Klipsch Offers Wireless Version Of ProMedia 2.1 Speakers

If you've been around audio for awhile, you definitely know Klipsch. It's a mainstay in the industry, particularly the home A/V market and the PC audio market. Awhile back, the company introduced a set of computer speakers that would change the way people viewed PC speakers: the ProMedia 2.1. It led companies like Logitech to develop killer 5.1 systems in a box for PCs, something that was rarely or never done beforehand.


Now, Klipsch is unveiling the wireless version of its ProMedia 2.1 system. Just like the originals, the wireless set is totally THX-certified. The different here is the USB nature, which allows users to plug a transceiver into their USB port and then continue sending signal even if they relocate. Granted, this is mostly useful for laptop owners, as the satellites themselves are still tethered to the subwoofer (which is tethered to an AC outlet), but it's definitely beneficial for some.

The ProMedia 2.1 Wireless is available exclusively at klipsch.com and only to U.S. consumers for $199, while the wired set can also be secured at Best Buy for $149.99.

Klipsch Puts Wireless Spin on Popular ProMedia 2.1 Computer Speakers
New twist on award-winning system conveniently brings better sound to laptop and notebook users

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (November 4, 2009) Today more and more people use laptops and notebooks to listen to music, watch movies and play games. And surprisingly enough, many of them will accept their computer's poor sound performance just to stay mobile. But now they don't have to thanks to the wireless technology Klipsch has added to its ProMedia 2.1 computer speakers.

The original ProMedia 2.1 system was introduced in 2000, and over the years it has become one of the highest praised, best-selling products Klipsch has ever produced. But given the increase in laptop and notebook usage, company officials decided to put a fresh spin on the classic setup by introducing a wireless version.

The new ProMedia 2.1 Wireless looks and sounds like the THX-certified original, only the Klipsch logos are silver instead of copper. "The ProMedia is still the defacto 2.1 standard for computer speakers. It's been known to put some home stereo systems to shame, and we want to keep it that way with or without wires," said Don Inmon, Klipsch director of product development for personal audio.

The real difference between the two designs lies within a USB wireless transmitter that plugs into the computer's USB port. "Only a few simple steps are required to get the ProMedia Wireless up and running. Just plug, play and enjoy the full sonic impact of your music, movies and games without being tied down," said Inmon. "No router or installation software is needed."

Inmon, however, notes the misconception that many consumers have about wireless audio. Often times, when people see the words "wireless" and "speakers" together, they assume the entire sound system is wire and cable free. However, no such speaker system exists unless it runs off of batteries. "Speakers need a power source to drive them and that source needs to connect to electricity," he says.

With the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless, the subwoofer is the power source. This heavy-hitter plugs into a wall outlet and then the two speakers connect to it via wires. Wireless, in the case of the ProMedia, means no wires attach to the computer. This allows users to move their laptops freely around the room without ever losing their 2.1 sound. The ProMedia and computer wirelessly connect via the USB wireless transmitter.

The wireless range of the ProMedia spans approximately 30 feet in a single room. The system is perfect for dorm rooms, offices, bedrooms and family rooms really wherever people use their laptops and notebooks the most. ProMedia 2.1 Wireless owners with a Wi-Fi connection and an iPhone or iPod Touch can use Apple's Remote Application to control their iTunes from anywhere in the house covered by Wi-Fi.

Technical Information:
The two-way ProMedia speakers are driven by exclusive MicroTractrix Horns that cleanly and accurately handle the high frequencies, creating a precise image and soundstage. Each speaker employs a 3-inch fiber-composite cone driver for smooth mid-bass reproduction. A preamplifier control pod, which features separate main volume and subwoofer level controls, a headphone jack and the miniplug input, is located on one of the speakers. Each speaker comes with a self-supporting pedestal, but Klipsch also sells adjustable WB-1 wall brackets through its online store for $21.99 a pair.

The high-output, low distortion subwoofer is a bass-reflex type with a flared, tuned front port and 6.5-inch side-firing driver. The 200-watt amplifier housed inside the subwoofer enclosure ensures that the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless can deliver superior sound over conventional multimedia systems.

Pricing and Availability:
Priced at $199, the ProMedia 2.1 Wireless is available exclusively at klipsch.com and only to U.S. consumers. The original ProMedia, which retails for $149.99, is available at Best Buy and klipsch.com.

About Klipsch
Founded in 1946 by Paul W. Klipsch, one of America's most celebrated audio pioneers, Klipsch has long been a high-end name in speaker design. Today, the brand continues its success as a leading global manufacturer of premium sound solutions for home, personal and commercial use. From massive professional cinema speakers to tiny headphones, Klipsch remains committed to delivering the most powerful, detailed and emotional sound experiences. Family owned and operated, chairman Fred Klipsch and vice chairman Judy Klipsch set the vision and strategy for the brand as well as the entire Klipsch Group, Inc. organization. For more information, visit klipsch.com.