Klipsch The Fives - 1 Year Long Term Review

[@RobertCharlesworth-y2t]

I've had my Fives for 6 months now and really love them. I also added a 12 inch Klipsch subwoofer although they were pretty good in bass by themselves. I really appreciate your honest review, thank you.

[@quandt4847]

Mar. 2024 These issues have been fixed. You need the latest update from Klipsch support. My unit now never glitches. Connect App hit Settings" > "Product Information". System Version should be one of the following: Fives: Either 6.1.3 or 7.0.10, (depends on hardware version - they are functionally identical) OR Fives McLaren: 8.0.8

[@joeldeal9878]

I've also had the problem of the speakers powering off as well as a random change from TV to Bluetooth. The latest update to the app has helped (after many many attempts to actually get the update to load) ... I also changed out my hdmi-arc cord and so far... so good. Thanks for the episode... it was spot on!

[@mysmarterhome]

Unfortunately, nothing has helped me - I tried everything.

[@aaronfrench8322]

Great review! It’s nice seeing a real world review on these other than the regular pro reviewers. They do great too, but we need another perspective from time to time. I’ve got them and luckily had great luck with them and love the sound of them, but I’m afraid of doing the firmware update myself becive heard horror stories of them getting stuck in a loop during it and then knocking out essentially. But love ‘em still!

[@mysmarterhome]

Thanks! Yeah, when watching reviews by pros I often miss those hands-on real-life details. This is exactly what I tried to focus on in this review and will continue doing in future reviews.

[@austinnguyen9107]

I just got them a couple days ago and was able to do the firmware update. The firmware update is a MAJOR upgrade to the speakers. I have a subwoofer connected as well and it was originally playing so low but after the firmware update it works as expected now. Also being able to adjust the eq in the app and turn off dynamic bass makes a big difference It's a little annoying as you need a 2.0 usb specifically to do the first part of the update and then you can do the 2nd part thru the app.

[@bradhuskers]

​@mysmarterhome Haven't you paired these with the sub woofer yet? It's LIGHT YEARS BETTER, because they are meant to be paired with the sub.

[@bradhuskers]

​@@austinnguyen9107 Haven't you paired them with the sub woofer? They are light years better when paired with the sub woofer. Aren't you aware of this?

[@austinnguyen9107]

@@bradhuskers yea I did, I think it's good combo

[@swimbait1]

I bought the fives a year ago. I do not have them connected to my television or turn table and mostly play music through them via Bluetooth. I found the base to be a little weak so I added an Elac Sub 1010. I have never once had them shut down for any reason. I love the knobs on the top and find them very stylish and useful. The sound is great and will fill even a large room despite their size. Excellent speakers.

[@mysmarterhome]

Agree! If the user does not need HDMI or Bluetooth, then these are excellent!

[@bradhuskers]

​@@mysmarterhome It's the pairing to a sub woofer that makes these GAME CHANGERS! by themselves, they are good. When paired with the sub woofer, they become LIGHT YEARS BETTER.

[@yamahaSHO]

I just recently got an "open box' set of these, taking a chance after seeing some of the issues people have had with these. They were brand new and looked it and I believe I know what happened... When I pulled them out of the box and hooked them up, I got no sound. Because of all the research I did on these, I went straight to updating via USB. As soon as I pulled the USB and plugged my HDMI in, I got sound! I then went to the app and tried to do the 2nd step of updating, but it said it was already done. I suspect the person that bought these originally did the update via the app and not USB and all the sound quit working, then returned them. Funny enough, these were also listed as "fully tested"... Hard to believe when they don't work out of the box. Either way, I got a brand new set for $350. I dig these for what they are, especially with the sub I already had.

[@ANDRE1mang]

Owned the Klipsch the Fives for a year and a half now. It's a versatile speaker! I used it at first just as desktop speakers for my Macbook and for listening to music using the AUX cord or bluetooth. It's been great. I did buy a subwoofer a while ago but I had to turn the subwoofer on separately each time. That was the annoying part for me. For watching movies or TV - i only did it for a little bit...they sounded okay and dialogue was still easy to to hear. I am thankful for your review and input. Thank you for sharing with us!!

[@diamondbracelette]

I have two pairs. One in desktop office setup. Another for home TV. The shutdown issue (#1) has happened a few times on the TV but reconnects easily. Hasn't happened on desktop. Good review.

