Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Vocals sound good and natural, and are engaging
- Horns and certain drums, especially snare drums, sound good
- Open speaker with a decent soundstage
- Easy to push with low sensitivity
- Best at sale price
Product Considerations
- Lacks depth with certain types of bass instruments
- Mid-range is not the clearest, and vocals can come off a bit nasally
- Top end can be a little bright, which means some may find it a bit fatiguing for long-term listening
- Does not come with grills
- Limited layering and depth
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF LS50, the Q150 has surprisingly full and pleasant bass, is more balanced, and pleasant to listen to
- Compared to the Emotiva B1+, the KEF Q150 is preferred due to its soundstage depth
Takeaway: The KEF Q150 is a good value, especially when on sale, because it offers an engaging listening experience and good soundstage. These speakers are small enough to fit most spaces and provide good sound.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Q150
reviews
[{"title":"KEF Q150 Speaker Review - #kef #hifi","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NO1WJt9v5wA","source":"Aire Theater Designs","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Speaker Review - Get your KEF Q150 speakers in San Diego here","link":"https://www.airetheaterdesigns.com/blog/item/363-kef-q150-speaker-review","source":"Aire Theater Designs","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Speakers: Budget Bookshelf Gorilla","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDk0k-Wo_DM","source":"Audio Pursuit","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Better than the LS50!? KEF Q150 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1eufnt7TRE","source":"cheapaudioman","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Kef's Cheapest Bookshelf. Is the Q150 worth your money?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiGslBHnK9c","source":"Erin's Audio Corner","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Kef Q150 Bookshelf Speaker Review","link":"https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/kef_q150","source":"Erin's Audio Corner","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Speaker Review - Redefining Value!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVEblPBJfac","source":"GadgetryTech","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Speaker review: Audiophile performance for everyone - GEARADICAL","link":"https://gearadical.com/kef-q150-speaker-review-audiophile-performance-for-everyone","source":"gearadical","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fc5VfaDfkhA","source":"GenerationBehindHIFI","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"KEF Q150... can it get any BETTER?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFy-WtxoXQ0","source":"GR-Research","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Bookshelf Speaker | Full Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76ZecxDuQWc","source":"Home Theater Hobbyist","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Kef Q150 review - best bang for the buck speaker $300/Pair","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5M5q_srKpA","source":"Jay's iyagi","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Review ! KEF Q100 vs Q150 !","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUHn3BEhUnM","source":"Jay's iyagi","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"KEF Q150 vs Q100 | Better than the Q100?... Yes.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9BuwiAG5nw","source":"Joshua Valour","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"KEF Q150 | Better than the Q100? | First Impressions","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ej26aPyDPUE","source":"Joshua Valour","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Comparison of Three Speakers: Sony Bookshelf, Pioneer Andrew Jones and KEF Q-150","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mpuUEChD3E","source":"Kash G","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"KEF Q150 – Review in 2023❗","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gSQUFY-Mkg","source":"M-Audiophile","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Review - Make Beats 101","link":"https://makebeats101.com/kef-q150-review-2","source":"Make Beats 101","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Speaker Comparison Review - Klipsch RP500M vs. ELAC Debut 5.2 vs. KEF Q150","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yrz5qtgFe9I","source":"Mark V Sound Design","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"KEF Q150 review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_A1LZMiPdg","source":"Mr. Unboxer","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"What's So Great About KEF Q150 Loudspeakers? My Unboxing and Review.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vn5-TZCL-S8","source":"My Own Devices Audio Channel","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"KEF Q-150 Bookshelf Speaker Review. Best for lovers of wide imaging.