Klipsch is returning to premium over-ear headphones with the new Stratos Series, introducing the closed-back Stratos HP-2 and semi-open-back Stratos HP-3. Announced as part of the company’s 80th anniversary celebrations, both models combine two-way coaxial driver arrays with real wood earcups and comfort features designed for extended listening.
The Stratos Series makes its world premiere at CanJam Dallas, with US availability scheduled for December. The HP-2 carries a suggested retail price of $999.99, while the HP-3 will sell for $1,199.99. Klipsch also plans to reveal details about a Stratos HP-1 wireless model in early 2027.
Two-Way Coaxial Drivers Define the Klipsch Stratos Series
The central feature of the Klipsch Stratos headphones is a two-way coaxial driver array that pairs a bio-cellulose mid/bass driver with a dedicated 10mm dynamic tweeter. Both models follow the company’s stated acoustic priorities of high efficiency, low distortion, and full-range sound. The HP-2 and HP-3 use different mid/bass driver sizes and enclosure designs, giving listeners a choice between a closed-back configuration focused on isolation and a semi-open alternative.
Stratos HP-2: Closed-Back Design With a 40mm Mid/Bass Driver
The Klipsch Stratos HP-2 pairs a 40mm bio-cellulose mid/bass driver with a 10mm dynamic tweeter. According to Klipsch, this combination is designed to deliver deep bass, while the closed-back earcups provide noise isolation suitable for studio monitoring. That isolation gives the HP-2 a practical point of distinction within the lineup, particularly for listeners who want to reduce outside distractions during playback.
Stratos HP-3: Semi-Open Design With a Larger 50mm Driver
The Klipsch Stratos HP-3 uses a larger 50mm bio-cellulose mid/bass driver alongside its 10mm dynamic tweeter. Its semi-open-back construction provides a different acoustic approach from the HP-2. Klipsch describes the HP-3’s intended sound as warm and punchy in the bass, with crisp, sparkly highs and low distortion. These are the company’s performance claims; listening impressions will require a hands-on evaluation. Both Stratos models are designed for use with a range of sources, from smartphones to dedicated headphone amplifiers such as the new Onkyo HA-70. The announcement does not provide impedance or sensitivity specifications.
Real Wood Earcups and Klipsch Heritage Styling
The Stratos Series draws on the appearance of Klipsch’s loudspeakers, combining stained sapele wood earcups with copper-ring accents and Klipsch Heritage Twitchell grille cloth. Both headphones will be available in an Auburn finish. Machined aluminum yokes and contact points support the construction, while protein-leather headbands complete the material mix. The combination gives the HP-2 and HP-3 a recognizable connection to the brand’s traditional wood-and-copper aesthetic.
Comfort Features for Longer Listening Sessions
Klipsch has built several pressure-relief features into the Stratos headphones. The cushioned headbands use open-cell foam and include a cutout intended to reduce hotspots at the crown of the head. The earpads are wrapped in ultrasoft microsuede and designed to create an enveloping seal around the ears. Magnetic attachments allow the pads to be removed and reattached easily. These features make comfort a prominent part of the Stratos Series’ design, although fit and long-session wearability will depend on the individual listener.
Balanced and Unbalanced Cables Included
Both the Stratos HP-2 and HP-3 include two detachable braided nylon cables, providing connections for different listening setups:
- 2.5m cable: 3.5mm unbalanced connection to dual mono connectors.
- 1.37m cable: 4.4mm balanced connection to dual mono connectors.
- Adapter: 3.5mm female to ¼-inch male.
The included cables accommodate conventional headphone outputs and compatible balanced sources without requiring an additional cable purchase.
A Connection to Paul W. Klipsch’s First Acoustic Experiment
The Stratos announcement also traces the company’s headphone ambitions back to founder Paul W. Klipsch. In 1919, at age 15, he conducted an early acoustic experiment using a small speaker housed in a primitive pair of headphones.
Klipsch still retains those original headphones, describing them as a reminder of the scientific curiosity and interest in efficiency and dynamics that continue to guide its product development. The Stratos Series carries that story into the company’s latest premium headphone lineup.
The Klipsch Stratos HP-2 and HP-3 will be available in the United States in December through Klipsch’s website.
- Stratos HP-2: $999.99
- Stratos HP-3: $1,199.99
The optional Klipsch Headphone Stand is also scheduled for December availability.