[@mysmarterhome]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@dmnk8]

I have the same setup and Issue 1 happens to me aswell. It is so frustrating, I thought it was something my TV aswell but was not able to test it on another. They need to figure something out for it. Also great first video, subscribed.

[@mysmarterhome]

In a way I'm glad to hear that I'm not alone. I hope Klipsch will fix this!

[@onepurpose315]

Yep have the same issue, luckily they are in a room we don’t use often but it sucks

[@mysmarterhome]

@@onepurpose315 Hey! You mean the issue where the Fives will just randomly shut down?

[@onepurpose315]

@@mysmarterhome I mean it not cycling on when the television is powered on

[@edmundgil6008]

This was great! Loved your format; mostly because it is user relevant, but also because your format is unique! You talk about flaws or problems, but also how you felt with or fixed the problems. Great job bro! Hopefully you can connect with Klipsch and review the Sixes, Sevens (my target speakers), and the Nines! Thanks again!

[@mysmarterhome]

Thank you! Yes, that's exactly what I'm going for - reviews that look at real-world use cases and problems. I'll definitely review more speakers and other technology in 2023!

[@bradhuskers]

If you haven't paired these with a sub woofer yet, you have ZERO clue. They are light years better when paired with the sub woofer.

[@koenignero]

Your Issues does not makes sense. You complain that the Speakers are desgined not to wake up if a Sound source is playing, then you are complaining that your phone automatically wake up the speakers via Bluetooth. You seem dishonest or maybe you have no idea what you are talking about

[@PPCCO.]

Nice review. I've had the Fives for maybe 7-8 months I believe; incredible experience. The first month I utilized them within an isolated setting without an external sub, in combination with the 10 inch sub? This is the best audio experience I've ever had at my work desk.

[@mysmarterhome]

For a work desk this does sound incredible!

[@martyvanduzer9263]

It takes the speakers about 25 seconds to 'wake up' from stand-by mode. Its a good idea to run your audio through a third party equalizer, the high end can be weak in some applications. Those controls are in an awkward location. The fives are indeed going to power up when an audio signal is detected.

[@thekevmeister77]

Hmm, I'll have to try that! Thank you

[@ROG956]

What would be an example of a 3rd party equalizer? New to hi fi and not sure what this means.

[@troywalt4834]

Finally an actually review from someone actually using them, honestly klipsch better have sorted all of this on the sevens, but honestly i doubt it

[@sage80915]

Just FYI, (not that it will resolve any of the issues you dislike with the Fives) but I thought I would mention you have your primary switch set backwards. So when watching TV, sounds that should be coming from the left speaker are coming from your right speaker (and vice versa). That would drive me nuts when watching movies but if it doesn't bother you then it's not an issue.

[@mistermushroom652]

Thanks for the review and pointing out the problems.

[@mysmarterhome]

Happy to help!

[@renejolicoeur6289]

I have the 5's for 1 1/2 yrs.They sound and perform great .They turn on in seconds and blue tooth works great .I also have the corners for 39 yrs.Cheers

[@licitelasmane]

Thanks for the review! Exactly what I was looking for. 👌🏻

[@MarkDavidBlack]

I'm considering buying these. I currently have a pair of R-51's. I like using the optical but I keep having an issue with the optical signal not available. So then I've been trying to use the blutooth connection. The blutooth seems to lose the connection if I'm not using my computer for about 15 minutes or so. It must be an automatic sleep mode I guess. So I'm looking for a new set of speakers to avoid these hassles.

[@BoRerunn]

I returned them because they sounded distorted when connected to a sub and the metal plate looks fine

[@iosifkovalenko8364]

I’ve been trying to decide between the fives and sevens, but now thinking I should stay away from Klipsch for now. Might get a Sennheiser ambeo max instead.

[@mysmarterhome]

👍

[@earlfenwick]

I'll be really interested in hearing a review of the Sevens and Nines. They won't have to rely so much on dsp for bass. Frustratingly, right now the only reviews are by the channels that sound like they are recorded by FM disc jockeys. Subbed!

[@mysmarterhome]

I'm pretty sure that the board inside Sevens and Nines is either identical or very similar to the one inside the Fives. Hence I assume that issues #2 and #3 from the video apply to Sevens and Nines as well.

[@anchoring_diabetes]

hey , true review. i have the same issue with klipsch connect app. can u make a video of how to update the klipsch five updater as my system doesnt even be on for 20 minutes after plugging in the pendrive with the app

[@mysmarterhome]

Sorry, I sold them.

