Klipsch PSM-650-T white

The Klipsch PSM range, unveiled at ISE 2024, succeeds the older AW, CA, and CP series with a more compact format and new acoustic technologies. The PSM-650-T adopts a smaller footprint than previous generations while improving low-frequency performance and dispersion thanks to a patented port and a redesigned compression driver. It meets the requirements of professional installations, both indoors and outdoors, with certification suited to demanding environments.

A folded-geometry port for bass

The acoustic core of this speaker is based on a patented port whose length is extended through a five-step fold. This technique, which Klipsch calls Tractrix Hyperfold, delivers greater low-frequency extension than a conventional port with the same footprint. The optimized airflow reduces turbulence and chuffing noise even at high levels, which preserves definition when the speaker is pushed close to its limits.

The stated frequency response goes down to 56 Hz (±4 dB) and reaches 46 Hz at -10 dB, allowing this compact speaker (326 × 259 × 193 mm) to reproduce a good portion of the low-frequency spectrum without an additional subwoofer. The calculated maximum sound pressure level reaches 106 dB, sufficient to cover medium to large spaces.

Titanium compression driver and wide-dispersion horn

The speaker combines a 16.5 cm woofer with a 2.5 cm titanium-dome compression driver mounted on a floating bridge. This driver uses a wide-dispersion waveguide, and the crossover frequency is set at 2 kHz. Horizontal coverage reaches 100° (±20° between 900 Hz and 20 kHz), making it easier to create uniform listening zones in long or irregular spaces.

The 7 dB directivity index (±1.5 dB) indicates moderate focusing of the sound radiation, a compromise between throw and lateral coverage. This controlled directivity is useful in reverberant environments where an overly omnidirectional speaker would excite unwanted reflections.

Weather resistance and customization

The speaker is IPX6 certified, meaning it withstands powerful water jets, such as those from a pressurized garden hose. The ABS enclosure is UV-treated and can be painted to blend into any environment, indoors or outdoors. The corrosion-resistant aluminum grille is secured with safety screws that prevent accidental or malicious removal.

EN54-24 certification allows use in fire safety and voice evacuation systems, a prerequisite in many public buildings in Europe.

70/100 V configuration or direct 8-ohm mode

One of the strengths of the PSM-650-T is its integration versatility. It includes a line transformer with multiple taps for 70 V networks (60 W, 30 W, 15 W, 7.5 W) or 100 V networks (60 W, 30 W, 7.5 W). This approach simplifies the wiring of distributed systems with several dozen speakers on the same line, such as in hotels, shopping centers, or stadiums.

For simpler installations not requiring a transformer, a bypass mode enables direct 8-ohm operation, with a power handling capacity of 80 W (AES) and peaks up to 320 W. The minimum impedance drops to 4.5 ohms around 160 Hz, a point to monitor if several speakers are wired in parallel on the same channel.

Quick installation with adjustable bracket

The C-shaped wall bracket, made of corrosion-resistant aluminum, allows the speaker to rotate nearly 180° after mounting. This range makes it easy to aim the sound toward the listening area without repositioning the bracket. Oversized knobs on the sides allow the selected angle to be locked, and additional locking screws ensure safety in public environments.

The electrical connection uses a 4-pin Euroblock (Phoenix) connector, which accepts cable up to 2.5 mm² (14 AWG gauge). This type of screw-terminal connector is more reliable than spring terminals in installations subject to vibration or temperature changes.

Consistency with the other PSM models

The PSM range includes four models with 11.4 cm (PSM-450-T), 13.3 cm (PSM-525-T), 16.5 cm (PSM-650-T), and 20.3 cm (PSM-800-T) woofers. All share the same compression driver and the same Tractrix Hyperfold port, which guarantees tonal consistency when multiple speaker sizes are mixed in the same installation. The PSM-650-T occupies a middle position, powerful enough for medium to large spaces while remaining visually discreet.

Technical Specifications

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 56 Hz – 20 kHz (±4 dB), 46 Hz (-10 dB)
• Sensitivity: 90 dB
• Power handling (AES): 80 W
  • Peak power: 320 W
• Maximum SPL level (calculated): 106 dB

Directivity and Coverage

• Coverage: 100° ±20° (900 Hz – 20 kHz)
• Directivity index (DI): 7 dB ±1.5 dB

Drivers and Acoustic Design

• Woofer: 6.5 in (16.5 cm)
• Tweeter: 1 in (2.5 cm) titanium compression with K-1200M horn
• Crossover frequency: 2 kHz
• Loading: Tractrix Hyperfold port
  • Optimized airflow
  • Air noise reduction

Connectivity and Configuration

• Connection: Euroblock / Phoenix 4-pin terminal block
• Built-in transformer (70 / 100 V line)
  • 70 V: 60 W, 30 W, 15 W, 7.5 W
  • 100 V: 60 W, 30 W, 7.5 W
• Bypass mode: 8-ohm operation

Impedance

• Nominal: 8 ohms
• Minimum: 4.5 ohms at 160 Hz

Construction and Installation

• Cabinet material: ABS plastic (paintable)
• Protection rating: IPX6 (rain and water spray resistant)
• Mounting: wall bracket included
• Secured grille: screw-fixed

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions with bracket: 326 x 259 x 193 mm
• Bracket depth: 234 mm
• Weight: 5.11 kg