KEF Owners Thread [Text View]

kronkite

09-20-06, 10:30 AM

Nice thread - thanks for starting it up.

I have Reference 201s as my main speakers (it's a small room). Using them with an Arcam AVR200. You have to love the "British sound".

I'm planning on adding a center channel but the Reference series models are too big and expensive for me (even the 202c).

Any thoughts on mixing and matching other center channels with the Reference 201? Ideally I'd like to find something slim that would fit underneath a flat screen and that would match the beautiful cherry finish on my 201s (otherwise just matte black).

I'm considering:
* iQ series center channel
* KHT series (but they are very shiny)
* Older/discontinued models?
* Other manufacturers? (e.g., Canton)

Any thoughts/suggestions?

Ritesh, where did you find your Model 100? How does it match with the Q1s?

Thanks!!!

clrv

09-20-06, 11:24 AM

kronkite, what % do you use your system for(HT, multichannel Music, 2-Channel Music).

That is going to big a big part on mixing although I don't recommend it but sometimes you can get by with it.

kronkite

09-20-06, 06:37 PM

kronkite, what % do you use your system for(HT, multichannel Music, 2-Channel Music).

That is going to big a big part on mixing although I don't recommend it but sometimes you can get by with it.

Thanks, Clifton. I mostly listen to stereo music right now, but I'd like to get more into home theater since I'm buying a new TV. My room isn't so big, so I'm hoping for something compact.

By the way, I see from your website that you also have the 201s -- nice choice. ;^) Which subwoofer is that? How do you like it?

clrv

09-20-06, 07:20 PM

Noproblem, for 2 channel music the center is not that big of deal, but for me in HT it is one of the most important speakers.

As far as the 201s all I can say is total bliss.

The sub is a DD15. If you want the walls to raddle this is the sub for you.

I will be selling most of my demo equipment in the next few weeks so anyone interested e-mail me.

ritesh

09-20-06, 10:08 PM

Nice thread - thanks for starting it up.
Ritesh, where did you find your Model 100? How does it match with the Q1s?

I am in Australia, got it from Secher Audio (http://www.secheraudio.com.au). The rationalle for buying it was that most sound for HT comes out of the center and thus I thought of spending a bit more and getting this one. It was my first ever system, looking back now, I should have probably tried Q9c, the matching centre. I guess I am just lucky that the model blended-in alright.

Nice thread - thanks for starting it up.
I have Reference 201s as my main speakers (it's a small room). Using them with an Arcam AVR200. You have to love the "British sound".

I'm planning on adding a center channel but the Reference series models are too big and expensive for me (even the 202c).

Any thoughts on mixing and matching other center channels with the Reference 201?
I'm considering:
* iQ series center channel
* KHT series (but they are very shiny)
* Older/discontinued models?
* Other manufacturers? (e.g., Canton)

Any thoughts/suggestions?

Thanks!!!

In the older discontinued models, you could try the Reference 200c (the next model up from the one that I have which is reference 100c).

I suspect it might blend in very well with your reference series speakers. The reviews seems to be good for it as well.

I wouldn't recommend, trying to match the centre with another manufacturer, or trying out the KHT series, that would be quite different to your mains.

Good luck, and let us know how you go.

cheers,

Ritesh

fourml8r

09-21-06, 06:21 PM

i must be the old guy in the group (but i'm only 40!!!!). i have a pair of 105.3 reference series bought off ebay ($1,000) and a pair of 104.2 reference series my dad gave to me (Circa mid 80s) but these still kick butt.

other equipment is a yamaha 2600 (Just got it), samsung sacd/dvd audio player, hughes HD Directv receiver and an infinity 360 center channel, 57" Toshiba Cinea RPTV, psb subsonic 6i sub.

pretty soon the basement home thearter will be done and this equipment (Not TV) will go into the new space along with a projector (possibly sony vpl-hs60) and a 106" carada screen.

Deathwish238

09-21-06, 06:45 PM

My first setup:
KEF KHT2005.2
Denon AVR-3805

I've been quite happy with it. KEF made me the audiophile I am today. However, sadly I'm not as fond of some of their newer speakers.

cpu8088

09-21-06, 07:55 PM

do you know if kef now owned by taiwanese?

SeattleSuburbia

09-22-06, 12:50 PM

do you know if kef now owned by taiwanese?

The parent company is GP Industries.

http://www.gp-industries.com/

cpu8088

09-22-06, 01:07 PM

thanks

not taiwanese but a hong kong based publicly listed company

nathanb

09-22-06, 01:27 PM

i'm looking for a bedroom set, and was thinking about the KEF 3005, monitor radius, def techs, orbs, axiom mini epics, etc.

i've listened to the first 4. i thought the bookshelves were superior to the orbs -- but i truthfully didnt hear much difference between the radius, def tech and KEF (much to the chagrin of my sales associate, who was high on the KEF)

any input? i'm looking to spend not much more than 1500. . .