[@100toeface]

Issue1 also happens with my two homepods when connected as a pair to apple tv. It is super annoying. I think e-arc just sucks, period, and shouldn't be used at all. Issue 2, do the speakers automatically turn off after a period of inactivity? (how long is this period?). If not, can't you just leave them turned on all of the time?

[@truthteller6129]

I have the same TV and speakers. These speakers are the most congested and muddy sounding speakers ever. The EQ app is useless. They need at least a 10 band to wrestle some treble out of them. I use external EQ's on my phone for music, and I have them hooked up optical to the LGC1, with a very high end exaggerated EQ on the TV...use both the Fives and the TV to get an acceptable frequency response. This totally negates using HDMI ARC...which was the main reason I bought these. Arrrggghhh

[@mysmarterhome]

I feel your pain!

[@dmcelro1]

I have the fives as well and have resorted to unplugging the power cable for a few seconds and plugging it back in before i even attempt to connect my phone or record player. They sound great but are really irritating to connect to sometimes, whether its bluetooth or phono...

[@TheCycopunk]

I had the same issue with my fives when it came to the HDMI output, I switched to the optical and it works perfect. Very disappointing

[@jianliu7516]

I bought a pair from ebay last year cost me $350 opened box item but brand new when I opened. They look good next to my Desktop monitor and sounds amazing with a 8 inches Energy subwoofer. I play it when I listen the music. only one thing I don't like it is the remote control won't turn it off and on. I have to unplug the power cord to turn it off that is frustrate. Other than that is great speaker for this price

[@williamk1800]

Great video, I'm looking for a set of speakers now. Which dedicated spotify streaming device do you use?

[@mysmarterhome]

I was using a Raspberry Pi, but there are great alternatives! I forgot the name, but check the comments - one person mentioned a really good small dedicated streaming box.

[@ambientrelaxation7326]

Had the same issue where the sound would just fall out and wouldn’t come back. Thought turning it off would help bring it back, but I figured out in was the hdmi input. Found that taping down the cord gave the connection a bit of tension and it hasn’t happened.

[@mysmarterhome]

Great to hear that you found a solution for your problem!

[@robinenbernhard]

Love looks am realy think to get them for my pc and wil contect with RCA to my Fiio K9 AKM. Agree that control on top is realy wrong color. Have try firmware update ? Is reddit post about it on klipsch part of reddit. 5:53 with last firmware update you fix that. My go on when sound start play and i use RCA line in.

[@maxarchambault2426]

What optical streamer do you use and why not just utilize the Bluetooth?

[@mysmarterhome]

I'm using a Raspberry PI with an optical interface. Feel free to check out my reasons for not using Bluetooth in this section of the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGnPknVpqrajgLc

[@dr840117]

Thanks for the review! Do you have the problem of resetting the equalizer settings after turning off the speakers, how did you solve this problem?

[@mysmarterhome]

The Fives have two hardware revisions - v1 and v2. I have v2 (02.00.01) and so I'm not experiencing the issue where the equalizer settings reset. Moreover, as far as I understand the equalizer settings resetting issue only affects v1 and allegedly there should be a new software update 1.6.12 available only for v1 Fives to address the issue. Check out the Klipsch connect app if the update shows up for you!

[@mysmarterhome]

But it looks like 1.6.12 has its own issues...oh Klipsch... community.klipsch.com/index.php?/topic/213912-the-fives-boomytoo-loud-bass-on-external-subwoofer-after-update-to-1612/

[@dr840117]

@@mysmarterhome Thank you!!! I have hardware version 02.00.01 of the speakers, but the EQ settings are not saved successfully (in my iphone app) after updating the firmware to version 1.6.9.

[@mysmarterhome]

@@dr840117 Oh ok interesting! I think the best thing to do would be for you to report this to Klipsch support, because I don't think they are aware of the fact that this issue also affects hardware version 02.00.01.

[@user-qj4um2wj6i]

good to see a owners take on KZbin not a reviewers take on them thank you.

[@mysmarterhome]

Appreciate it! Thanks

[@SaltyFeta]

Nice review!

[@madcrabber1113]

Does Klipsch offer replacement amps for their powered speakers? I have a bunch of Definitive Technology speakers with powered bass drivers and subs that all have failed amps so I cannot see myself buying anymore powered speakers etc without the company supporting their products with future replacement amps etc. which Definitive Technology no longer does unfortunately.

[@mysmarterhome]

I don’t think they do.

