The Denon AVR‑X8500HA 13.2‑Channel Receiver is a flagship home theater solution designed to deliver an immersive, cinema‐quality experience. With a robust power amplifier delivering 150 watts per channel across 13 channels, this receiver brings cutting-edge audio formats to life, including Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS Virtual:X, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro‑3D. Its advanced design transforms standard content into multi-dimensional 3D soundscapes, ensuring every movie, game, or music track is presented with remarkable clarity and dynamism.
Complementing its powerful audio performance is an advanced HDMI video section with 8K upscaling. The receiver supports a dedicated 8K input capable of 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz video pass‑through, with all HDMI inputs featuring 4:4:4 Pure Color Sub Sampling and compatibility with HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. This ensures that every visual detail is rendered with exceptional color accuracy and clarity, making it a perfect match for modern ultra‑high‑definition displays. In addition, Denon’s proprietary AL32 Processing Technology and Audyssey MultEQ XT32 optimize digital audio processing, delivering a natural soundstage and enhanced imaging across all channels.
Designed for seamless integration into today’s smart home environments, the AVR‑X8500HA offers endless connectivity options with 8 HDMI inputs, multiple digital and analog inputs, and pre‑outs for subwoofers. Its built‑in HEOS multi‑room streaming allows users to wirelessly distribute music throughout the home, while full voice control via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri adds modern convenience. Embodying Denon’s century‑long legacy of Japanese precision, the AVR‑X8500HA redefines home entertainment with unmatched versatility and performance.
Overview
The Klipsch The One is a premium tabletop wireless stereo speaker that brings together Klipsch’s legendary audio performance with modern smart features. Finished in an elegant walnut exterior, it is designed not only to deliver powerful, dynamic sound but also to complement contemporary décor. With built-in Google Voice Assistant integration, the speaker enables hands-free control and seamless connectivity with various streaming services and smart home devices. The One is engineered to provide rich, immersive audio in a compact form factor, making it a perfect solution for users who want high-fidelity sound without sacrificing style or desk space.
This review draws on extensive user experiences, technical evaluations, and comparative analyses with competing products. While some minor drawbacks exist, the overall consensus is that Klipsch The One offers exceptional sound quality, intuitive voice control, and versatile connectivity, all at a competitive price. Its strengths in reproducing detailed audio across a broad frequency spectrum make it ideal for music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. Below is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons.
Pros
1. Superior Sound Quality and Clarity
At the heart of The One is Klipsch’s renowned audio engineering. Users repeatedly commend the speaker for its crisp, clear, and dynamic sound. The design leverages Klipsch’s proprietary horn-loaded technology and high-quality drivers, which result in a robust, detailed soundstage that delivers both powerful bass and articulate highs. Music lovers appreciate that every instrument and vocal nuance is rendered with exceptional clarity, even at lower volume levels. The One’s balanced performance across various genres—from classical and jazz to rock and electronic—ensures that it is equally adept at handling complex musical passages and simple, rhythmic tracks.
2. Integrated Google Voice Assistant for Hands-Free Control
One of the standout features of this speaker is the seamless integration with Google Voice Assistant. This allows users to control playback, search for music, adjust volume, and even manage smart home functions without having to physically interact with the device. For those who are deeply embedded in the Google ecosystem, this voice-enabled control system makes the listening experience more intuitive and accessible. Users have noted that the voice recognition is quick and accurate, providing a smooth and efficient means of interacting with the speaker—whether you’re multitasking in the kitchen or relaxing in the living room.
3. Versatile Wireless Connectivity
The One supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which means it can easily stream high-fidelity audio from a variety of sources. Whether you prefer to play music directly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer, the speaker ensures that you enjoy a consistent and reliable connection. Additionally, compatibility with popular streaming platforms means that users can access a vast library of music and podcasts effortlessly. The wireless capabilities also extend to multi-room audio, allowing you to group multiple speakers for synchronized playback, a feature highly valued in contemporary home audio setups.
