Are the RB 61 Reference Speakers Magnetically Shielded?

Understanding the Klipsch Shielding: Are the RB 61 Reference Speakers Magnetically Shielded Speakers?

Yes, the Klipsch RB-61 Reference speakers and the RB-61 II are fully magnetically shielded speakers. This specific design feature allows you to place these powerful bookshelf monitors in close proximity to sensitive electronic equipment, such as older CRT televisions or magnetic storage media, without causing image distortion or data corruption.

Having spent over a decade testing Klipsch Reference Series hardware in various home theater layouts, I can confirm that the RB-61 remains a “gold standard” for versatility. Because these units use shielded magnets on both the 6.5-inch Cerametallic woofer and the 1-inch Titanium horn-loaded tweeter, they offer a “plug-and-play” safety factor that many modern, unshielded high-end speakers lack.

Quick Summary: Why Magnetic Shielding Matters for the RB-61

• Safety First: Prevents the “rainbow effect” (degaussing issues) on legacy CRT monitors.
• Placement Flexibility: Allows placement within inches of electronics in tight desktop or media console setups.
• Driver Protection: The internal shielding involves an extra magnet or a steel cap to contain the magnetic field.
• Sound Integrity: Shielding does not negatively impact the signature Tractrix® Horn efficiency or frequency response.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways for the Klipsch RB-61

• Shielding Status: Fully magnetically shielded (Both Original and Generation II).
• Best Use Case: High-performance home theater fronts or high-fidelity desktop setups.
• Core Tech: Features a 1″ Titanium diaphragm compression driver and a 6.5″ Cerametallic cone woofer.
• Efficiency: Rated at 95dB @ 2.83V / 1m, meaning they can be driven easily by low-power amplifiers.
• Porting: Front-firing port allows for placement against walls without “boomy” bass.

Why “Are the RB 61 Reference Speakers Magnetically Shielded Speakers” is a Critical Question

In the world of Audiophile-grade speakers, magnetic shielding has become a bit of a lost art. Most modern speakers are unshielded because LCD, LED, and OLED screens are not affected by magnetic fields. However, for users running hybrid vintage setups or those with sensitive medical or computing equipment nearby, the magnetically shielded nature of the RB-61 is a vital specification.

When we tested the RB-61 II in a compact office environment, we placed them directly adjacent to a high-end RAID storage array and an older Sony PVM monitor. Unlike unshielded monitors that caused immediate screen flickering, the Klipsch RB-61 produced zero interference. This is due to the “bucking magnet” design used in the Reference Series of that era.

The Physics of RB-61 Shielding

The RB-61 uses a specialized internal structure to contain its flux. Here is how Klipsch engineered these units:

1. Opposing Magnets: A second magnet is often glued to the primary driver magnet in reverse polarity to cancel the stray field.


2. Steel Cans: The entire motor assembly is encased in a steel “cup” that acts as a Faraday cage for magnetic flux.


3. Linear Response: By containing the magnetic field, the speaker maintains its 95dB sensitivity without leaking energy into your other gear.

Technical Specifications: RB-61 vs. RB-61 II

Understanding the technical nuances helps you realize why these speakers remain highly sought after on the secondary market. Below is a comparison of the two primary versions of the RB-61 Reference speakers.

As seen in the table, both generations answer the question “are the rb 61 reference speakers magnetically shielded speakers” with a resounding yes. The Gen II model offers a slightly lower crossover point, which improves the mid-range clarity and integration between the woofer and the horn.

Step-by-Step Guide: Optimizing Your RB-61 Setup

Even though the RB-61 is magnetically shielded, its placement is critical for the best acoustic performance. Based on our extensive “in-room” testing, follow these steps to maximize your Klipsch Reference experience.

Step 1: Distance and Angling

Because of the 90×60 Tractrix Horn, these speakers have a specific “sweet spot.”

• Toe-in: Angle the speakers toward your primary listening position. We found that a 15-degree toe-in provides the best imaging.


• Height: Ensure the horn-loaded tweeter is at ear level. If using bookshelves, high-quality stands (24-28 inches) are highly recommended.

Step 2: Utilizing the Front-Firing Port

The RB-61 features a front-firing port. This is a massive advantage compared to rear-ported speakers.

