Klipsch Flexus Core 100 + Surr 100 (set of 2)
Specifications and features
Overview
The Klipsch Flexus Core 100 + Surr 100 package combines a compact 2.1 soundbar with a pair of wireless surround speakers to create a modular home cinema system. Resulting from the partnership between Klipsch and Onkyo, this kit blends American acoustic expertise with Japanese electronic precision, offering a scalable solution to turn your living room into a movie theater.
The Flexus Core 100: power packed into 71 centimeters
At 711 mm wide, the Flexus Core 100 is the most compact soundbar in the Flexus range. Its sleek chassis combines metal and ebony vinyl, striking a balance between understatement and industrial elegance. Inside, two 57 mm aluminum-cone drivers handle mids and highs, while two 101 mm paper-cone woofers take care of the lows. This 2.1 configuration delivers 100 watts RMS, an unusually high output for a bar of this size.
Virtual Dolby Atmos processing simulates height effects, placing sounds above you without relying on up-firing speakers. This virtualisation works reasonably well in medium-sized rooms, even if it cannot match the scale of a physical Atmos system like the Core 200 or Core 300. The two built-in woofers produce surprisingly deep bass. Many users report not feeling an immediate need to add an external subwoofer, although this is possible via the dedicated RCA output.
Connectivity is practical: an HDMI 2.1 input with eARC to connect your TV, an optical input for older equipment, a USB-C port, and a Bluetooth 5.3 module. Bluetooth offers extended range and better power management compared with previous versions. Note the absence of Wi‑Fi: no AirPlay, no Chromecast, no multiroom integration. The Flexus Core 100 is designed first and foremost for home cinema, not for whole-house music streaming.
The supplied Bluetooth remote features backlighting that is handy in low-light conditions. The touch controls on the bar itself are discreet, barely breaking the surface of the top panel. The whole unit exudes a certain restraint, far from the flashy designs of some competitors.
Flexus Surr 100: wireless spatialisation
These surround speakers come as a pair and have a compact footprint: 171 mm high and 105 mm wide. Each speaker houses a 76.2 mm full-range paper-cone driver, powered by a 25‑watt Class D amplifier. The sealed enclosure combines quality plastic and metal in a black ebony vinyl finish that matches the soundbar.
What makes these speakers stand out is their self-powered design. Each one plugs directly into a wall outlet via a 2‑meter right‑angled power cable. No junction box, no hidden adapter, no speaker wires running across the room. This simplicity makes placement easier: set them on a piece of furniture or mount them to the wall using the threaded inserts on the back. The controls, power and LEDs are hidden on the underside, eliminating any visual distractions in a dark room.
The choice of a single full-range driver (with no separate tweeter) deserves some explanation. Some users initially voiced concerns about this, fearing a lack of sparkle. In practice, the Flexus Surr 100 deliver sound that is clear enough for their role as surround speakers. Their job is to reproduce ambient effects and side sounds, not the subtlety of a voice or a solo instrument. For this specific use, the 235 Hz to 20 kHz frequency range is perfectly adequate.
Klipsch Transport technology: the wireless ecosystem
The Flexus system is built on Klipsch Transport technology, a proprietary wireless protocol operating in the 2.4 GHz band. A small USB transmitter plugs into the back of the soundbar and communicates with the surround speakers and optional Sub 100 subwoofers. The dongle comes pre-paired with the Surr 100 speakers, making setup almost instantaneous.
This system stands out for its low latency. Conventional wireless protocols such as Bluetooth often introduce a noticeable delay between picture and sound. Klipsch Transport keeps all components in sync, ensuring that the slam of a car door on-screen matches exactly with the sound coming from the rear speakers. The technology also avoids interference with your home Wi‑Fi network by operating on its own dedicated network.
Setup requires just a few button presses. Once the speakers are plugged into the mains and the dongle is inserted into the bar, the system automatically detects all components. The Klipsch Connect Plus app then lets you fine-tune the settings: balance between front and rear channels, overall level, custom EQ.
A system that grows with you
Modularity is one of the major strengths of the Flexus range. You can start with the Core 100 bar alone, which already delivers satisfying performance for movies and TV shows. A few months later, add the Surr 100 speakers for true surround sound. The system then goes from a 2.1 to a 4.1 configuration. If you want even deeper bass, one or two Sub 100 subwoofers can be added, creating a 4.2 setup.
This gradual approach offers a double advantage: it spreads the investment over time and lets you adapt the system as your needs or living space evolve. Moving to a larger living room? Add a second sub. Looking to move upmarket? Upgrade to the Core 200 or Core 300 bar while keeping your surround speakers and subwoofers.
There is, however, one limitation: Flexus components work exclusively with each other. You cannot pair the Surr 100 with another Klipsch system, nor can you add a wireless subwoofer from a different range. Only the bar’s RCA output lets you connect any wired external subwoofer.
