Klipsch The One II: Retro-Styled Modern Classic with Vintage Soul

Name: Klipsch The One II
Brand: Klipsch

While the name Klipsch Rebel III B may evoke images of a forgotten bookshelf speaker from the 1970s, no such model officially exists in Klipsch’s storied product history. It's possible the name is a misremembered or conflated version of another Klipsch design—perhaps a mix of the iconic Heritage series like the Klipschorn or La Scala, or more likely, a confusion with Klipsch’s modern line of retro-styled active speakers such as The One II. Given the lack of historical data on a “Rebel III B,” this page focuses instead on a fitting spiritual successor: The One II, a product that captures Klipsch’s vintage design language and acoustic philosophy while delivering modern convenience.

Introduction and Overview

Klipsch was founded in 1946 by Paul W. Klipsch. The company is known for high-efficiency horn-loaded speakers that deliver dynamic, punchy sound with minimal power. Its best-known models are large floor-standing speakers like the Klipschorn. In recent years it has also moved into lifestyle audio with a series of compact, active speakers that pair nostalgic looks with current technology.

The One II came out in 2017 as an update to the original The One. It has a walnut-veneer cabinet, brass control knobs, and a fabric grille, all styled after mid-century hi-fi gear. Inside it's thoroughly modern: a Bluetooth-enabled, powered stereo speaker system for streaming music from smartphones, tablets, and computers. It isn't vintage in the traditional sense, but it appeals to vintage audio enthusiasts who like the design and the clarity associated with Klipsch engineering.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Detail
Model	The One II
Manufacturer	Klipsch Audio Technologies
Release Year	2017
Type	Active stereo Bluetooth speaker
Drivers	2 x 3" full-range woofers, 2 x ¾" tweeters
Amplification	100W total (50W per channel, Class D)
Frequency Response	60 Hz – 20 kHz
Inputs	3.5mm auxiliary, USB (charging only), Bluetooth 4.2
Wireless Technology	Bluetooth with aptX support
Cabinet Finish	Walnut veneer with brass accents
Dimensions (H×W×D)	18.5" × 7" × 7.5" (47 × 17.8 × 19 cm)
Weight	13.2 lbs (6 kg)
Remote Control	Yes (basic playback and volume)
Additional Features	Integrated turntable output (phono preamp), AM/FM radio (region-dependent)

Sound Characteristics and Performance

The One II has the Klipsch sound signature of clarity, dynamics, and efficiency. Dual 3-inch woofers and silk-dome tweeters sit in a stereo arrangement across the wide front baffle. That gives a surprisingly spacious soundstage for a single-unit speaker. The horn-loaded tweeter design is miniaturized, but it contributes to the bright, detailed highs that are a hallmark of Klipsch.

Bass is tight and well-defined, thanks to dual passive radiators on the sides of the cabinet. It doesn't reach the sub-bass depths of larger systems. It handles kick drums and basslines with authority, especially for its size. The 100W Class D amplifier provides ample headroom, so the speaker can fill medium to large rooms with clean, distortion-free sound at high volumes.

One standout feature is the built-in phono preamp. Connect a turntable to the RCA input and The One II becomes a complete analog playback system for vinyl, with a simple setup. Between the analog input and the digital streaming, it works as a versatile centerpiece for modern-vintage hybrid systems.

Notable Features and Innovations

What sets The One II apart in the crowded market of lifestyle speakers is its design. Many retro-styled products only mimic the past. The One II uses real wood veneer, tactile brass knobs, and a clean, uncluttered front panel that looks like a piece of mid-century furniture. The volume, bass, and treble controls are all analog, which gives direct control over the sound.

aptX Bluetooth gives high-quality wireless streaming and reduces the compression artifacts common with standard SBC Bluetooth codecs. That suits audiophiles who want convenience without giving up too much fidelity.

The AM/FM radio is available in certain regional models. It lets users tune local stations with the turn of a knob, which is increasingly rare in modern audio gear.

Common Issues and Maintenance

The One II is generally reliable, but a few user-reported issues are worth noting:

Bluetooth pairing instability: Some users have experienced intermittent disconnections, particularly in environments with heavy Wi-Fi congestion. A simple power cycle usually resolves this.
Passive radiator noise: At high volumes, the side-mounted passive radiators can produce a slight "chuffing" sound. This is normal but may be noticeable in quiet rooms.
Dust accumulation: The open grille and cabinet seams can collect dust over time. Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is recommended.

Maintenance is minimal. Keep the speaker out of direct sunlight and humid rooms to protect the wood veneer. The brass knobs may tarnish over time. A gentle polish with a brass cleaner will restore their luster.

Current Market Value and Collectibility

As of 2024, the Klipsch The One II typically sells for $300-$400 on the secondary market, depending on condition and included accessories. It isn't a vintage collectible in the traditional sense, but it has a cult following among fans of retro-modern audio gear. It is a popular choice for interior-conscious audiophiles and design enthusiasts.

Newer models like The Three II (which adds a built-in turntable) have since been released. The One II remains a favorite for its simplicity and form. It's unlikely to appreciate significantly in value, but it holds its worth better than most Bluetooth speakers due to Klipsch's brand reputation and build quality.

Conclusion and Legacy

The Klipsch The One II isn't a vintage speaker from the 1970s. It keeps to Klipsch's high-efficiency, dynamic sound while adding the wireless, streaming-centric features of today.

For those who want a speaker that looks at home on a hi-fi shelf next to a Marantz receiver or a Technics turntable, The One II fits both in looks and in sound.

The "Rebel III B" doesn't exist, so The One II is the Klipsch to look at instead.

Market Value

┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ KLIPSCH THE ONE II                                              Nov 2026 │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ High      $951                                    Latest            $230 │
│ Median    $170                                    Trend                — │
│ Low       $100                                    Volume           ~8/mo │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ $1,000 ┤                                                                 │
│        │                     .  .                                        │
│        │                          . ..     .                             │
│   $614 ┤                .. . ..  .  .     .                              │
│        │               . . .    ..  .   . ..                             │
│        │               .       .                                         │
│        │                                                                .│
│   $100 ┤.                                  ...... .......... .. .....  . │
│        ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│    vol │▂              ▄▂█ ▆ ▄▂▂▄▆▂ ▆▂  ▂ ▄▆█▄▄▄▂ ▄▄▂▂▂▆▄▄▂█ ▂▄ ▄▂▂▂█  ▂▂│
│        └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│         2025-12                      2026-04                      2026-08│
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