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6rhYeMXkAQ","source":"Nemo Propaganda","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"No subs needed ep1: KEF Q150 review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oN3jfXrOb-c","source":"No subwoofers Needed","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Bookshelf Speakers, A Review","link":"https://rdodev.medium.com/kef-q150-bookshelf-speakers-a-review-fb9df91b293c","source":"rdodev","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Long Term Review - KEF LS50 Meta Sound for 25% of the Price?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7_eLVJSoJU","source":"The Boomer Consumer","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"KEF Q150 Speakers: True Hifi Sound on a Budget","link":"https://thebudgethifiguy.medium.com/kef-q150-speakers-true-hifi-sound-on-a-budget-37f111973ba1","source":"thebudgethifiguy","datePublished":""},{"title":"Still THE $299 Speaker to buy?! KEF Q150 Bookshelf Loudspeaker Review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn59B5CTyCQ","source":"Zero Fidelity","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Weight: 5.6kg (12.3lbs)
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 303 x 180 x 278 mm (307 x 180 x 278 mm with Rubber Feet)
- Design: 2-way bass reflex
- Unit Measurement: Pair
- Sensitivity: 86dB (2.83V/1m)
- Frequency Range Free Field: 47Hz (-6dB)
- Frequency Response: 51Hz-28kHz (±3dB)
- Maximum Output: 108dB
- Amplifier Requirements: 10-100W
- Nominal Impedance: 8 Ohms (min.3.7 Ohms)
- Drive Units: 130mm (5.25in.) aluminium Uni-Q
- Tweeter: 25mm (1in.) vented aluminium dome HF
- Crossover Frequencies: 2.5kHz
- Finishes: Satin Black / Satin White
Description
The Q150 proves that the best things come in small packages. A Uni-Q driver and CFD port mean it punches way above its weight.
The Q150 proves that the best things come in small packages. A Uni-Q driver and CFD port mean it punches way above its weight. Q Series bookshelf speakers excel in small spaces. KEF's Uni-Q driver array plus Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) port tech equals high resolution and big sound. Full-length magnetic grilles are optional.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- KEF's designs prioritize a "Single Apparent Source" through coaxial driver technology, aiming for a coherent soundstage where frequencies appear to originate from a single point, enhancing realism and spatial accuracy.
- The brand incorporates "Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)" into its drivers, utilizing a maze-like structure to absorb unwanted sound waves from the rear of the driver, resulting in cleaner and more defined output.
- They offer a wide range of streaming and connectivity options, with their powered loudspeakers responding to the proprietary KEF Connect app, which delivers multiple streaming services and facilitates setup and customization.
- KEF frequently collaborates with renowned industrial designers to create visually striking products that seamlessly blend into modern living spaces, balancing aesthetic appeal with acoustic performance.
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Select product comparisons
T Series
- Positioning: The ultra-slim speaker line, designed to complement modern flat-screen TVs with a minimal footprint.
- Description: While delivering a sleek aesthetic, the flat diaphragm driver maintains rigidity and minimizes resonance, providing clean and accurate sound. However, compared to other KEF lines like the Q or R Series, it may offer less depth in bass response due to its slim design.
Q Series
- Positioning: The entry-level range offers versatile speakers suitable for both stereo and home theater setups.
- Description: Features Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivering detailed and natural sound. While it provides excellent value, it lacks some of the advanced damping and driver technologies found in the higher-end R and Reference Series, which offer more refined sound reproduction.
R Series
- Positioning: Bridges the gap between the entry-level Q Series and the high-end Reference Series, incorporating technologies from the latter to enhance performance.
- Description: Equipped with Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivers precise and immersive sound. Unlike the Q Series, it includes Shadow Flare technology to reduce cabinet diffraction, resulting in clearer high frequencies.
The Reference
- Positioning: As KEF's high-end line, sets the benchmark for audiophile-grade sound reproduction.
- Description: Incorporating Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and a 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, offers exceptional clarity and detail. It also features advanced cabinet construction and flexible port technology for cleaner bass compared to the R Series. However, it doesn't achieve the Single Apparent Source configuration found in the Blade Series, which provides even more precise imaging.
