Overview

The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-404C II is a specialized center channel speaker engineered for high-performance home theaters where space and placement are major constraints. Unlike standard ported speakers, the RP-404C II features an all-new shallow-depth, sealed cabinet design. This allows it to be placed flush against walls, inside shallow media consoles, or even mounted in-wall without the "boomy" bass distortion typically caused by rear ports. With four 4" Cerametallic woofers and an enlarged 90° x 90° hybrid Tractrix horn, this speaker delivers exceptionally crisp dialogue and a wide soundstage from a cabinet that is only 6.47" deep.

Simcoe Audio Video Insight

For our clients in Ontario who are mounting a TV above a fireplace or using a shallow mantle, the RP-404C II is the ultimate "problem solver." Most center channels require several inches of breathing room behind them to sound their best, but because this is a sealed design, you can tuck it right into a tight shelf or push it against the wall with zero penalty to the sound quality. We love using this in "lifestyle" theaters where we want the impact of a full Reference Premiere system without a bulky speaker sticking out into the room. It’s thin, sleek, and high-performance—a rare combination that makes professional-grade audio work in real-world living spaces.

Best for the Klipsch RP-404C II: take advantage of its sealed design by placing it as close to the wall as needed for a clean look. While ported speakers get "muddy" when placed in enclosed spaces, the RP-404C II is actually tuned for these environments. If you are placing it on a mantle, make sure to use the included cork pads; they provide an extra layer of stability and vibration damping, ensuring the dialogue stays perfectly clear even when the action on screen gets intense.

More Details

Why It Wins

• Ultra-Shallow Footprint: At less than 7 inches deep, it fits where other high-end center channels simply cannot.
• Sealed Enclosure: Eliminates port noise and allows for placement inside cabinets or directly against walls without sacrificing vocal clarity.
• Quad-Woofer Array: Four 4" Cerametallic woofers provide plenty of surface area for a rich, authoritative midrange that smaller soundbars can't replicate.

What Makes It Different

The RP-404C II is uniquely designed to prioritize placement flexibility without losing the "Reference Premiere" sound. It features the same 1" Titanium LTS vented tweeter found in Klipsch's larger towers, which reduces internal standing waves to keep high-frequency details smooth and lifelike. The update to the "MK II" generation includes a 70% larger voice coil and aluminum shorting rings in the motor structure. This means the speaker can handle significant power spikes in movie soundtracks with more control and less distortion than the original version, making it a reliable workhorse for any modern home cinema.

Technical Highlights

• 90° x 90° Silicone Composite Horn: Hand-molded to reduce resonance and ensure high frequencies are aimed directly at your ears for maximum intelligibility.
• 94dB Sensitivity: High efficiency means it produces massive, room-filling sound without needing an expensive, high-powered amplifier.
• Faraday Rings: Included in the all-new woofer motor design to improve transient response—essential for the quick-fire dialogue of modern TV and film.
• Premium Build: Features high-quality aluminum binding posts and a furniture-grade finish to match luxury home decor.

Buyers Guide

Who This Is For

• The Mantle & Console User: Anyone who needs a high-performance speaker for a shallow shelf or a fireplace mantle installation.
• The In-Wall Candidate: Homeowners looking for a center channel that can be easily integrated into custom millwork or shallow wall cavities.
• Reference Premiere Enthusiasts: Those who want a tonal match for their RP-series towers or bookshelves but have a physical limit on center channel depth.

Ideal Use Case

• Shallow Media Consoles: Perfect for the slim, modern furniture often found in condos and open-concept homes.
• Above or Below Wall-Mounted TVs: Its thin profile ensures it doesn't protrude further than your display, maintaining a sleek, integrated look.
• 3.1 or 5.1 "Stealth" Theaters: Provides the power of a dedicated theater system in a package that blends into the room.

What To Pair It With

• Klipsch RP-5000F II Floorstanding Speakers: A perfect match in terms of scale and driver technology for a seamless front soundstage.
• Any Quality AV Receiver (50W+): Works beautifully with standard receivers from brands like Denon, Marantz, or Yamaha.
• Klipsch RP-1000SW Subwoofer: Since the RP-404C II is a sealed, shallow cabinet, adding a dedicated sub is essential to provide the deep, low-end impact movies require.

Alternative Options

The RP-404C II is our best-performing shallow-depth center channel. If you have the space for a deeper cabinet and want more low-end punch and a larger soundstage, the RP-504C II or RP-500C II are the natural step-up options within the series. For users who prefer an entry-level solution at a lower price point, the Klipsch R-30C offers a similar slim profile. If you are looking for a fully automatic vinyl experience to go with your new system, the Dual CS 329 is an excellent plug-and-play companion.