Klipsch The Nines II: A Powerful Stereo Upgrade
The Klipsch The Nines II powered stereo speakers present a compelling option for audiophiles seeking an all-in-one hi-fi upgrade. Despite a notable price increase from their predecessors and a considerable heft, these speakers deliver an immersive and robust sound experience, complemented by an extensive feature set and broad connectivity.
Impressive Audio Performance
Analysis reveals that the Klipsch The Nines II offer a weighty, full-bodied sound that belies their compact form factor. The low end is particularly prominent, providing a satisfying bass response across various music genres, from pop and hip hop to rock. While the mid-range can exhibit a slight boominess due to the pronounced bass, minor EQ adjustments via the accompanying app can refine the audio profile. The high end maintains detail, offering clarity in intricate musical passages. The soundstage is expansive, with good separation, and the speakers possess ample dynamic headroom, capable of filling large rooms with distortion-free audio even at moderate volumes.
Feature-Rich Functionality
These speakers boast a comprehensive array of features designed to enhance the listening experience. Virtualized Dolby Atmos provides a sense of height to audio, proving effective for cinematic content. Wi-Fi streaming is supported through multiple platforms, including Google Cast, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Qobuz Connect. For smart home integration, Google Cast compatibility allows for easy setup with Google Home. A minor lag can be observed in wireless audio transmission, though a Lip Sync setting in the app helps mitigate this for video synchronization. The dedicated app serves as a central hub for fine-tuning, offering a five-band EQ, presets, and access to Dirac Live room correction. Users also have access to distinct audio modes such as Dynamic Bass, Dialog, and Night Mode, with the latter proving particularly effective for balancing quiet and loud sounds.
Dirac Live Integration Challenges
While Dirac Live room correction is a notable inclusion, its implementation during testing proved challenging. Despite attempts to achieve the required quiet environment for calibration, the process was difficult to complete. It’s possible that environmental factors contributed to this issue, rather than a fundamental flaw in the speaker’s capability. The speaker includes a license for Dirac Live that adjusts audio between 200 and 500 Hz, with full frequency range calibration available as a paid upgrade.
Design and Connectivity
The Klipsch The Nines II exhibit an attractive design, available in walnut, red oak, and black finishes. Standing over 18 inches tall and weighing up to 33 lbs per speaker, their substantial size and weight are important considerations for placement. Physical controls on the active speaker are minimal, consisting of a volume dial and a power/input button. However, connectivity is extensive, featuring HDMI eARC, optical, phono, USB, Bluetooth 5.4, coaxial, and Ethernet ports. A subwoofer output and a microphone input for Dirac Live are also present. Magnetic speaker covers, a remote control, a wired microphone, and various cables, including one for physical speaker connection, are included in the package.
Setup and Usability
The setup process for the Klipsch The Nines II is straightforward in terms of connections and pairing. However, the considerable weight of the speakers can make positioning and assembly, particularly when using optional speaker stands, a physically demanding task. The accompanying app is generally intuitive for managing settings and features, and the remote offers convenient control. The challenge with Dirac Live calibration, as previously mentioned, impacts the overall usability score.
Pricing and Value
Priced at $2,399 / £2,249 / AU$4,999, the Klipsch The Nines II represent a significant investment, particularly given the $700 / £700 price increase over the original model. While other capable stereo speakers are available at lower price points, the Nines II offer a unique combination of power, features, and connectivity that positions them as a premium, all-in-one audio solution. For those seeking to build a robust stereo system at the heart of their entertainment setup, the Nines II provide considerable value, though they are not positioned as an entry-level option.
Key Specifications:
- Dimensions: 18.13” (460.38mm) H x 9.62” (244.5mm) W x 14.75” (374.65mm) D
- Weight: Active speaker: 32.8lbs (14.9kg); Passive speaker: 31.7 lbs (14.43kg)
- Frequency Response: 31Hz-25kHz +/- 3dB
- Maximum Output: 107dB
Consider These Speakers If:
- You desire a powerful, immersive sound with substantial bass.
- You want a comprehensive feature set including spatial audio, extensive Wi-Fi streaming, and versatile connectivity.
- You are building a stereo system that can integrate with multiple audio sources like TVs and turntables.
Avoid These Speakers If:
- You are working with a strict budget, as more affordable options exist.
- You are seeking true, hardware-based Dolby Atmos reproduction with dedicated height and rear channels.
