Now on to the important stuff, the sound quality! It is simply amazing for a rather small center speaker to sound they way it sounds! Center speakers are better used for movies and TV because you're mostly interesting in the dialogs, however, this center speaker is also great for playing music! It reproduces musical sounds super clean and crisp--much, much better than my other two center speakers that I had before this one. I can clearly hear the difference in the movies/TV dialogs big time, as compared to my old speakers--which I prefer not to mention the brand because for the price I paid it was a good speaker and I really don't want to knock off the brand. The highs, mids, and even the low tones sound great! The lows are tight but not punchy or distorted. I know many of the reviews I've read they all mention the loudness of the high tones (as "typical Klipsch"), but honestly, I did not hear it with this particular speaker--and believe me, I was paying attention especially at the highs--but did not hear a biased in tones. Actually, I was impressed by the great quality of the low tones for such small center speaker. In the video I uploaded I have only the center speaker enabled, although it maybe difficult to hear the good quality sound on a video. But trust me, if you're looking for an excellent quality, and yet affordable, center speaker (and you're tight for space), look no further; this Klipsch RC42II is the one for you!!
Klipsch RC42IIBL Center Speaker Black - Each
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock.
Brand | Klipsch |
Speaker Maximum Output Power | 300 Watts |
Connectivity Technology | Wired |
Audio Output Mode | Surround |
Mounting Type | Speaker |
About this item
- Highly efficient design produces more output using less energy
- Magnetically shielded drivers prevent TV interference
- Enhanced 1" titanium Linear Travel Suspension horn-loaded tweeter
- Dual 4" high-output Cerametallic woofers
- Beautiful wood-grain vinyl cabinet
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Top Brand: Klipsch
From the manufacturer
A LEGEND IN SOUND

The RC-42 II is complete with our proprietary Tractrix Horn technology which produces a unique combination of precision, clarity and effortless power. Finished in a beautiful black ash woodgrain vinyl veneer, the RC-42 II is guaranteed to complement any décor.
NEW AND IMPROVED

In its fifth generation, Reference II boasts enhanced features: re-engineered drivers and a new crossover system to capture your attention and excite emotions. In addition to improved sound quality, the look of “big sound” is redefined with sophisticated cabinetry, refreshed logos and rounded feet.

FOUR LAWS OF THE KLIPSCH UNIVERSE
Founder, Paul W. Klipsch believed four principles to be the foundation for great sound. These design principles—high efficiency with low distortion, controlled directivity, flat frequency response, and wide dynamic range—have and always will be foundational for our powerful and precise sound.
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Price | Currently unavailable. | $549.00$549.00 | $349.00$349.00 | $270.43$270.43 | -33% $399.00$399.00 List: $599.00 | $499.00$499.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 1 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 1 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 1 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 1 | Get it as soon as Thursday, May 1 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sold By | — | Acoustic Sound Design Inc | Huppins | Amazon.com | Heritage Housewares | Amazon.com |
speaker size | 4 inches | 5.25 inches | 5.25 inches | 13.33 centimeters | 4 inches | 8.89 centimeters |
power source | AC | Corded Electric | AC | AC | Corded Electric | AC |
connectivity tech | Wired | Wired | Single Binding Posts | Single Binding Post | Single Aluminum Binding Posts | RCA |
speaker type | Component | Monitor | Monitor | Component | Center Channel | Component |
mounting type | Speaker | Tabletop Mount | Tabletop Mount | Shelf Mount | Tabletop Mount | Tabletop Mount |
weight | 13.9 pounds | 36 pounds | 18 pounds | 7 pounds | 20.3 pounds | 13 pounds |
control method | remote | remote | remote | remote | remote | remote |
model name | RC-42 II | RP-504C II Eby | RP-500C II | R-50C | RP-404C II Wal | R-30C |
frequency response | — | 20 KHz | 1630 hertz | — | 87 KHz | — |
surround channels | 5.1 | — | 1 | 5.1 | 5.1 or 7.1 | 1 |
impedance | 8 ohm | 8 ohm | 8 ohm | — | 8 ohm | — |
What's in the box
Product information
Model Name | RC-42 II |
---|---|
Speaker Type | Component |
Special Feature | Built in Elevation, bass_boost |
Recommended Uses For Product | Movies |
Compatible Devices | Laptop, Television, Desktop, Home Theater |
Subwoofer Diameter | 4 Inches |
Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
Controller Type | Corded Electric |