[@seanthebaptist6757]

I just got mine after seeing NOTHING but positive reviews, I got mine strictly for vinyl and I can't even get an equalizer on it without an app, but the app needs an update app and it won't work. I hate them already.

[@mysmarterhome]

Yep, that was the latest issue - not possible to update them at all and thus not possible to access EQ in the app.

[@dsholt]

My biggest issue is that they don't always turn on when I turn on the TV, and sometimes they turn on but for some reason go into bluetooth mode instead of TV mode. IT's not the worst thing, but it does get annoying.

[@mysmarterhome]

Yep, exactly. I’m sometimes experiencing the same. The frustrating part is that it seems to happen randomly and thus I am not able to reproduce it for Klipsch support.

[@jemery3]

Same happens on occasion/at random it seems but I can live with it!

[@Exclusive-Studio]

Can you please tell us what device you use with speakers for Spotify?

[@mysmarterhome]

I was using Raspberry Pi with Raspotify software.

[@bananaboat75]

Have you looked at the auto turn off settings on the tv as well as the google tv device?

[@mysmarterhome]

Of course. This is a limitation on Klipsch side.

[@andreazotti2693]

Having exactly same issues and same feeling on the fives, love them as they sound, hate the connectivity... Did who design them have it at home for trial? Really frustrating... And few firmware upgrade done did not solve a single issue, but introduce few more like the power cycle needs

[@mysmarterhome]

Exactly! Are you consisering a switch to different speakers?

[@andreazotti2693]

​@@mysmarterhome not really as finally the sound is the primary value for a set of speakers. I had before bose soundar that was the opposite, excellent for connectivity features, all what you need but sound stage was not enough for my taste. Still pity for the fives and a lesson learned for future...

[@matenadam]

When you save the EQ settings in the app are they preserved after the speakers are turned off and on again?

[@mysmarterhome]

I'm not experiencing that issue, but another user in the comments reported the same issue!

[@m4nc1n1]

I am sending mine back. Just got them 2 days ago. Yes, they sound amazing, but no matter what I do, the app will not work. I tried the Apple 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S22. I have worked in IT for the last 23 years; no matter what I try, it will not connect. That update did nothing.

[@mysmarterhome]

Exactly. The software/firmware aspect of Fives is simply bad. I switched to Powernode + passive speakers and the firmware/software experience of powernode and its bluos has been perfect, not a single glitch.

[@REN-zh2wd]

How do these compared against the edifier s3000pro and in general how does these compared to a soundbar in the same price range

[@mysmarterhome]

Sorry, I don’t know.

[@fursol]

My old Klipsch stadium did the same plug unplug plug unplug for 2 years and one day he completely die not sure I will buy Klipsch again

[@mysmarterhome]

Sorry to hear that! I’ve sent mine The Fives for service - let’s see what they say, could be a bad power supply.

[@aaronfrench8322]

What streamer do you use? A Wiim?

[@mysmarterhome]

I’m using a raspberry pi with a hifiberry dac (it has optical output) and raspotify. By itself works very well!

[@aaronfrench8322]

@@mysmarterhome Oh that’s awesome, raspberry pi is very intriguing to me. I just ordered a Wiim Pro for my system. My first dedicated streamer, pretty excited.

[@GOLFADDICT65]

I really want the KLIPSCH THE NINES……a lot more positive reviews and less problems

[@mysmarterhome]

As far as I understand The Nines have the same “brains” as The Fives.

[@lol3ndir]

I thought they fixed it already via firmware update? This is disappointing since I am planning to get one!

[@mysmarterhome]

No, they have not fixed the issues. In fact, they've not released a new firmware update for Fives hardware version 2 in more than a year. It seems like they're focused on other products.

[@lol3ndir]

@@mysmarterhome Thank you for uploading the video and pointing out the problems. I'll try to chat their agents to see if they're doing anything or what before getting a speaker, maybe I should just get the lower model the R51-PM since it's less techy. Update 3-29-23 : Their agent said they already fixed it via firmware update. They said USB is the preferred connection (esp. computers). I am not sure if it does happen in computer.

[@lynxng7445]

Klipsch's software is just abysmal. I've had The Fives for months, and still can't get it to properly pair with the app (it only works with the system Bluetooth pairing). Really disappointed such a 'high end' product has such terrible support.

[@mysmarterhome]

Agree! I did not mention it in the video, but yes - the pairing of Fives to Klipsch Connect does not work, it only works if I first pair the speakers through the standard bluetooth devices list. Absolutely fantastic sounding speakers, but software is just soooo bad.

