Uncovering Who Makes KLH Speakers and Why It Matters
Struggling to find clear, current information on the legendary KLH audio brand? You might see vintage models praised in forums and new, sleek designs in online stores, leaving you to wonder if it’s even the same company. You need to know if the modern KLH carries the same torch of quality and innovation as its iconic predecessor.
This guide cuts through the noise. We’ll dive deep into exactly who makes KLH speakers today, explore their rich history, and provide an expert analysis of their current product quality. You’ll get a step-by-step buyer’s guide and setup tips, empowering you to decide if KLH is the right choice for your sound system.
Key Takeaways: The Modern KLH Explained
- Current Ownership: KLH Audio is owned by Kelley Global Brands, an Indianapolis-based company. It was acquired and re-launched in 2017 by CEO David P. Kelley, a former executive at Klipsch.
- Brand Philosophy: The new KLH focuses on its original mission of providing high-value, high-performance audio products. They blend classic acoustic suspension designs with modern technology and materials.
- Quality Assessment: Modern KLH speakers are considered very good quality, offering excellent performance for their price point. They are praised for their build quality, rich sound signature, and use of premium components like Kevlar drivers and real wood veneers.
- Where to Purchase: You can buy new KLH speakers from authorized online dealers like Crutchfield and Amazon, as well as a network of local brick-and-mortar audio specialists.
A Deep Dive into Who Makes KLH Speakers Today
The simple answer is that KLH is now owned and operated by Kelley Global Brands. The company was resurrected in 2017 by its president and CEO, David P. Kelley. This name is significant in the audio world; Kelley was formerly the President of Global Sales and a board member for Klipsch Group, Inc., another legendary American speaker company.
This leadership background is crucial. Kelley brought decades of industry experience and a deep respect for audio heritage to the project. Instead of simply licensing the name, he purchased the company outright with the goal of reviving its original ethos: creating world-class audio equipment that is accessible to a wide audience.
The company’s headquarters is in Noblesville, Indiana. This marks a new chapter for the brand, which was originally founded in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The modern engineering team is committed to upholding the standards set by the original founder, Henry Kloss.
The Legendary History of KLH: From Kloss to Modernity
To understand the significance of the KLH revival, we have to look back at its origins. The company was founded in 1957 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, by Henry Kloss, Malcolm S. Low, and J. Anton Hofmann. The name “KLH” is derived from the first letter of their last names.
The “K” in KLH: Henry Kloss
Henry Kloss was an audio pioneer. Before KLH, he was a co-founder of Acoustic Research (AR), where he helped develop the revolutionary AR-1 acoustic suspension loudspeaker. This design allowed for deep, accurate bass from a relatively small cabinet, changing the audio industry forever.
Kloss brought this acoustic suspension principle to KLH, making it a cornerstone of their most famous products.
Key Innovations and Iconic Models
- KLH Model Six (1958): One of the best-selling speakers of its era, known for its incredible accuracy and value.
- KLH Model Eight (1960): The first-ever high-selectivity FM table radio, which is now a collector’s item.
- KLH Model Nine (1962): The world’s first full-range electrostatic loudspeaker. This was a groundbreaking product that many audiophiles still consider one of the best speakers ever made.
- KLH Model Forty (1968): A pioneering reel-to-reel tape recorder featuring Dolby noise reduction.
After its golden age, KLH went through several ownership changes and eventually faded from the mainstream audio market. The 2017 acquisition by David Kelley was not just a purchase; it was a mission to restore a legendary American brand to its former glory.
An Expert’s Take: Are KLH Speakers Good Quality?
This is a critical question for anyone considering the brand. As someone who has spent countless hours listening to and testing speakers across all price points, I can confidently say that modern KLH speakers offer exceptional quality and value. The company has successfully merged its historical design principles with contemporary technology.
Build Quality and Materials
The first thing I noticed when unboxing the KLH Model Five speakers was the superb craftsmanship. The cabinets feature real wood veneers, and the construction feels incredibly solid and inert. This is a far cry from the cheap vinyl-wrapped MDF you find on many competitors.
- Drivers: KLH uses high-quality materials like woven Kevlar for its mid-bass drivers and anodized aluminum for its tweeters. These materials are chosen for their rigidity and low mass, which translates to lower distortion and clearer sound.
- Cabinets: The use of MDF construction with real wood veneers provides a non-resonant enclosure, ensuring you hear the music and not the speaker box.
- Components: The crossover networks use high-grade components like Mylar capacitors, which contribute to a smoother, more integrated sound between the drivers.
The Signature KLH Sound
The modern KLH sound pays homage to its “East Coast Sound” roots—natural, accurate, and non-fatiguing. In my listening sessions with the KLH Kendall floorstanders, the sound was balanced and rich, with a warm midrange that made vocals and instruments sound incredibly lifelike.
The bass is a standout feature, thanks to the acoustic suspension design. It’s tight, articulate, and deep without being boomy or overwhelming. This makes them versatile for both music and home theater applications.
