KLH : Pioneers of Hi-Fi Sound

KLH, a name synonymous with high-quality audio systems, holds a special place in the history of sound technology. Founded in the 1950s, the company helped revolutionize the way people experience music at home, setting a new standard for loudspeaker design and audio fidelity. What began as a small venture in Cambridge, Massachusetts, soon grew into a brand with a lasting legacy in the audio industry.

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The Founders: Henry Kloss, Malcolm Low, and Josef Hofmann

KLH was founded in 1957 by three innovative minds: **Henry Kloss**, **Malcolm Low**, and **Josef Hofmann**. Each brought a unique skill set to the table, and together, they built one of the most influential audio companies of the 20th century.

• Henry Kloss** was an engineer and entrepreneur whose passion for audio technology made him a key figure in the hi-fi revolution. Known for his innovative thinking, Kloss had already co-founded Acoustic Research, where he helped design groundbreaking loudspeakers. At KLH, Kloss continued to push the boundaries of audio engineering.
• Malcolm Low** was another brilliant engineer, contributing technical expertise that complemented Kloss’ visionary approach. Together, they worked to develop high-performance audio products that would become staples in homes across the country.
• Josef Hofmann**, a pianist and inventor, contributed his insights from the world of music, ensuring that KLH products delivered the natural and immersive sound experience musicians sought.

The Early Years: Innovating Audio Technology

KLH quickly established itself as an innovator in the audio world. In the early 1960s, the company gained widespread recognition with the introduction of the **Model Eight** FM table radio, which was considered one of the finest radios of its time. Its sleek design and high-quality sound set it apart from competitors and appealed to a growing market of audiophiles looking for exceptional performance in a compact form.

However, the company’s most significant contribution to the industry was in loudspeaker design. KLH produced **acoustic suspension** speakers, a technology developed by Henry Kloss while he was still at Acoustic Research. This design utilized an airtight enclosure to control the movement of the speaker cone, which allowed for more accurate bass response in a smaller cabinet. This innovation helped make high-fidelity sound systems more accessible to average consumers, a breakthrough that had a lasting impact on the home audio market.

The KLH **Model Five** and **Model Six** loudspeakers became particularly popular, known for their ability to deliver deep, accurate bass and a natural soundstage. These models cemented KLH’s reputation as a leader in high-performance, affordable loudspeakers.

Expansion and Diversification

During the 1960s, KLH expanded its product line beyond just loudspeakers and radios. One of its most groundbreaking creations was the **Model Eleven**, the world’s first portable solid-state stereo system. This innovation made it possible for people to bring high-fidelity sound with them wherever they went, marking the beginning of a trend toward portable audio technology.

KLH also entered the realm of headphones, releasing the **Model Nine electrostatic speaker**, which many audiophiles still regard as one of the best-sounding speakers ever made. The Model Nine delivered clarity and detail that was virtually unmatched at the time, making it a favorite among serious music lovers.

KLH and the Legacy of Henry Kloss

Henry Kloss left KLH in 1967 to co-found **Advent Corporation**, another iconic name in the audio industry, but his influence remained deeply embedded in the company’s DNA. KLH continued to innovate under new leadership, maintaining its reputation for creating affordable, high-quality audio products.

Kloss’ work at KLH and his later ventures helped shape the development of audio technology in profound ways. His pioneering efforts in acoustic suspension speakers, FM radio design, and compact audio systems set the stage for the modern home audio industry. Even today, his contributions can be felt in the sound quality and design principles that define high-end audio equipment.

The Changing Landscape of the Audio Industry

In the 1970s and 1980s, KLH, like many other audio companies, faced increasing competition from new players in the market. The rapid pace of technological advancements meant that KLH had to adapt to a changing consumer landscape. Despite these challenges, KLH remained a respected name in audio, particularly among those who appreciated the brand’s commitment to sound quality and innovation.

After changing ownership a few times, KLH struggled to maintain its former prominence. However, the brand’s core legacy as a pioneer of high-fidelity audio continued to resonate with audiophiles and music lovers.

The Revival of KLH

In 2017, the KLH brand was revived by **David P. Kelley**, a former Klipsch executive, who sought to restore its former glory. Under Kelley’s leadership, the company introduced a new line of speakers and audio equipment that paid homage to the original KLH designs while incorporating modern technology.

The **KLH Model Five**, a reissue of the classic loudspeaker, is one of the flagship products of the brand’s revival. It maintains the acoustic suspension design that Henry Kloss championed, combining vintage aesthetics with updated materials and components for today’s audiophile market.

KLH’s Enduring Legacy

KLH’s contributions to the audio world extend far beyond its product line. The company played a pivotal role in making high-fidelity sound systems accessible to the average consumer, and its innovations in loudspeaker design continue to influence modern audio technology.

The company’s legacy is also closely tied to its founder, Henry Kloss, whose vision and engineering expertise helped create the foundation for the home audio industry as we know it today. KLH remains a symbol of American innovation in the world of sound, and its revival signals that the company’s rich history is far from over.

Conclusion

KLH’s story is one of innovation, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of audio excellence. From its roots in Boston to its current revival, KLH has played a central role in shaping the way people experience music. With its deep history and ongoing commitment to quality, KLH continues to inspire a new generation of audiophiles who seek the perfect balance of performance, design, and affordability.