Surround Sound Channel Configuration | 5.1 |
Color | Black |
Included Components | Center Channel Speaker, Removable Grilles |
Product Dimensions | 9.1"D x 16"W x 5.4"H |
Item Weight | 13.9 Pounds |
Impedance | 8 Ohm |
Is Waterproof | FALSE |
Warranty Type | Limited |
Maximum Range | 20 Meters |
Number of Items | 1 |
Control Method | Remote |
Speaker Size | 4 Inches |
Power Source | AC |
Woofer Diameter | 4 Inches |
Tweeter Diameter | 1 Inches |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Customer Package Type | Frustration-Free Packaging |
Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
Subwoofer Connectivity Technology | Wired |
Includes MP3 player? | No |
Specific Uses For Product | Home Theater, Movies |
UPC | 743878021974 888429054695 |
Style | Speaker |
Global Trade Identification Number | 00743878021974 |
Manufacturer | Klipsch |
Item Weight | 13.9 pounds |
ASIN | B0040QMTK4 |
Item model number | 1011866 |
Customer Reviews |
4.7 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #212,374 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #84 in Center-Channel Speakers |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | August 27, 2010 |
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Klipsch RC42IIBL Center Speaker Black - Each
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Product Description
Despite its compact size, the RC-42 II center channel speaker proudly carries on the Reference Series legacy of no-compromise audio performance. With its exceptional clarity and engaging soundstage, the RC-42 II lets you hear every word, every detail of your favorite movies.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers praise the center speaker's sound quality, with one noting its clear voice tone and another mentioning its impressive SW-450 subwoofer. Moreover, the speaker receives positive feedback for its clarity, particularly in separating dialogue, and its compact size that fits perfectly in media center consoles. Additionally, customers appreciate its build quality, efficiency, and appearance, with one customer noting it matches their EPI cabinets amazingly. They find it performs well, with one mentioning its effectiveness with both music and movies, and consider it good value for money.
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Customers praise the center speaker's sound quality, noting improved clarity and staging, with one customer highlighting its impressive SW-450 subwoofer.
"...if you're looking for an excellent quality, and yet affordable, center speaker (and you're tight for space), look no further; this Klipsch RC42II..." Read more
"...noticed a difference in the dialog as well and claims he can now hear everything clearly. I hear the difference I was looking for too...." Read more
"Looks good, sounds good, and the perfect size for where I needed to put it" Read more
"They sound really good in a small system so MAYBE double up in a large one but I thought the vents would be better designed than they are as they..." Read more
Customers appreciate the center speaker's clarity, particularly how it enhances dialogue and keeps voices from being drowned out.
"...It delivers increased clarity without overpowering the older Icons...." Read more
"...(if you know Klipsch, you know the sound), but yet balanced and much fuller bodied than the outgoing quintet center its replacing...." Read more
"...It’s crystal clear, provides accurate sound and pairs well with my Denon x3700...." Read more
"...on Blu-Ray and David Gilmour live Blu-Ray both sound excellent, with clear, deep male voices...." Read more
Customers find the center speaker offers good value for money, with one customer noting it's an excellent addition to their 7.1 system.
"...But trust me, if you're looking for an excellent quality, and yet affordable, center speaker (and you're tight for space), look no further; this..." Read more
"...Definitely worth the money, and for my small living room, couldnt be happier with the sound." Read more
"...in movies and lead vocals in music is much sharper and crisper for the price...." Read more
"Was expecting to hate this speaker but it really does add to my system. I kinda love it. I can hear the dialogue and music sounds more full...." Read more
Customers like the speaker's size, finding it compact and perfect for small rooms, with one customer noting it fits well in a media center console.
"Looks good, sounds good, and the perfect size for where I needed to put it" Read more
"...what I expected to see and hear from klipsch; just in a smaller compact housing...." Read more
"Small and attractive just what I wanted" Read more
"...looking for one I could build into the piece and this one fit the bill perfectly. The unit is small but very powerful...." Read more
Customers praise the center speaker's build quality, describing it as sturdy and well-made.
