Klipsch R-52C vs. Triangle Borea BR03

Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$350 $630
Dimensions (H × W × D)
7.30” × 18.75” × 7.60”
185mm × 476mm × 193mm
14.96” × 8.11” × 12.36”
380mm × 206mm × 314mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
89-21,000 Hz 46-22,000 Hz
ASR Score
n/a 4.2
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
n/a 6.5
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Speaker Comparison

When we examine the landscape of modern audio gear, the center channel speaker and the bookshelf speaker often serve distinct roles within a home theater or hi-fi system. The Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker and the Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers are no exceptions. However, discerning ears will appreciate the nuances and characteristics that each brings to the table—or more accurately, to the entertainment unit.

The Soundstage and Imaging Duel

Klipsch has long held a reputation for creating speakers with a lively and dynamic sound, and the R-52C is a testament to this legacy. Designed to anchor dialogue and action to the screen in a surround sound setup, its precise imaging lends itself to a clear and focused audio experience. The Triangle Borea BR03, on the other hand, shines as a stereo pair, offering a wider soundstage that can envelop the listener in a more immersive bubble of sound. This is particularly evident in musical performances where instrument placement and room ambiance play pivotal roles.

Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker
Klipsch R-52C arrow (at Amazon.com)

Design Philosophies: Horn versus Traditional Driver

The R-52C features Klipsch's signature horn-loaded tweeter, a design choice that promises high efficiency and a reduction in distortion. This translates to a sound that can be aggressive and forward, often a boon for dialogue clarity in film and television content. The Borea BR03, with its silk dome tweeter and traditional driver layout, opts for a smoother, more nuanced treble response. This difference is one of philosophy as much as it is of sound—where Klipsch seeks to command the room, Triangle aims to seduce it.

Build Quality and Aesthetics

The aesthetics of a speaker can be as important as its sonic qualities, especially when it takes center stage in a living space. Klipsch's R-52C boasts a no-nonsense, industrial design that's built like a tank, with a visible copper spun woofer that doubles as a conversation piece. Triangle's BR03 exudes a more European sensibility, with refined lines and a finish that calls to mind the craftsmanship of classic furniture. Both speakers are well-built, but they cater to different tastes in visual design.

Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
Triangle Borea BR03 arrow (at Amazon.com)

Power handling is another critical factor to consider. The R-52C, with its high sensitivity, requires less power to achieve loud volumes, making it an excellent match for a wide range of AV receivers. Triangle's BR03, while not particularly power-hungry, benefits from a bit more amplification to unlock its full potential, especially in the low-end where these bookshelf speakers can surprise with their bass response.

One must also consider the versatility of these speakers. The Klipsch R-52C is purpose-built for the home theater, excelling in its role by anchoring dialogue right to the action on the screen. The Triangle Borea BR03, being a bookshelf speaker, offers greater flexibility, performing admirably in a stereo setup for music and, if paired with other members of the Borea series, can also serve as part of a cohesive surround system.

In conclusion, the choice between the Klipsch R-52C and the Triangle Borea BR03 comes down to the intended use and personal preference. The R-52C is the workhorse of cinema sound, delivering dialogue with punch and precision. The BR03, meanwhile, is the chameleon, adept at both cinematic scores and the finespun intricacies of a symphony orchestra. Both speakers are capable performers, but the ultimate decision lies in the ears—and the heart—of the beholder.


Check Current Prices:

Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker
Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker
Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.