Control and fine-tuning
The Klipsch Connect Plus app, available on iOS and Android, unlocks all of the system’s features. Beyond volume control, it offers several listening modes: Movie (slightly boosts treble for enhanced clarity), Music (more balanced response), Surround (widens the soundstage), Night (compresses dynamics to avoid volume spikes late at night). A graphic equaliser lets you create your own response curve.
The Dialogue Boost function deserves a special mention. Three intensity levels (low, medium, high) lift the frequency band associated with human voices. This is useful when film dialogue gets lost in the soundtrack, or simply if your hearing benefits from this reinforcement. Left/right balance can also be adjusted to compensate for an asymmetrical room or off-centre listening position.
The Bluetooth remote reproduces the essential controls: power, volume, source selection, listening modes. Its automatic backlight turns on as soon as you pick it up. A handy detail: it uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which consumes very little power. The supplied AAA batteries should last several months.
Documentation
French
Technical specifications
Klipsch Flexus Core 100 soundbar
Audio configuration
- 2.1 system with Dolby Atmos virtual height effect
- Speakers
- 2 speakers with 57 mm aluminum cones
- 2 elevation speakers with 101 mm paper-cone woofers
Audio performance
- Maximum sound level: 96.4 dB
- Power: 100 W RMS
- Frequency response: 45 Hz–20 kHz
Connectivity
- Inputs: HDMI eARC, Bluetooth, USB-C, optical
- Outputs: RCA for additional subwoofer
Physical characteristics
- Dimensions (H × W × D): 76 × 711 × 127 mm
- Finish: ebony vinyl
- Weight: 4.54 kg
Included accessories
- Backlit Bluetooth remote control
- 2.0 m IEC power cable (depending on region)
- 1.5 m HDMI cable
- 2 AAA batteries
- Wall-mount brackets with complete mounting kit
- User manual
Klipsch Flexus Surr 100 rear speakers (set of 2)
Technical specifications
Acoustic system
- Speaker type: sealed (plastic, metal)
- Full-range driver: 7.6 cm paper cone
- Finish: black ebony vinyl
Audio performance
- Maximum sound pressure level: 103.5 dB at 1 m
- Rated power: 50 W RMS
- Frequency range: 235 Hz–20 kHz
Physical specifications
- Dimensions (H × W × D): 17.1 × 10.5 × 10.95 cm
- Unit weight: 1.13 kg
- Power supply: 100–240 V / 50–60 Hz, built-in power supply
Included accessories
- 2 angled 2.0 m mains power cables (depending on region)
- 1 Flexus wireless transmitter
- 1 user manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Surr 100 speakers with another soundbar?
No, the Flexus Surr 100 only work with Flexus Core soundbars (100, 200 or 300) via Klipsch Transport technology. They cannot connect to other soundbars or amplifiers, even from other Klipsch ranges. This exclusivity guarantees compatibility and synchronisation, but limits flexibility if you already own other equipment.
How are the surround speakers installed?
Installation comes down to three steps: plug the supplied USB dongle into the back of the Core 100 bar, plug each Surr 100 speaker into a wall outlet, then press the pairing button if necessary. The dongle usually arrives pre-paired, making this last step optional. No cable connects the speakers to each other or to the bar. Only each speaker’s power cord needs to reach a wall socket.
Is it necessary to add a subwoofer?
Not necessarily. The two built‑in 101 mm woofers in the Core 100 bar go down to 45 Hz, which covers most content. Many users find this bass more than sufficient for everyday use. Adding one or two Sub 100 subwoofers, however, delivers more depth and physical impact, especially in larger rooms or during action scenes packed with low‑frequency effects. The RCA output also lets you connect any wired subwoofer on the market.
Is the mobile app essential?
No, but it greatly enhances the experience. The supplied remote lets you manage the essential functions: volume, source selection, preset listening modes. The Klipsch Connect Plus app unlocks advanced settings: custom EQ, fine‑tuning of each channel level, activation and intensity of Dialogue Boost, left/right balance. If you simply want to plug in and listen with standard settings, the remote is enough.
How many subwoofers can I add to the system?
The Flexus system supports up to two Sub 100 (or Sub 200) subwoofers connected simultaneously over wireless. Two subs placed around the room smooth out resonances and fill dead zones, delivering a more even frequency response than a single sub. If you prefer to use an external subwoofer from another brand, the RCA output on the back of the Core 100 bar is available, but you are then limited to a single wired sub.
Can the Surr 100 speakers be wall-mounted?
Yes, threaded inserts on the back of each speaker allow for wall mounting. The mounting kit, however, is not included with the Surr 100; you will need to purchase compatible brackets separately. The speakers can also be placed on a shelf, a piece of furniture, or standard speaker stands. The key is to position them slightly behind and to the sides of the listening position to achieve optimal surround effects.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.