Powered audio system, these with amplification and inputs inbuilt, have been round for many years, nevertheless it took a very long time to get an all-in-one stereo system that labored seamlessly along with your TV like a soundbar. Klipsch’s awkwardly named system, The Fives, had been the primary powered audio system I attempted that did it proper, they usually’re nonetheless among the many finest you’ll discover for the cash.
Like a soundbar, The Fives provide each wired and wi-fi audio inputs, together with HDMI ARC connection for fluent communication along with your TV. That permits you to conveniently management energy and quantity along with your TV distant and simply change to different sources like a built-in phono enter to your turntable, optical enter for a CD participant or older TV, and Bluetooth with aptX for music streaming. There’s no Wi-Fi onboard, which limits your streaming choices, however the system continues to be appropriate with a cellular app for Settings and EQ management over Bluetooth LE. The built-in subwoofer output even allows you to improve to a 2.1 system with any powered sub. It’s a fairly candy deal, particularly at this worth.
Most significantly, The Fives serve up clear, wealthy, and dynamic audio efficiency. That is the minimalist sound answer for music lovers, buying and selling the restrictions of plastic, pint-size soundbars for full-size audio system. With classic seems to be and tactile controls, they’re additionally devilishly trendy. Loads of nice bookshelf audio system with HDMI connection have popped up round The Fives, but when you’ll find them at this worth they’re very robust to beat.