Blade Series
- Positioning: Represents KEF's innovative approach to speaker design, featuring the world's first Single Apparent Source loudspeakers.
- Description: With Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, delivers coherent and precise sound. Its unique cabinet design minimizes resonances and diffraction, surpassing the traditional enclosures of The Reference Series.
MUON
- Positioning: Stands as KEF's flagship speaker, combining cutting-edge acoustic engineering with avant-garde industrial design.
- Description: Crafted from super-formed aluminum, the rigid structure minimizes vibrations, delivering ultra-wide bandwidth and immersive sound. While it shares the Uni-Q driver array with other KEF models, its exclusive design and limited production make it a collector's item.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
574
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
1
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
95
Founding Year
1961
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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Used
KEF
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
KEF
R3 Meta
2430
2430
/
18
Reviews
R3 Meta redefines bookshelf speaker’s performance. Sharing the same drivers as the range-topping R11 Meta, the R3 Meta is a true three-way design. It has a 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™ and a powerful 6.5” hybrid aluminium bass driver that pushes performance to new extremes.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
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Product Strengths
- Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
- Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
- Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
- A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
- Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences
Product Considerations
- The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
- The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
- Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
- The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
- Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
- Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
- Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta
Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
LSX II LT
1199
1199
/
11
Reviews
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality that is true to form for KEF
- Sleek design that appeals to many
- User-friendly KEF Connect app allows control over volume, source selection, and EQ
- Integration with streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, and Amazon Music is well done
- Versatile connectivity, including HDMI, USB, optical inputs, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Lacks analog input, preventing direct turntable connection
- Bass response may require a subwoofer for a full range experience—especially for bass-heavy music or home theater
- May exhibit some diffraction elements that can affect the sound, though this may reduce sibilance
- Not Roon Ready, though it can stream via AirPlay or Chromecast
- Can suffer when playing super bass heavy music at very high volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs PSB Alpha IQ: The KEF LSX2 LT offers a mellower take on music
Takeaway: The KEF LSX II LT is a stylish, compact, and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers very good sound quality for its size. It's a great option for desktop use, small to medium-sized rooms, or as an alternative to a soundbar, especially when paired with a subwoofer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
LSX II
1299
1299
/
9
Reviews
LSX II offers the highest quality sound in its size with streaming up to 24bit/384kHz, making high-fidelity sound accessible to more listeners.
Listen to music the way you like with the minimum of fuss and in pristine sound quality.
LSX II supports HDMI ARC and USB-C inputs, making it the perfect companion for TV, laptop and more.
When partnered with other wireless speakers, you can use AirPlay 2, Chromecast or Roon to fill the entire house with the same playlist.
LSX II delivers high-fidelity sound while it is compact enough to fit into any setting. You can place the speakers on a bookshelf, desktop or even attach them to the wall with dedicated accessories.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Delivers fantastic, room-filling sound from a small footprint
- Is simple and straightforward to set up using the KEF Connect app
- Imaging and dynamics are excellent, with the sound mostly spread between, above, and behind the speakers, creating a palpable and impressive sense of the music being there in space
- Well-balanced sound with punchy dynamics and excellent instrumental separation
- Offers a wide array of connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Deezer, USB-C, and HDMI ARC
Product Considerations
- Bass is good, but those who focus on EDM or hip-hop might want a sub
- Treble can be slightly rough in the upper midrange to treble transition region, more noticeable with lower quality recordings or data rates
- For native 24-bit/192kHz playback, a wired connection is required between the speakers
- KEF Connect app lacks robust full equalizer controls
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos: KEF LSX II offer superior sound quality
- Vs Q Acoustics M20HDs: KEF LSX II has a more sophisticated app and integration of Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect
