Klipsch KG4 (1985–1992)

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 manufactured through 1992. Designed for high sensitivity and wide dynamic range, it uses a horn-loaded tweeter and dual 8-inch woofers in a bass reflex enclosure with a passive radiator. Known for its powerful, emotive sound, the KG4 delivers a "wall of sound" presence particularly well-suited to rock, jazz, and electronica. While praised for its silky highs and articulate mids, some users note a potential harshness in complex vocals or the upper midrange. Room placement is critical—best positioned away from walls and corners to optimize 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 uses a two-way design with a phenolic horn tweeter and two poly woofer diaphragms, housed in a bass reflex cabinet utilizing a passive radiator. The input panel is integrated with the speaker’s crossover network. Binding-post terminals accept banana plugs, and the included risers feature small metal pins to protect flooring.

Context

First introduced in 1985, the KG4 was part of Klipsch’s floor-standing speaker lineup and remained in production until 1992. It was designed to offer unusually high efficiency and extended, smooth frequency response for home audio use.

Market

A popular upgrade path includes titanium replacement diaphragms for the tweeter from Bob Crites, said to deliver a smoother, more liquid high end. Crites also supplies crossover repair kits and original-style speaker fabric (Klipsch Heritage #17). Common issues include cabinet joint separation, missing horn tweeters, crackling sounds, and degraded crossovers—recapping is a frequently reported maintenance step. Beware of counterfeit or non-genuine K-8-K woofers when purchasing on the used market.