Powered speakers, those with amplification and built-in inputs, have been around for decades, but it took a long time to find an all-in-one stereo system that works seamlessly with your TV as a sound bar. Klipsch’s infamous system, The Fives, were the first powerful speakers I tried that got it right, and they’re still among the best you can get for the money.
As a soundbar, The Fives offers both wired and wireless audio inputs, including an HDMI ARC connection for a seamless connection to your TV. That allows you to easily control power and volume with your TV remote and easily switch to other sources such as your turntable’s built-in phono input, the optical input of a CD player or old TV, and Bluetooth with aptX for streaming music. There’s no Wi-Fi on board, which limits your streaming options, but the system is still compatible with a mobile Settings app and EQ control over Bluetooth LE. The built-in subwoofer allows you to upgrade to a 2.1 system with any powerful subwoofer. A very good deal, especially at this price.
Most importantly, The Fives work with a clear, rich, and powerful sound. This is the mini-sound solution for music lovers, trading in plastic-bound, pint-sized bars for full-sized speakers. With a classic look and tactile controls, they also have the devil’s style. A number of good bookshelf speakers with HDMI connections have appeared around The Fives, but if you can find them at this price they’re pretty hard to beat.
Source link
