Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers with HDMI-ARC - Rich TV

In this review of the Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers with HDMI-ARC, the bottom line is simple: these are for listeners who want a compact, easy-to-use upgrade to TV audio and a versatile desktop or living-room system. The Fives deliver the single biggest benefit of clear, powerful high-fidelity sound from dedicated left and right speakers, making dialogue, soundtracks and music feel significantly more present than typical TV speakers. Setup is straightforward and often takes under 5 minutes, so buyers who value quick installation and room-saving design will appreciate these powered bookshelf speakers.

Key Features

• Powered Design: Built-in amplification removes the need for a separate receiver, making the system fast to set up and space efficient for small rooms or desktops.
• HDMI-ARC Connectivity: Direct HDMI-ARC connection to a TV provides simpler control and higher-quality audio than analogue hookups for movies and shows.
• Dedicated Stereo Speakers: True hi-fi left and right speakers deliver a more natural stereo image and detailed sound than single-box soundbars at similar size.
• Multiple Inputs: A broad set of wireless and wired connection options lets the speakers handle TV, turntables, phones and other sources without swapping components.
• Heritage-Inspired Finish: Natural woodgrain veneer and mid-century styling provide a solid, attractive cabinet that sits well in living spaces and complements furniture.

Who It's For

These speakers suit people who want a straightforward way to dramatically improve TV and music sound without a receiver or large footprint. They are ideal for apartment dwellers, desktop workstation owners, and anyone who prefers a classic wood aesthetic paired with modern connectivity in a small package.

Those who rely solely on flawless Bluetooth performance for frequent wireless listening or who need multi-room wireless speaker ecosystems may want to look elsewhere, since some users report intermittent Bluetooth reliability and the product is focused on high-quality stereo playback rather than being a full smart-home speaker.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Outstanding sound quality and surprising volume for the speakers' compact size, especially for midrange and dialogue clarity.
• Easy setup and powered operation mean the system is usable in minutes without extra components.
• Solid build and attractive natural woodgrain veneer give the speakers a premium, mid-century look and durable feel.
• Flexible connectivity with HDMI-ARC and other wired and wireless options covers most home audio needs.

Cons

• Bluetooth can be unreliable for some users, so wireless streaming may not always be seamless.
• A small number of units have reported functionality issues after extended use, which is a potential concern for long-term reliability.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Klipsch The Fives are a compelling choice for anyone wanting immediate, room-friendly improvement to TV and music sound without a receiver. They pair powerful, high-fidelity stereo performance and useful HDMI-ARC connectivity with a solid mid-century finish, offering excellent value for listeners who prioritize sound quality and simple setup. Buyers who need flawless Bluetooth or long-term proven reliability should weigh those concerns against the audio benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do The Fives connect directly to a TV?
Yes. They support HDMI-ARC for direct TV connection and simplified control.

Are these speakers powered or do they need an amp?
They are powered speakers with built-in amplification, so no external receiver is required.

Is Bluetooth reliable for streaming?
Bluetooth is available, but some users report intermittent reliability; wired or HDMI connections are more consistent.