klipsch Reference Premiere RP-502S II Walnut Surround Speakers

In this review the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-502S II Walnut surround speakers are evaluated for home theater owners who want clearer dialogue and immersive rear-channel presence. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a larger 90 x 90 Tractrix horn and updated Cerametallic 5.25 in woofers, which together deliver crisper midrange detail and powerful, distortion-resistant bass extension for movie soundtracks and TV dialogue. These two-piece surrounds are aimed at listeners who prioritize clarity and lifelike dispersion over discreet bookshelf aesthetics.

Key Features

• Bigger Tractrix Horn: The new larger 90 x 90 silicone composite hybrid horn sharpens dialogue and on-screen effects for clearer, more intelligible sound in home theater layouts.
• LTS Titanium Diaphragm Tweeter: The Linear Travel Suspension tweeter minimizes distortion for smoother high frequencies and more accurate detail retrieval.
• Vented Tweeter Design: The vented housing around the tweeter reduces resonances and reveals more nuance in quiet passages and surrounds.
• Cerametallic Woofers: Updated copper-spun 5.25 in Cerametallic drivers provide controlled low-end response and high efficiency with minimal cone breakup.
• Wide Dispersion Surround Technology: Engineered to create a broad, even soundstage so surround effects remain immersive even if speaker placement is less than ideal.
• Advanced Cabinet Design: Additional bracing, divided cabinet layout, and furniture-grade walnut finishes reduce vibration while making the speakers visually appealing.

Who It's For

The RP-502S II surrounds suit home theater enthusiasts who want near-theater dialogue clarity and detailed ambient effects from their rear channels. They are a good match with larger Klipsch Reference Premiere fronts and center speakers and benefit setups where intelligibility in dialogue and efficient, dynamic playback matter.

Audiophiles seeking ultra-compact or invisible surround solutions, or customers needing battery-powered or outdoor surrounds, should look elsewhere; these are traditional, relatively heavy wood-cabinet speakers designed for indoor, furniture-style placement or wall mounting.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent dialogue clarity thanks to the larger Tractrix horn and LTS tweeter.
• Detailed, efficient high frequencies with reduced distortion from the vented tweeter design.
• Solid build and attractive walnut finish with removable magnetic grilles for a premium look.
• Wide Dispersion Surround Technology creates a convincing, enveloping rear soundfield even in imperfect room layouts.

Cons

• Heavier, furniture-grade cabinets make them less ideal for very discreet or ultra-compact installs.
• Designed for indoor home theater use; not intended for outdoor or portable applications.

Specifications

Includes	(2) surround speakers
Tweeter	1 in LTS titanium diaphragm with vented housing
Horn	90 x 90 silicone composite hybrid Tractrix horn
Woofer	5.25 in copper-spun Cerametallic woofer
Technology	Wide Dispersion Surround Technology
Cabinet	Braced, divided cabinet with furniture-grade walnut finish

Our Verdict

The RP-502S II surround speakers are a strong choice for home theater owners who want clearer dialogue and a wider, more cinematic surround field without adding complex room tuning. Built with premium materials and updated drive units, they deliver durable, detailed performance and good value when paired with an appropriate Klipsch Reference Premiere system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these come as a pair?
Yes, the package includes two surround speakers for stereo rear-channel use.

Can they be wall mounted?
Yes, the design supports wall mounting and includes features suitable for fixed installations.

Are the grilles removable?
Yes, the magnetic grilles are removable for a cleaner or more discreet look depending on preference.