KLH Model 5 Speaker Review with Comparisons

[@philthomas8351]

Best demo of KLH 5 speakers I have heard. Sound good from top to bottom. Thanks for post!

[@bencausey]

I ADORE my 5’s. I have learned that they are also great at off axis listening. You can stand up or sit off to the side, and enjoy as much as sitting down in the sweet spot. Amazing speakers. With PASS amp, they are excellent at low levels or loud. Paired with Pass X150.5 amp, Ayre K-5xeMP preamp, and Denefrips Pontus dac. (KEF Kube 12 sub). And yes, they must be placed out into the room - mine are almost 6ft out from front wall and I’m sitting 8 ft away. I like to sit on a bar stool with ear height about 1.5ft higher than tweeters. This gives you a massively deep image and sparkling center vocal.

[@neilcrowther2]

I've come to this a bit late but recently purchased the model 5's and agree with review and many of the comments, I have experienced fantastic results with a Cambridge CXA81 and SVS: SB-1000 Pro subwoofer. After considering many different speakers, I opted for the 5's due to the fact they can be placed close to a wall (and their looks of course). I find them better/less harsh in the treble in my room with the grills on and the acoustic balance switch set to the low position. So glad to hear they outclass the Lintons, which I also considered.

[@outthedoorlife]

Are you thinking of another Amp other than the CXA81 to drive your M5s? I’m searching for something affordable but fits the speaker well.. also a preamp and then a streamer.

[@peterlambros5568]

You mentioned Yamaha A-S1200 with the model 5. I have the A-S1200 with the JBL L82 classic and it sounds fantastic. Added a REL T/5x sub and it opened up the soundstage even more. The Model 5 is a speaker I’d love to compare the 82 with. Great review.

[@Branditsch]

You are one of the best hifi creator on yt.

[@ppmnox]

love the food analogy, my friend. also completely agree that sometimes you need a different "experience" for different "moments." time to give the KLH speakers a good listen. thanks for providing all of us with this review!

[@ianorigbo7617]

I've had these just over 5 months now and never heard better in my room. Give the KLH model 5 high current amps and these transform to speakers way beyond their price range. I'm driving them with a Gato Audio DIA-250S NPM. Your review of these speakers is accurate. ✌👌

[@carrion_man3700]

Adore my Model 5s. I'll never get rid of them.

[@jkfotonet]

Thanks for your review & a few YT vlogger out here I made the purchase of a pair of KLH5 Nordic noir. Unboxed today, utterly beautiful finish in black. I paired them with Rotel RA6000 amp 200w/ch, DT6000 CD, 3082 cable & Amphenol quad xlr connectors. It's noted the KLH5 only needs 8hrs to break-in but WPC-Por states Mugami 3082 speaker cables needs 175hrs to break-in but I'm already impressed how warm it sounded. Vocals are sublime, treble very well controlled & bass is not tight but felt good. Happy Days

[@Mark-rw3kw]

I purchased the original KLH Model 5's in 1973. Just to be clear, they were a 3-way acoustic suspension design just like the current model. One of the obvious differences is that the original had two mid-range drives side-by-side instead of just one (although probably not significant from a sound perspective). Although the original Model 5 sounded quite good for its time, I have no doubt that the current one sounds even better.

[@edjackson4389]

I have several vintage speakers with double mids, and I actually prefer them. As long as their output is matched to the rest of the speaker I personally think they are superior. Especially the old Polks

[@affalindk8004]

I've been waiting for this from you. Thank you so much. Great help. Now i'm just waiting for my dealer to get them in.

[@armanddimeo6575]

KLHs are the clear winner in my opinion. Vocals are much more natural and less harsh compared to the JBLs. The JBLs are fatiguing after just a few seconds. (This is my experience with JBL speakers in general.) And you save about a thousand dollars if you buy the KLHs.

[@El_white_horse]

the best speaker I have ever had and especially for the price .

[@aydinaktas3974]

Which one should I choose KLH Model 5, Wharfadele Linton 85 or JBL l100 ?

[@albertmanzo9510]

Fantastic presentation on both these two champion speakers....! Much appreciated !!cheers!

[@idkisaidit]

Been so stuck between these , the kef r3’s and the lintons. This might push me over the edge to get the 5’s. I love the look too.

[@Tharbamar]

I would never think twice about it Model 5 over other two you mentioned.

