By CE Critic - Buy Better Tech
Table of Contents:
- Introduction: Klipsch-Onkyo Team Up for Modular Soundbars
- Flexus System Overview: Soundbars, Surrounds, and Subwoofer
- Technical Specs: What We Know So Far
- Klipsch and Onkyo: A Synergistic Collaboration
- Pricing and Availability
- Conclusion: Promising System, Awaiting Details
Introduction: Klipsch-Onkyo Team Up for Modular Soundbars
Audio enthusiasts, take note! Two industry heavyweights, Klipsch and Onkyo, have joined forces to create the Flexus modular soundbar system. Unveiled at CES 2024, Flexus presents a versatile option for building a customized home theater sound setup. While in-depth demonstrations were absent, Klipsch anticipates the system's arrival by April 2024.
Flexus System Overview: Soundbars, Surrounds, and Subwoofer
The Flexus lineup offers two soundbar choices:
- Core 100: This 2.1-channel soundbar employs virtualized Dolby Atmos, making it an attractive option for smaller spaces and budget-conscious users. Key features include two 2.25-inch drivers, dual 4-inch built-in subwoofers, support for at least one 8K Ultra HD HDMI input, an HDMI eARC port, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Core 200: Taking things up a notch, the Core 200 boasts a 3.1.2-channel configuration with dedicated up-firing drivers for Dolby Atmos, four 2.25-inch drivers, dual 4-inch built-in subwoofers, and a horn-loaded tweeter for enhanced vocal clarity. This soundbar caters to those seeking a more immersive and powerful soundscape.
Both soundbars offer support for HDMI eARC and Dolby Atmos decoding. However, details regarding power handling and Wi-Fi features like AirPlay remain undisclosed.
Modular System Expands Soundbar Functionality
Flexus' modularity extends beyond the soundbars themselves. Users can add on Flexus Surround 100 wireless surround speakers and a compact 10-inch Flexus Sub 100 to create a more expansive surround sound experience.
Klipsch and Onkyo: A Synergistic Collaboration
The partnership between Klipsch and Onkyo is noteworthy because both brands belong to Voxx International, alongside other audio giants like Pioneer. Onkyo's expertise in AVRs, crucial for soundbar processing and decoding, makes this collaboration a natural synergy.
Pricing and Availability
Individual component prices are as follows, with final specifications still pending:
- Flexus Core 100 Soundbar: $299
- Flexus Core 200 Soundbar: $449
- Flexus Surround 100: $249
- Flexus Sub 100: $299
Conclusion: Promising System, Awaiting Details
While details on key technical aspects are still pending, the Flexus system shows promise for those seeking a customizable and potentially high-performance home theater solution. The Klipsch-Onkyo partnership, modular design, and competitive pricing are appealing aspects. Once Klipsch reveals the full technical specifications and allows for proper testing, a more comprehensive evaluation of the system's capabilities will be possible.
