The Klipsch Reference series has a long line of speakers where some of which have garnered extremely popular status with tons of positive ratings. These Klipsch Reference loudspeakers are also affordably priced and even the higher-end models are modestly priced as well. In order for them to sound their absolute best, it is important to pair with the right receivers that can match the Klipsch Reference loudspeakers’ sonic prowess.
Since there are so many receivers to choose from, in order for us to find the right receiver we must first learn more about the Klipsch Reference speakers’ sonic characteristics and strengths. Once we gathered enough data and have a further understanding of their merits, we can then start listing out the best receivers that can match with the Klipsch Reference loudspeakers.
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Sonic Characteristics and Strengths of Klipsch Reference speakers
The Klipsch Reference speakers have that iconic and striking visual design where immediately at first glance, you will know they are loudspeakers made by Klipsch. All of the Reference series speakers use the coveted Tractrix horn which improves the high frequencies produced by the tweeter. The spun-copper IMG woofers are equally attractive with their bright and shiny color. These are also bass-reflex speaker designs where the rear-firing Tractrix ports are located behind the speaker cabinets which you might want to give some breathing space between the speaker and rear walls.
One of the strengths that the Klipsch Reference series loudspeakers possess will be their high speaker sensitivity. Their average nominal impedance is at 8 Ohms. These Klipsch speakers are easy to drive and can go really loud with little effort, giving us plenty of receiver options to choose from. Still, a few of them can handle quite a lot of power, for instance, the large Klipsch Reference floor-standing speaker R-820F can handle up to 150 Watts RMS and 600 Watts Peak. If possible, we should be a bit generous and get receivers with at least decent rated power outputs.
More Info at Amazon – Klipsch Reference R-820F Floorstanding Speaker
Some of the Klipsch Reference speakers have a pretty wide frequency range and can dig deep into the bass extension. We will still recommend integrating an active subwoofer into the mix though as the deep bass reproductions do not have enough weight and prominence, especially for home theater use. The active sub can also be used to supplement the bass performance of the Klipsch Reference bookshelf speakers. Overall bass performance is clear and taut, the low-ends are never exaggerated and the larger floor-standers have more bass weight, not to mention, able to deliver deeper low frequencies.
The Klipsch Reference series loudspeakers are energetic performers and have a lively music presentation. The level of clarity is astonishing, the amount of details you can hear is incredible. Including the subtle music nuances can be heard with crystal clear sound quality. The midrange is expressive and dynamic, providing plenty of details and energy into the overall sound reproduction. They can be overly bright to some listeners and you might want to audition them first if you are used to listening to warm-sounding audio systems. We will need to be cautious when we match the Klipsch Reference speakers to bright-sounding receivers so as not to make them sound harsh.
They will do well in both music and home theater use due to their lively energy and dynamics, with a high level of clarity, providing their listeners with clear sound reproduction. The dialogues and vocals reproduced by the Klipsch Reference series center channel speakers are crystal clear as well. If you are planning to set up a Dolby Atmos surround sound system, you might want to take a look at the Klipsch R-625FA floor-standing speaker which has an integrated elevation speaker channel and conforms to Dolby Atmos specifications. At the price range they are at, it is difficult for us to nitpick the Klipsch Reference speakers but adding an active sub will improve the overall sound quality. We have gathered enough data and we can now start to list out the best receivers which you can go for. These matching receivers will also be close to the price category that the Klipsch Reference loudspeakers are in.
More Info at Amazon – Klipsch R-625FA
Best Receivers to match with Klipsch Reference Speakers
The Marantz NR1711 will be one of the best AV receivers to match with the Klipsch Reference series loudspeakers. It is a 7.2 channel 8K UHD AVR with a slim design that makes it easier to fit it into your home theater room. The NR1711 is extensively tuned by Marantz sound masters, providing high musicality and smooth sound delivery with a touch of warmth that also helps to ease the edges off the Klipsch Reference speakers. The Marantz NR1711 will be an ideal receiver choice for listeners who prefers a more musical-sounding home theater system.