Deathwish238

09-23-06, 03:35 PM

Go with the KEFs, the wife/gf will appreciate them :p

greenkawasaki

10-22-06, 03:04 AM

What's your top color choice from the new IQ line if you didn't have to match it to your current furniture.

Mine's the apple, maple, walnut in order.

I've included pictures of the three finishes below. Maple is the lightest, apple is the medium darkness, then walnut is the darkest.

gotchaforce

10-22-06, 05:37 AM

apple looks damn good in person

jazjon

10-25-06, 03:33 AM

SeattleSuburbia

10-25-06, 11:57 AM

You won't find much of a discount from any authorized reseller.
I got mine from Vann's, no tax free shipping.

Mark McIntosh

10-25-06, 12:12 PM

Great thread - thanks for starting it up. I have a sub/sat system from Orb Audio for my HT, but when I want to hear some awesome speakers, I turn to my Kef 103.2's. I bought the pair in 1980 when I was in college for $900 and they are still the sweetest sounding speakers. I have tried to replace them many times over, but never hear anything that is not ridiculously more expensive that sound better for music. Cheerio!

jazjon

10-25-06, 01:09 PM

You won't find much of a discount from any authorized reseller.
I got mine from Vann's, no tax free shipping.

Thanks,
So far I found amazon at msrp (tax free)
brandnamez is slightly discounted.
They are even cheaper on froogle but then you get into the "cosmetic blemishes" discount. I'd rather have brand new perfect condition of course :)

dougotte

10-25-06, 02:23 PM

I've had this setup for about the past 2.5 years:
Q11 mains
Q10c center (duh!)
Q1 surrounds
JBL PB10 sub

These are not iQ. The finish is cherry. I love them. The room is a big challenge, but they sound great for music and HT. I'm sure they would sound even better if proper placement were possible. As it is, the soundstage is incredible - it wraps around the side walls almost to the back wall.

The JBL is fine for HT, and I don't listen to much music w/ a .1 channel, but it sounds good when I do.

In fact, I've been focussing on upgrading my basement 2ch system for the past year or so. Although it has better components, the speakers (rebuilt vintage 1981 EPI 100Vs) are still too harsh and forward. When I go upstairs and put in the same music, I'm pleasantly surprised how good it sounds w/ the KEFs. I guess as I age, I'm preferring a more "relaxed" sound than the bright, ultra-detailed sound I preferred in my youth.

Regards,
Doug

McCall

10-25-06, 02:47 PM

There are relatively few KEF owners in the states since they don't market here.

iQ9's FL and FR
iQ6c center
Q50's LR and RR (soon to be replaced with iQ3's maybe?)
iQ8ds surround back
ghetto sub until I can afford something like the SVS 20-39+

They have been marketed and sold in the US for Many many years, KEF 105's were my first love.

My dedicated home theater is all KEF except for the center which is a B&W and a Velodyne Subwoofer.

SeattleSuburbia

10-25-06, 03:44 PM

They have been marketed and sold in the US for Many many years, KEF 105's were my first love.

My dedicated home theater is all KEF except for the center which is a B&W and a Velodyne Subwoofer.

Maybe that was a poor choice of words. I know they have been available, most people just haven't heard of them.

kronkite

10-27-06, 10:32 AM

Does anyone know a good online deal for KEF speakers? I'm hoping to avoid a bit of the fulll msrp and or taxes expense.

2 iQ9-maple (flr std/each/maple/KEF)
1 iQ6C-maple (center channel/each/aple/KEF/)
2 iQ8DS-mpl (dipole/mpl/pr/KEF)

You might try Accessories4Less - they are kind of like a KEF outlet store

I bought my speakers there and they were in flawless condition

mskeezer

10-30-06, 09:56 PM

MAJOR SYSTEM UPGRADE!

I just upgraded from the iQ's to the XQ Series. I've now got the XQ5's up front with the XQ2c pulling center duty. I moved my iQ7's to the rear for now as well as added the iQ8ds dipoles.

Also added to the system was the Optoma HD70 with an Elite screen, a Yamaha RXV-2600 receiver(with 3 channel amp on the way), the Yamaha DVD-S2500 dvd player, a Definitive Supercube 1 sub, and a Harmany 550 learning remote.

I've yet to set everything up properly. We're moving to a house this week(the gf and I) and once everything's up and running I'll get some pics for you guys.

McCall

10-31-06, 08:10 AM

Maybe that was a poor choice of words. I know they have been available, most people just haven't heard of them.

Ahh! but then MOST people haven't heard any decent speakers in their lives either.

