Klipsch The One II Tabletop Stereo review blending style, quality, and sound excellence

Description

A Timeless Blend of Style and Functionality

I recently had the chance to test the Klipsch Heritage Wireless The One II Tabletop Stereo Walnut, and the experience was nothing short of intriguing. From the moment I unboxed it, the mid-century modern design grabbed my attention. The real wood finish combined with durable metal accents makes it a piece that doesn’t just sit in a room—it defines it. It’s the kind of speaker that feels like it could be handed down as an heirloom, thanks to its timeless craftsmanship. While aesthetics are important, I was eager to see if its performance matched its looks.

Performance That Packs a Punch

What truly sets this stereo speaker apart is the sound quality. With its dynamic driver and stereo sound configuration, the audio is sharp, clear, and dynamic. I tested it with a mix of genres—jazz, rock, and even some podcasts—and it consistently delivered concert-level sound. The bass is warm and rich without being overbearing, while the highs are crisp. It’s an indoor speaker, and it excels in that setting by filling the room with a sound profile that’s both immersive and detailed. The 2.0 surround sound configuration might not replace a high-end home theater system, but for a compact tabletop stereo, it’s more than sufficient.

Ease of Use and Connectivity

Using the speaker is refreshingly simple. The Bluetooth connectivity worked flawlessly with my smartphone, pairing in seconds without any hiccups. I also appreciated the phono/line input, which makes it turntable-ready. This was a game-changer for spinning vinyl records at home without needing additional equipment. The touch controls on the top of the unit are intuitive, and while some might miss having a remote, I didn’t find it to be an issue. However, it does rely on corded electric power, so keep that in mind if you were hoping for a portable option.

Highlights

• Elegant and durable design with walnut wood and metal accents.
• Rich, detailed audio with great clarity and depth.
• Versatile Bluetooth and line input options for seamless connectivity.
• Compact size that fits well on any tabletop or shelf.

Areas for Improvement

• It’s not waterproof, so outdoor use is out of the question.
• The speaker’s reliance on an AC power source limits its portability.
• At 8.4 pounds, it’s not the lightest speaker to move around frequently.

Competing Products

When comparing this tabletop stereo to similar options, a few names come to mind. For example, products like the Marshall Stanmore II or even the Sonos One are strong competitors. The Marshall Stanmore II also boasts a retro design, but its sound leans more bass-heavy, which can overpower certain genres. The Sonos One, on the other hand, offers smart features and multi-room capabilities, but lacks the heirloom-quality design of the Klipsch model. Where this speaker truly excels is in its ability to combine aesthetic appeal with high-quality sound, making it a unique choice for those who value both form and function.

True Value

In terms of price to quality ratio, I’d say this speaker delivers excellent value for money. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the combination of premium materials, stellar sound quality, and versatile connectivity options makes it worth the investment. If you’re someone who appreciates a blend of classic design and modern technology, this speaker is a solid choice. I’ve seen other speakers at a similar price point that don’t come close to offering the same level of craftsmanship.

To sum up, this tabletop stereo isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for waterproofing or portability, this might not meet your needs. However, if you want a speaker that elevates your home both visually and acoustically, it’s hard to go wrong with this one. Klipsch’s attention to detail and heritage design philosophy truly shines in this product, and it’s a joy to use.

Additional information