Klipsch Renews an American Audiophile Classic by Introducing the Future-Proof Klipschorn AK7 Speaker System
Introducing the Klipschorn AK7: A Modern Classic
The Klipschorn AK7 is the latest addition to the esteemed Klipsch speaker line, an update from the Klipschorn AK6 released in 2018. This new model maintains the classic design ethos of Paul W. Klipsch’s original Klipschorn, while incorporating modern enhancements to offer audiophiles a premium, high-performance horn-loaded loudspeaker with customization potential.
Key Upgrades and Improvements
The AK7 features several significant updates over its predecessor. It now offers compatibility with Klipsch’s optional external passive crossover network, allowing users to customize crossover points and slopes for better integration with their room acoustics and electronics. The external crossover supports bi-wiring and bi-amping and uses premium components such as air-core inductors and film capacitors in a quality external housing.
The horn section has been refined with improved waveguide alignment, creating smoother transitions across frequency bands for a more cohesive sound experience. The speaker’s internal construction also benefits from enhanced sealing and better isolation between horn compartments, which helps reduce internal resonance and unwanted interaction, improving overall sound purity.
The AK7's mid-range drivers have been upgraded to KT-1133-HP 3-inch compression drivers, a significant improvement that brings cinema-grade performance to the mid-range. The speaker weighs 260lbs and stands at a height of 53.25".
Aesthetic Refinements
In addition to the technical upgrades, the AK7 offers new hand-matched veneers and customized wood grain finishes, giving users more aesthetic choices and a bespoke look. The speaker is available in a more modern-looking Black Ash variant, as well as American Walnut and American Auburn options featuring a wooden grain effect.
Specifications and Details
While detailed driver and amplification specifications were not fully provided, the AK7 remains a large, high-efficiency floor-standing speaker that uses horn-loaded technology to deliver powerful sound with high dynamic range and efficiency. Its hallmark is preservation of Klipsch’s original Klipschorn horn-loaded corner cabinet design, optimized for room interaction and maximal output.
Pricing
The specific pricing of the Klipschorn AK7 was not mentioned in the search results. Given the luxury nature and boutique construction of the model, along with customizable veneers and external crossovers, pricing is expected to be in the high-end audiophile category, generally several thousand dollars per pair.
A Rich History
First released in 1946, the Klipschorn marked the beginning of the "hi-fidelity" era of home speakers. In 1938, Paul W. Klipsch created a prototype for the Klipschorn, a speaker designed to accurately reproduce bass response with a smaller horn. The Klipschorn remains in Klipsch’s lineup and is the longest continuously-produced speaker ever made.
In summary, the Klipschorn AK7 advances the heritage speaker line with modern enhancements focused on sound tuning flexibility, enclosure quality, and aesthetic refinement, making it a premium choice for audiophiles seeking a high-performance horn-loaded loudspeaker with customization potential.
The Klipschorn AK7's design now includes compatibility with Klipsch's optional external passive crossover network, enabling customization of crossover points and slopes, and offers hand-matched veneers and customized wood grain finishes, allowing audiophiles to personalize both the sound and style of their speakers.
Moreover, the refined horn section, improved waveguide alignment, enhanced sealing, and upgraded mid-range drivers in the AK7 contribute to a more cohesive sound experience, smoother frequency transitions, reduced internal resonance, and cinema-grade performance, making it a high-performance, technologically advanced speaker.
