The Flexus Core 300 marks a major milestone in Klipsch’s history as the world’s first soundbar to feature Dirac Live acoustic correction technology. This 5.1.2 architecture with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X houses 12 carefully distributed speakers in a 137 cm chassis, the result of a technical collaboration between Klipsch’s American acoustic expertise and Onkyo’s Japanese know-how.
The Flexus Core 300 adopts a 5.1.2 channel configuration spread across 12 integrated speakers. Four 5.7 cm front drivers provide the main soundstage, supported by a central 1.9 cm horn tweeter that preserves the brand’s technological heritage. This horn design enhances the projection of voices and foreground details.
The side channels use two 5.7 cm speakers positioned on the sides of the chassis to widen the soundstage. The vertical architecture relies on two 10.2 cm woofers and two 5.7 cm full-range speakers aimed at the ceiling. This setup creates the signature height effects of Dolby Atmos without the need for additional ceiling speakers.
The chassis measures 137.2 cm wide and just 7.8 cm high, maintaining the sleek look of modern TVs. The construction combines plastic and metal in a sealed enclosure that limits unwanted resonance while optimizing the unit’s compactness.
The Core 300’s standout feature is the integration of Dirac Live, an acoustic correction technology previously reserved for high-end amplifiers. This system analyzes the acoustic characteristics of the listening room to automatically adjust the frequency response and phase of each speaker.
Calibration is performed via the Klipsch Connect Plus app using the included measurement microphone. Dirac Live corrects room resonances, unwanted reflections, and phase issues, thus optimizing the spatialization of sound effects. This correction is especially beneficial for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, where precise effect placement determines the quality of the experience.
The version included with the Core 300 is the standard Dirac Live license, with the option to upgrade to the full version for correction across the entire audible spectrum.
The Flexus Core 300 features modern connectivity with an HDMI eARC input and an HDMI 2.1 input with direct passthrough supporting 8K. This setup allows direct connection of external sources while benefiting from the latest video standards. The optical input and USB-C port complete the wired connection options.
Network streaming is supported via AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and QPlay. This versatility allows the soundbar to be integrated into an existing multiroom ecosystem or used independently for music listening.
The Klipsch Connect Plus app centralizes audio settings control, firmware management, and Dirac Live configuration. The backlit remote uses Bluetooth Low Energy technology for a stable connection with the soundbar.
Compared to the Core 200, the 300 version brings several significant improvements. The configuration moves from 3.1.2 to native 5.1.2 channels, eliminating the need to add rear speakers for true surround sound. The addition of a dedicated HDMI input allows direct connection of external sources, unlike the Core 200, which is limited to TV passthrough.
Network connectivity replaces the Core 200’s exclusive Bluetooth link, improving music streaming quality and app response times. The integration of Dirac Live is the most notable upgrade, bringing a new level of acoustic personalization to this market segment.
The Flexus Core 300 fits into Klipsch’s modular Flexus ecosystem. It can be paired with Flexus Sub 100 or Sub 200 subwoofers, the latter featuring a 30 cm driver with 200 watts RMS. Flexus Surr 100 or Surr 200 rear speakers allow for a 5.1.4 channel setup for the most advanced installations.
Wireless connection between components is handled via the included Klipsch Flexus Transport USB dongle, ensuring perfect synchronization across all system elements. This modular approach allows users to adapt the setup to their space constraints and listening preferences.
The Klipsch Flexus Core 300 is ideal for mixed use. It supports all audio formats (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Digital Plus, etc.), with HDMI 2.1-compatible video passthrough. This lets you watch most media without downmixing and use it as an entertainment platform.
The Klipsch and Onkyo Flexus Core 300 soundbar is a great success. It delivers well-defined, full-bodied and balanced sound, even without Dirac calibration, at least in our test environment. Music listening with the screen off is entirely possible without hesitation: the result lives up to expectations. In cinema mode, the soundbar alone performs very well in reproducing a realistic front soundstage, supported by articulate bass. [...] In the same price range as its competitors, the Flexus Core 300 is an alternative option that we strongly recommend listening to before buying.
Absolutely. The soundbar’s native 5.1.2 configuration already creates convincing spatialization thanks to the side and upward-firing speakers. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing technologies optimize the output to create virtual rear channels. Physical surround speakers enhance the experience but are not essential.
The Core 300 stands out with its exclusive Dirac Live integration, additional side speakers, and extended network capabilities. The Core 200 (3.1.2 channels) is suitable for medium-sized rooms with its Atmos speakers but lacks acoustic correction. The Core 100 (2.1 channels) offers virtual Atmos for compact spaces.
The app guides the user through each step of the process. Simply place the included microphone at different listening positions (usually 5 to 9 measurements) following the visual instructions. Analysis and correction are automatic. The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes.
Thanks to Onkyo electronics, the Flexus Core 300 natively decodes Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and all standard Dolby and DTS formats. Network connections support high-resolution streams up to 24-bit/192 kHz. Bluetooth remains limited to standard codecs (SBC, AAC), but network protocols more than make up for this for demanding music listening.
Peter
Fantastic soundbar with clear dialogue and powerful bass. It fits perfectly with a 65" TV and delivers a large, wide, and tall soundstage that significantly expands the TV experience.
Comment from March 05, 2026 — Experience from February 07, 2026