[@geraldschwab3974]

why use the HDMI in the first place? Audio over HDMI is notoriously unstable. Instead run a direct audio connection between wherever your HDMI connection is coming from (cable box, streaming device etc) directly to the audio interface on the klipsch. Audio should be audio only if you want it to work reliably.

[@wd2001]

I have Klipsch r-15pm and they turn off after 5min. Sent Klipsch support an email with no replay. Anyone figured a solution to this?

[@mysmarterhome]

If they turn off when audio is playing, then sounds like they should be serviced. If they turn off when no audio is playing, then looks like standby mode is kicking in. Have a look here: community.klipsch.com/index.php?/topic/194864-how-to-keep-speakers-from-going-into-standby-mode/

[@jmatt98]

I have the Sevens and they turn on automatically when there is music

[@mysmarterhome]

If you turn them off with remote, do they then turn on with music?

[@keetvhdlimited962]

do u have the wakeup problem in HDMI arc or only the other inputs??

[@mysmarterhome]

It applies to other physical inputs as well.

[@markulstad1790]

I have the Fives and 2 Elac 1010's in my 11×12 bedroom. It fricken pounds!

[@mysmarterhome]

Epic!

[@edwardce8341]

Why you did not play them?

[@mysmarterhome]

Feel free to check out other reviews that play them back.

[@thewirah1]

This review was more focused on the lack of smarter home features. Personally I don't want my speakers to be some sort of alexa.

[@jorgemateos3864]

Hello! I am having trouble connecting a turntable. It’s a Victoria but it is a 6 in 1 (maybe not the best thing). I connect the RCA cables from the turntable to the fives, and I have tried The Fives on phono and line setting and I just get a buzz not even a little sound of the record. What am I doing wrong? Is anyone having a similar issue? Thank you for your review!

[@mysmarterhome]

It sounds like you're doing everything correctly. Have you tried the turntable with different amp/speakers to confirm that the turntable works?

[@jorgemateos3864]

@@mysmarterhome truth is I don’t have another system to try it with. But this turntable has speakers, and by itself it does work. Just not transmitting to the fives… thanks for replying!

[@aaronfrench8322]

One thing I’ve realized from all of these The Fives reviews, is that Klipsch’s engineer’s or amplifiers that they are using are outdated or poor quality from the start. I assume they are using an amplifier from another Voxx company, but the amp itself is known for dying out and the implementation of modern technology for the app and convenience use is just horrendous. They really need to try a higher quality amp, circuitry, app development, etc to complete the product at this price range.

[@mysmarterhome]

That’s a great insight, thanks! Yeah, have shipped mine over for service.

[@aaronfrench8322]

@@mysmarterhome Yeah, Voxx is their parent company that’s more well known for the electronics side of the industry. Klipsch makes a great speaker as a speaker, but the new modern electronics side of Klipsch is very poorly implemented if you ask me. But for perspective of whom Voxx is, they just purchased Onkyo and Pioneer not too long ago.

[@mysmarterhome]

@@aaronfrench8322 Gotcha! Thanks for the follow-up!

[@masoncnc]

I love mine

[@Tholius]

Edifier Airpulse A300 vs. Klipsch 5s?

[@fcm2790]

Had the fives and sixes / sixes are better build and sound better.. my opinion.. Klipsch have problems with alot of the systems / bluetooth / power etc

[@mysmarterhome]

I’ve not heard Sixes, definitely something I want to!

[@joelcastellanos8170]

I bought these and they sound horrible when watching TV. They are ONLY good for music.

[@Blacksnakemoane]

You use Hdmi with the tv?

[@joelcastellanos8170]

@@Blacksnakemoane yes

[@thekevmeister77]

Something must be up, because that certainly isn't the case for me!

[@PPCCO.]

Bluetooth 5 allows for hifi.

[@mysmarterhome]

wdym?

[@sammassam100]

i feel disappointed for these issues from klipsch equipment

[@yournightmare9999]

Next time buy nines

[@koenignero]

Your Issues does not makes sense. You complain that the Speakers are desgined not to wake up if a Sound source is playing, then you are complaining that your phone automatically wake up the speakers via Bluetooth. You seem dishonest or maybe you have no idea what you are talking about

[@CJ30123]

LG TVs are are notorious for HDMI-CEC being awful. C1 has the same issues with my Apple TV.