Review: Klipsch RSB-6

The look is rough and masculine, with a length that best matches TVs at 46 inches and up. The soundbar has an HDMI input that supports HDCP 2.2 and hence all the latest video resolutions. However, it lacks a display, so you need to get close in order to see the input and sound modes. The small and disappointing remote control doesn’t help.

Sound quality

The dialogue on movies is not as clear as with Samsung and LG, and the RSB-6 is not as good at simulating surround sound. The actual timbre in the soundscape reminds you a lot of what we are used to from the cinema. Rough and tough, with a hint of brutality. Therefore, it is somewhat disappointing to note that the soundbar is unable to keep up when the sound is cranked up. It sounds fairly flat, and explosions and gunfire in the otherwise intriguing Alien: Covenant do not burst out from the soundscape. Nevertheless, we think it is still acceptable. Barely.

Music via wireless Bluetooth is another story. As with the Panasonic SC-HTB250, it sounds totally lifeless and unengaging, where there should be transients pumping against a roof. None of the other soundbars in the test have this problem.
It sounds far better with CD. The music sounds rhythmic enough, and works fine. But Klipsch does not threaten the best. The bass sounds coloured and everything gets a very PA sound, but it is not followed by dynamics and force. Klipsch are miles away from JBL Bar 3.1 in this respect.

Conclusion

With such a tough exterior and a sound character reminiscent of PA sound, it’s a bit disappointing to note that Klipsch RSB-6 is a rather disappointing story. It sounds fairly flat, action scenes are rendered without any major contrast, and we are never fooled into believing that there is surround sound here. The sound from Bluetooth is the worst, which is virtually useless. Flat as the pulse of a stuffed sloth.
It also lacks a display, and the remote control is of poor quality.