RF-3/RF-5 differences

[RogerG]

First off, thank you Klipsch for changing the website; much better looking and easier to navigate. One(many) questions though. Looking at the specs for the new Reference RF-5 doesn't mention if it is a 2 1/2 way design(maybe it's not). Also, the woofer model number(k-1083-SB) is the same for the RF-3 and RF-5. The manual for my RF-3's has woofer model # K-1038-S. Has Klipsch changed (upgraded) the woofers in the rf-3 since it's introduction? (I bought mine when they were first introduced in 1999). By looking at the specs on the website, the only differences I can see between the rf-3 and 5 are the tweeters and cabinets. Any input would be appreciated.

[jimbobo]

I can't answer your? but I also notice the power handling is now 150 watts instead of 225.

[boa12]

roger, don't know on the specifics of the woofers, but i have heard the new refs for one will have a different network - the tapered array variety like in the rc-3. hence the 2 1/2 way moniker.

it does say that in the product(s) description on the site. i just saw that they're also using monster Z wire in the new ones. 1st i've heard of any joint ventures w/ monstercable.

think the site's a work in progress

------------------

Klipsch KLF 30 (front), KLF C-7, Cornwall I (rear)

Velodyne HGS-18 sub woofer

Monsterbass 400 sub interconnects & Monster CX-2 biwire & Z-12 cable

Marantz SR-8000 receiver

Sony DVP-C650D cd/dvd player

Sony Trinitron 27" stereo tv

Toshiba hi-fi stereo vcr

Technics dual cassette deck

Scientific Atlanta Explorer 2000 digital cable box

Boa's Listenin Lounge:

Klipsch RF-3 (front), RC-3, cheap little Technics (rear)

Monster MCX Biwires

Sony STR-DE935 a/v receiver

Kenwood KR-9600 AM/FM stereo receiver (vintage 1975)

Roussound AB-2 receiver switch to RF-3

Teac PD-D1200 5-disk cd changer

Technics direct drive turntable

Sega Genesis game player

Sub: None yet

rock on!

This message has been edited by boa12 on 05-15-2001 at 08:10 PM

[Guest JimG]

The power rating of 225 watts for the RF-3 was a mistake made in the literature that has permeated itself all throughout the company. Also, the 1038 model number was a transposition error (1083) made in the lit that also made it into the manual that then people thought was right. I changed both of those things on the spec page for the RF-3 to show them correctly. No changes have been done to the RF-3 to lower its power rating. Simply a marketing mistake that has lived a long life. We apologize.

The RF-3 and RF-5 both use the same woofer. None of the Reference floorstanders (RF-3, 5 & 7) are 2 and half way designs. We had planned for the 5 & 7 to be 2.5's, but they simply sounded better when we voiced them as 2-way designs. (The RC-3 and RC-7 are both 2.5-way networks.)

There are a number of differences between the RF-3 and RF-5, but many of them cannot be expressed in specs. Both share the same woofer and same tweeter motor, but the 5 gets the new 8" horn and therefore has much better imaging and soundstage presentation. The cabinet for the 5 is real wood and much larger and includes a new larger port with an internal flare. Those items add up to better low bass extension from the 5. The 5 is also better voiced thru the midrange. The 5 gets a new grille design and bigger feet and features the Monster Cable internal wire. As I said, many of the differences cannot quantified in specs - you will simply need to listen to them and decide for yourself.

Jim

[bensilb]

Jim or Bob,

I noticed on the back of my RF-3s a power rating of 225. Is this a mistake? Is it really 150? What is the power rating of the new RF-5s?