KLH-5 vs AR-2ax
If you are handy, and want a project:
I re-built two pairs of AR-2ax speakers last year. My first decent speakers when in college. Shown here
bought for basement/shop: sounded so good I moved them to my office and ordered the 2nd pair for the basement/shop.
They are a smaller version of the KLH-5, i.e. AR-2ax only 24" high; KLH are 34" high. (AR-2ax are around 1 cubic feet less). both 3 way, drivers essentially the same.
AR-2ax cost me $500/pair incl new parts + $250 delivery =$750/pair delivered
KLH-5 is $2,500/pair plus delivery (est $500) = $3,000/pair _maybe less)
Both KLH-5 and AR-2ax are true bookshelf speakers, i.e. only 11.5" deep, fit a 12" deep shelf. No port, both have level controls as mentioned above.
Of course they can be free-standing, the AR-2ax would need a taller stand, not included in my cost.
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Re-build AR-2ax, prices are for a pair
woofer re-foam kit: $30
new tweeters: $180.
new level controls (4): $40.
crossover parts, parts express: $50.
linen grill cloth $40.
work
remove woofers, remove stuffing, remove crossover board, remove tweeters
re-foam woofers; install new tweeters; change level controls on crossover board; change 4 caps and 6 resistors; re-install crossover board.
change existing wire connections for new parts. I used crimped bullet connectors, different colors.
stuff with polyester fill (walmart, cheap)
It was pretty easy, and they sound better than any bookshelf speaker I have tried.
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Looks
KLH-5 new/perfect
AR-2ax: decent touch up of wood cabinets in good shape, or, if on shelf, only front edges and their corners matter.
Here’s a nice pair worth restoring