Klipsch, a well-known audio company, has joined forces with Ojas Audio, a boutique brand based in New York City and founded by Devon Turnbull, a former streetwear designer known for his dedication to creating high-quality audio systems. Their collaboration has led to the creation of the limited-edition kO-R1 horn-loaded loudspeaker, which is available in Spiral Red Oak or Pewter Grey finishes and is priced at $8,498 per pair.
Devon Turnbull’s journey into speaker design began as a hobby while he was building his Nom De Guerre streetwear brand in the early 2000s. Over time, this hobby transformed into a successful business known as Ojas, a name derived from the Sanskrit term meaning “life vitality.” Ojas’ speakers have gained popularity among retail giants like Supreme and have even found a place in the home of renowned producer and musician Mark Ronson.
The kO-R1 speaker bears the distinctive design elements associated with Ojas, characterized by its minimalist appearance and Baltic birch plywood construction. It features a large 12-inch woofer and a sizable adjustable sandcast aluminum multi-cell horn that houses a high-frequency driver. The speaker is equipped with a five-step attenuator for precise sound adjustment, along with anodized aluminum binding posts and anti-vibration rubber feet on the bottom.
Each kO-R1 speaker is meticulously handcrafted at Klipsch’s facilities in Hope, Arkansas and includes a custom Klipsch stand. Devon Turnbull collaborated closely with Roy Delgado, who honed his skills in high efficiency horn design under the guidance of Klipsch’s founder, Paul W. Klipsch. This partnership was a natural fit for Turnbull, given his extensive experience with horn-loaded designs and his shared vision of premium audio coupled with classic design.
In a statement, Turnbull expressed his admiration for Klipsch’s commitment to horn speaker design and its alignment with his own design philosophy. He acknowledged Klipsch’s historical significance in the world of horn speakers and expressed pride in contributing to that legacy through their collaboration. The kO-R1 speaker stands as a testament to their shared vision and dedication to delivering exceptional audio quality wrapped in timeless design.
The partnership between Klipsch and Ojas Audio represents a meeting of minds between two industry leaders who share a passion for innovation and craftsmanship. As audio enthusiasts eagerly await the release of the kO-R1 speaker, it serves as a reminder of the power of collaboration in pushing the boundaries of audio technology and design. Klipsch and Ojas Audio’s joint venture promises to deliver a unique listening experience that marries cutting-edge technology with artistic flair, setting a new standard for premium audio systems.