Klipsch R-15PM Powered Monitor (Pair)

After disappointing trials of 2 well reviewed speakers from another manufacturer (rhymes with “Shedifier”), on the advice of friends I decided to give the Klipsch R-15PM a try. They do not disappoint! Out of the box I noticed these are definitely NOT desktop speakers, as they measure in at 12 1/2” high x 7” wide x 8” deep. Great on a bookshelf, but significantly larger than other speakers I tried. The trademark copper woofers and boxed tweeters look cool, although they lack the screw details of some of the more expensive models. Build quality seems average. The exterior finish looks kind of cheap, and some of the connectors don’t line up perfectly in their openings in the back. You also have to stick on the supplied rubber feet yourself. Not really a high-end unboxing experience. It’s obvious to me that Klipsch put the money in the speaker cones and circuitry, and the exterior appearance was lower priority at this price. Also they’ve ditched the speaker covers completely, so even if you wanted to cover the cool cones, you can’t. One primary driver of this purchase was the potential of ditching my dying receiver but still being able to use my prized 80’s Sony linear-tracking turntable. Set-up was relatively trouble-free. The R-15PMs have a built-in switchable preamp, so you don’t have to buy a separate one if your turntable needs it. If your turntable is already amplified or if you want to use a separate preamp, no worries, there is a “line” switch at the back of the speaker that disables the built-in amp. I plugged in an old subwoofer (straight RCA connector) to enhance the bass. I did have a little trouble with the initial Bluetooth connection, but after about 4 tries it’s working reliably. Some reviewers complained about the volume level resetting after the speakers shut off. This isn’t a problem for me, and honestly I didn’t even notice it. I guess if you’re far away from your music source that could be irritating. I adjust the volume at my device or using the remote with no issues.Sound is impressive for the kind of music I listen to (mostly rock and jazz). Highs are crisp and definition is great. Bass is clear and not muddy. Keep in mind these are only 5” woofers so if you want to rock the house with earth-shaking bass you’ll need to look for something bigger. I had to turn up my sub to 7/10 to even hear it, which is fine for my needs, but I think the lack of additional amplification from the receiver affects the subwoofer performance. But I’m by no means an audio expert.Although these speakers are made in China, Klipsch is an American company that’s been around a long time and has a good reputation. I like the idea of supporting an American company.Terms like “reference” and “studio monitor” are bandied about these days, but these affordable units really fit the bill. I think you’d be hard-pressed to find better speakers with these features without spending a LOT more. Looking forward to using these speakers often and hoping they will get even sweeter after a good break-in period.Pros:1. Great sound! Tremendous, sharp highs and decent bass. (A subwoofer is recommended)2. Turntable ready- really! No preamp required, which saves at least around $20, making the Klipsch an even better value.3. They look cool with the signature copper woofers4. Subwoofer input (standard RCA which is a plus)Cons:1. No bass/treble controls (not a big deal)2. Build quality is a little lacking. The quality obviously went into the internals.3. Bluetooth connectivity is a little fiddly, but reliable once it’s connected4. No covers (nice to have, but they hide the cool cones), DIY rubber feet5. Lacks some of the latest digital connectivity; not WiFi compatible. Not a deal-breaker for me.6. Remote has limited functions (and it’s NOT the one pictured!)