"...But trust me, if you're looking for an excellent quality, and yet affordable, center speaker (and you're tight for space), look no further; this..." Read more
"...That said I thought this was real quality I could afford and it is great!..." Read more
"...This has no strike again Klipsch, this is a quality product and I understand that at least the front speakers in a home theater system all should be..." Read more
"...Brisk highs and solid lows. Good value for the money, especially if on sale. RECOMMENDED." Read more
Customers find the center speaker efficient and powerful, with one customer noting improved clarity and performance.
"...I would recommend Klipsch speakers to anyone looking for increased clarity and performance...." Read more
"...Crisp, very responsive and clean. I know some might consider them to be a bit on the harsh side but I like their brightness...." Read more
"...and frequency response were just fine for me as the RC42II is efficient to begin with (sensitivity rating of 95 dB) and lower frequency signals are..." Read more
"...However, it does 'throttle back' pretty good. :) I've often wondered "Why a center channel, and why can they cost so much"?..." Read more
Customers find the center speaker visually appealing, with beautiful highs and a great screen, and one customer mentions it matches their EPI cabinets amazingly.
"...The speaker enclosure feels and looks sturdy, with great quality and finishing material...." Read more
"Looks good, sounds good, and the perfect size for where I needed to put it" Read more
"Small and attractive just what I wanted" Read more
"...Not only does it perform well, but it also looks clean and classy, without all of the faux metal finishes or sparkly cheap looking silver metallic..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the speaker's performance, with multiple customers confirming it works well, and one mentioning it performs excellently for both music and movies.
"...back and height speakers, I have the rm41’s as L/R. The system was perfect for atmos and the center channel never fell behind with the rest of the..." Read more
"...appreciate the opportunity to evaluate this product, overall it performed very well." Read more
"...It sounds amazing. It blends great with my Infinity speakers with no issues at all...." Read more
"...Not only does it perform well, but it also looks clean and classy, without all of the faux metal finishes or sparkly cheap looking silver metallic..." Read more
Reviews with images

Klipsch RC42IIBL center speaker absolutely awesome!
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews. Please reload the page.
- Reviewed in the United States on May 18, 2020Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseThe media could not be loaded.
Now on to the important stuff, the sound quality! It is simply amazing for a rather small center speaker to sound they way it sounds! Center speakers are better used for movies and TV because you're mostly interesting in the dialogs, however, this center speaker is also great for playing music! It reproduces musical sounds super clean and crisp--much, much better than my other two center speakers that I had before this one. I can clearly hear the difference in the movies/TV dialogs big time, as compared to my old speakers--which I prefer not to mention the brand because for the price I paid it was a good speaker and I really don't want to knock off the brand. The highs, mids, and even the low tones sound great! The lows are tight but not punchy or distorted. I know many of the reviews I've read they all mention the loudness of the high tones (as "typical Klipsch"), but honestly, I did not hear it with this particular speaker--and believe me, I was paying attention especially at the highs--but did not hear a biased in tones. Actually, I was impressed by the great quality of the low tones for such small center speaker. In the video I uploaded I have only the center speaker enabled, although it maybe difficult to hear the good quality sound on a video. But trust me, if you're looking for an excellent quality, and yet affordable, center speaker (and you're tight for space), look no further; this Klipsch RC42II is the one for you!!
5.0 out of 5 starsThis Klipsch center speaker is a beast!!! I've been wanting to buy Klispsch speakers for quite some time because of their good reviews and reputation but somehow I always ended up settling for some other brands on sale (Polk, SVS, KHL, etc.), but now that I saw that this particular center speaker on sale on Amazon, I decided to take a stab a it, and oh boy, did it not disappoint! I just needed a good quality center speaker to complete my home theatre set and this Klipsch ended up replacing a speaker of say, not the same quality or repute. The very first I noticed right out of the box was the speaker's weight. It weighed 12 lbs! (Yes, I weighed it). My old center speaker weighed only 7 lbs. Obviously you don't rank a speaker based on its weight, but it does tell you something about the kind of quality materials they employ in its manufacturing for the drivers' components themselves as well as the enclosure. The speaker enclosure feels and looks sturdy, with great quality and finishing material. The design itself in the front is also very interesting with two ported, curved vents on both sides. And of course, the iconic copper-colored material of the Klipsch cones are also a plus adding to its style!Klipsch RC42IIBL center speaker absolutely awesome!