- Vs Original LSX: KEF LSX II's setup is much easier and more seamless thanks to wireless updates
- Vs KEF LS50 Wireless II and LS60 Wireless: KEF LSX II lacks Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) present in these models
Takeaway: The KEF LSX II is a stylish and versatile wireless speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality and is easy to set up and use. Its wide range of connectivity options and excellent imaging make it a great choice for those looking for a compact and convenient audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
Q Concerto Meta
1299
1299
/
7
Reviews
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Nicely balanced presentation
- Impressive bass weight and power
- Wide listening sweet spot due to the even dispersion of the Uni-Q driver
- Solid build and finish
Product Considerations
- Up against some tough competition
- Best to drive them with a properly muscular amplifier, as they look like a demanding electrical load
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF R3 Meta: The pricier speaker offers better sound quality across the board, particularly when the partnering system becomes ambitious
- Vs KEF LS50 Meta: The Q Concerto Meta wins when it comes to low-end muscle and definition, delivering more authority, grip, and scale than the smaller LS50 Meta can deliver
- Vs PMC Prodigy 1: The PMC Prodigy 1 has greater dynamic expression and rhythmic dexterity
Takeaway: The KEF Q Concerto Meta are grown-up all-rounders that deliver a top-class performance and have no shortage of quality. These should be on the shortlist when looking for a quality pair of standmounters.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
KEF
Q3 Meta
799
/
Released
2024
The Q3 Meta HiFi speaker is designed to deliver precise sound quality in a midsize package. Featuring a 6.5" 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT™, you can enjoy sound with pristine clarity, every time. Whether you're enhancing your home theatre system or enjoying your favourite music, the bookshelf speaker delivers high-fidelity sound with exceptional depth and detail.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wide soundstage and radiation pattern, both horizontally and vertically, contribute to an immersive listening experience
- Good mid-bass punch, with an elevated bump around 120Hz that gives the perception of more impact
- Neutral tonal balance, with a well-balanced sound that allows the music to shine
- Excellent dispersion characteristics make them suitable for modern spaces where acoustic treatments are limited
- Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs unwanted sound behind the tweeter for clearer sound
Product Considerations
- Compression and strain in the upper midrange can occur at high output levels (above 90dB at 10 feet)
- Some cabinet resonance exists
- Some detail, clarity, or attack is lacking from the speaker
- Not ideal for high output
- A slight dip around 1-2kHz exists that some people may not like
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the KEF Q350, the Q3 Meta has more body and weight in the bass regions, but the Q350 is slightly better and more lively sounding in the upper frequencies
- Compared to the Polk Audio Reserve R200, the Q3 Meta is more neutral
- Compared to the Paradigm Premier 100B, the Q3 Meta dispersion characteristics are better, so they do not need a sub
- Compared to the PSB Imagine B50, the B50 kept its composure better at much louder listening levels, and its tonal balance seemed somehow even more neutral
Takeaway: The KEF Q3 Meta is an enjoyable speaker with a wide soundstage and neutral sound that makes the music sound good. It's a great pick for aesthetics if one does not listen at dangerous sound levels.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
Q1 Meta
599
/
Released
2023
The compact Q1 Meta HiFi speaker punches above its size, refusing to compromise your listening enjoyment. Like all new Q Series speakers it features a 12th generation Uni-Q driver array and Metamaterial Absorption Technology. The Q1 Meta is the ultimate entry-level speaker for those looking to build their first HiFi sound system.
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Q1 Meta delivers detail and realism exceeding its price point
- Metamaterial technology noticeably improves sound quality compared to previous models like the Q350, LS50, and R3
- It handles loud volumes without breaking up, with one reviewer noting they experienced peaks of 100dB with an Arcam amplifier
- Detail retrieval capabilities showcase the differences between various amplifiers, providing flexibility in system building
- The speaker does exactly what it advertises, and is considered remarkable
Product Considerations
- The aluminum dome tweeter produces a metallic sheen in the high frequencies, which may not be preferred by all listeners
- It requires bass support from a subwoofer for optimal performance, as it only goes down to 51Hz
- The reviewer felt vibrations on the speaker when playing loud, suggesting damping could be improved
- While it sounds shockingly good in the location, putting it on open back bookshelf speakers near a corner can be less than ideal
- The Decware Zen Triode (2.3 watts) does not drive the speaker well, and it sounds thin
Takeaway: The Q1 Meta is an affordable speaker that delivers impressive detail and clarity, thanks to its innovative metamaterial technology. With the right amplifier and potentially a subwoofer, it offers a high-quality listening experience that can be enjoyed for a long time.
