Klipsch Stratos HP-2 and HP-3 wired headphones mark 80 years of the brand

What Klipsch has announced

Klipsch has launched a new Stratos Series of wired headphones to mark 80 years in the audio industry, according to What Hi-Fi?. The range currently consists of two models: the closed-back Stratos HP-2 and the semi-open-backed Stratos HP-3.

Both pairs use a two-way coaxial driver arrangement, meaning a mid/bass driver and a tweeter are positioned together for a more uniform sound. The HP-3 pairs a 50mm bio-cellulose mid/bass driver with a 10mm dynamic tweeter, while the HP-2 uses a smaller 40mm mid/bass driver alongside the same 10mm tweeter.

Design and comfort details

Klipsch describes the styling as nostalgic yet contemporary. The headphones are built from machined aluminium yokes, protein leather headbands and wooden earcups finished with copper rings.

Comfort features include cushioned headbands lined with open-cell foam and earpads covered in ultrasoft microsuede. Klipsch says the microsuede pads also help create a tighter seal around the ears, which supports the sound quality. The company claims the HP-2 offers deep bass and strong noise isolation suitable for studio monitoring, while the HP-3 is said to deliver warm, punchy bass with crisp highs.

Cables and connections

Each model ships with two detachable braided nylon cables. One terminates in a 3.5mm plug for everyday devices, and the other is a 4.4mm balanced cable for compatible amplifiers and players.

Buyers also get an adapter in the box that converts a 3.5mm plug to the larger 6.35mm size used on many hi-fi components. Detachable cables of this kind make it easier to replace a damaged lead rather than the whole headphone.

Price and availability

Both models will be sold in the US from December 2026 in an Auburn finish. The HP-2 is priced at $1000 and the HP-3 at $1200, which What Hi-Fi? notes approaches the price of Focal's Clear Mg, listed at $1490.

UK pricing and release details have not yet been confirmed. What Hi-Fi? says it will publish them when they become available, so readers outside the US may need to wait for official information.

Why it matters

Klipsch is a long-established American loudspeaker and headphone brand, and the Stratos Series is positioned as an anniversary statement rather than a routine refresh. The use of bio-cellulose drivers and wooden earcups places both models in the upper tier of the wired headphone market.

Klipsch product manager Ryan Hansen said the series carries forward the philosophies that have guided the company for 80 years, with the ambition of bringing listeners closer to the music they love. For buyers, the choice between the two models comes down to open versus closed design: the HP-3's semi-open back typically suits home listening, while the closed HP-2 is aimed at isolation and studio use.