Klipsch RP-500C II Speaker Review
Our verdict
The Klipsch RP-500C II is a compact entry into the Reference Premiere center channel lineup, offering the same 5.25-inch driver configuration as its larger sibling in a cabinet that weighs 18 lbs and fits most standard AV furniture. It is a practical choice for mid-size rooms running an RP-series surround system.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Mid-size home theater rooms where cabinet depth is limited and a matched Klipsch RP-series surround system is the goal
Skip if
Your room is large enough to warrant the RP-504C II, or you are not running other RP-series speakers
- Speaker type Center Channel
- Driver size 5.25"
- Connectivity Single Binding Posts
- Mounting Tabletop Mount
- Color Black
- Dimensions 10.58 X 19.34 X 6.87 In
- Weight of 18.0 lb - heavier than 62% of the 44 models we track
Pros
- 4.8-star average from 136 buyers signals a reliable purchase
- 18 lbs and 19-inch width fit standard AV furniture without modification
- 5.25-inch driver handles dialogue frequencies in the midrange
- Single binding post connection works with nearly all AV receivers
Cons
- Single binding post limits bi-wiring options available on some higher-end receivers
- $329.99 price still favors buyers committed to the RP ecosystem
- Only 136 reviews means less buyer data than the more widely purchased R-52C
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.8/5
4.8 average across 136 owner ratings
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Popularity2.8/5
136 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other AV receivers and amplifiers, soundbars, home theater speakers, subwoofers, surround sound systems and Blu-ray players we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The Klipsch RP-500C II is a center channel speaker in Black with dual 5.25-inch drivers. At 10.58 x 19.34 x 6.87 inches and 18 lbs, it fits on most AV furniture shelves without the placement challenges of the larger 504C II. It connects via single binding posts and is tabletop-mount designed.
Priced at $329.99, it represents the more accessible tier of the Reference Premiere center channel range. The single binding post connection is simpler than the 504C II's setup and suits receivers with standard speaker output terminals.
136 ratings at a 4.8-star average reflect strong consistency among buyers. Feedback focuses on dialogue clarity and the value of staying within the RP family for tonal coherence across the sound stage.
Specifications
| Speaker type | Center Channel |
|---|---|
| Driver size | 5.25" |
| Connectivity | Single Binding Posts |
| Mounting | Tabletop Mount |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 10.58 X 19.34 X 6.87 In |
| Weight | 18.0 lb |
Performance notes
Driver size is 5.25 inches. Physical dimensions are 10.58 x 19.34 x 6.87 inches. Weight is 18 lbs. Connectivity is via single binding posts. Mounting is tabletop.
What buyers say
At 136 reviews and 4.8 stars, the RP-500C II tracks closely with the larger RP-504C II in satisfaction. The smaller sample size means individual experiences carry more weight, but no notable pattern of complaints surfaces in the rating distribution.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the RP-500C II a good match with Klipsch R-series bookshelf speakers?
Klipsch recommends matching within the same series for the most consistent tonal balance across channels. The RP-500C II is from the Reference Premiere line, while R-series bookshelf speakers are from the base Reference line. They will work together functionally, though the Reference Premiere drivers have a different voicing that some listeners notice in direct comparison.
What is the difference between single and dual binding posts on a center channel?
Dual binding posts allow bi-wiring, where separate runs of speaker wire connect to the tweeter and woofer sections independently. Single binding posts combine the signal path. For most home theater setups, single binding posts are sufficient and most receivers only provide one output terminal per channel anyway.