Klipsch’s R6 and R6i in-ear headphones have been an extremely popular addition to the company’s growing headphone arsenal, even gracing our list of the top in-ear headphones for their keen blend of value and performance. Now, Klipsch is hoping to leverage some of that love for a new offering, unveiling this week the new R6 and R6i on-ear headphones.
The “R” stands for Reference in this case — the operative word Klipsch has used to rebrand many offerings within its sprawling line of speakers and headphones to reflect a renewed push towards performance, coupled with a consistent sound signature throughout. “We’ve been making speakers for 70 years and have infused our Reference sonic signature into these headphones,” said Klipsch’s Senior Manager of Product Development Vlad Grodzinskiy.
As indicated by the shared model number between the two styles, Klipsch claims the entire design of the new R6 and R6i on-ears was inspired by their nimbler cousin, no doubt hoping to bring the same level of value users loved in the in-ears to a full-sized set of cans. The new cans certainly look sharp enough, with sleek cut lines of silver around the earpieces, and a smooth sheath of understated leather around the band.
“We have taken our best-selling, award-winning, most comfortable in-ear headphones and created on-ear versions,” says Grodzinskiy, “so users have options depending upon their style preference and device.”
To that end, the new R6 on-ears offer plush memory foam pads, custom-tuned 40mm drivers, and an adjustable leather headband that folds for storage, all for just $79. That’s a pretty competitive price tag in the on-ear segment. For those who want the convenience of an iOS mic piece to control volume and field phone calls (and really, who doesn’t), the R6i tacks on an extra Jackson for an MSRP of $99. Pricier, but still fairly reasonable if the cans deliver the goods.
The new Reference R6 On-Ear ($79) and Reference R6i On-Ear ($99) are available now on Klipsch’s website.