[@idkisaidit]

@@Tharbamar thank you!

[@idkisaidit]

@@Tharbamar thank you!

[@robertholcomb5450]

I'm actually in the middle of deciding between those three myself !Did you end up settling on one?

[@dtracy03ss]

I own Both Speakers, the JBL is Still my Pick, but for the Money the KLH 5 is the Sound Deal of a lifetime! Still the L100 Classic 75 are Better Sounding at the Low end and more Soundstage! These are Both Excellent Speakers All Day Long!

[@kyotodoc1892]

My M5’s are driven either by my Anthem STR integrated or by my Willsenton R8. The Anthem is a 200W high current amp that is very neutral with a refined, HiFi sound that is very revealing of the quality of the recording on the M5’s. I like this combo with electronic music, smooth jazz, rock and orchestral. The M5’s are not as good with very complex orchestral pieces as there is some slight congestion on very dynamic pieces but everything else is airy, detailed and musical with tight bass. Then there is the R8… and wow! What synergy with this pairing! Jazz especially is like being in a small jazz club with the band 10:ft in front of you. Smooth, round, full sound with rich powerful bass that is visceral. If you can demo the M5’s with the R8 I guarantee you will be amazed how good it sounds. In short, I like both amps with the M5 for different music genres and moods.

[@cdbeen123]

I have same set up , Model 5's and Willsenton R8 , love it , do you prefer UL mode or Triode ?

[@clarice1001nights]

I use a Moon i-3 integrated which does a lovely job with the M5s. I can well imagine that with a great tube amp, they might be even more lifelike. When introduced they were 2K rather than 2.5K per pair. Still the normal JBL 100 Classics are not the JBL 100 75th Anniversary version. The JBL is less fast and frankly sounds like what it is: a modified guitar amp. The big sound is ok fo rock and metal but seems somewhat not live. My CD-1 from Moon has a DAC within it but I have been thinking that either a Ladder Schumann or the R26 from Gustard would bring in information that would complement the M5s. I have a tube amp in the cellar I am thinking of building. What would make sense to you?

[@michaelwright1602]

Running my Model 5's on a Denafrips system, Iris DDC, Ares II, Hades preamp and Thallo amplifier, Node to Iris, Iris to Ares II via coax. Oppo BDP-83 as a SACD/CD transport to the GeerFab digital breakout box to Ares II via coax. Two SVS SB3000 dialed in subs. The zero gain Hades, pure Class A bliss. Just a natural engaging sound, I have never enjoyed listening to music like this since the 1970's. Mine are staying.

[@StefanUrkel]

I tried the Model 5 with Ares II, powered by some Purifi-based class D monoblocks and I felt it was a very good pairing. Just curious, have you used other preamps and amps other than Denafrips? Does Iris bring something additional & worthwhile to the table with Ares II? Lastly, what do you notice adding the 2 SVS subs to the equation vs no subs? Does the high and mid range open up more, widening soundstage, as is sometimes said to happen when you offload lower frequencies to the sub?

[@BillyKueekSG]

I’m a headphone user with a small collection, several dacs and amps and am recently thinking of getting a pair of speakers. Unfortunately, I cannot get the KLH M5 here. Since I’m new to this, please advise me on what other equipments I’ll need, I thought just a pair of speakers and an amp since I have dacs, will stream or play my music collection from Mac

[@michaelwright1602]

@@BillyKueekSG No clue where you are, or your budget, there is a lot of fine gear out there no matter where you are, that you should not have to break the bank to get some incredible sound. If you have a used market where you are, I would start there with the used sound equipment and speakers. My Model 5's were used, demo units. No issues with them, look and sound like new. Saved roughly $700!

[@michaelwright1602]

@@StefanUrkel I don't know how I missed your post... Everything I have thrown at the 5's has sounded good. The DAC is key in my system, and to my hearing. I just broke out my old Emotiva XPA 2 and it sounds fantastic with the Denafrips Hades and the Schiit Freya S. When I made that original post, I had the Ares II, I have since upgraded to the Venus II 12th, and that made a substantial difference in SQ. With the Ares II the Freya S sounds a bit more pronounced, and very good. This has to be one of the most underrated and below the radar preamps out there. For a bit richer sound, the Hades is right in that sweet spot with the Ares. I also have a class D XTZ Edge A2-400 amplifier, paired with the Hades it is very non class D sounding. With the Freya S, you can hear a bit of that dryness. But overall, it is still a fantastic amplifier. I guess it all boils down to what you like, the 5's so far, have not been an issue, they play well with everything as long as the source material is solid and well produced. You get what you put into them.