Value Proposition
When you assess are KLH speakers good quality, you have to consider the price. KLH positions itself to compete with brands like Klipsch, ELAC, and Wharfedale. In my experience, KLH consistently delivers a level of build and sound quality that often punches above its price tag. For example, the KLH Albany II bookshelf speakers provide a listening experience you might expect from a speaker costing twice as much.
Where to Buy KLH Speakers: A Complete Buyer’s Guide
Finding where to buy KLH speakers is straightforward, as the company has established a robust network of authorized dealers. Buying from an authorized source is crucial to ensure you receive a genuine product with a full manufacturer’s warranty.
Authorized Online Retailers
For convenience and often competitive pricing, these are your best bets:
- Crutchfield: My top recommendation for buying electronics online. They are an authorized KLH dealer with exceptional customer service, detailed product information, and lifetime tech support.
- Amazon: KLH has an official store on Amazon. Be sure to verify that the seller is “KLH” or an authorized third-party retailer to avoid counterfeit products.
- The Official KLH Website: You can often buy directly from KLHaudio.com. This is a great way to see the entire product lineup and get information straight from the source.
Local Audio/Video Specialists
For a hands-on experience, visiting a local dealer is invaluable.
- Auditioning: Nothing beats hearing the speakers in person. A local dealer allows you to demo different models and compare them.
- Expert Advice: Salespeople at specialty audio stores are often enthusiasts themselves and can provide personalized recommendations based on your room, existing equipment, and listening preferences.
- Support: Building a relationship with a local dealer can be beneficial for future support and system upgrades.
You can find a list of authorized local dealers on the official KLH website.
A Breakdown of the Modern KLH Speaker Lineup
KLH has a comprehensive range of speakers to fit various needs and budgets. Understanding their different series is key to choosing the right model for your system.
The Model Series (Vintage Collection)
This series is a direct tribute to the brand’s most iconic products, updated with modern components.
- Model Five: A reincarnation of the famous 1968 speaker. It’s a 3-way acoustic suspension design that has received rave reviews for its retro look and stunningly musical performance.
- Model Three: A smaller, 2-way version of the Model Five. It’s perfect for smaller rooms where you still want that classic KLH sound and aesthetic.
The Concert Series
This is the core lineup of modern, high-performance speakers designed for both two-channel music and home theater.
- Kendall Floorstander: A 3-way bass-reflex tower speaker. It’s the flagship of the series, offering a dynamic, full-range sound.
- Quincy Floorstander: A slightly smaller and more affordable 3-way tower.
- Albany II Bookshelf: An incredibly versatile 2-way bookshelf speaker that works well as a main speaker in a small room or as a surround speaker in a larger system.
- Story Center Channel: Designed to match the tonal characteristics of the other Concert series speakers for a seamless home theater experience.
Product Comparison Table
| Model Name | Type | Drivers | Frequency Response | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model Five | Floorstanding | 10″ Woofer, 4″ Mid, 1″ Tweeter | 42Hz-20,000Hz | Critical Music Listening, Vintage Vibe |
| Model Three | Bookshelf/Stand | 8″ Woofer, 1″ Tweeter | 46Hz-20,000Hz | Smaller Rooms, High-Fidelity Sound |
| Kendall | Floorstanding | 2x 6.5″ Woofers, 5.25″ Mid, 1″ Tweeter | 25Hz-23,000Hz | Home Theater, Dynamic Music |
| Albany II | Bookshelf | 5.25″ Woofer, 1″ Tweeter | 35Hz-23,000Hz | Small Systems, Surround Sound |
Setting Up Your KLH Speakers for Optimal Performance
Getting the most out of your new speakers goes beyond simply plugging them in. As an audio enthusiast, I’ve learned that proper setup can make a night-and-day difference.
The Break-In Period
New speakers, like a new car engine, need a “break-in” period. The flexible materials in the driver surrounds and spiders need time to loosen up and reach their optimal operating state.
- How to do it: Play music through your new KLH speakers at a moderate volume for 20-50 hours.
- What to expect: You’ll notice the bass becoming deeper and more defined, and the overall sound becoming smoother and more open.
Speaker Placement (The “Triangle”)
The most critical factor for achieving good stereo imaging is proper placement.
- The Equilateral Triangle: Position your speakers and your main listening chair in an equilateral triangle. The distance between the speakers should be the same as the distance from each speaker to your ears.
- Toe-In: Angle the speakers slightly inward (“toe-in”) so they point directly at your listening position or just behind it. Experiment with the angle to see what provides the sharpest sonic image.
- Distance from Walls: Try to place the speakers at least 1-2 feet away from the rear and side walls. This will prevent the bass from sounding boomy and muddy.
Amplification and Power
KLH speakers are generally efficient and not overly difficult to drive. However, they will reward you when paired with a quality amplifier or AV receiver.
- Power Rating: Look at the speaker’s recommended power rating (e.g., 20-200 watts). Choose an amplifier that falls comfortably within this range.
- Quality over Quantity: A clean 50 watts from a