Video review
Our take on the brand
KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
/
Released
2021
Wharfedale's new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN. The primary focus is on the AMT development resulting in a radically different way of reproducing high frequency detail efficiently and accurately.
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
- Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
- Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
- Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
- Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price
Product Considerations
- Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
- Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
- Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
- Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
- The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level
Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Product Page
Product Page
Q Acoustics
5020
899
/
Released
2023
Experience all the scale and power of your favourite music without letting your loudspeaker dominate your room. The 5020 standmounting speaker will put your right in the heart of the music without putting itself at the heart of your space.
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Attractive design with rounded cabinet edges and multiple finish options (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood, Holme Oak)
- Good midrange reproduction—clean and uncolored—especially for the price
- Clear and detailed sound with good separation of instruments
- Taut and agile bass performance
- Internal bracing (P2P) stiffens the cabinet, reducing vibrations and improving stereo image
- Connectivity options such as binding posts
Product Considerations
- Can tend towards brightness, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions—especially with the wrong equipment pairing
- Cabinet size is relatively large for a bookshelf speaker
- Bass response is somewhat subdued
- Some reviewers noted imaging issues, with vocals lacking a firm presence in the center
- Grilles muddle the sound
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics 5020 is a great-looking speaker that offers a rich and musical sound, making it a very entertaining listen for the price. With its ability to reveal details from recordings, it's a wise choice for those looking for a well-built and sonically pleasing speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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Klipsch
RP-600M II
649
/
Released
2022
A new, larger 90° x 90° silicone composite hybrid Tractrix® horn provides incredibly efficient transfer of high-frequency waves into the listening area for crisper, clearer sound. The phase plug and compression molded silicone face ensure smooth frequency response.
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Larger horn tweeter and a new Cerametallic woofer, compared to its predecessor
- Upgraded binding posts and crossover plate elevate to Reference Premiere status
- Larger diameter voice coils and aluminum shorting rings on the woofers give the speaker better linearity throughout the bass, decrease distortion while upping power handling resulting in improved speed and accuracy
- Better detail retrieval, more articulate bass, and vastly improved soundstage width and imaging, compared to the RP-600M
- The binding posts are the same that are found on costlier Heritage speakers
Product Considerations
- Finish options did not receive an upgrade over the outgoing model, leaving customers with the same ebony or walnut wraps
- The tweeter may be too bright for some listeners who are sensitive to a more aggressive top end
- Rated sensitivity is 94.5dB, which is a decrease compared to the original's reported sensitivity of 96
- Needs a bit of space behind them and to the sides, or at least positioning on open shelves, if the powerful output from that port isn't to muddy the sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the older RP-600M, the new sounds far more linear
- The new is very easy to listen to for long periods of time, and while it still has a presence, a speed and transparency to the artist or instrument—at least with respect to the midrange—it is not as forward sounding as past designs
- The new proved to be surprisingly flat, but best of all, not the least bit fatiguing
- There was very little difference in tone with respect to the mids between the new and a costlier Revel bookshelf
- These two are actually pretty neck and neck
- As for the Wharfedale Evo 4.1, the Evo is better constructed, not to mention nicer looking
Takeaway: The RP-600M II is a refined speaker with better components, improved sound, and better bass response and imaging. It's a speaker that would be great for someone who likes to listen to a variety of music genres and wants a good-sounding speaker that can last a long time.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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