[@jazzlouise]

One of the best sound demos for this speaker. I finally go a feel for their sound! The JBL's sound a bit recessed and not as defined.

[@Staybrown11]

I have the model 5 with a Yamaha AS2200. The match here is magic but only when you match it with the right DAC. The internal MC phono pre is very good at average listening levels but bass is a bit subdued. I went from a Denafrips Ares 2 (punchy bass, but not deep or detailed) to a Holo Audio Spring KTE 3 and that completely transformed my experience. Bass is detailed and deep. You can hear bass details between different bands. When I’m not home I think about maybe “upgrading” my Yamaha to a Macintosh 8900, but when I get home and listen to my music I forget all about that noise and I just keep getting surprised and love my system. This is endgame for me…unless I can get a Dynaudio Heritage Special 😂😂😂😂🤩💎💎💎💎💎💎💎 great review!

[@ΠαναγιώτηςΠαναγιώτου-μ1ψ]

your amplifier is terrific ,pal !!!!

[@toddstyles7194]

I run my KLH MODEL 5 with a Line Magnetic 805ia with 1200.00 in tube upgrades. I'm telling you it is shocking how good these speakers sound. I mean jaw hits the floor good. They are hands down better than the JBL. I had them side by side. Timbre, tone, micro dynamics character of the sound is just so freaking good They will compete with 10,000.00 speakers.

[@Tharbamar]

Thanks for sharing.

[@andrewpipitone1572]

Just started in my quest to find a good stereo system.This is my first listening to your review and I want to hear a few more before subscribing : -) so i'm reviewing the reviewer lol ;- )

[@stylefactory4833]

I Have Model5 with Unison Research Unico Due this combination is wonderful and natural

[@popkub9768]

I like your review so much I only want to watch SMSL da-9 but now I watch like 10 of your video in one days!

[@Tharbamar]

Thank you 🙏

[@Justin-bz1dp]

​@@Tharbamar I have klh good

[@jeffstuart6420]

Another well done and comprehensive review. The best review of these speakers I have come across. Thank you. Keep up the great work..

[@classicrock7890]

Must say the JBL sound the more easy on the ear in the video. The KLH5 seem more mid range centric and a bit pinched in sound with vocals. Maybe recording dependent .

[@19761999]

Excellent review! The KLH's sounded better to me.

[@nico3641]

Thank you for the audio comparison

[@BillyKueekSG]

I am thinking of making some space in my study room to have a pair of speakers but this is not available in my country. Amazon doesn’t deliver here

[@aimeeanglin2025]

I listened to these recently in a showroom and thought they were a bit screechy. I would have probably played them lower and maybe I could have messed with the knob on the back? The Linton's weren't detailed enough....then I listened to the Audel Magika Mk2's....blown away!

[@autonomous-hm5yf]

My reservation about these is the tweeter, I think they would be an interesting comparison for the super linton at £500 cheaper.

[@alvinnirenberg9167]

I've had the KLH 5s for over a year now and love them. I had to buy new speakers to replace some Snell towers that were damaged in a flood. I had a limit of up to $10,000 Canadian Dollars a pair and chose these at a fraction of that price . They are that enjoyable. When I got them home I was underwhelmed but persevered. The break in was very long, they came around after about 200 hours of play but truly needed 500 hours to settle in. I currently drive them with either 40 watt tube monoblock amps from Quicksilver or an older Forte Class A 50wpc solid state power amp(Nelson Pass design). Both amps drive the KLHs to high volume levels in my 15' x 15' room and both sound great, but different. Both power amps driven by a Conrad Johnson tube preamp. Highly recommend these speakers but be patient with break in before you judge them.

[@michaelwright1602]

I am looking at the CSS Critons... I think they would be the best choice in my setup to replace the 5's. And they cost less then the 5's...

[@dtracy03ss]

​@michaelwright1602 I hope you are able to Audition the KLH 5s because I really believe there are not any Speakers that I have listened to that for the Price That will Equal them, The KLH for the Money almost Rule that Price Point.

