Klipsch PRO-500T-LS

When it comes to outdoor sound systems, the usual trade-off between sound quality and weather resistance is often frustrating. The PRO-500T-LS takes the acoustic principles of Klipsch indoor speakers and adapts them into a compact format designed for gardens, patios, and commercial installations. A 2-way speaker that does more than just survive outdoors: it sounds good there too.

A Tractrix horn redesigned for large spaces

The Tractrix horn, a hallmark Klipsch technology for decades, has been redesigned specifically for this model. The version built into the PRO-500T-LS offers 105° horizontal dispersion, much wider than the standard 90° of hi-fi speakers. This generous coverage addresses a practical constraint: outdoors, listeners move around, walking around a pool or patio. The sound has to follow.

The 2.54 cm aluminum dome tweeter paired with this horn focuses sound energy toward the listening area while reducing unwanted reflections. Frequency response extends from 130 Hz to 30 kHz (± 3 dB), with measurable extension down to 93 Hz at the low end (± 10 dB). Sensitivity of 88 dB remains modest for a Klipsch speaker, but consistent with the compact format.

Injection-molded graphite cone and efficiency

The IMG (Injection Molded Graphite) cones are both lightweight and rigid, which limits cone deformation under heavy excursion. The 12.7 cm woofer uses this technology, which Klipsch deploys across its entire Reference and Professional ranges. The benefit: clean transients and controlled distortion, even at high volume.

Power handling tops out at 60 W peak. This is not a heavy-duty PA speaker, but a satellite intended to operate in a network with multiple units distributed throughout a space. The built-in multi-tap transformer is specifically designed for this type of installation.

70V/100V lines and 8-ohm operation

The PRO-500T-LS includes a multi-tap transformer compatible with 70V and 100V, with 8-ohm bypass. In distributed line mode, the available settings are 3.75 W, 7.5 W, 15 W, and 30 W on a 70V line, or 7.5 W, 15 W, and 30 W on a 100V line. The rear rotary selector can be operated without tools.

This technical versatility makes the speaker compatible both with a domestic hi-fi amplifier (in direct 8-ohm mode) and with distributed sound systems used in hotels, restaurants, or commercial spaces. In practice, the 70V/100V line allows several dozen speakers to be wired on the same pair of wires, with each unit drawing only the configured power.

Construction and IP45 certification

The reinforced ABS enclosure features UV protection to prevent degradation in the sun. The rustproof aluminum grille and the waterproof silicone cover protecting the rear selector complete the protection. IP45 certification means protection against solid objects over 1 mm and against water jets from all directions. In practical terms: rain, poorly aimed automatic sprinklers, garden dust, no problem. However, the speaker is not designed for immersion.

The matte brown finish blends into a plant-filled environment. It can be painted for those who want even more discreet integration.

Mounting options and accessories

Installation is tool-free, on a ground stake or in wall/surface mounting. Two stakes are available separately: 25.4 cm (reference PRO-10-GS) and 45.7 cm. The PRO-1-SM mounting arm allows wall or under-eave installation.

With its compact dimensions (160 × 174 × 216 mm) and weight of 2.27 kg, the PRO-500T-LS is easy to install in multiples in a garden or along a façade. For larger spaces requiring more power per point, Klipsch offers the PRO-650T-LS, equipped with a 16.5 cm woofer and a 50 W transformer.

Technical Specifications

Design and Speakers

• Configuration: 2-way
• Woofer: 1 x 12.7 cm IMG (Injection Molded Graphite)
• Tweeter: 2.54 cm aluminum dome
• Horn: New-generation Tractrix
  • Wide dispersion: 105°

Audio Performance

• Frequency response:
  • 130 Hz – 30 kHz (± 3 dB)
  • 113 Hz – 32 kHz (± 6 dB)
  • 93 Hz – 36 kHz (± 10 dB)
• Sensitivity: 88 dB
• Coverage angle: 105°
• Power handling: 60 W (peak)

Compatibility and Installation

• Operation: 70 V / 100 V with multi-tap transformer, 8-ohm bypass
• Power settings:
  • 70 V: 3.75 W, 7.5 W, 15 W, 30 W
  • 100 V: 7.5 W, 15 W, 30 W
• Selector: tool-free rotary switch (rear access)
• Installation options:
  • Compatible ground stakes (25.4 cm and 45.7 cm, optional)
  • Surface mounting (dedicated kit)
  • Tool-free installation

Construction and Durability

• Enclosure: reinforced ABS, UV-treated
• Grille: rustproof aluminum
• Protection: waterproof silicone cover
• Certification: IP45 (weather resistance)
• Finish: matte brown, paintable

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 160 x 174 x 216 mm
• Weight: 2.27 kg

Compatible Accessories

• 25.4 cm ground stake: PRO-10-GS