There’s much debate in the audio world over which brands make the best speakers. However, I’d argue that what Klipsch does is insanely impressive. Not only do they offer entry-level monitors that both look and sound exquisite — let alone for the price (I myself use the sub-$200 R41-M for my turntable and they’re wonderful) — but they also produce some of the most stunning top-tier speakers as well.
For its latest release, the USA heritage brand has updated its Klipschorn line, which hasn’t seen any improvements in 7 years. Let’s dive into the Klipschorn AK7.
An American Icon
In 1938, Paul W. Klipsch, not happy with how his records were sounding on his phonograph speakers, created a prototype for the Klipschorn. The plan was to make a speaker that could accurately reproduce bass response with a smaller horn that folded itself into a trihedral corner, forcing a long air path into a smaller housing to maximize performance per cubic foot. With its corner-based shape, the monitor also leveraged the walls to extend the sound of the horn.
Producing a big sound right there in your living room, the Klipschorn eventually got a 1946 release, becoming Klipsch’s first-ever model and in effect launching the “hi-fidelity” era of home speakers. Remaining in the brand’s lineup ever since, the Klipschorn is actually the longest continuously-produced speaker ever made.
The Improved Acoustics of the Klipschorn AK7
Updating the Klipschorn AK6 from 2018, the AK7 improves the drivers to the “cinema-grade” mid-range KT-1133-HP 3-inch compression-based units — up from the 2-inch K-55-x compression driver from the outgoing model. With the same three-way setup that’s been used since the early-’50s, the AK7 also upgrades to the K-406, a mid-range exponential Tractrix horn with MUMPS technology that integrates small contours into the horn for improved sound dispersion and coverage.
The overall setup optimizes the speaker’s efficiency and, according to Klipsch, “generates greater acoustic power with less wattage, producing crystal clear sound with minimal distortion across the frequency spectrum.”
There’s also the addition of a new input design, which, compared to the standard input of the AK6, is more flexible. Allowing users to switch between passive and active setups, the panel supports Klipsch’s Heritage Active Crossover ($3,499), a digital signal processor that allows you to customize the EQ, phase, and gain. This also future-proofs the AK7 so that you can upgrade your systems without having to replace the speaker.
Looks for Days
Luckily, Klipsch has maintained its vintage aesthetic with the Klipschorn series, including the wooden grain effect with its American Walnut and American Auburn variants. These pair excellently with the gray mesh over the horns and look like they could’ve come straight out of the ‘50s. There’s also a more modern-looking Black Ash that’s quite sleek.
Spec Sheet
Drivers: Mid-range KT-1133-HP 3-inch compression drivers
Frequency Response: 34Hz-19kHz (+/- 4 dB)
Power: 100W (continuous)
Height: 53.25”
Weight: 260lbs
Pricing & Availability
While Klipsch has some superb sub-$200 bookshelf speakers, serious audiophiles with serious budgets might opt for the Klipschorn AK7, which retails for $17,998 for a set of two. Head over to Klipsch’s website to find a retailer near you.
Recap
Klipsch Klipschorn AK7 Speakers
With the AK7, Klipsch updates its iconic Klipschorn speakers for the first time in 7 years, keeping the same beautiful vintage look they’ve become known for.