[@toddstyles7194]

Just out of curiosity. Why didn't you like the Topping D90se with The Model 5? I have the model 5's on the way and that is the DAC I have 😢 I think it's sounds great. Nice review 👍

[@Tharbamar]

Your system may be different than mine, only reason I didn't like them together was it gets a little too transparent in my set up, Thanks

[@toddstyles7194]

Ok thanks 👍

[@franciscoramoncleriguesrov7187]

I’m dude in linton 85 and this model five klh.. lovint

[@allenwilliams8962]

?

[@r2d3vadar92]

Dear Tharbamar, I love your review and I "looked" "heard" almost purchase the KLH 5 but did not. If you Can, Please Explain to me why My 2007 JBL 4 way full range Expert Series 80 towers sounded more "neutral" and more "musical" than the KLH 5 that cost 4x more than what I paid for my speakers 17 yrs ago? Thank you. I am trying to understand what I need to look at for better speaker than what I have?

[@Tharbamar]

Hi, as always sound is subjective and depends on paring components, please compare sensitivity of the speakers first before you listen to them and make sure to use with good amplifier, acoustics suspension design needs more of power supply energy than rated watts in general to bring the best out from it, thanks

[@r2d3vadar92]

@@Tharbamar Thank you Tharbamar!

[@34332]

I found the JBL crushing the Model5 at the start of the track, wow that bass! However, let down a bit by a nasaly voice at times. KLH sounds lean and clean, but its mid/top-end feels too sharp. I guess this type of music doesn't suit the KLH maybe? I'm aware this may be the recording, gear, etc, but although the JBL is supposed to be the more forward speaker, it sounds more easy and natural to me. This all ofcourse, imo. Thank you for shedding a light on the KLH and samples.

[@Tharbamar]

JBL L100c75 is very hard to record accurately.

[@andrehb]

I also found the highs a bit sharp at the beginning of the KLH demo, but is that a reflection of the KLH or my crappy laptop speakers/dac? Same with (my) perceived muddiness of the JBL low end ... so it's tough call to make. That said, thanks @Tharbamar for interesting discussion

[@rosewoodsteel6656]

I didn't like the singer's voice.

[@richardsaila8073]

It's funny. In every sound comparison over my Bluetooth ANCs the KHL Fives win. What come nearest are the PSB Passif 50 and then the Mission 770. Like in this case: The JBL in comparison to the KHL 5 sound veiled and dull.

[@erikjohansson1488]

I've owned it for a short time glad I could return it as I know the dealer . If like reggae and a little boogey don't buy these better to go with JBL 4312g. Overall god review as always.

[@johnsimmons5056]

Between the JBL L100 and the KLH, which sounds better at low volume listening ?? Great review.

[@Tharbamar]

JBL L100c75 is.

[@timparker9174]

great review. Subscribed. Are you thinking about upgrading the video to 4K? Cheers!

[@clarice1001nights]

Paired with my Wiim pro Streamer, the Smsl SU-1, my older Simaudio Moon I-3 and my system kicks.

[@clarice1001nights]

I upgraded shortly after the Gustard Audalytics AH90 Streamer, Headphone DAC. It is a great system and fit my budget perfectly.

[@HotSause]

Oh, noticed you list the Viborg VS903 spker cable. Did I miss your review on them? Thanks for exploring for us.

[@Tharbamar]

Oh it was an error, I’m only using Viborg silver RCA cables, thanks

[@hothousebebop6627]

I power my Model 5's with a refurbished and Modded Hafler DH-500 (about 270wpc) and Tube preamp, and I could not be Happier.

[@toddstyles7194]

Great review 👍

[@UU-ww6hc]

KLH is more tight and forward to compare to the JBL that sits a bit back off and roomy throughout my old Altec Lansing 4221 connected to my Desktop. A test with Jazz, Opera, Electro and Mambo tunes will define the outcome for sure.

[@stuharrison1]

Great review with sound comparison. I have Buchardt s400 mk2, do you think the Model 5 is a better sound for emotional connection, if you’ve heard the s400 of course. Thanks

[@stefanomicolucci3828]

do you have a video about the diffuser behind you?

[@charlesclifton1006]

Thinking about pairing these with a Hegel H120. I like mid to low volume and my taste is from jazz/fusion to soft rock and, classical. Comments welcomed.

