Klipsch RP-1400SW

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW 14-inch Subwoofer

Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW 14-inch High Excursion Subwoofer. This subwoofer is designed to deliver powerful and accurate low-frequency sound, enhancing your home theater or music listening experience. This manual provides essential information for proper setup, operation, and care of your new subwoofer.

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW Subwoofer, front view with grille removed, showing the copper-colored driver.

Figure 1.1: Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW Subwoofer (Grille Removed)

2. Important Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions before operating this product. Keep these instructions for future reference.

  • Power Source: Connect the subwoofer only to a power supply of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
  • Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Heat: Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
  • Water and Moisture: Do not use this apparatus near water or moisture.
  • Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth.
  • Servicing: Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
  • Heavy Object: This subwoofer is heavy (85 lbs). Exercise caution when moving to prevent injury.

3. What's in the Box

Verify that all components are present:

  • Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW Subwoofer
  • Power Cord
  • Instruction Manual (this document)

4. Setup

4.1 Subwoofer Placement

The Klipsch RP-1400SW features a front-firing driver and Aerofoil front slot port, allowing for flexible placement within your room. Experiment with different locations to find the optimal bass response for your listening environment. Generally, corner placement can enhance bass output, while placement along a wall can provide a more balanced sound. The shock-absorbing rubber feet help isolate the subwoofer from the floor.

Diagram showing the internal geometry and front-firing driver of the Klipsch subwoofer, illustrating airflow through the front slot port.

Figure 4.1: Front-Firing Driver and Aerofoil Front Slot Port

Close-up of the subwoofer's rounded corners, durable finish, and shock-absorbing feet.

Figure 4.2: Subwoofer Design Features (Rounded Corners, Shock-Absorbing Feet)

4.2 Connections

Your RP-1400SW subwoofer offers both wired and wireless connectivity options.

Rear panel of the Klipsch subwoofer showing input connections and control knobs.

Figure 4.3: Subwoofer Rear Panel Connections and Controls

  1. Wired Connection (RCA/LFE):

    Connect an RCA cable from the LFE output of your AV receiver to the LFE input on the subwoofer's rear panel. If your receiver does not have an LFE output, use a standard RCA stereo cable to connect the receiver's pre-out (subwoofer output) to both the left and right RCA inputs on the subwoofer.

  2. Wireless Connection (Optional WA-2 Kit):

    For wireless operation, you can connect your subwoofer with a Klipsch WA-2 Wireless Subwoofer Kit (sold separately). This allows for flexible placement without the need for long RCA cables. Refer to the WA-2 kit's instructions for pairing and setup.

    Klipsch subwoofer with a WA-2 wireless kit receiver plugged into the rear port, illustrating wireless connectivity.

    Figure 4.4: Wireless Connectivity with Optional WA-2 Kit

  3. Power Connection:

    Once audio connections are made, plug the supplied power cord into the subwoofer's power inlet and then into a suitable wall outlet.

5. Operating Your Subwoofer

5.1 Controls Overview

The rear panel of your subwoofer features several controls to fine-tune its performance:

Close-up of the subwoofer's rear panel controls, including Low-Pass, Gain, Phase, and Power settings.

Figure 5.1: Easy-to-Use Controls on Rear Panel

  • GAIN (Volume): Adjusts the output level of the subwoofer. Start with a low setting and gradually increase until the bass blends seamlessly with your main speakers.
  • LOW-PASS (Crossover): This control sets the upper frequency limit for the subwoofer. If using an AV receiver with LFE output, set this to LFE (or bypass if available on your receiver). If connecting via stereo RCA, adjust this to blend with your main speakers' low-frequency cutoff.
  • PHASE (0°/180°): Adjusts the phase of the subwoofer output relative to your main speakers. Experiment with both settings to find the one that provides the most impactful and coherent bass.
  • POWER (ON/AUTO/OFF):
    • ON: Subwoofer remains continuously on.
    • AUTO: Subwoofer automatically turns on when an audio signal is detected and enters a low-power standby mode after a period of inactivity.
    • OFF: Subwoofer is powered off.

    The 1/2-watt standby mode in AUTO setting ensures exceptional efficiency and reduces energy costs.

