Klipsch’s Heritage-Inspired Bookshelf Speakers Are Getting Way More Affordable

Each new-age speaker has design elements inspired by the brand’s iconic Heritage line of loudspeakers.

Wooden desk by a window with a laptop, two potted plants, a steaming pink mug, a tablet, and a closed book.Klipsch

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Last week, Klipsch introduced second-generation versions of its three vintage-inspired powered speaker systems (from smallest to largest): The Fives, The Sevens and The Nines.

Each of the new models — dubbed “II” (so, The Fives II, The Sevens II, and The Nines II) — promises to be a significant improvement of its predecessor, with upgraded acoustics and engineering, as well as Wi-Fi streaming capabilities and support for new audio technologies.

But these new models come at a significantly higher price — they’re all several hundred dollars (at least) more expensive than their already excellent predecessors.

Out with the old, in with the new

Wood-finished speaker with gray fabric front and metal control panel featuring volume and source dials.
The primary speaker in each of these powered systems has two metal scroll wheels for quickly adjust volume and switching inputs.
Klipsch

The “II” versions of Klipsch’s powered speaker systems are scheduled for a “Spring 2026” release. And, naturally, Klipsch is looking to phase out the first-generation models.

So, if you’re looking to get a great deal on a versatile powered speaker system — which can be used in a traditional hi-fi system, work as TV speakers, or just used to stream music from your smartphone — you can get a great deal on these older models.

The Fives (2020)

Living room entertainment setup with a large wall-mounted TV displaying a close-up of a watt meter, flanked by black metal shelves with speakers and decor.
The Fives are the smallest and most affordable of these powered speaker systems.
Klipsch

Released in 2020, The Fives are Klipsch’s original vintage-inspired powered speaker system — in fact, they hold the distinction of being the first powered speaker system with an HDMI ARC input, so you could use them as TV speakers.

Aside from the updated drivers and engineering, the main difference between the original The Fives and The Fives II is that the originals lack the new-age connections and support for Dolby Atmos. But they both are highly versatile and support Bluetooth streaming.

Normally $800, Best Buy is currently selling The Fives for $700 from several — that’s $100 off. (Note: Klipsch has already stopped selling The Fives.) It’s quite the deal considering that, when they go on sale, The Fives II will cost $1,400.

The Sevens (2023)

Modern living room with beige sectional sofa, two gray armchairs, wooden slat TV wall, and floor lamp.
The Sevens is the middle-sized powered speaker system.
Klipsch

Klipsch’s The Sevens is a slightly larger powered speaker system than The Fives — they share the same tweeter but have a larger woofer (6.5-inch vs 4.5-inch) and are designed for larger listening rooms. The two both have HDMI ARC inputs and support Bluetooth streaming.

The Sevens II is quite the upgrade over the originals, adding Wi-Fi streaming, an HDMI eARC input with support for Dolby Atmos, and a built-in MM phono stage for even easier turntable connectivity.

Of course, these additions come at a steep price. The Sevens II will cost $2,000, which is $700 more than The Sevens. (Note: The Sevens were priced at $1,299 when the system was released in 2023, but now Klipsch sells it for $1,499.)

You can grab the original system for just under $1,000 right now from third-party retailers.

The Nines (2023)

Modern audio setup with two beige fabric-covered speakers on black stands, a black subwoofer with copper cone, and a wooden cabinet with vinyl records.
The Nines is the biggest and best-sounding of the three systems.
Klipsch

The Nines is the biggest powered speaker system in the company’s lineup. Originally released in 2023, each speaker has the same tweeter but a larger woofer (8-inch vs 6.5-inch) than The Sevens.

The Nines II features the same upgrades as the other second-generation models and supports Dirac Live room correction technology, enabling you to better optimize its sound for the space.

Naturally, The Nines II are the most expensive of the lot. A pair costs $2,400, which is $700 more expensive than the original The Nines, which Klipsch still sells for $1,700.

That said, you can get a heck of a deal on these speakers from third-party sellers. For example, Adorama and Walmart is selling The Nines for nearly half off.

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