[@Tharbamar]

It should work well together with your amplifier.

[@vintageprinciples]

I have them with the Hegel H95. Maybe the best amp I tried on them overall. Even tube ones. Because Hegel controls bass so well you get extra boost on that end with this combo and the sealed cabinet design plays into it nicely. Highly recommended combo

[@CinemaDemocratica]

How are these at low to very low volumes? I listen to jazz piano trios and quartets, a lot of it off-axis, in a poured-concrete room.

[@RanTausi]

KLH better then the JBL by far. Great comparison 👍👍👍

[@hoobsgroove]

no

[@MissPalorte]

I wish you made such a review of the musician Knight 1 speakers instead of sounding like a troll . Overall I really enjoy your reviews and your cable making videos. Would like to see you treat all products with the same respect and professionalism

[@Tharbamar]

I’m not trolling, it just pure love from my personal taste and actual quality of the speakers.

[@gordthor5351]

For the price of the JBLs they should have book matched veneers. Kef even matches the veneers on top, bottom and back with the R series.

[@GentielioGaming]

I listened to them through my tv. I know, not the way to go. but the jbl are hands down the best for live audio. The klh is to polite... but still nice if you don't have the feel for a party.

[@BillyBombastic]

I appreciate the effort and time that goes into these video I really do. I really do.. I have a child. But please compare and contrast speakers in the same price bracket. Call me old school.

[@markd4292]

Nice review. So is it the KLH or the Aperion Verus III Grand towers?

[@daudiophile]

Way bigger soundstage w KLH glad im holding off JBL thx to this demo! Listen w cans and you’ll notice straight Away!

[@Djk0t]

At minute 10.28 you say about the soundstage, but not clear about which speaker you refer to. In any case in terms to soundstage which of the three L100/ L82/ KLH is the best width and depth wise ?

[@HanifBarnwell]

Ugh you compared the Linton Heritage to the KEF LS50, X amount of years ago!!, perhaps you get a loaner pair to compare the KLH & JBL?

[@Anth4044]

Just bought me my model 5s and man I love them I'm using vintage Sansui 9090db and Sansui G-8000 Streaming with my ifi Blue Zen, I'm sure in time I will update my equipment but for now I'm loving what I Have 👍🙂Any advice on what I should pair them with? Thanks

[@nico3641]

Do you still have the Linton‘s and would you ever compare them to the KLH?

[@Tharbamar]

Not in the same class as I mentioned in this video.

[@davidtapogna1711]

Could you please tell me about the diffusion panels in your room. Are they DIY ? They look to be some sort of plastic tiles. I'd like to find something like that. Thanks

[@Tharbamar]

You can get them on Amazon, name is Art 3D if I remember correctly.

[@davidtapogna1711]

@@Tharbamar thanks

[@giangvu7902]

From the sound clip, I prefer the KLH speakers.

[@RafaelGrigorian]

Great review! My system consists of Dynaudio Special 40’s paired with Lyngdorf TDaI1120 and REL T7X sub, will swapping Special 40’s with Model 5 consider a significant upgrade?

[@Tharbamar]

Model 5 sound signature is more engaging and enjoyable to listen for me personally, while Special 40 will have a bit more resolution, thanks

[@Leo-yn5fx]

Are these speakers good for every genre like the unfi reference?

[@carlsitler9071]

Interesting how I hear the box resonance less with the ported box but the bass is less tight. They are both winners and I would be happy with either. I have two pair of speakers that are 3-way with 15" woofers. One is ported (front) and one is not. I prefer the ported (Marantz SP1515).

[@sting64az]

I agree with you but in a do or die decision I would prefer the JBL as it has more of natural sound. I done a lot of outdoor concerts rigging hanging JBL arrays and listening to my JBL at home. KHL done a good job on these.

[@audiojunior174]

thank you very much for the review, is there any possibility that you can give us the review of the MONITOR AUDIO SILVER 100 7G?!? Anyway, thank you very much for your effort to help with your analyses!

[@eddieeagle9441]

Moin! Danke für die tollen Reviews! Bitte testen Sie Die "Phonar Veritas M4.2 Next". Ich besitze die M4 (old Modell). Beste Grüße Andreas

[@REX4340]

Great comparison! How did you record it?

