ZDNET’s key takeaways
- The KEF LS50 Meta audio system can be found for $1,600 from the official KEF retailer and different choose retailers.
- These audio system ship a superbly blended, uncolored sound that’s unmatched at this value level.
- If you happen to’re a basshead, you may want a subwoofer to present the KEFs some oomph.
Through the years, I’ve all the time discovered one thing to fault in no matter bookshelf audio system I had. They may ship depth, however they want a wider sound stage. The highs may sparkle, however the lows lacked punch. They may have energy, however not subtlety. They may be nice for rock music, however awful for classical.
It was all the time a push and pull, and no single pair of audio system ever checked all of the packing containers.
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That is once I heard in regards to the KEF LS50 Meta speakers. I needed to attempt them out, however I wasn’t set as much as run audio system that required this a lot amplification. However I knew that if I needed to get the sound my ears demanded, change was required. So I went out on a limb, received the brand new amp (which I am going to assessment later), and purchased the KEFs. Oh, how glad I’m that I took that danger.
Earlier than I dig into my emotions about these audio system, let’s speak specs.
KEF LS50 Meta audio system tech specs
- Drive models – HF: 25 mm vented aluminum dome with Metamaterial Absorption Know-how; MF/LF 130 mm aluminum cone
- Crossover frequency – 2.1 kHz
- Frequency rage – 47 Hz – 45 kHz
- Typical in-room bass response – 26 Hz
- Frequency response – 79 Hz – 28 kHz
- Harmonic distortion – <0,4% 175 Hz – 20 kHz <0,1% 300 Hz – 10 kHz
- Most output – 106 dB
- Really helpful amplifier energy – 40-100 W
- Nominal impedance – 8 Ω (min. 3,5 Ω)
- Sensitivity – 85 dB
- Weight = 17.2 lbs
- Dimensions – 11.9 x 7.9 x 11.0 in
- Connectivity – these are wired-only audio system
- Worth – $1599
After connecting every thing (together with the brand new amp), I positioned my anniversary version of “Transferring Footage” by Rush and waited for the opening of Tom Sawyer. Upon listening to the primary notes, I used to be instantly flush with a smile from ear to ear, and mind to coronary heart. I did should make a little bit of adjustment to my SVS subwoofer however discovered that it paired very effectively with the KEFs.
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The very first thing to strike me was the smoothness and steadiness from lows to highs these audio system supply. Not one frequency stood out because the sound blended to kind a cohesive entire. These audio system produce a sound just like that of a studio monitor: every thing is impartial, so that you get to benefit from the music precisely because the artist supposed for distinctive sonic transparency. Highs aren’t overly splashy, mids aren’t brassy, and bass is not overblown.
It is all about smoothness, subtlety, and sonic accuracy, and the KEF LS50 Meta delivers on these fronts like no different bookshelf speaker I’ve ever heard.
KEF additionally approached the tweeter in a singular approach. Usually tweeters fireplace right into a chamber behind the dome, the place a lot of the sound is absorbed. The KEFs, alternatively, use Metamaterial Absorption Know-how (MAT), the place the rear-firing sound is fed right into a round maze-like construction. This enables the quite a few tubes to soak up completely different frequencies, leading to much less distortion inside the highs, and it exhibits. Cymbals and excessive hats are crisp, and wailing guitar solos sound good.
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After all, if there’s one factor the KEFs might use a lift with, it is the bass. There’s a large distinction within the speaker’s sound earlier than the sub kicks in and after, because the LS50 Metas do not have fairly the punch I favor. Perceive, nevertheless, that is as a result of I have been utilizing a sub for a really very long time. For many who don’t be concerned about such issues, you will discover the KEFs ship loads of low-end. However when you favor to really feel the kick drum and bass guitar in your intestine, you will desire a sub.
As for the construct high quality, the KEFs are stellar. The second you choose one in all these up, you understand how substantial they’re. I bought mine in titanium grey, they usually look nearly as good as they sound.
ZDNET’s shopping for recommendation
The KEF LS50 Meta bookshelf speakers are as near audiophile-grade as you will discover in a bookshelf speaker with out spending twice as a lot. At $1,500 for the pair, these bookshelf audio system will ship high-end sound at mid-range costs.
I’ve really useful audio system on this format earlier than, however not one can compete with the sound high quality produced by the KEF LS50 Meta audio system. These infants are as close to excellent as I’ve ever skilled, and I’ve not regretted buying them for one second. If you happen to love a easy, uncolored sound that locations you proper into the center of your favourite music, these audio system can have you smiling, dancing, and grooving to the beat.