz. The high-frequency driver 1-inch X-PAL dome, ferrofluid cooled/ damped, PPA Lens.

The mid/ bass frequency driver has 5.5 inches (140 mm) mineral-filled polypropylene cone, a down-roll surround, and an inverted dust cap. The low-frequency extension is 45 Hz, sensitivity room or anechoic 89 dB/ 86 dB.

The frequency response 30-off axis is 55 – 17 kHz, +/- 3 dB. The suitable amplifier power range is 15 – 100 watts, maximum input power is 50 watts, and impedance is compatible with 8 ohms.

The dimensions are 12.75″ × 7.125 × 11″ (32 cm × 18 × 27 cm) with a weight of 12 lbs. (5.4 kg) with a gloss white or matte black finish.

Klipsch Reference R-26FA Dolby Atmos Floor Standing Speakers

Let’s next discuss the Klipsch Reference R-26FA Dolby Atmos Floor standing Speakers that come in a pair.

They are the woofer type, so they are ideal for party settings and home theatres. The subwoofer’s diameter is approximately 6.5 inches.

You get two Klipsch Reference R-26FA Dolby Atmos Floor standing Speakers. 2 front grilles, 2 top grilles, and a 5-year warranty.

The main channel frequency response is 38 – 24 Hz +/- 3 dB. The main channel sensitivity is about 97 dB at a voltage of 2.83 / 1m.

The Klipsch Reference R-26FA Dolby Atmos Floor standing Speakers’ main channel power handling is 100 w to 400 w, and the nominal impedance is 8 ohms.

The Klipsch Reference R-26FA Dolby Atmos Floor standing Speakers are designed keeping in mind the voltage in the USA.

Paradigm- The Affordable Premium Brand

Paradigm is your best friend if you want a premium-quality product without putting a dent in your pocket. It has excellent quality products that outperform several in its range while still being affordable.

The Paradigm brand is known for creating amazing quality audio products that enhance your home theater experience. Their products, such as the Paradigm speakers, make music sound lifelike without being too overpowering.

The Paradigm brand ensures a superior sound experience compared to the usual mass-market audio product’s performance. Their speakers have stellar performance while staying well within your budget.

The Paradigm brand maintains affordability and a classy look in all its products since it is a high-end audio company, after all.

Packed with state-of-the-art contemporary technology, their speakers offer greatness at an affordable price. 

The Legendary Klipsch Company

Did Klipsch just come into existence overnight? Has it earned all this fame within a matter of days? Time to find out!

A lot of effort has been put into creating the Klipsch company. Apart from speakers, it also manufactures other musical instruments that are among the best sellers.

Over 70 years, the Klipsch company has designed and launched numerous high-quality products with the input of the most talented, passionate, and skilled individuals.

Starting with the founder, Mr. Paul W. Klipsch, they have maintained their quality and only improved their equipment.

The primary focus of the Klipsch company was not professional-use speakers but equipment that can be used at home and is of the same quality as those used in studios.

If we talk about the founder, Paul W. Klipsch was born in Elkhart, Indiana. He was the only child of Oscar Klipsch and Minna Pearl Eddy.

He came across the superiority of efficient horns when he was working with cone-type radio speakers in Chile.

Then, one of his school-fellows at Stanford University mentioned to him how great speakers sound in corners.

It was then, during his military service, that he came up with the corner horn speaker design. His officers encouraged him further to launch his manufacturing business.

Therefore in 1938, Paul W. Klipsch developed a rough prototype of the Klipschorn speaker keeping in mind that speakers sound better in corners.

Paul W. Klipsch then received a patent for his Klipschorn speaker design, which helped him with the hi-fi era.

Finally, in 1946, Klipsch laid down the name Klipsch and Associates and started selling their Klipschorn speakers in Hope, Arkansas. Baldwin Piano, a local cabinetmaker, helped him build his first 20 Klipschorn speakers.

Two years later, Klipsch acquired his first factory building, which was a telephone exchange building formerly.

Klipsch’s first employee was none other than the cabinetmaker Lloyd McClellan. The first Klipschoen speaker made here is known as 121.

Forward to 1951, Paul W. Klipsch launched his new experimental speaker, Heresy, which was the world’s first commercial channel speaker.

It is still manufactured in Hope with the name Klipsch Heresy IV. In 1963, they introduced another speaker, the La Scala speaker for the arts sector.