[@vladcarpenco8513]

Thank you for the great review and comparison! I currently own KLH Model 5 and very happy pairing it with Denon PMA 2500 NE. I am wondering if you had a chance to test old Yahama NS1000x speakers. How these Yamaha speakers can be compared to KLH Model 5? Are Yamaha NS1000x a higher level speakers and provide much more refined sound overall?

[@vladcarpenco8513]

I finally have a chance to compare KLH Model 5 with Yamaha NS1000x. I was doubtful about these older Yamaha NS1000x despite of many recommendations to get them in the first place. I have to admit Yamaha NS1000x is a totally on another level and much higher level of musicality. Unfortunately, KLH Model 5 cannot be even be compared with this piece of art. I just wanted to share for anyone may be interested.

[@Luca84v]

Tharbamar, do you still have the KLH Model 5 for you? Do you find after so many months still very good?

[@Tharbamar]

I don’t have Morel 5 anymore but I had until recently and it’s been great experience, thanks

[@momonone]

keep it bro.. sounds amazing! =)

[@ionutplesea5693]

Hi Tharbamar, so which one you prefer sound wise, the Klh 5 or the Musician Knight 1? Thanks

[@Tharbamar]

I enjoy both of them, thanks

[@yttean98]

wow, room measurements: mono mode starts rolling off starts at 5Khz and stereo at 1Khz, are sure your measurements are right/accurate?

[@progrock3603]

I have the Polk r200. How much of an upgrade would the musician knight 1 be? Thanks.

[@StefanUrkel]

@Tharbamar how do KLH Model 5 compare to these 2 speakers?: KEF LS50/Meta & Buchardt S400/mk2?

[@bencausey]

I recently had both the mk2’s and 5’s to compare in my home. The KLH were just simply better in almost every respect. And I tried every position to get the mk 2’s to sound better. They were not as revealing and open sounding as the 5’s. They were also not as balanced across the frequency range. You can play ANY music including solo piano over the 5’s and it has zero “peaky” frequencies…nothing sticks out. I sent the mk2’s back. LOVE the 5’s.

[@StefanUrkel]

@@bencausey Thanks for sharing! Is there anything you have auditioned that you would say is even better than the KLH Model 5?

[@RigVader]

@@StefanUrkel I had both (Well mk1) and kept the Buchardt. Just to add some color 😊 Used speakers are better (for the money). My top speaker is still the B&W Nautilus 805, bought used for very little money. Very demanding of your amplification though.

[@fetaface1203]

@@bencauseywhich amp are you running them with?

[@bpalpha]

I always hear about the fives and not their Kendall series.

[@alexman4568]

JBL definitely wins. Especially in the low frequency range. Thanks to the author for the work done.

[@Fluxliner]

How would you compare model 5 to Polk reserve sound signature?

[@jfandr147]

Great Review! Just thought to throw my hat in the ring and share my opinion: I did not have a good experience with the Model 5's. They are very revealing and detailed which was excellent, however this speaker was very unforgiving for recordings that were not so high quality, making them sound very harsh. Also you did mention Billie Eilish as being good also more modern Music like Taylor Swift, Maroon 5, etc. In my case those genres did not sound good at all, anything with heavy bass did not sound good for me. Also speaker placement with these is extremely important and affects the sound quite a bit (more so than other speakers). I paired them with the Denafrips Pontus II, Hades Pre-Amp and Thalo Amplifier. Maybe that was the reason but can't be sure. The KEF R3 on the other hand, paired with a subwoofer like the SVS SB-3000 or similar, was night and day difference. Much better in every regard, tolerant of all music genres and music quality, to be fair, it was not as detailed on rop as the Model 5s, but that was pretty much it. Hopefully this helps anybody looking for a good system. My advice, try them out first, buy them from a place that has a generous return policy in case you don't like them.

