Klipsch is the next company to jump into wireless multiroom audio with the Stream, a product collection consisting of 6 products featuring DTS Play-Fi technology for high-resolution streaming over wifi networks.
Stream products include a pair of Reference soundbars (RSB-8 and RSB-14), the RW-1 wireless speaker, the Three tabletop stereo system and two legacy source converters (Gate and PowerGate). All can handle audio from a variety of sources, including online streaming, local storage and traditional sources. Control comes through mobile devices equipped with the companion Klipsch Stream app.
The two soundbars feature HDMI inputs and output, with the ability to pass 4K UHD video signals as well as HDMI-ARC and CEC. Additional inputs include Bluetooth, optical and RCA. The RSB-8 package includes a 40-inch wide soundbar and a 6.5-inch subwoofer, while the top-of-the-line RSB-14 includes a 44-inch soundbar and 8-inch subwoofer as well as three HDMI inputs. Sound comes through four 2.5-inch midrange drivers and two 0.78-inch tweeters in Klipsch tractrix horns.
The RW-1 wireless speaker is ideal for use in any room, with control via phone, tablet or PC as well as integrated power, volume and mute buttons. Customers can connect two RW-1 units for stereo listening via app.
Owners of legacy audio sources of the CD player or turntable variety can connect such devices to the Klipsch wireless system with the Gate. It can also route audio from the Stream system to an AVR, amplifier or powered speakers via stereo miniplug output. The PowerGate offers similar capabilities with the addition of a 2 x 100W amp, inputs including optical, RCA line-in/phono preamp, USB and Bluetooth, and high resolution 192kHz/24-bit audio file playback.
The final Stream product is the Three-- a retro-style player complete with a real wood veneer (in walnut or ebony) and tactile spun copper switches and knobs. It features Bluetooth, RCA line-in/phono preamp and USB audio inputs, and can either be used as a standalone stereo system or integrated in the Stream wireless system.
“The new Klipsch Stream Wireless Multi-Room Audio System leads our commitment to innovation in the wireless multiroom audio market with a full-fledged offering of products providing high-resolution audio,” the company says. “Throughout the product line we have incorporated new and existing Klipsch technology to bring the consumer Klipsch signature sound in every room of their house.”