More Info at Amazon – Marantz NR1711 8K Slim 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
The Denon AVR-X2700H is another amazing AV receiver with a modest price point and will pair well with the Klipsch Reference loudspeakers. The overall sonic character of the Denon AVR-X2700H is neutral sounding with a tad warmish sound quality and it is also capable of delivering a full-bodied presentation. It is a 7.2 channel 8K AV receiver and supports HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, ALLM, etc., to provide its users with beautiful home cinematic visuals. The Denon AVR-X2700H also supports 3D Audio and is a suitable match with the Klipsch Reference speakers series. The bass performance of the Denon AVR complements the Klipsch speakers as well.
More Info at Amazon – Denon AVR-X2700H 8K Ultra HD 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
If budget is not an issue then the Marantz SR8015 will probably be the very best AV receiver to go for. It is a powerful 11.2 channel 8K UHD AV receiver and has more than enough power to drive your Klipsch Reference Series speakers to loud volumes. Furthermore, thanks to the musicality and warm smooth sound quality, the SR8015 does not add brightness to the overall sound reproduction. This Marantz AVR is also capable of producing rich details and an expansive soundstage for an immersive listening experience. The bass reproduction of the Marantz SR8015 is tight and agile which doesn’t hinder the midrange prowess of the Klipsch Reference speakers.
More Info at Amazon – Marantz SR8015 11.2 Channel AV Receiver
If your budget is tight and you mainly watch movies with your home theater system then the Sony STRDH590 will be an ideal choice to pair up with the Klipsch Reference loudspeakers. It is a very well-received and highly rated 5.2 channel 4K AV receiver which provides its users with an exciting 5.1 surround sound experience. The clarity level is high and has powerful bass performance, the 4K UHD visual capabilities of the Sony STRDH590 are good as well. At this price point, there’s nothing to nitpick but they may sound overly bright so you might want to hear them out first. All in all, it will be a lively home theater system with an enthusiastic performance.
More Info at Amazon – Sony STRDH590 5.2-ch 4K HDR AV Receiver
Prefer a 2 channel setup with subwoofers connections? The Denon DRA-800H will be the 2 channel network receiver for you. It is modestly priced and highly rated, the network receiver has 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video capability, not to mention, it also supports HDR10, HLG, and BT.2020 pass-through. The power output of 100 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms will enable the DRA-800H to drive the Klipsch Reference speakers with ease. Furthermore, you can connect dual subwoofers so to deliver body-pounding bass performance in your home theater room. The sonic characteristic of the Denon DRA-800H is a suitable match with the Klipsch Reference speakers too.
More Info at Amazon – Denon DRA-800H 2-Channel Stereo Network Receiver
Another stereo receiver that would be an amazing match with the Klipsch Reference speakers will be the Marantz NR1200. It is expertly tuned by Marantz sound masters, making the NR1200 a musical-sounding 2 channel receiver and you can also connect up to 2 subwoofers where they will improve the overall bass performance, providing you with an exhilarating cinematic experience. For AV receivers, Yamaha will be another brand to check out, they are mainly neutral bright so is best to audition them first. Subwoofers will be a crucial component in a home theater setup, you can stick with Klipsch subwoofers for a seamless integration or go with brands that specialize in making powerful active subs such as SVS and HSU Research. The powered subs made by SVS and HSU Research are modestly priced too.
More Info at Amazon – Marantz NR1200 AV Receiver | 2-Channel Home Theater Amp
To Sum It Up
These are some of the best receivers on the market which are both matching and compatible with Klipsch Reference series speakers. You can go through the list and see which receiver best suit your requirements, shortlist them and arrange an audition to see which receiver sounds the best to you. You should definitely integrate an active subwoofer into your HT system as it will help ease the load off the receivers by taking over the bass reproduction role. This will also help prevent your receivers from clipping and protect your Klipsch Reference speakers.