[@ianorigbo7617]

These need tons of run in. I almost return mine, after about 3weeks of hard play they really came together. They're actually the opposite of forward sounding. However every system can only be judged with matching components. ✌

[@RigVader]

@@ianorigbo7617 This is very interesting to me! I had these speakers and did not get on with them, got them exchanged for a new pair (due to small cosmetic defect) that are still in the box and can be resold at a premium or unpacked (my wife loves the look of them) and instantly loose resale value 😃 This is what I heard (and mostly disliked): * Presence area overly accentuated (overly textured and gritty), making not so stellar movie/tv voices very annoying * Slender and uptight bass (like a control freak) * One of the drivers calling attention to itself, letting you know it’s made of metal and makes you localize the speakers 100% (no disapearing act here) * Large Wall of Sound type soundstage, with diffuse imaging (no pinpointe holographic imaging here) I could only listen low, which could have limited break in. Would love to hear your further thoughts 🤟🏼 (P.S. after having them for a while, we watched the new Cruella movie, which has a lot of 60 and 70 music and I remember thinking that they really did shine there)

[@ianorigbo7617]

@@RigVader Hello, You never mentioned what amp your using to drive the 5s, unless I missed it. These speakers take a while to run in. When fully run in the 5s are smooth from top to bottom. Give them a good quality amp and the 5s will give you such, but use bad quality electronics any where along the line and you would hear it even though smooth.. but still revealing. Don't sell them... Just give them good amplification and they will sing. Hope that helps. Clue... Can hardly fine them on second hand market.

[@RigVader]

@@ianorigbo7617 Thanks for the reply and really good point on the amplification 🙂 I ran them with Exposure 2510, Nad M3 and finally with my current the Rega Aethos (outstanding amp that really did wonders for both my Buchardt S400 and B&W 805n).. The importer mentioned they were likely to sing with Mac or Sugden (funny he importes both brands 😁), but I am so happy with what the Aethos did for my other speakers, that I’m partial to picking the speaker around the amp (plus I can’t afford to throw money another amp I the same class atm). Choices choices 🧐 Edit: I listen at low’ish volumes exclusively and that is of course a big factor. I ran M5’s with a single Rel T/7i, now replaced with dual Rel T/9x

[@Ryder-888]

@@ianorigbo7617 ​what kind of amp would you recommend for the model 5’s?

[@Koba123]

Hello, I’m cross shopping between the KLH Model 5 and the CSS Audio 1TDX. Is the Model 5 worth the extra cost? Thanks.

[@Tharbamar]

If you like absolute refinement go with Model Five, 1TDX for more immediacy. Thanks

[@alexcheong4067]

How is this compared with Klipsch heresy ....are they in the same class

[@Tharbamar]

Heresy will sound brighter, Model 5 is in the different level of refinement.

[@saviosiddharth]

Klh model 5 are Wharfedale linton heritage which is good for pioneer sa8800 amplifier...

[@ronbas2541]

Hi, quick question I have a marantz 2226, will there be problem driving these speakers, it says miminum amplifier is 20-200 watts, thanks for your help

[@Tharbamar]

@Ron Bas, Hi It is very good receiver but it may not be powerful enough to control and brings the best bass quality out of Model 5, saying that if you love sweet and relaxing sound it would pair nicely.

[@davidwilson8912]

Excellent review

[@ganck1147]

Based on the musical sample, KLH sounded better to me. JBL mid too forward making it squawky & shouty. Need to trim the midrange on the Lpad a little.

[@ManuelMedellin.]

Please review Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G, good strong Opponent for KLH Model 5 ✌

[@tomons8059]

Hi Mr Tharbamar. Can I request that you review the Paradigm speakers and compare them to speakers within their price bracket? I thibk they look good but I don't know their performance compared to speakers in their price range and if they're worth buying. I'm referring to the Premier 100B & 200B. Thank you in advance.

[@Tharbamar]

I will when I have chance, thanks

[@gasolin75]

Theers somethin g i really don't like about the bass from the jbl 100, it's not precise and sounds like it's not controlled good enough

[@RigVader]

Model 5 has the most controlled and precise bass that I have experienced, you might like them.

[@hoobsgroove]

strange a lot of cancellation at the higher frequencies what you shouldn't really be getting above 700 Hz some imbalance in the mid-range tweeter or both, it looks like one driver might be out of phase more common than you think, when both speakers are driven. you can adjust this with the chart to sort out comb effect. firstly measure the voltage at the speaker the amplifier might be low on 1channel at certain volume measure it at 88db if that's correct then you need to move one speak in or out a mm at a time, should be able to get that measurement to level off.

[@Tharbamar]

Is your comment based on the stereo IRR? That’s how it should be from 10ft away.

[@hoobsgroove]

@@Tharbamar my comment was based on the graph you show the for both! speakers! I don't know how you took the measurements. did you try measuring both speakers separately? and they came out the same.