That's why home theater dealers can get away with selling BOSE to people and making them think they have a state of the art theater too.

stevenassco

10-31-06, 01:58 PM

has anyone compared the iQ series, in particular the iQ9 to any other floorstanders of comparable price (ie B&W 603s, Monitor RS6's, Energy RC's, Vandersteen 1C's etc)

I have only seen an older model used and breifly....no dealers around here!-

Schlotkins

10-31-06, 02:07 PM

stevenassco

10-31-06, 06:18 PM

Well, I'm not a KEF owner, but I am very interested in these speakers. What kind of sound do they have? I'm looking for a nice clear, neutral sound. Almost all of my listening is either non-critical (ie. just on in the background) or HT. I need a nice light wood (aka maple) for WAF which the KEF's definitely have.

Before purchasing, I'll definitely go listen, but the nearest dealer is a bit from me so I'd rather know there's a good chance I'll like them before I head out. :)

Thanks,
Chris

from the little i have seen to what i have read, their quality is top notch. The WAF will be high, but in reality we need to mix the WAF with the best for what you get. , and the iQ9 got a glowing review on Sterophile from this past February. Also it seems the UK mags like this line up....best under 1000£ pair of speakers on the market. Now you must take that with a grain of salt as KEF is a UK based company.

It seems the iQ line simply lacks some mid and low range authority bass...maybe to be expected by its design and seemingly minimalistic approach to the low end drivers and smaller cabinets?

Can anyone explain to me the their Uni-Q design - its definently intrigueing. I am not sure what the advantages/negatives are over a traditional dome or ribbon style tweeter?

I am not an acoustical engineer, and the KEF website goes into great detail on some of the issues and differences such as excellence off axis response due to the enclosure, as well as devoiding the spacing between drivers issue. Its my understanding then there is not large phase shifts with the design and the crossovers/speakers have the ability to cover a larger range in the acoustic range? Maybe I am way off base here...still a newbie at most of this :D

I am looing hard at the iQ9s, Monitor RS6s, B&W 603, Energy RC30s. All about the same price, but the iQ9's are the best priced of the bunch. I can audition the 603 and RS6, but no Energy or KEF dealers near me.

Any input?

clrv

10-31-06, 08:52 PM

sivadselim

10-31-06, 10:19 PM

Can anyone explain to me the their Uni-Q design - its definently intrigueing. I am not sure what the advantages/negatives are over a traditional dome or ribbon style tweeter?

The Uni-Q driver DOES contain a "traditional" dome tweeter; it's just that it's located right in the middle of the mid-bass driver. This provides for a single point source from which much (or all in the case of the single driver bookshelves) of the sound emanates. This is desirable as it helps the speaker "disappear".

HERE (http://www.kef.com/kefamerica/technology.asp) is a link. Click on "Uni-Q White Paper" in the upper left.

JeffKB

10-31-06, 11:56 PM

I have a pair of the Reference 103/3's from the Raymond Cooke era. Although I've owned them for about 17 years, they still put a smile on my face. :) I have no current desire to part with them.

Although music used to be my primary source, it is now almost exclusively HT. I'm looking for a possible candidate for a center speaker and was wondering if anyone has successfully paired an older, non Uni-Q KEF Reference speaker with another make/model. The one caveat is that my budget is $500 - $600 tops.

Here's a few speakers I'm considering:

#1 Another 103/3. An obvious choice, but I'd need to get another amp so that I can use the required KUBE (I'll spare you the details ;)). Plus I'm running a front projection setup and using an upright speaker poses setup issues.

#2 A newer KEF center like the iQ6C. As long as the newer KEFs have the same neutral, uncolored, laid-back-yet-dynamic qualities of their predecessors, it may work.

#3 Axiom VP150. Probably not the best match (Axioms appear brighter than the KEFs), but my surround speakers are Axioms (QS8's) and that would mean if I replace the KEFs with Axiom mains down the road, I'd have a timbre matched 5 speaker setup.

#4 Onix Rocket RSC200. Again, probably not the best match, but it has gotten many accolades and opens the door to replacing the KEFs down the road with Rocket mains (surrounds would still be Axiom however).

#5 B&W ????? - don't have any particular model in mind, but they are similar in kind to KEF.

Any suggestions from anyone would be much appreciated. If you have experience with both the pre Uni-Q KEFs and the current line, or if you've got a synergistic combo of older KEF Reference and another speaker for the L-C-R, I'd love to hear about it.

Jeff

Perfectionist2

11-01-06, 12:02 AM

I have KEF 207 reference with 204 center channel.

The sound is amazingly natural, neutral, clear, and detailed. Not sure how much is due to the KEF speakers and/or my Halcro SSP100 but the sound is spectacular.