Paradigm Monitor 9 vs. Klipsch RF-82

Klipsch vs. Paradigm for a 3.1 setup

Paradigm Atom vs Klipsch R-41M

Two other popular passive bookshelf speakers include the Paradigm Atom and Klipsch R-41M. Let’s take a quick look at the features both the speakers offer:

Paradigm SE Atom

  • 1-inch hard-dome Tweeter
  • 5.5 inches Mineral-filled Polypropylene Woofer
  • 61-21 kHz frequency response
  • 89 dB sensitivity
  • Impedance: 80 ohms
  • Power Range: 15-100 watts
  • Weight: 5.45 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 324.0 x 7-1/8 x 10-7/8 inches (324.0 x 181.0 x 277.0 mm). Thus, it is the larger of the two.
  • Rear firing ports

Klipsch R-41M

  • 1-inch tractrix horn tweeter
  • 4 inches Copper-spun IMG Woofer
  • 68-21 kHz Frequency Response
  • 90 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 80 ohms
  • Power Range: 50 watts
  • Weight: 3.20 kg
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 287.0 x 5.7 x 7.8 inches (287.0 x 146.0 x 200.0 mm). Thus, it is the smaller of the two.
  • Rear firing ports

Paradigm Monitor SE and Klipsch Reference R-41M- The Ultimate Comparison

In the following sections, let’s talk a bit more in detail about the Paradigm Monitor SE and Klipsch Reference R-41M speakers.

Drivers

Both the Paradigm Monitor SE and Klipsch Reference R-41M speakers are 2-way. The former has a 1-inch hard-dome tweeter with a 5.5 inches mineral-filled polypropylene woofer.

In comparison, the Klipsch Reference R-41M speaker has a 1-inch tractrix horn tweeter along with a 1 x 4 inches copper-spun IMG woofer with a 1739 Hz crossover frequency.

Frequency Response

The Paradigm Monitor SE boasts a frequency range of 21 – 61 Hz, while the Klipsch Reference R-41M has a frequency of 68 – 21 kHz.

With a minimum frequency of 61 Hz, the Paradigm Monitor Se Atom goes deeper towards the low side and has a stronger bass compared to the Klipsch Reference R-41M speaker’s minimum 68 Hz frequency.

Impedance and Sensitivity

The Paradigm Monitor SE and Klipsch Reference R-41M have the same impedance of 8 ohms. However, the sensitivity levels differ. The former has a sensitivity of 89 dB, while the latter comes with a 90 dB sensitivity.

The 1 dB difference means that the Klipsch Reference R-41M will play louder with the same power supply.

Power Range

The Paradigm Monitor SE and Klipsch Reference R-41M have different power ranges, with the former having a 15 – 100 watts power and the latter with 50 watts power range. Therefore, this will affect your electricity bills.

Input Type and Bi-Wiring

The Paradigm Monitor SE and Klipsch Reference R-41M both have single gold-plated binding posts but do not have any bi-wiring or bi-amping.

Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F vs Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F

Both the Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F and 6000F speakers have a bass reflex enclosure and an MDF vinyl finish. Both also feature a hard-dome tweeter with a 1-inch size.

The midrange for the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F is 5.5 inches, while it is 6.5 inches for the Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F.

The P Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F and 6000F woofer composition is mineral-filled polypropylene, and both have rubber in the surroundings. The Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F speaker has an 8 inches woofer, while the Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F measures 5.5 inches.

Both the Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F and 6000F have no built-in power subs and no Dolby atmos drivers. The connector type for both speakers is a binding post.

Both the Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F and 6000F come with a five years warranty and a five years labor warranty. Both models do not have bi-amp inputs.

The power range for the Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F is 15 – 150, while for Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F, it is 15 – 100. The frequency response for the former is 45 – 21 k Hz and 53 – 21 kHz for the latter.

The sensitivity of Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F is 95 dB, and for Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F, it is 93 dB.

THE Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F measures 46 inches in height, and Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F is 41 3/8. The width for the former is 11 ¾ inches and 8 15/16 inches.

The Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F height is 17 ¾ inches and 14 3/16 for Paradigm Monitor SE 6000F. The Paradigm Monitor SE 8000F weighs 69 lbs., while 6000F weighs 44 lbs.

Conclusion

The Klipsch and Paradigm both have excellent quality speakers that are the best in their range. However, some differences set them apart and can help you pick what is best for you.

The Klipsch speakers have greater sensitivity than the Paradigm speakers, meaning they will get louder with the same amount of voltage or power supply.

Therefore, if you are looking for the loudest speakers, go for the Klipsch speakers. But if affordability and reasonable performance are your priorities, the Paradigm speakers are your best bet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Paradigm speakers any good?

The Paradigm speakers are known for their premium quality and affordability.

They are slightly bigger and heavier than several in their range, but the speakers’ performance makes up for it. Moreover, the quality, finish, and build are also stellar quality.

What speakers are better than Klipsch?

While Klipsch produces excellent quality speakers, they are some options in the market that perform even better. The speakers better than Klipsch include the following:
-Polk Audio Signature Series S60. Best Floorstanding Speaker
-Sony SRS-RA5000. Best For 360 Audio
-Klipsch Reference R-51M. Best Bookshelf Speakers
-Elac Navis ARB-51. Best Powered Speakers
-Sonos Move
-Sonos Arc
-Logitech Z407

Are Paradigm speakers high-end?

The Paradigm speakers have become the solution for those who want premium quality at an affordable price.

They are among the highest-selling speakers on six continents. They have received a significant amount of positive reviews and are purchased worldwide by audiophiles.

Is Klipsch considered an audiophile?

The Klipsch speakers are part of the all-in-one audiophile system.