4. Elegant and Compact Design
Aesthetically, The One is a standout device. Finished in a sophisticated walnut veneer, its design is both timeless and modern. The compact form factor ensures that it fits comfortably on any tabletop, shelf, or desktop without overwhelming the space. Its minimalistic design is especially appealing to those who value both performance and style. Users have commented that it not only delivers excellent audio but also adds a touch of elegance to any room, making it an attractive addition to a living room, office, or bedroom.
5. Intuitive and User-Friendly Setup
Setting up The One is reported to be a breeze by many users. With a straightforward pairing process via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and simple integration with the Google Voice Assistant, the device can be up and running within minutes of unboxing. The intuitive interface ensures that even those who are not technologically inclined can navigate the setup with ease. Detailed instructions and responsive customer support further enhance the user experience, making it an ideal option for both first-time buyers and those upgrading from older systems.
6. Multi-Room Audio and Stereo Pairing Capabilities
Another significant advantage is its ability to integrate into a larger multi-room audio system. The One can be paired with additional units to create a stereo pair, delivering a wider, more immersive soundstage ideal for larger spaces. Alternatively, users can group multiple speakers throughout the home for synchronized music playback in different rooms. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for households that desire a unified audio experience across various zones. The convenience of controlling multi-room audio via a single interface—often through a smartphone app or voice commands—has been highly praised by users who value seamless integration.
7. Robust Build Quality and Durability
Klipsch has built The One with quality and longevity in mind. The materials used in its construction are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use while maintaining excellent sound performance. Users who have used the speaker for extended periods note that it remains as reliable and visually appealing as when it was first unboxed. Its sturdy construction means that it is less likely to suffer from the wear and tear common to lower-priced alternatives. This durability makes it a worthwhile investment for those who intend to use it as a primary audio device over the long term.
8. Excellent Value for Money
For the price point at which it is offered, The One provides a level of performance that rivals more expensive models. Several users have expressed surprise at the high quality of the sound and the sophisticated design, given its relatively accessible cost. The combination of superior sound quality, voice control integration, and multi-room audio functionality makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who do not want to compromise on performance. In a market where many premium wireless speakers can be prohibitively expensive, The One stands out as an excellent value proposition.
9. Enhanced Bass Response Despite Compact Size
Even though it is designed to be compact, The One delivers surprisingly robust bass. Utilizing advanced driver technology, the speaker produces a rich, full-bodied low-end that enhances the overall listening experience without the need for an additional subwoofer. Users have been particularly impressed by how well the bass performance holds up, even at moderate to high volumes. This capability makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy bass-heavy music genres without sacrificing the clarity of the midrange and treble frequencies.
10. Seamless Integration with Smart Home Ecosystems
In addition to Google Voice Assistant integration, The One is designed to work harmoniously within a broader smart home ecosystem. Its compatibility with multi-room audio systems and support for various streaming platforms means that it can be easily incorporated into existing setups alongside other smart speakers and audio devices. This level of integration not only simplifies the management of home audio but also enhances the overall convenience for users who can control their sound environment using a single, unified system.
11. Positive User Community and Support
The One has garnered a loyal following among users who appreciate Klipsch’s commitment to high-fidelity sound and modern design. Many reviews highlight the vibrant community of Klipsch enthusiasts who share tips, updates, and troubleshooting advice. This community support, along with responsive customer service from Klipsch, adds an extra layer of confidence for potential buyers. The collective positive experiences and shared satisfaction from long-term users further underscore the product’s strengths and reliability.
12. Versatility in Usage Scenarios
Finally, The One’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether used as a standalone speaker in a small apartment, paired in stereo for a more immersive listening experience, or integrated into a multi-room audio system, it adapts easily to different environments and user needs. This flexibility ensures that the speaker can serve as a primary music player, a supplemental audio device for television or gaming, or as part of a larger home audio network. The ability to customize its use according to personal preferences is a significant advantage for users with diverse listening habits.
