While Bose focuses on EQ setting, Klipsch tries to improve hardware that makes the difference.
Bose Home theater consists of speakers, subwoofers to deliver supreme surround sound with good bass. It focuses on detailed sound and dialogue clarity.
The Home theater model like Bose Acoustimass 10 Series is compact in size with satellite speakers which you can wall-mount or place beside TV. These are ideal for houses with tight spaces.
Dolby Atmos has upward firing speakers to bounce the sound from a height or from ceiling. This adds realistic effect to the overall audio.
To experience the home theater, Dolby Atmos plays an important role. This feature is missing in some models of Bose Speaker.
Bose is generally the best speaker in the market for mass consumers who love movies, music and games. However there are audiophiles who think the psychoacoustic procedure is not ideal for music.
Some Audiophiles are seemto prefer Klipsch over Bose due to the Dolby Atmos sound quality.
There seems to be a lot of difference about Bose vs Klipsch. Here I compare the five facts in details to make conclusion on which to pick and why.
Table of Contents
List of Top 6 Home Theater System:[Bose vs Klipsch]
[wpsm_list type=”check”]
- Bose Acoustimass 10 Series V Home Theater; Best for Larger Rooms.
- Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System;
- Bose Lifestyle 600 Home Entertainment System;
- klipsch black reference theater pack 5.1 surround sound system:
- Klipsch 7.2.4: Home Theater for Large Room
- Klipsch Ultra THX 2
[/wpsm_list]
Soundbar vs Bookshelf Speakers-Which is for What?
Bose vs Klipsch : What And Why
What is special about Bose sound system:
Bose Corporation (/boʊz/) is basically a reaserch company which specialist in making home audio and speaker. It is one step ahead among other home audio manufactures because of its’ customized and professional audio devices with superior Bose Sound, noise cancellation technology, wireless connectivity and built-in voice control. Bose has lot of sound tech patents with regards to home theater system which deliver immersive movie and TV experience.
Compared to Klipsch, Bose doesn’t have huge number of different models in home theater. Users can choose from Acoustimas 10, Lifestyle 600 or 650. All these home theater models follow the general rules of 5.1 surround sound.
Although Bose is often accused of being overpriced, the sound quality and sturdy construction of speakers negate that. Bose is well-known for making speakers and soundbars that last for years. The psychoacoustic principle plays with sound and makes the listener feel 360-degree audio.
Bose and Sonos Soundbar: Comparative Review
Features of Bose home theater:
- All home theater consists of 5 channels that deliver full surround sound.
- Bose home theater models come with subwoofer to add the extra boom and bass.
- Most of the models like Lifestyle 600 or 650 uses the QuietPort technology and ADAPTiQ calibration.
- The models have a good SNR value of around 98dB.
- They allow content in 4K and HDR.
- The Acoustimass 10 uses Direct/Reflect design technology that creates spacious sound.
- Although Bose home theater models don’t support Dolby Atmos, they are compatible with Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, TrueHD.
- Most models have NFC and Bluetooth like Lifestyle 650 or 600.
- The SoundTouch technology allows seamless wireless streaming from Spotidy, Deezer, Internet radio, etc.
What Is Special About Klipsch Home Audio System:
All Klipsch Home Audio System comes with Klipsch horn loaded technology that includes efficiency, less distortion, broad dynamic range, directional radiation pattern and flat frequency response.
Klipsch has several different home theater options from which users can choose. Generally a home theather includes tower speaker, center speaker, one or two subwoofer along with surround speakers.
Compared to Bose, Klipsch offers more number of channels, subwoofers and Dolby Atmos. They are preferable for audiophiles who love distinct dialogues, acoustic surround and deep bass for movies and music.
Features of Klipsch home theater:
- Compared to Bose, Klipsch has more number of models from which you can choose.
- It supports Dolby Atmos with 2 height channel or 4 height channels.
- Some models have 2, 3, or 5 channels while others have 7.
- Some models come with one subwoofer and others have two subwoofer.
- Klipsch delivers horn loaded sound that consists of four principle:
- Klipsch has the Tractix Horn technology in all speakers that delivers sound with precision and clarity.
- They have one or two subwoofers that vary with models.
- The speakers and woofers have Copper spun IMG woofer delivers solid bass.
- Linear Travel Suspension tweeters with Kapton Suspension deal with high efficiency and enhance resolution.
- Klipsch uses Wide Dispersion Surround Technology (WDST) that delivers unique surround sound. These speakers are ideal in rooms with unsuitable placement options.
- The WDST can deliver astounding sound without the reflecting sound waves from walls
2-way speakers vs. 3-way speakers: Which gives you the tingles?
5 Facts to Compare Between Bose and Klipsch:
Fact 1 of 5: Sensitivity & Audio Format:
Sensitivity of a speaker refers to the loudness of it and serves the main purpose of buying one. We buy speakers or home theaters because we want loud, cinematic and wild audio.