5.2 Initial Power On and Adjustment

  1. Ensure all connections are secure.
  2. Set the GAIN control to its minimum position.
  3. Set the LOW-PASS control to LFE if using an AV receiver, or to a suitable frequency (e.g., 80Hz) if connecting via stereo RCA.
  4. Set the PHASE switch to 0°.
  5. Set the POWER switch to AUTO.
  6. Play some audio with significant bass content. Gradually increase the GAIN control until the subwoofer output blends with your main speakers.
  7. Experiment with the PHASE switch (0° vs. 180°) to determine which setting provides the most impactful and seamless bass response in your listening position.

For optimal performance, consider using your AV receiver's automatic room correction system (if available) after initial setup.

5.3 Product Video: Reference Premiere Subwoofers

Video 5.1: An official Klipsch video showcasing the features and design of the Reference Premiere Subwoofers, including the RP-1400SW. This video highlights advanced acoustics, balanced performance, front-firing Cerametallic woofers, high-efficiency Class D amplifier, front-firing slot port, detailed design, and easy-to-use controls.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Klipsch RP-1400SW subwoofer, follow these simple maintenance guidelines:

  • Cleaning: Dust the cabinet regularly with a dry, soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or strong detergents, as these can damage the ebony vinyl finish.
  • Placement: Avoid placing the subwoofer in direct sunlight or near heat sources, which can cause discoloration or damage to the cabinet.
  • Ventilation: Ensure that the rear amplifier panel has adequate airflow. Do not block the heat sink.
  • Grille: The durable woven cloth grille can be gently cleaned with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment to remove dust.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your subwoofer, consult the following table for common problems and solutions:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No sound from subwoofer
  • Power cord disconnected
  • Subwoofer not powered on (AUTO/ON)
  • Audio cable disconnected or faulty
  • Receiver LFE/subwoofer output disabled or volume too low
  • Check power cord connection and wall outlet.
  • Ensure POWER switch is set to ON or AUTO.
  • Verify audio cable connections at both subwoofer and receiver. Try a different cable.
  • Check receiver settings to ensure subwoofer output is enabled and volume is adequate.
Weak or distorted bass
  • GAIN control too low
  • Incorrect LOW-PASS setting
  • Incorrect PHASE setting
  • Subwoofer placement
  • Increase GAIN gradually.
  • Adjust LOW-PASS to blend with main speakers or set to LFE.
  • Toggle PHASE (0°/180°) to find the best integration.
  • Experiment with subwoofer placement in the room.
Subwoofer hums or buzzes
  • Ground loop issue
  • Faulty cable
  • Try plugging the subwoofer and receiver into the same electrical outlet.
  • Use a high-quality shielded RCA cable.
  • Disconnect the RCA cable from the subwoofer. If the hum stops, the issue is likely with the source or cable.

If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact Klipsch customer support.

8. Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW Subwoofer:

FeatureDetail
Model NumberRP-1400SW
BrandKlipsch
Speaker TypeSubwoofer
Woofer Diameter14 Inches
Audio Driver TypeDynamic Driver (Cerametallic)
Speaker Maximum Output Power600 Watts
RMS Power500 Watts
Frequency Response20Hz - 1kHz (approximate, based on A+ content)
Connectivity TechnologyWired RCA, LFE, and WA-2 Wireless Port
Audio Output ModeStereo, Surround Sound
Mounting TypeFloor Standing
Enclosure MaterialWood
ColorEbony
Power SourceCorded Electric
Item Dimensions (D x W x H)25.67"D x 20"W x 21.34"H
Item Weight85 Pounds
UPC743878047424
Diagram showing the dimensions of the Klipsch RP-1400SW subwoofer: 25.67 inches deep, 20 inches wide, and 21.34 inches high.

Figure 8.1: Subwoofer Dimensions

9. Warranty & Support

9.1 Warranty Information

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-1400SW Subwoofer comes with a limited warranty:

  • Electronics: Two (2) years
  • Woofer, Cabinet, and Non-Electrical Mechanics: Five (5) years

Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For full warranty terms and conditions, refer to the official Klipsch website or contact customer support.

9.2 Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Klipsch website or contact their customer service department. Contact details can typically be found on the Klipsch website under the "Support" or "Contact Us" section.

© 2026 Klipsch. All rights reserved. Klipsch and Reference Premiere are trademarks of Klipsch Group, Inc.