Introduction

The Klipsch Quintet system is part of their 2002 Synergy lineup. The system four satellites, a center speaker, and the KSW-10 subwoofer. The entire package is small, right between the Canton MX-10 and the Polk RM7200. Size in this case defies logic. The Quintet can really belt out the tunes.

Aesthetics

The fit and finish are on a par with this price point. The system originally came in black only, but Klipsch has since released the silver edition. I'm not a big fan of black speakers, and the silver looks awesome, almost as cool as the Velodyne Decos. The Quintet is among the smaller in this round-up and easily concealable, a 9 on the Spouse Acceptance Factor (SAF) scale.

Listening

The quintet, like most of the speakers in this review, had a steep roll-off beginning at about 200 Hz. There was a modest peak at 1.5 kHz, then a small dip at 2.5 kHz, a dip at 5.7 kHz, and a roll-off above 10 kHz.  I suspect this attenuation is to compensate for the brightness that horns can produce. Overall, the speaker sounded very good, with some snap to the snare drums. I listened to the speakers using a mass market Sony receiver, and in no way were the horns harsh.

Again, with speakers of this size, a sub is mandatory for good movie playback. The KSW-10 that was provided is a great match for this system. The sub is one of the best in this review group, making an upgrade further down the road unnecessary for the Quintet. The sub's output is above par for this group, equaling in output with the Atlantic Tech in my opinion.

The satellite speaker had an average THD mark of 0.74%, 90 dB at 2". Very good for its size. The system still maintains a respectful THD when turned up, a problem for smaller speakers. Expect good sound with decent volume. The horns aid in creating a feeling of good definition.  Imaging from the system was above average. The horns really help in enhancing the soundstage from these smaller speakers. I am a fan of horns, and I may be biased, but of the smaller speakers in this review, the Klipsch are in my favor the most.

I did find the feet that came with the quintet system to be a little flimsy at times. They can be tightened with an Allen wrench and nut. The speakers can be floor and wall mounted as appropriate.

Conclusions

The Quintet system is among my favorites for the smaller speakers in this roundup. They play at a decent volume, and sound clean. The silver is a better color than the standard black in my opinion. Overall, it is a great system, well worth the asking price. Oh . . . and the sub . . . top notch for this price point.

- Brian Weatherhead -

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