Audio format refers to whether the speaker supports Dolby Atmos, Digital or others.
Sensitivity of Bose Speaker:
Bose speakers can get very loud; however the sensitivity rating is not widely advertised by the manufacturers. Bose feel the ratings are misinterpreted by the consumers.
Sensitivity of Klipsch Speaker:
Sensitivity of Klipsch is listed in the table below. Ideally 87-88dB is considered good and above 90dB is better. All sensitivity ratings in Klipsch is above 94 that indicates they can get very loud.
Audio Format of Bose:
Bose supports Dolby Digital, TrueHD or DTS. Dolby digital produces 5.1 channels that deliver ideal surround sound in the home theater. Dolby DTS is encoded at higher rate so some consider this to be better than Digital.
Dolby TrueHD is a lossless audio codec that is used in Blu-ray Discs or A/V receiver.
Audio Format of Klipsch:
Klipsch works with Dolby Atmos surround sound. It delivers audio in 3D plane of z axis along with x and y axes. It includes audio with heights to make the surround sound of movies or music more accurate.
Comparision Table: Bose vs. Klipsch sensitivity and audio format
|
Bose Home Theater |
Sensitivity (dB) |
Audio Format |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Not Specified |
Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby EX |
||
|
Not Specified |
Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby DTS |
||
|
Not Specified |
Dolby Digital, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby DTS |
Klipsch Sensitivity and Audio Format
|
Klipsch Home Theater |
Sensitivity (dB) |
Audio Format |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Satellite: 91dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter
Centre Channel: 94dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter. |
Dolby format |
||
|
Main channel: 98dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter.
RP-600M: 96dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter.
RP-504C: 97dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter. |
Dolby Atmos |
||
|
KL-650-THX: 97dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter.
KL-525-THX: 94dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter.
KS-525-THS: 96dB @ 2.83v / 1 meter. |
Any file format |
Fact 2 of 5: Channels and Subwoofer:
Channel is usually referred to the number of speakers. it can vary from 2 to 7 or more.
Channels of Bose:
Home theater channels are responsible for surround sound. All models of Bose consist of 5.1 surround sound that has 5 channels.
Channels of Klipsch:
Klipsch home theater models vary from 2 to 7 number of channels. Ideally for a proper cinematic surround sound the home theater should have at least 5 channels.
Subwoofer & Height Channels of Bose:
If the speaker has a number like 5.1, the ‘.1’ refers to the numbers of subwoofers. All models of Bose have one subwoofer and no height channels.
Subwoofer & Height Channels of Klipsch:
Klipsch home theater models have varying number of subwoofer and height channels. There are 2.0, 3.0, 5.1, 7.2.4 and other models. 7.2.4 means it has two subwoofers and four height channels or speakers.
Comparision Table: Bose vs Klipsch Channels and Subwoofer
|
Bose Home Theater |
Channels |
Subwoofer & Height |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
5.1: 5 channels |
one subwoofer, no height channel |
||
|
5.1: 5 channels |
one subwoofer, no height channel |
||
|
5.1: 5 channels |
one subwoofer, no height channel |
Klipsch Channels and Subwoofer
|
Klipsch Home Theater |
Channels |
Subwoofer & Height |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
5.1: 5 channels |
One Subwoofer,
No Height Channel |
||
|
7.2.4, 7 Channels |
2 Subwoofer,
4 Height Channels Or Speakers |
||
|
7.2: 7 Channels |
Two Subwoofer,
No Height Channel |
How to Use Subwoofer at Apartment Without Disturbing Neighbors
Fact 3 of 5: Drivers and Driver Material:
Drivers include tweeter, mid-range and woofer.
Speaker drivers are cones made from paper, plastic or metal. It moves back and forth, causes change in air pressure to deliver sound.
Drivers of Bose:
Bose Speaker have varying number of tweeter and woofer.
Drivers of Klipsch:
Klipsch has different sizes of tweeter and woofers like 1” tweeter or 6”, 8” woofer. Driver material can be made from paper, carbon, metal,etc.
Driver Material in Bose:
Bose driver material specifications are not widely known. The drivers might be made of anonized aluminium.
Driver Material in Klipsch:
Klipsch reveals detailed information and number of driver and material. The tweeter is usually made from Titanium TLS vented tweeter and the woofer is made from spun Cu IMG.
Comparision Table: Bose vs Klipsch Driver & Driver Material
|
Bose Home Theater |
Drivers |
Driver material |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Subwoofer: 2 5.1″ Woofer
Front, Center, Rear: 2 2.5″ Woofer |
Surround-Encoded Program Material |
||
|
center-channel speaker includes five drivers |
Coated in anodized aluminum |
||
|
Five drivers |
Coated in anodized aluminum |
Klipsch Driver & Driver Materia
|
Klipsch Home Theater |
Drivers |
Driver material |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Satellite: 0.75” tweeter and 3.5” woofer each.
centre channel: 0.75” tweeter and 2 3.5” woofer each. |
Aluminium diaphragm compression tweeter and copper IMG woofer |
||
|
Main channel: 1” tweeter, two 8” woofer.
