Klipschorn AK7

The Klipschorn AK7 is a three-way floorstanding speaker in which each register – bass, midrange and treble – is horn-loaded via its own horn. This fully horn-loaded architecture aims to maximise efficiency and reduce distortion, rather than relying on a sealed or bass-reflex enclosure as most floorstanding speakers do.

The K-33-E woofer uses a 380 mm cone, while the midrange and treble sections are horn-loaded. The stated sensitivity exceeds 103 dB (2.83 V at 1 m), meaning that a very low level of electrical power is enough to achieve a high sound level: the power handling remains modest, at 100 W RMS and 400 W peak, but the maximum SPL reaches 120 dB continuous. The nominal impedance is 8 ohms, with crossover frequencies at 380 Hz and 2900 Hz, for a stated frequency response of 34 Hz to 19 kHz (+/-4 dB).

This high sensitivity makes the Klipschorn AK7 well suited to low-power systems, particularly valve amplifiers of just a few watts, which struggle to drive conventional speakers but are more than adequate here. It is aimed at listeners seeking strong dynamics and the ability to fill large rooms without straining the electronics, regardless of source: vinyl, CD or HD files.

• Power: 100 W RMS, 400 W peak
• Sensitivity: 103 dB (2.83 V at 1 m)
• Nominal impedance: 8 ohms
• Frequency response: 34 Hz to 19 kHz (+/-4 dB)
• Weight: 118 kg per unit

When buying used, it is worth checking the condition of the horns and their finish, as the multi-ply plywood structure may show signs of wear or damp after decades in production. It is also worth checking the condition of the K-33-E woofer, particularly its suspension and the absence of unwanted noise during operation, as well as the sonic consistency between the two speakers of a pair, since a difference in output between horns can indicate a worn or replaced component.

The weight of 118 kg per speaker and the dimensions of 800 x 1352 x 715 mm also make it necessary to check handling and transport arrangements before purchase, as well as the available space for placement in a room corner, the configuration for which this type of horn loading is generally designed.