Klipsch KG4 (1985–1992)

Name: Klipsch KG4
Brand: Klipsch

A high-efficiency, two-way floor-standing speaker system with horn-loaded highs and passive radiator bass.

Overview

The Klipsch KG4 is a two-way floor-standing loudspeaker system introduced in 1985 and built through 1992. It was designed for high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. The tweeter is horn-loaded, and the bass comes from dual 8-inch woofers in a bass reflex enclosure with a passive radiator. The sound is powerful and emotive, a "wall of sound" that suits rock, jazz, and electronica. The highs are praised as silky and the mids as articulate, though some users note harshness in complex vocals or the upper midrange. Placement matters a lot. Keep it away from walls and corners to get the best bass response and imaging.

Specifications

Production years	1985 to 1992
Frequency Response	38Hz-20kHz ±3dB
Sensitivity	94dB @ 1watt/1meter
Power Handling	100 watts maximum continuous (500 watts peak)
Nominal Impedance	6 ohms
Tweeter	K-74-K 1" (2.54cm) Phenolic dome compression driver
High Frequency Horn	90°x40° Exponential Horn
Woofer	Two K-8-K 8" (20.32cm) Poly ICG cone active / KD-12 12" (30.48cm) Fiber-composite cone passive
Enclosure Type	Bass reflex via passive radiator
Enclosure Material	Medium density fiberboard construction (MDF)
Finishes	Walnut Oil, Oak Oil, Finished Black
Crossover Frequencies	650Hz & 6.0kHz

Design

The KG4 is a two-way design with a phenolic horn tweeter and two poly woofer diaphragms. The cabinet is bass reflex, with a passive radiator. The input panel is integrated with the crossover network. The binding-post terminals accept banana plugs, and the included risers have small metal pins to protect flooring.

Context

The KG4 was introduced in 1985 as part of Klipsch's floor-standing speaker lineup and stayed in production until 1992. It was designed for unusually high efficiency and an extended, smooth frequency response in home audio use.

Market

A popular upgrade is a set of titanium replacement tweeter diaphragms from Bob Crites, said to give a smoother, more liquid high end. Crites also supplies crossover repair kits and original-style speaker fabric (Klipsch Heritage #17). Common problems are cabinet joint separation, missing horn tweeters, crackling sounds, and degraded crossovers. Recapping is a frequently reported fix. Watch for counterfeit or non-genuine K-8-K woofers on the used market.