[@timparker9174]

There was glitch 4K works great! Cheers

[@aydinaktas3974]

Bought a KLH Model 5 speaker, do I need a tube or transistor integrated amplifier, which one would you recommend ?

[@Tharbamar]

Hi it’s tough for me to do the recommendation without the price range.

[@aydinaktas3974]

@@Tharbamar up to 4k $

[@Tharbamar]

I would say start with Marantz Model 30 for power and refinement, Yamaha AS1200 for neutral and clean power, but this amp will out musical both of them if you like tube sound, kzbin.info/www/bejne/op_dgIyEnM6Cgtk

[@aydinaktas3974]

@@Tharbamar thank you very much👍

[@DougMen1]

The KLH sounds much better to me. The vocals on the JBL are more forward and in your face, very harsh and shrill, and the dobro guitar is more recessed and much less natural and clear sounding than on the KLH, and the bass on the KLH is much better too, where it's very boomy and sloppy on the JBL. Compared to the other vintage looking 3 way reboot, the Wharfedale Linton, I like the KLH much more than it too.

[@clarice1001nights]

Like your ears, and you picked up on the tone of the instruments just like I do.

[@howard5992]

@Tharbamar - how would you say the KLH and the JBL compare to the CSS 2TD-X ?

[@Tharbamar]

JBL L100c75 is most dynamic of three and easiest to drive with big sound stage, CSS 2TDX offers deepest bass response and refined sound quality, KLH M5 is one of the most engaging speaker to enjoy with great balance.

[@ΠαναγιώτηςΠαναγιώτου-μ1ψ]

How about a comparison of ΚLH model 5 ,JBL L 100 and Elipson heritage xls 15 ?

[@robertgruber982]

Wondering about other suggestions for amplifiers for these speakers. Currently driving with an XTZ-A2 300 power amp but I'm looking for an integrated in the $2-3000 range that will drive these well. I've heard that Yamaha AS 1200 can be a little lean in the bass and mids.

[@michaelwright1602]

I have the XTZ A2-400, I replaced with the Denafrips Thallo and Hades preamp. The sound is just incredible, the XTZ is in a box under a bed. See Jay's Hades Thallo review. He used the Model 5's and the Pontus II or Venus DAC, he nailed it.

[@meutubedou]

Robert,,, I like my Unison Research UNICO Primo which now sells for $2500 but there’s a guy on eBAY selling one “as new” (6months old) at $1,600.00 Buy It Now or bidding which starts at $1200.00👍 A steal at that price! Worth every dollar for an Audiophile “purist piece”.. It’ll turn any speaker you have and seldom does it need to go past the 4 mark on volume.. I’ve used it on over 12 different pairs so far.. You can hear it on my channel👍 Of course Put your headphones on to avoid my room reflections✅ or cast to your big screens speakers or thru your own amp/DAC.. Best2You..

[@sridipsarkar4568]

Quick question guys , need your help and suggestion here - I’m interested to switch to the model 5’s I have a Cambridge AXR 100 integrated amp - 100 watts in to 8 ohm - still would consider the amp an entry level- can they drive the Model 5’s ??

[@Tharbamar]

It’ll be totally fine for normal loudness level.

[@ManuelMedellin.]

L100 more Attack, Bass and Aggressive, bad for small to medium sized rooms, Model 5 more Balanced, Vocals sound better cut out, Model 5 is more pleasant and I think a more audiophile speaker, Model 5 fit in medium sized rooms, maybe still too much in small rooms.

[@kellyrossman6032]

Just stopped to say . While owning the klh model 5 I’ve since purchased the Cornwall iv in walnut . Night and day difference . Is use the klh model 5s in a smaller setup . They do sound nice but those cornwalls are on another level

[@wvjon75]

Funny you mention that. I have CWIVs and was wondering how I'd like the KLH5s. I auditioned the regular JBL L100s at home next to CWs last year and they were pretty good. The Cornwalls ultimately won out for me with their bigger soundstage and better instrument separation. JBLs had a nice punchy bass but the Cornwalls are more cohesive and bigger sounding. The only thing I wish Klipsch did was to put mid and tweeter level attenuators on their speakers.

[@jamscheng5378]

It is better than whartafale 85th linton in terms of vocals and warmth？🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@Tharbamar]

More accurate natural sound, bass is tighter but not as warm in 85th Linton, thanks