1. Overview
The Klipsch RP-504C is a high-performance center channel speaker designed to deliver clear and detailed dialogue for your home theater system. It features proprietary Klipsch technologies to enhance sound quality and provide an immersive listening experience.
Key features include:
- 90° x 90° Silicon Composite Hybrid Tractrix Horn: Maximizes efficiency and increases detail by focusing high frequencies towards the listening area.
- Linear Travel Suspension (LTS) Titanium Diaphragm Tweeter: Minimizes distortion for enhanced detailed performance.
- Vented Tweeter Design: Reduces standing waves that create unwanted harmonics, resulting in enhanced clarity in high-frequency reproduction.
- Spun Copper Cerametallic Woofers: Exceptionally rigid and lightweight for minimal distortion and maximum efficiency.
- Tractrix Ports: Utilizes Tractrix geometry for efficient air transfer, reducing port noise for punchier low frequencies.
- Robust Input Terminals: Single 5-way screw terminals accept banana plugs or bare wire up to 12-gauge for flexible and lasting connections.
Figure 1: Klipsch RP-504C Center Channel Speaker with grille on.
2. Setup
2.1 Unpacking
Carefully remove the speaker from its packaging. Retain all packaging materials for future transport or storage.
2.2 Placement
The center channel speaker is crucial for dialogue clarity in a home theater system. Optimal placement is directly below or above the center of your television or projection screen, aimed towards the primary listening position. Ensure the speaker is placed on a stable, level surface. Avoid obstructing the front of the speaker or the rear ports.
Figure 2: Klipsch RP-504C Center Channel Speaker dimensions (11"D x 31"W x 7"H).
2.3 Connections
Connect the RP-504C to the center channel output of your AV receiver or amplifier using high-quality speaker wire. Observe correct polarity: connect the red (+) terminal on the speaker to the red (+) terminal on your receiver, and the black (-) terminal on the speaker to the black (-) terminal on your receiver. The robust 5-way screw terminals accommodate bare wire (up to 12-gauge), spade lugs, pin connectors, or banana plugs.
Figure 3: Rear view of the speaker with input terminals and ports.
2.4 Initial Configuration
After connecting, refer to your AV receiver's manual for proper speaker setup and calibration. This typically involves setting speaker size (usually "Small" for center channels with a subwoofer, or "Large" if no subwoofer is used and the speaker can handle full range), crossover frequency (commonly 80Hz), and channel levels to ensure balanced sound.
3. Operating Instructions
Once properly set up and calibrated, the Klipsch RP-504C operates in conjunction with your AV receiver. All volume adjustments, sound modes, and source selections will be controlled via your receiver.
- Ensure your AV receiver is powered on and the correct input source is selected.
- Adjust the master volume on your receiver to achieve the desired listening level.
- For optimal dialogue clarity, ensure the center channel level is appropriately balanced with your other speakers during calibration.
Figure 4: Front view of the speaker with grille removed, showcasing the drivers.
4. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Klipsch RP-504C speaker, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Dust the cabinet with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents. For the grille, a soft brush or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment can be used to gently remove dust.
- Grille Care: The magnetic grille can be removed for cleaning or for a different aesthetic. Handle it carefully to avoid bending or damaging the fabric.
- Environment: Keep the speaker away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, and extreme temperature changes.
- Handling: Avoid touching the speaker cones (woofers) or the tweeter, as this can cause damage.
Figure 5: Front view of the speaker with grille on.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Klipsch RP-504C speaker, consult the following table for common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from center channel | Incorrect wiring Receiver input/output issue Speaker settings on receiver | Check speaker wire connections for correct polarity and secure fit. Ensure receiver is set to the correct input. Verify speaker settings in your receiver's menu. |
| Distorted or unclear sound | Damaged speaker wire Overdriving the speaker Incorrect receiver settings | Inspect speaker wire for damage. Reduce volume levels. Re-run receiver's auto-calibration or manually adjust EQ settings. |
| Poor dialogue clarity | Center channel level too low Improper speaker placement | Increase the center channel level in your receiver's settings. Ensure the speaker is positioned optimally and aimed towards the listening area. |
| Speaker sounds muffled | Grille obstruction Room acoustics | Ensure the speaker grille is not obstructed. Experiment with speaker placement or room acoustic treatments. |
6. Specifications
Below are the technical specifications for the Klipsch RP-504C Center Channel Speaker:
- Model Name: RP-504C
- Speaker Type: Center Channel
- Material: Wood
- Product Dimensions (D x W x H): 11" x 31" x 7"
- Item Weight: 39.7 Pounds
- Impedance: 8 Ohms
- Recommended Uses: For Surround Sound Systems, Home Theater
- Woofer Diameter: 5.25 Inches
- Connectivity Technology: Coaxial (for speaker wire connection)
- Audio Output Mode: Stereo, Surround
- Color: Ebony
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Warranty Information
The Klipsch RP-504C Center Channel Speaker comes with a Limited Warranty. Please refer to the official Klipsch website or your product registration card for detailed warranty terms and conditions, including coverage duration and claim procedures.
7.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, service, or additional product information, please contact Klipsch customer support. You can find contact details, FAQs, and support resources on the official Klipsch website: www.klipsch.com/support