Height channel/RP-600M: 1” tweeter, 6.5” woofer
RP-504C: 1” tweeter, 5.25” woofer
SPL-150: 15” woofer |
Main/height channel/Rp-600M/ RP-504C: Titanium
LTS Vented Tweeter with Hybrid Cross-Section Tractrix® Horn, Cerametallic Cone.
SPL-150: Long-Throw Cerametallic |
||
|
KL-625-THX:1” tweeter, two 6.5” woofer
KL-525-THX: 1” tweeter, two 5.25” woofer
KS-525-THX: 1” tweeter, two 5.25” woofer |
KL-625-THX/ KL-525-THX/ KS-525-THX: magnetically shielded &titanium dome compression driver |
Fact 4 of 5: Impedance and Crossover Frequency:
Nominal impedance is the average of lowest values of impedance and it changes with frequency.
Crossover frequency is the frequency at which the speaker audio disappears and the subwoofer comes in with LFE and bass notes.
Nominal Impedance of Bose:
If the sound system as AV receiver with EQ settings then, it will automatically tune in the crossover frequency with the speaker characteristics. Nominal impedance ranges from 4 to 8 ohms in Bose.
Nominal Impedance Of Klipsch:
Generally the nominal impedance of speakers is within 4-8 ohms. All models of Klipsch home theater fall within 8 ohms.
Crossover Frequency Of Bose:
Bose lacks these specifications so users can use the SVS Subwoofer Matching Tool. This will recommend subwoofer and the ideal crossover frequency.
Crossover frequency of Klipsch:
Klipsch has different crossover frequency based on models and different channels (front, center, height) and speakers.
Comparision Table: Bose vs Klipsch Impedance & Crossover Frequency
|
Bose Home Theater |
Nominal impedance (ohms) |
Crossover Frequency |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
8 |
Not specified/typical range 80Hz or more. |
||
|
4-8 |
Not specified/typical range 80Hz or more. |
||
|
4-8 |
Not specified/typical range 80Hz or more. |
Klipsch Impedance & Crossover Frequency
|
Klipsch Home Theater |
Nominal impedance (ohms) |
Crossover Frequency |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
8 |
Front/center/surround: 80 |
||
|
8 |
Main channel:1750
Height channel:2k
RP504C:500/1500
RP 600M:1500 |
||
|
8 |
KL-650-THX: 1400
KL-525-THX:1500
KS-525 THX:2100 |
Fact 5 of 5: Power Handling & Frequency:
Understanding of Power Handling:
The RMS or root mean square is the continuous power handling by the speaker or subwoofer. It is the amount of continuous power the amplifier gives as output.
Speker power handling is important thing to understant before buying a new speaker. First thing to understand is that speaker does not produce power- amplifier does. Secondly, power measure in watt. Thirdly, Power specification means how much power a speaker can handle safely before it will start to distort. Generelly,The output power should be within 75 and 200 watts per channel.
Whereas the peak power handling means the maximum power the speaker can use in short bursts.
Understanding of Frequency Response:
Frequency response is a range of audible frequencies the speaker can produce. From this range, user can realize the lowest frequency generated by the subwoofer. Generally the frequency output should be equal to input which is known as ‘Flat frequency response’.
Frequency response generally comes with amplitude tolerance, without it the frequency response can’t be translated accurately. If a speaker has frequency response of 30Hz-20 kHz +/- 3dB then this means within this frequency range the amplitude will not deviate more than +/- 3dB.
Power handling of Bose home theater:
Bose is generally secretive about their power specification and the max power or output power of Bose speaker will vary from model to model. We will try to give idea of Bose power handling in a comparison table afterward.[Power handling data of Bose is collected from user and speaker audiophile’s discussion on forum]
Power Handling of Klipsch Home Theater:
Klipsch Power handling vary from model to model. I will describe them in a coparison table shortly.
Frequency response of Bose home theater:
Frequency response deals with bass, mid and treble of the audio. With Bose, these specifications aren’t widely revealed.
[Frequency response data of Bose is collected from user and speaker audiophile’s discussion on forum]
Frequency Response of Klipsch Home Theater:
Frequency response of Klipsch is describes model by model in the table below.
