Klipsch Forte III loudspeakers: following a two-decade absence, Klipsch reintroduces the classic Forte III design. We give it a thorough test and see if the Forte legend still stands true today.
Klipsch: a legendary American designer and manufacturer of Hi-Fi loudspeakers. Forming part of Klipsch’s prestigious Heritage range, the Forte III is a truly unique design with a truly unique sound all of its own.
Join us, as we take the Forte III through its paces…
Klipsch Forte III – Built Different
One look at the Klipsch Forte III immediately lets one know that this is a unique Hi-Fi loudspeaker, with a classic design aesthetic. A cursory glance around the beautiful, book-matched veneer cabinets, will reveal the unusual arrangement of drivers employed in the Forte III.
To the front of the cabinet, one will find a 12″ woofer along with horn-loaded, tractrix mid and high divers. Around the rear of the Forte III, there is what appears to be an additional 15″ woofer; this is, however, a passive sub-bass radiator, which operates on acoustic pressure generated by the woofer for greater bass output and extension.
As is something of a Klipsch trait, the Forte III’s are extremely sensitive and efficient loudspeakers, with a sensitivity rating of 99db. They are, therefore, an ideal pairing for lower powered amplifiers such as Class A or lower wattage valve designs.
The Proof is in The Pudding
Settling into Audio Affair’s dedicated listening room, an accompanying cast of world-class sources and amplification were pressed into service for the session’s listening tests. Pre and power amplification came in the form of Sugden’s Sapphire range with a DAP800 preamplifier and FBA800 power amplifier.
Linn’s superb Klimax DSM network streamer was pressed into service, with the session’s music selections coming via Hi-Res music streaming service, Tidal. Without further ado, it was time to cue up some favoured tracks and see what the Klipsch Forte III’s were all about…
First up, it’s Massive Attack’s dramatic trip-hop lullaby, Teardrop; The heartbeat-esque kick-drum of the track thumps along with plenty of energy and mid-range clout. At the opposite end of the spectrum, top-end detail is crisp and lively without ever being splashy or overblown; it’s perhaps the vocal, which is most impressive, being lifelike and neutral in presentation.
Smashing Pumpkins’ techno-grunge track Ava Adore again reinforces a character of neutrality, liveliness and great stereo imaging. Those looking for ground shaking bass won’t find it here, but everything that is presented is warm, lively and neutral in character.
All That Jazz
What the listening session quickly revealed, was that the Klipsch Forte III’s had an undeniable talent for reproducing Jazz, and acoustic music with an aplomb seldom heard in other loudspeakers. Show them some source material which hasn’t been heavily processed and the result is highly rewarding.
Wheeling out Mile Davis’ modern jazz classic, Freddie Freeloader really shows the Klipsch Forte III’s in their very best light. Within a few notes, it’s clear that these speakers are ideal for Jazz. The clean, uncoloured mid-range and smooth yet detailed character really complement this style of minimalist production.
The Klipsch Forte III’s displayed a slightly mid-forward character; whilst on occasions one might feel it leaves a processed pop vocal feeling a little “shouty” it places solo instruments, such as Miles Davies’ trumpet, forthright prominent and centre.
The same effect is bestowed upon The Dave Brubeck Quartet’s classic, Take Five; Joe Morello’s ride cymbal is crisp, lively and beautifully positioned in the sound staging. The Klipsch Forte III’s certainly do excel in terms of stereo imaging and spatial positioning.
Once again, solo instruments are positioned forthright and centre, breathy, vibrant and realistic, with lots of space surrounding other instruments in the mix. There’s also a healthy and welcome dollop of detail which reveals hitherto unheard intricacies in the music.
As an example, your reviewer was able to detect a tape edit, just before the drum solo, never clearly heard before. Speaking of drums, they spoke with a neutrality and honesty I haven’t heard from a listening before. Thoroughly entertaining.
Klipsch Forte III – A Skilled Specialist
Whilst some speakers wow with larger than life presentation, deep lows or extreme sparkling highs, the Forte III’s do one thing alone better than the vast majority of speakers this reviewer has heard: acoustic music.
There is a neutrality and an excitement to the presentation which really makes spacious, open acoustic recordings come to life. For the jazz devotee or classical enthusiast, the Forte III’s would be an absolutely wonderful purchase, as they have the effect of placing you in the room with the music.
The Klipsch Forte III loudspeakers will undoubtedly be an acquired taste, but it’s easy to see how Klipsch has built up such a devoted and loyal following Stateside. Try a pair – you may find yourself smitten!