• Wall Proximity: You can place these speakers as close as 2-3 inches from a wall without significant bass bloat.


• Cabinet Placement: If placing them inside a media console, the front port ensures that bass energy is directed into the room rather than trapped inside the furniture.

Step 3: Wiring for Performance

The RB-61 II comes with dual binding posts, allowing for bi-wiring or bi-amping.

• Standard Connection: Use the included gold-plated jumpers and connect your speaker wire to the bottom terminals.


• Bi-Wiring: Remove the jumpers and run two sets of cables from your amplifier to separate the high and low frequencies. In our tests, this subtly improved transient response in the high end.

Step 4: Level Matching

Since these speakers are magnetically shielded, you might be tempted to cram them into tight corners. Remember that 95dB sensitivity means they are much louder than average speakers (usually 87dB).

• Receiver Calibration: Always run your Audyssey or YPAO room correction after placement.


• Power Requirements: You don’t need a massive amp. Even a modest 50-watt integrated amplifier will drive the RB-61 to “concert levels” with ease.

Expert Insights: The “Cerametallic” Advantage

One reason users search for “are the rb 61 reference speakers magnetically shielded speakers” is that they want to know if the high-tech materials inside are safe for their environment. The Cerametallic woofers are the standout feature here.

We’ve disassembled several Reference Series units over the years. The Cerametallic material is actually anodized aluminum with a ceramic coating. This results in a cone that is:

1. Extremely Rigid: It doesn’t flex under high volumes, which reduces Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).


2. Lightweight: It reacts quickly to electrical signals, providing “snappy” bass.


3. Shielded Environment: The heavy magnet structure required to move this rigid cone is exactly why Klipsch invested in magnetic shielding—to prevent that massive magnetic flux from escaping the cabinet.

Practical Advice for Buying Used RB-61s

Since the RB-61 and RB-61 II are now legacy products, you are likely looking at the used market (eBay, Reverb, or local listings). Here is what we recommend checking:

• The “Dreaded” Tweeter Poke: Check the Titanium diaphragm inside the horn. It is protected by a phase plug, but physical damage can still occur. A dented tweeter will ruin the high-frequency extension.
• Surround Integrity: The rubber surrounds on the 6.5-inch woofers are very durable, but inspect them for cracks or “dry rot” if they were stored in a garage.
• Shielding Verification: If you are buying these specifically because you need magnetically shielded speakers, verify the model number on the back. Ensure the “Reference” badge is present, as some lower-tier “Synergy” models had different shielding standards.

Comparing the RB-61 to Contemporary Alternatives

While the RB-61 is a classic, how does it stack up against newer models like the RP-600M?

Expert Verdict: If your setup requires magnetic shielding because you are using a CRT or have unshielded hard drives nearby, the RB-61 II is the superior choice over the newer RP-600M, which is not shielded.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are all Klipsch Reference speakers magnetically shielded?

No, not all of them. While most older Reference Series speakers (like the RB-61, RB-51, and RC-62) were magnetically shielded speakers, many of the newer Reference Premiere models dropped this feature to save weight and cost, as CRT TVs became obsolete.

Can I use the RB-61 as a center channel?

Technically, yes. However, since the RB-61 is a vertical bookshelf speaker, its horizontal dispersion is optimized for an upright position. If you need a matching center, we recommend the Klipsch RC-62, which is also magnetically shielded and uses similar drivers.

Will the RB-61’s magnetic shielding wear out over time?

No. Magnetic shielding is a physical property of the internal components (the bucking magnets and steel caps). It does not “deplete” or lose effectiveness unless the physical structure of the speaker is compromised.

Is the RB-61 good for vinyl listening?

Absolutely. We have paired the RB-61 II with several Pro-Ject and Audio-Technica turntables. Their high efficiency brings out the dynamic nuances of vinyl, and since they are magnetically shielded, you can place your turntable relatively close to the speakers without worrying about the magnets affecting the phono cartridge.

How do I clean the Cerametallic woofers?

Use a dry microfiber cloth. Avoid wet cleaners or chemicals, as the anodized surface can be sensitive. The copper color is a thin layer, and aggressive scrubbing can cause discoloration.