
( Brand: Klipsch ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 106879 ), ( Compatible Brand: Universal ), ( Type: Woofer ), ( Size: 8 In )
The Klipsch 106879 8-inch woofer is a high-performance, premium component designed to deliver unparalleled audio fidelity in the Klipsch Reference Series 150 Tower Speakers, a flagship model renowned for its deep bass, rich midrange, and crystal-clear highs. Engineered with Klipsch s signature **Tractrix horn-loaded** technology, this woofer combines precision acoustics with robust construction to produce a dynamic and immersive listening experience. The **8-inch aluminum cone** is treated with a proprietary **Klipsch Tractrix** surface, which enhances dispersion and minimizes distortion, ensuring that sound waves radiate evenly across the listening area for a seamless, three-dimensional audio field. This design eliminates the "sweet spot" dependency often found in traditional speakers, allowing listeners to enjoy balanced, accurate sound from any position in the room.
The woofer s **highly efficient 4-ohm voice coil** is wound with **copper-clad aluminum wire**, which maximizes power handling and thermal conductivity, ensuring long-term reliability even during extended listening sessions or high-volume playback. The **butterfly-shaped dust cap** not only protects the delicate voice coil from dust and debris but also contributes to the woofer s smooth, extended low-frequency response, allowing it to reproduce deep, tight bass with remarkable clarity. The **Klipsch Tractrix horn** itself is a masterpiece of acoustic engineering, featuring a **smooth, exponential taper** that optimizes sound projection and minimizes phase cancellation, resulting in a more natural and engaging audio presentation.
Built to withstand the demands of professional and home audio environments, the 106879 woofer is housed in a **durable, high-tolerance aluminum frame** that resists warping and maintains structural integrity under high power levels. This rigidity ensures consistent performance and longevity, while the **high-quality magnet system** comprising a **ferrite core with neodymium reinforcement** provides exceptional magnetic strength, enabling the voice coil to move with precision and efficiency. Whether driving a deep cut from a bass guitar, the thunderous kick of a drum, or the intricate nuances of a symphonic orchestra, this woofer excels in reproducing the full spectrum of low and midrange frequencies with remarkable accuracy and power.
For audiophiles and discerning listeners who demand nothing less than the best, the Klipsch 106879 8-inch woofer is a standout component that elevates the Reference Series 150 Tower Speakers to new heights of audio excellence. Its blend of **innovative design, superior materials, and meticulous craftsmanship** ensures that every note, from the softest whisper to the most explosive crescendo, is delivered with the clarity, depth, and emotional impact that define Klipsch s legendary sound. Whether used in a home theater, high-end stereo setup, or professional monitoring environment, this woofer is a testament to Klipsch s commitment to pushing the boundaries of audio technology while delivering an experience that is as rewarding to the ears as it is inspiring to the soul.
### Pros and Cons of buying a Klipsch 106879 8-Inch Woofer for a 150-Watt Tower Speaker Build
#### **Pros:**1. **High-Quality Sound Reproduction** Klipsch woofers are known for their deep bass response and accurate midrange, thanks to their proprietary horn-loaded design. This ensures a more engaging and immersive listening experience, especially in tower speakers where bass extension is critical.
2. **Durability and Build Quality** Klipsch woofers are built to last, with robust materials and reinforced cones. The 8-inch size provides a good balance between bass output and efficiency, making them suitable for mid-sized tower speakers.
3. **Efficiency and Power Handling** The 106879 model is designed to handle 150 watts of continuous power, which aligns well with your intended use. This means you won t have to worry about distortion or overheating at moderate to high volumes.
4. **Compatibility with Horn-Loaded Tweeters** If you plan to pair this woofer with Klipsch s horn-loaded tweeters (like the RP-600M or RP-800M), the combination will deliver a signature "Tractrix" sound signature, which is praised for its clarity and dynamic range.
5. **Good Bass Extension** The horn-loaded design enhances bass output without requiring excessive cone excursion, reducing distortion in the lower frequencies. This is particularly useful in tower speakers where deep bass is desirable.
6. **Established Brand Reputation** Klipsch has a long history of producing high-quality audio components, and their woofers are trusted by audiophiles and DIY enthusiasts alike.
7. **Ease of Integration** The woofer s design is straightforward, making it easier to integrate into a custom enclosure. Klipsch provides detailed specifications and recommendations for optimal performance.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Cost** Klipsch woofers are not the cheapest option on the market. While the 106879 is reasonably priced for its quality, the overall cost of building a tower speaker with this woofer (including tweeters, crossover, and enclosure materials) may be higher than alternatives.
2. **Size and Enclosure Requirements** An 8-inch woofer requires a larger enclosure compared to smaller drivers (e.g., 5.25-inch or 6.5-inch). This means your tower speaker will need more space, which may not be ideal if you have limited cabinet options.
3. **Horn-Loaded Tweeter Dependency** While the horn-loaded tweeters are excellent, they are not universally compatible with all crossover designs. If you re not using Klipsch s tweeters, you may need to experiment with crossover settings to achieve the best results.
4. **Potential for Over-Driving** Even though the woofer handles 150 watts, pushing it to its limits without proper damping or a well-designed enclosure could lead to distortion or reduced lifespan. This requires careful attention to crossover design and power handling.
5. **Learning Curve for DIY Builders** If you re new to speaker building, the process of designing an enclosure, selecting a crossover, and tuning the system can be challenging. Klipsch s woofers perform best when paired with optimal components, which may require research or professional guidance.
6. **Weight** An 8-inch woofer is heavier than smaller drivers, which could affect the overall weight and stability of your tower speaker. This may be a consideration if you plan to place the speaker on a bookshelf or in a space with limited support.
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### **Conclusion:**The Klipsch 106879 8-inch woofer is an excellent choice for a 150-watt tower speaker build, especially if you prioritize deep, accurate bass and a polished midrange. Its efficiency, durability, and compatibility with Klipsch s horn-loaded tweeters make it a strong contender for audiophiles who want a high-quality, dynamic listening experience. However, the cost, size requirements, and potential complexity of integration should be carefully considered.
If you re building a tower speaker primarily for deep bass and clarity, and you re willing to invest in a well-designed enclosure and crossover, the Klipsch 106879 is a solid recommendation. For budget-conscious builders or those prioritizing portability, smaller woofers or alternative brands might be more suitable.
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### **Recommendation:**If you re committed to building a high-performance tower speaker with a focus on bass and midrange accuracy, the **Klipsch 106879 8-inch woofer is a great choice**. Pair it with Klipsch s horn-loaded tweeters (e.g., RP-600M or RP-800M) and design a sealed or bass-reflex enclosure with proper tuning to maximize efficiency and bass extension. Ensure your crossover is appropriately matched to avoid clipping or distortion.
For best results:- Use a well-insulated enclosure to minimize external noise interference.
- Consider adding a damping material (like mass-loaded vinyl) if your listening environment is noisy.
- Test and adjust the crossover settings to fine-tune the sound to your preferences.
If you re open to alternatives, brands like **Seas, Focal, or EV Audio** also offer high-quality woofers with different sound signatures that might suit your needs better. However, Klipsch remains a top-tier option for those who value their signature horn-loaded design.
From Klipsch R-820f. Couldn get someone to replace cap on this one. Bought replacement with dust cap. Gasket is good.