Reviewed in the United States on May 18, 2020
Now on to the important stuff, the sound quality! It is simply amazing for a rather small center speaker to sound they way it sounds! Center speakers are better used for movies and TV because you're mostly interesting in the dialogs, however, this center speaker is also great for playing music! It reproduces musical sounds super clean and crisp--much, much better than my other two center speakers that I had before this one. I can clearly hear the difference in the movies/TV dialogs big time, as compared to my old speakers--which I prefer not to mention the brand because for the price I paid it was a good speaker and I really don't want to knock off the brand. The highs, mids, and even the low tones sound great! The lows are tight but not punchy or distorted. I know many of the reviews I've read they all mention the loudness of the high tones (as "typical Klipsch"), but honestly, I did not hear it with this particular speaker--and believe me, I was paying attention especially at the highs--but did not hear a biased in tones. Actually, I was impressed by the great quality of the low tones for such small center speaker. In the video I uploaded I have only the center speaker enabled, although it maybe difficult to hear the good quality sound on a video. But trust me, if you're looking for an excellent quality, and yet affordable, center speaker (and you're tight for space), look no further; this Klipsch RC42II is the one for you!!
Images in this review
- Reviewed in the United States on October 15, 2019Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseGot this to upgrade a vanilla center channel speaker for Klipsch Icon series speakers. The Klipsch Icon's are not "reference" brand but got an insane deal on a system locally and they sounded really good to me. They don't make Icons anymore so this was not an upgrade option. Most importantly, I also needed the new center channel speaker to fit in a small >8" opening in my home theatre table and still afford an upgrade in fidelity I was looking for. This fit both requirements beautifully.
I also had a couple of concerns other than fitting the small opening. First would the small speaker size stand up to both dialog and music equally well in a surround mix? Secondly, would the small speaker size relate well with the older 2X8" Icon speakers. In other words, would the reference speaker sound better than Icons and make them sound flat and dull in comparision?
I immediately noticed a difference even with the old amplifier settings. All I had to do is tweak the crossover, the dimensional width and center speaker levels in the receiver and this center speaker now sounds like it was made for the Icons. It delivers increased clarity without overpowering the older Icons.
My dad who has hearing disablities noticed a difference in the dialog as well and claims he can now hear everything clearly. I hear the difference I was looking for too. The smallest of the Klipsch center speakers packs a punch and related well musically with the older speakers. I got this at a reduced price and very happy with my purchase. I would recommend Klipsch speakers to anyone looking for increased clarity and performance. Those that want to hear sound as it was authored won't be dissapointed in the reference brand.
5.0 out of 5 starsGot this to upgrade a vanilla center channel speaker for Klipsch Icon series speakers. The Klipsch Icon's are not "reference" brand but got an insane deal on a system locally and they sounded really good to me. They don't make Icons anymore so this was not an upgrade option. Most importantly, I also needed the new center channel speaker to fit in a small >8" opening in my home theatre table and still afford an upgrade in fidelity I was looking for. This fit both requirements beautifully.Quality center channel in a tight spot
Reviewed in the United States on October 15, 2019
I also had a couple of concerns other than fitting the small opening. First would the small speaker size stand up to both dialog and music equally well in a surround mix? Secondly, would the small speaker size relate well with the older 2X8" Icon speakers. In other words, would the reference speaker sound better than Icons and make them sound flat and dull in comparision?
I immediately noticed a difference even with the old amplifier settings. All I had to do is tweak the crossover, the dimensional width and center speaker levels in the receiver and this center speaker now sounds like it was made for the Icons. It delivers increased clarity without overpowering the older Icons.
My dad who has hearing disablities noticed a difference in the dialog as well and claims he can now hear everything clearly. I hear the difference I was looking for too. The smallest of the Klipsch center speakers packs a punch and related well musically with the older speakers. I got this at a reduced price and very happy with my purchase. I would recommend Klipsch speakers to anyone looking for increased clarity and performance. Those that want to hear sound as it was authored won't be dissapointed in the reference brand.