Comparision Table: Bose vs Klipsch power & frequency
|
Bose Home Theater |
Power Handling |
Frequency Response |
Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
200 W |
280Hz-13.3kHz +/- 10.5dB |
||
|
Max. Power Consumption = 328 W |
30Hz-16kHz +/- 3dB |
||
|
Output power= 55W, 33W |
Not specified |
|
Klipsch home theater |
Power handling |
Frequency Response |
Buy On Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Satellite: 50W (200W)
Centre: 75W (300W) |
38-23,000 Hz (±3dB) |
||
|
RP8060P:160W/600W
RP600: 100W/400W |
RP8060P : 32-25kHz (+/- 3dB)
RP600: 45Hz – 25kHz (+/- 3dB)
|
||
|
KL-650-THX : 150W(600W)
KL-525 LCR/surround: 100W(400W) |
KL-650-THX : 48Hz-20kHz (+/- 3dB)
KL-525 LCR/surround: 80Hz-20kHz (+/- 3dB) |
When You Should Go For Bose Home Theater? If-
- You want the TV to sound like in movie theaters.
- You have high budget to dedicate in high-end home theaters.
- You want solid surround sound with 5 channels.
- You are satisfied with Dolby Digital compatibility.
Specification of Bose Home Theater:
Bose Acoustimass 10 Series V Home Theater:
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- Simple to use and easy setup
- Works with different audio receivers
- Satellite speakers are ideal for small spaces
- Delivers distortion-less sound
- Acoustimass module has built-in amplifier
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]
- Audiophiles may not like the sound quality.
- Hassle of organizing wires.
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
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Bose Lifestyle 650 Home Entertainment System:
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- Supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- 6 HDMI ports and supports 4K content.
- Center channel with drivers deliver dialog with clarity
- Speakers connect wirelessly.
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]
- Expensive
- Sometimes the remote might be unresponsive
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
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Bose Lifestyle 600 Home Entertainment System:
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- Sleek alumimiun cabinet
- SoundTouch supports wireless streaming.
- Wireless acoustimas module deliver powerful bass
- Supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Multi-room feature to connect with other speakers.
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]
- ADAPTiQ feature doesn’t always work accurately.
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
[rehub_affbtn btn_text=”Check Latest Price on Amazon” btn_url=”https://amzn.to/32jzJVo”]
When You Should Go For Klipsch Home Theater? If-
- You like the horn-loaded technology
- You want surround technology with more than 5 channels
- You want Dolby Atmos feature for audio from height channel.
- You are a music-geek and don’t want to compromise sound quality.
klipsch black reference theater pack 5.1 surround sound system:
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]
- Wireless subwoofer with built-in amplifier that delivers extra bass.
- Ideal for small to medium rooms.
- Woofers deal with midbass in movies and music.
- Good acoustic surround sound with 5 channels.
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]
- Doesn’t have Dolby Atmos.
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
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Klipsch 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos Home Theater System
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]
- Strong and powerful surround sound with 7 channels.
- Front-firign slot port that produces undistorted low frequencies.
- Class D amplifier delivers maximum efficiency of output.
- Vented tweeter minimizes unusual harmonics and focuses on enhanced audio
- 4 height channels or speakers that reflect sound of ceiling.
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]
- Large spaces need, it will be congested in small rooms.
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
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Klipsch Ultra THX 2:
[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]
- The audio is tonally balanced.
- Wide surround with 7 channels
- It delivers powerful bass with 2 subwoofers.
- High-power speakers focus on movies sounds like explosions, dialog and etc.
[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]
- The sub doesn’t have internal amplifier.
- Overpriced
[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]
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Frequently Ask Question[FAQ]:
Can I alter the bass and treble in Bose 600?
Yes, the Bose 600 has universal remote with which you can adjust the bass and treble. You can also go to the settings menu in SoundTouch app to do it.
What is the meaning of THX certification?
THX® certification is a standard that is approved by Lucasfilm Ltd. This deals with good quality audio by setting firm rules and regulations.
What is the purpose of ADAPTiQ audio calibration system?
The propritery ADAPTiQ audio calibration system of Bose adjusts the audio of Lifestyle home theater based on room size, objects and obstacles. So that tha audio is delivered with high-quality.
Final Verdict:
Bose is one of the leading brands of speakers in the market. It is famous of the noise-cancelling headphones along with home theaters. Bose Home theaters deliver traditional 5 channel surround sound with subwoofer.
Bose has different models, so people with different budget can choose easily. Klipsch is well-known for its precision in sound quality and hardware improvement. Music lovers like to explore different speakers of Klipsch like bookshelf speakers, soundbars, or floorstanding speakers.
If you are wandering Bose vs. Klipsch, which one has the better home theater? Then the answer lies on what you are looking for. While some support Dolby Atmos and multiple subwoofers, others go better with Dolby Digital. Both of them deliver supreme sound quality and are quite expensive.
Related Article:
How to setup a Home Theater in your apartment.
Shawkat Hafiz
I am very much enthusiastic about Home Automation and actively developing open-source software to extend its capabilities so this is going to all be biased by my own experiences.