The Klipsch RP-600M and the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 are both popular for good reason. Both are in a similar price range. 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: Passive Speakers
- Peak Power: 240 Watts Total
- Drivers: 6.5″ Woofer + 1″ Tweeter
- Sensitivity: 87 dB
- Weight: 16 Lbs. Per Speaker
- Best For: Balanced EQ and Classy Design
Table of Contents
Key Specifications
Type: Passive
Power: 200W (Max) Per Speaker
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: 8″W x 15.8″H x 11.9″D
Type: Passive
Power: 120W (Max) Per Speaker
Frequency Response: 44～35,000Hz
Sensitivity: 87 dB
Drivers: 2 – 6.5″ Aramid Fiber and 1″ Soft Dome Tweeter
Connectivity: Speaker Wire
Weight: 16 lbs. each
Dimensions: 7.8″W x 14.8″H x 11.3″D
Comparison: Klipsch RP-600M vs ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
Power Handling and Volume
The Klipsch RP-600M bookshelf speakers are much more powerful than the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2. The Klipsch speakers can handle of max of 200W per channel. You should choose them if your main priority is a speaker system to produce enough sound to fill a large room. The ELAC speakers have 120W of peak power per channel. They will be sufficient for a medium-sized room.
An amplifier will be needed to drive both of these passive bookshelf speakers. The Klipsch RP-600M has a sensitivity of 96 dB. This is higher than the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2’s 87 dB. This means the Klipsch RP-600M will be more sensitive to power. In addition to handling more power, it can be driven with less. Similar amplification to both speakers will produce louder volume on the Klipsch speakers.
Construction and Size
Both speakers have a similar size and weight. The RP-600M bookshelf speakers have Klipsch’s signature copper-spun woofers on all 3 color options. The Klipsch speakers have a bold design in comparison to the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2. The ELAC speakers have a more understated and refined black design. The Klipsch RP-600M speakers have a rear-firing tractrix bass-reflex port. The ELAC’s have a front-firing bass-reflex port. The front-firing bass-reflex port will make placement near walls easier.
Sound Quality and Configuration
Both speakers have 6.5″ woofers and 1″ tweeters. The woofer on the Klipsch RP-600M is a copper spun woofer. The tweeter is Klipsch’s traditional titanium tractrix horn tweeter. The ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 has a soft dome tweeter. Its woofer is made of aramid fiber. The ELAC bookshelf speakers have a 44～35,000Hz frequency response. The frequency response range on the Klipsch RP-600M is 45～20,000Hz.
As for actual sound quality, these speakers have different signatures. The Klipsch RP-600M has the ability to produce good, deep bass. This is something most bookshelf speakers struggle with. Bookshelf speakers will always need a subwoofer for big, thudding bass though. Audio is distortion-free even at high volume with the Klipsch RP-600M. All frequencies are produced well. The EQ is slightly bright while still managing to be balanced. There is an impressive amount of detail when listening to music especially. The Klipsch RP-600M has a fullness and clarity the ELAC’s can not match. The bright EQ may not fit everyone’s taste though.
The sound on the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 speakers definitely punch above their price. They have a more balanced EQ. Bass is present without being muddy. Highs have good clarity while being a little forward. The mid-range impresses with crisp vocals. The ELAC speakers are impressive for their price. They are a good fit for those who prefer a more balanced EQ. These speakers are also part of ELAC’s Debut 2.0 Series which includes an additional type of speakers.
Price and Similar Options
The Klipsch RP-600M speakers are more expensive than the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2. The Klipsch speakers can typically be found for around $500. The ELAC speakers are often on sale for around $400. In this price range, there are several other great options. The Edifier S2000MKIII is a great option for a powered bookshelf speaker. This means it won’t require an amplifier. That’s an important cost-savings to remember when you compare bookshelf speakers. It has Bluetooth, aptX HD support, a remote control, and great sound quality. The Q Acoustics 3020i is a great option for a passive speaker. It has a flatter EQ that may be preferable to some.
Verdict: Klipsch RP-600M vs ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2
Buy the Klipsch RP-600M if…
- You want the loudest and most powerful speakers
- You want the overall best sound quality
- You prefer bold designs that stand out
- You want big, rumbling bass
Buy the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 if…
- You want good sound quality at a more affordable price
- You don’t need enough volume to fill a larger room
- You prefer a more balanced EQ
- You prefer a more understated design
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.