Images in this review
- Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2024Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseLooks good, sounds good, and the perfect size for where I needed to put it
- Reviewed in the United States on October 5, 2024Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseThey sound really good in a small system so MAYBE double up in a large one but I thought the vents would be better designed than they are as they are very shallow, not deep into the box like I would expect.
- Reviewed in the United States on March 17, 2017Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseI gave the same review for all of the Klipsch components for my home theater system (because they're all really great in my opinion):
My first experience with Klipsch products but I've always wanted to give them a try. In the past two months I've created a modest home theater setup, consisting of:
Toshiba 60" Smart TV
Tivo Bolt
Yamaha RX-V679 AVR
This center speaker
RB 51-II (2 sets) as front left and right speakers
RS 42 II surrounds
R14-M "presence" speakers
R12-SW Subwoofer
So these are my rear surrounds and sound great in my room, which is about 13 x 18. Crisp, very responsive and clean. I know some might consider them to be a bit on the harsh side but I like their brightness. I had a Bose Lifestyle system for several years and it was okay but kind of muddy at higher volumes.
These speakers reproduce sound across their range with precision and, as I said, a very clean sound.
One of my goals was to also have pretty good audio capability and this system is nice for that (not audiophile quality but still quite good). I have several hundred CDs that I ripped to FLAC and put on an external drive and my PC is running a DLNA server. Sound quality is amazingly good and well beyond what I had expected with these speakers. They can also be unforgiving with poor quality source media so bear that in mind.
Over the years I've owned lots of equipment, dating back to my first amp, a Fisher tube amp from the early 60s, some Marantz, Crown, and a bunch of other stuff. I'd say these speakers will serve me well for some time to come.
Top reviews from other countries
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JüntherReviewed in Germany on February 6, 2013
5.0 out of 5 stars Bewertung
Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseDieser Lautsprecher dient in meinem Heimkinosystem.
Er hat eine klare Wiedergabe von hochfrequenten Tönen auch bei voller Lautstärke (dabei kann man sich nicht mehr Unterhalten).
Die Verarbeitung erscheint mir sehr gut und das Aussehen ist auch nicht schlecht.
Dieser Centerlautsprecher bringt aber keinen Bass deshalb sollte man beim Zusammenstellen des Systems darauf achten.
Ich habe noch mehr Lautsprecher der Firma Klipsch und bin wirklich davon begeistert.
-
JP&CathReviewed in France on October 11, 2019
5.0 out of 5 stars Très bon produit
Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseTrès satisfait du produit après plusieurs années d'utilisation, je recommande.
-
benoitReviewed in Spain on December 29, 2012
5.0 out of 5 stars benoit
Style: SpeakerVerified Purchasees un altavoz de pequeño tamaño pero dotado de una calidad de sonido increible, desde luego un complemento tremendo de su equipo hifi.
- Lodrigo Briones Jr.Reviewed in Canada on February 21, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars Pretty good
Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseA little bit smaller.
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M. ArdizzoiaReviewed in Italy on July 22, 2014
5.0 out of 5 stars Casse perfette di qualità superiore
Style: SpeakerVerified PurchaseNulla a che fare con le cassettine da supermercato. Qui siamo su un altro pianeta. Solo ascoltandole si può capire... Il costo è proporzionato alla loro qualità. Non mi spendo in dettagli tecnici (in internet trovate recensioni di ogni tipo su queste casse made in USA). Posso solo dire che ora il mio impianto dolby pilotato da un Denon serie X2000 è l'invidia dei miei amici. Unica nota: le 42 sono idonee per un ambiente medio piccolo se abbinate a satelliti della stessa marca, altrimenti il parlato viene "coperto" dagli effetti... meglio, se destinate al canale centrale ossia alle voci dei personaggi in ambiente home theatre, rivolgersi alla sorella maggiore (un po' più costosa ma più equilibrata). L'ho restituita per questo motivo e sono passato alla più grossa: uno spettacolo!! Ma sono gusti personali... comunque le casse di qualità, per quanto costose, restano per moltissimi anni, l'elettronica dei sintoamplificatori varia in continuazione... ho preferito investire nelle casse... e ne sono contentissimo.