Klipsch R-115SW Review and Specs

There's more than one way to build a subwoofer that plays loud and deep. With its R-115SW, Klipsch succeeds in delivering full-range performance for under a grand. The sub is a perfect accompaniment to Klipsch's new Reference Premiere line of speakers. But since it's more than suitable for use with any brand of speakers, I'm giving the sub a stand-alone Klipsch R-115SW review.

Klipsch R-115SW Review

Features

Concerning Klipsch R-115SW specs R-115SW is a 75-pound, 15-inch, 400-watt (800 peak) vented subwoofer that offers a frequency response from 18 to 125 Hz /-3 dB. This sub features a 15" spun-copper Cerametallic driver that is light and rigid at the same time - both good things to find in a subwoofer. Its has a front-firing slot port with proprietary internal geometry that, according to the company, minimizes port noise and provides cleaner sound. All this controlled by an all-digital amplifier. For the greatest placement flexibility, add an optional Klipsch WA-2 Wireless Subwoofer Kit for a simple wireless connection. And on top of that, it also has a power status indicator which means no more getting up from your seat to find out if it's on or off. To me, this is a another winner from Klipsch.

Design and build

It's a sizeable sub, measuring 19.5" (W) by 21.5" (H) and 22.3" deep. Klipsch offers it in one finish, a brushed black-polymer veneer. Each sub includes a detachable cloth grill, which removes to reveal the 15" Cerametallic aluminum cone with its signature copper-colored finish. The design employs a slot-shaped, forward-venting tuned port.

Connectivity

The sub's rear panel sports a rather minimalist set of inputs and controls. There is no speaker-level input, and the R-115SW does not offer audio pass-through with its stereo RCA line-level inputs. One knob adjusts the crossover point, and a second adjusts gain. There is a LFE setting that disables the crossover. It's clear this sub is for use with a modern AVR offering built-in bass management.

Pros and Cons