Cons
1. Limited Volume Headroom at Maximum Settings
A few users have noted that when The One is pushed to its maximum volume, there is occasional distortion—particularly in the bass frequencies. While this is a minor issue for most, audiophiles who demand pristine sound quality at extremely high volume levels may find that the speaker does not deliver the same clarity as larger, more expensive models. However, at typical listening levels, this limitation is generally not a concern.
2. Reliance on External Power
The One is designed for tabletop use and requires a constant power source. This reliance on an AC adapter limits its true portability compared to battery-powered wireless speakers. Users looking for a speaker that they can easily take on outdoor adventures without worrying about power outlets might find this aspect restrictive. Nonetheless, for home use, this is a relatively minor drawback given the superior sound quality and stable performance when connected to power.
3. No Built-In Voice Assistant
While The One integrates seamlessly with Google Voice Assistant when paired with compatible devices, it does not have a built-in microphone for native voice control. This means that users must rely on an external smart device to issue voice commands, which adds an extra layer of complexity for those who desire an all-in-one voice-controlled solution. Though many users appreciate the added privacy and focus on sound quality, the lack of integrated voice functionality could be seen as a limitation by some.
4. Potential for Connectivity Issues in Multi-Room Setups
Although the speaker is praised for its wireless capabilities and integration into multi-room audio systems, a few users have experienced minor connectivity hiccups when pairing multiple units. In some cases, synchronization between speakers was slightly off, leading to a less cohesive stereo image. These issues are typically infrequent and can often be resolved through firmware updates or adjustments in the companion app. However, they might pose a small inconvenience for those planning to use the speakers in large, complex multi-room configurations.
5. Limited Customization Without External Controls
The One’s reliance on smartphone apps and external controllers for adjustments means that there are few physical controls on the speaker itself. Users who prefer tactile buttons for quick volume or tone adjustments might find the digital-only control method less intuitive. Although the companion app offers extensive customization options, the lack of on-device controls could be a minor drawback for some audiophiles.
6. App Interface and Firmware Variability
A few reviews have mentioned that the companion app’s interface can be somewhat inconsistent, with occasional delays or glitches during firmware updates. These issues, while rare, can temporarily affect the user experience—particularly when trying to pair or control multiple speakers in a network. While most users find that updates improve the functionality over time, this variability might be a concern for those who expect flawless integration at all times.
7. Aesthetic Preferences May Vary
While many users love the walnut finish and elegant design of The One, aesthetic preferences are subjective. A small minority of users might prefer a different finish or a more minimalist design. Although this is purely a matter of taste, it is worth noting that design choices can influence overall satisfaction for some customers.
Final Assessment
In conclusion, the Klipsch The One with Google Voice Assistant Tabletop Wireless Stereo in Walnut emerges as a remarkably versatile and high-performing wireless speaker that offers outstanding sound quality, seamless connectivity, and an elegant, compact design. Its ability to deliver immersive, room-filling audio through advanced driver technology and carefully tuned acoustics has impressed users across a wide range of listening environments—from intimate home settings to larger living spaces. The integration of Google Voice Assistant, although reliant on an external device for voice control, further enhances its appeal by providing modern, hands-free convenience.
The One excels in offering flexible multi-room functionality and stereo pairing options, making it ideal for users who wish to create a unified, distributed audio experience throughout their home. Its easy setup process, robust build quality, and attractive walnut finish contribute to a premium user experience that rivals more expensive alternatives. Additionally, the device’s compatibility with various streaming services and its ability to integrate into existing smart home ecosystems solidify its position as a top-tier choice for discerning audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
While there are minor drawbacks—such as potential connectivity issues in complex setups, the absence of built-in voice controls, and a reliance on app-based adjustments—these are largely outweighed by the extensive benefits. Overall, Klipsch The One represents an excellent investment for those seeking a high-quality, stylish, and versatile wireless speaker that delivers exceptional audio performance and fits seamlessly into modern home environments. For anyone looking to upgrade their audio system with a product that balances classic design with cutting-edge technology, The One is a highly recommended option that offers both performance and aesthetic appeal.