The Klipsch RP-600M and the Edifier S2000MKIII are both popular bookshelf speakers. They are both priced similarly with different benefits. They even go head to head in our guide for the best bookshelf speakers under $500. We’ll talk about both speakers in this review in detail to aid your decision. We’ll start off with some key specifications.
- Type: Passive Speakers
- Peak Power: 400 Watts Total
- Drivers: 6.5″ Woofer + 1″ Tweeter
- Sensitivity: 96 dB
- Weight: 16 Lbs. Per Speaker
- Best For: Loud Volume and Dynamic EQ
- Type: Active Speakers
- Peak Power: 130 Watts Total
- Drivers: 5.5″ Woofer + Planar Tweeter
- Sensitivity: N/A
- Weight: 37.8 Lbs. Total
- Best For: Convenience and Connectivity
Table of Contents
Key Specifications
Type: Passive
Power: 200W (Max)
Frequency Response: 45～20,000Hz
Sensitivity: 96 dB
Drivers: 2 – 6.5″ Copper-Spun Woofer and 1″ Horn-Loaded tweeter
Connectivity: Speaker Wire
Weight: 16 lbs. each
Dimensions (per speaker) : 8″W x 15.8″H x 11.9″D
Type: Active
Power: 130W Total
Frequency Response: 45～40,000Hz
Sensitivity: N/A
Drivers: 2 – 5.5″ Woofer and Planar Tweeter
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Dual RCA, optical, and coaxial
Weight: 37.8 Total Pounds
Dimensions (per speaker): 7.8″W x 13.5″H x 11″D
Comparison: Klipsch RP-600M vs Edifier S2000MKIII
Power Handling and Volume
The Klipsch RP-600M are passive bookshelf speakers. This means they will require amplification. When powered, they can handle 200W per channel. They get louder than Edifier S2000MKIII and can fill a large room. The Edifier S2000MKIII are active bookshelf speakers. They have 130W of total power on board. The Edifiers can not match the volume of the RP-600Ms. Both should still have volume sufficient for most home audio speaker systems.
You will get 96dB sensitivity out of the Klipsch RP-600M speakers. This means they are pretty sensitive to power. 200W per channel is their max power. Their high sensitivity means they can be powered with much less.
Construction and Size
The RP-600M bookshelf speakers have Klipsch’s signature copper-spun woofers on all 3 color options. All 3 options have attractive and bold designs. Edifier’s S2000MKIII also has an appealing design. The wood finish contrasts well with the black drivers. The design on the S2000MKII design is more traditional. The size of both speakers is very similar. The Edifier’s S2000MKIII do weigh roughly 6 more pounds in total.
Sound Quality and Configuration
Each Edifier S2000MKIII speaker has a 5.5″ woofer and a planar tweeter. You’ll find Klipsch’s traditional titanium tractrix horn tweeter on the RP-600M. That 1″ tweeter is paired with a 6.5″ aramid fiber woofer. The frequency response on the RP-600M bookshelf speaker is 45～20,000Hz. Edifier’s S2000MKIII has a 45～40,000Hz frequency response.
The RP-600M and S2000MKIII carry different sound signatures. The Klipsch speakers can reproduce bigger bass. This is thanks to their power and larger woofer. The Edifier S2000MKIII can’t produce bass with the same sheer power. Bookshelf speakers will of course need a subwoofer for deep, impactful bass. The RP-600M doesn’t distort even at high volumes. The audio produced has great fullness and detail. The EQ is slightly bright but doesn’t feel overpowering. The Klipsch sound profile is high quality and engaging.
The Edifier S2000MKIII also shines on the audio front. The bass is tight and extends well. Vocals and midrange are pleasant. The highs sound crisp as well. The S2000MKIII’s soundstage and imaging are as good as more expensive options. The sound profile is mostly balanced except for slightly recessed mid-range. This is more in line with the traditional “v-shaped” sound signature people love.
Active speakers offer other variables to the comparison. The biggest difference, in this case, is the connectivity options. RCA (x2), optical, and coaxial connections are all available. The Edifier S2000MKIII also has Bluetooth 5.0 capability and AptX decoding. This allows for a more stable connection and higher-quality audio. A wired connection will produce better sound quality. That doesn’t make having a Bluetooth option less useful. Utilizing both will be extremely convenient for many. Onboard controls are available for input switching, volume, bass, and treble. 4 EQ presets are available depending on your current preferences. The S2000MKIII also comes with a remote control for playback, input switching, and more.
Price and Similar Options
The Klipsch RP-600M speakers are more expensive than the Edifier S2000MKIII. The Klipsch speakers can typically be found for around $500. The Edifier speakers are often on sale for around $400. The gap between the two widens if you don’t already own an amplifier or receiver. This should be key budget consideration when you compare bookshelf speakers. This makes the Edifiers a much better option on a tight budget. Several other good options exist in this price range. The Q Acoustics 3020i has a flatter EQ. They are also cheaper than the RP-600M and S2000MKIII. The ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 passive bookshelf speakers are also a good option.
Verdict: Klipsch RP-600M vs Edifier S2000MKIII
Buy the Klipsch RP-600M if…
- You want the loudest and most powerful speakers
- You prefer bold designs that stand out
- You want big, rumbling bass
- You don’t mind a slightly bright sound signature
Buy the Edifier S2000MKIII if…
- You prefer a more refined design
- You want a traditional V-shaped sound signature
- You want the most for your money
- You don’t want to purchase an amplifier/receiver
Check out our buying guide if you’re considering other speakers. It includes tips and guidance to help you find the best speaker for you.
Keith Collins has been writing for over 15 years for various publications. He’s a lover of music, home theater, and excellent sound quality. His fondness for technology in addition to his non-stop curiosity fuels his writing ventures.