Everyone Told Me That Klipsch The Three II Was Overhyped

I’ll be upfront: I’m a Klipsch guy. For years, I’ve admired their unique blend of vintage aesthetics and that lively, energetic sound signature. So, when the Klipsch The Three II arrived at my studio, my expectations were already high. But I wasn’t prepared for this. For the first twenty minutes, I just stared at it, turning it over, feeling the materials. It was, in a word, perfect.

Design and Build Quality

If you appreciate high-quality materials and minimalism, you will love the Klipsch The Three II. It embodies these qualities perfectly, with a luxurious yet understated aesthetic. From every angle, you’ll see only premium materials: solid wood, genuine fabric, and real metal. The craftsmanship is impeccable, with every detail reinforcing Klipsch’s reputation for uncompromising quality.

The speaker arrives beautifully packaged with everything you need: manuals, cables, and a remote control. While the remote is included, the real joy comes from using the tactile controls directly on the speaker. The top panel keeps things elegantly simple with two satisfyingly “clicky” metal control knobs (for volume and source selection) and a solid power switch—all designed for an intuitive, hands-on operation.

Connectivity: More Than Just Wireless

While it looks like a simple retro speaker, the back panel of the Klipsch The Three II reveals a surprising amount of flexibility, focusing on high-quality, direct connections.

For the Vinyl Lover (Phono Input): This is the killer feature for many. The Klipsch The Three II includes a switchable Phono/Line RCA input with a ground screw. This means you can connect a turntable directly to it without needing a separate phono pre-amp, a feature almost unheard of in this category. It’s a huge plus for anyone with a record collection.
Convenient Wireless Streaming: You get Bluetooth® 4.2 wireless technology, allowing you to easily stream audio directly from your phone, tablet, or computer with a stable connection.
Versatile Wired Connections: Beyond wireless, you have a high-resolution USB audio input for a direct connection to a computer (perfect for a premium desktop setup) and a standard 3.5mm AUX input for any other analog source.

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The Sound: How Does The Klipsch The Three II Perform?

The sound of the Klipsch The Three II is every bit as authentic as its premium materials suggest. It delivers that signature Klipsch audio signature – vibrant, dynamic, and utterly captivating. When I put it through its paces with my standard test tracks, from the raw intensity of Awolnation to the intricate soundscapes of Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon,” the Three II handled everything with an authoritative presence that puts most modern, overly processed Bluetooth speakers to shame.

What stands out immediately is the Three II’s exceptional clarity. Vocals come through with stunning presence and articulation, while instruments maintain perfect separation, allowing you to pick out even the subtlest details in complex arrangements. The bass performance is particularly impressive – deep and punchy when needed, yet always controlled and musical rather than boomy or overwhelming. Live recordings shine especially bright, creating an immersive experience that makes you feel like you’re in the venue.

The only inherent limitation comes from its single-cabinet design: you won’t get the expansive stereo separation of a dedicated 2.0 or 2.1 speaker system. However, for a standalone unit, the Three II creates a remarkably full and dimensional soundstage. Klipsch’s upgraded tuning in this “II” model delivers even greater refinement over its predecessor, particularly in midrange clarity and bass control.

Conclusion

The only question left is the price. At first, it might seem high, but it’s worth every penny. You’re not just paying for amazing sound; you’re buying something real. The wood is real wood. The fabric is real fabric. The metal isn’t just made to look like metal; it is metal. Even the feet are solid wood.

If you love Klipsch’s classic, high-end style, you’ll adore this speaker. It’s built to last, with no fake materials. It would look out of place on a cheap IKEA table; it belongs on a solid oak desk or a luxury shelf, surrounded by genuine leather and premium decor. This isn’t just a speaker; it’s a piece of furniture that produces incredible sound.

Klipsch The Three II Specifications

MAX ACOUSTIC OUTPUT: 106dB (0.5M near field)
HIGH FREQUENCY DRIVERS: 2 x 2 1/4” (57.15mm) full range drivers
SUBWOOFER: 5.25” (133.4mm) long-throw woofer 2 x 5.25” (133.4mm) dual opposed passive radiators
ENCLOSURE TYPE: Sealed
POWER: 120W Peak
FREQUENCY RESPONSE: 45Hz ~20kHz @ -3dB
INPUTS: Bluetooth®, 3.5mm miniplug (analog), Phono pre-amp / RCA analog, USB Type B
OUTPUTS: None
DIMENSIONS (WxHxD): 13.7” (34.82cm) x 7” (17.78cm) x 8” (20.3cm)
FINISH OPTIONS: Walnut, Matte Black
VOLTAGE: 110/240 VAC
WEIGHT: 10.32lbs (4.7kg)
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: 3.5mm aux cable, USB Type B to USB Type A cable, Wireless Remote Control, Power Cord