Model Three Bookshelf Speaker FAQs

What’s the difference between the KLH Model Three and the Model Five?
Both the Model Three and Model Five share KLH’s iconic acoustic suspension design, delivering precise, distortion-free sound. The key difference is size and application: the Model Three is a compact bookshelf speaker, ideal for smaller spaces, while the Model Five is a larger floorstanding speaker. Despite its smaller form, the Model Three offers powerful, room-filling sound and can be placed closer to walls—just like the Model Five—without compromising performance. Both models blend vintage styling with premium acoustics.

What makes the KLH Model Three’s sound distinctive?
The Model Three uses an 8-inch woofer and a dedicated midrange driver to deliver a well-balanced sound across the frequency spectrum. Its acoustic suspension design helps produce tight, accurate bass and smooth mids and highs, even at higher volumes. This combination supports clear, detailed playback that works well for both music and dialogue.

Is the Model Three a remake of a classic KLH speaker?
Not exactly. While the Model Three takes visual cues from KLH’s vintage designs and pairs nicely with the Model Five, it was newly developed in 2021. It’s a modern speaker built from the ground up, blending retro styling with updated acoustic engineering.

What’s the purpose of the slant-riser base and attenuation switch?
The slant-riser base tilts the speaker upward by eight degrees to help align the drivers more directly with the listener’s ears, improving sound dispersion. The three-position attenuation switch lets users adjust the mid and high frequencies to better match the acoustics of their room.

How does the Model Three differ from other bookshelf speakers?
The Model Three uses an acoustic suspension design instead of the more common bass-reflex approach. This allows for extended low-end performance from a compact cabinet, offering tighter bass and more controlled sound overall. It's a distinctive choice for listeners looking for clarity and balance in a smaller speaker.