The 207s are quite large but beautiful in cherry. These are not for a small room.

mltv

11-01-06, 12:55 AM

There is going to be another great review of the iQ line in the Nov. issue of Sound and Vision Mag.

They reviewed the iQ9s, iQ8ds, iQ6c,and the sub PSW 3500

The Bottom Line

"It’s always enjoyable to auditing high-end speakers, particularly when they come in an attainable $3,500 package. Like fine wines, they’re almost always pleasurable, and display individual traits. This system is highly transparent, with low-end warmth and a smoothness that extends across the frequency range. Its commanding sound and attractive design would be impressive in any serious home theater. With speakers like the iQ series, the sun will never set on the KEF empire."

Contact me for a great price on any of the speakers

I picked up that issue up at the local grocery store this week. KEF on the front cover. Good marketing.

I happened to listen to the KEF iQ line a few months back and liked them a lot.

The KEF marketing dept is obviously spending big bucks to get on the cover of Sound and Vision. But their web site sucks and needs to be totally redone. They can learn some lessons from the ID guys on how to promote their speakers on the web. Who knows - maybe they don't want to.

sivadselim

11-01-06, 02:50 AM

They can learn some lessons from the ID guys on how to promote their speakers on the web.
They need to learn some lessons on how to promote them, period.

McCall

11-01-06, 08:47 AM

kronkite

11-01-06, 12:49 PM

I have compared KEF iQ to comparable B&W (603 etc). My friend was choosing between the two, he ultimately settled on iQ9s.

My opinion: they are not exactly the same.

KEF: More open, better stereo imaging, smoother response

B&W: Boxier, more low-end kick

In short, I think KEF are more versatile for different kinds of music and generally like the sound better. But if you are into heavy rock you might want to consider B&W.

Just my 2 cents...

sivadselim

11-01-06, 12:54 PM

Any suggestions from anyone would be much appreciated. If you have experience with both the pre Uni-Q KEFs and the current line, or if you've got a synergistic combo of older KEF Reference and another speaker for the L-C-R, I'd love to hear about it.

Jeff
Jeff,

The newer KEFs have metal dome tweeters (and hypertweeters, if applicable) and I, personally, think they sound considerably different from the old-school KEFs. The timbre is definitely different. You may or may not like the difference. Whether the difference would be enough to preclude using one of the newer KEFs as a center speaker would be up to your ears.

dougotte

11-01-06, 01:06 PM

sivadselim

11-01-06, 01:16 PM

Good point. I listen to a great variety of music, including rock, but those who are really into bone-crunching rock might prefer a more "in your face" speaker.

Doug
Yeah, rockin' out is not really their (KEF's) forte, although this is usually due to the poor quality of many rock recordings. I have heard them thump quite pleasantly with the right recording; even some hip-hop. Gorillaz, for one example, sound great on my KEFs.

erpauls

11-01-06, 03:49 PM

Kef is the forever underrated speaker.

Kef Ref 100C
Q50's main L/R
Q15's SS

Driven by an older Marantz SR880 as the tuner/preamp/proc and a Sunfire Cinema Grand 5x200 amp.

I also own a Q95C and a really old pair of C25s. The ones they matched the C200SW subs for. Yes I own them too.

Unfortunetly, I don't think anyone locally sells them anymore.

My system has gotten long in the tooth and it is time for me to upgrade.

SeattleSuburbia

11-01-06, 03:53 PM

Yeah, rockin' out is not really their (KEF's) forte, although this is usually due to the poor quality of many rock recordings. I have heard them thump quite pleasantly with the right recording; even some hip-hop. Gorillaz, for one example, sound great on my KEFs.

I have the iQ9s and I approve this message.

JeffKB

11-02-06, 12:07 PM

JeffKB,

I have a 7.1 system in my HT All various models of KEF including Dipole surrounds, except the Center which is a B&W center channel was around 600 and works beautifully with the KEFs subwoofer is Velodyne.
I think you would be happy with a B&W center.
Jeff,

The newer KEFs have metal dome tweeters (and hypertweeters, if applicable) and I, personally, think they sound considerably different from the old-school KEFs. The timbre is definitely different. You may or may not like the difference. Whether the difference would be enough to preclude using one of the newer KEFs as a center speaker would be up to your ears.
Thx for the feedback guys, much appreciated. :)

McCall - which B&W speaker are you using for the center?

sivadselim - ya, the metal tweeter consideration was something I thought about. My Axiom surrounds use metal dome and they are definitely a little brighter than the KEFs. It doesn't really cause an issue because they're surrounds, but I do have doubts how well mixing in a metal dome tweeter in the LCR speakers would work.

In addition to the 103/3's, I also have some PSB Image 4T's in the house. Maybe this weekend I'll lug one down to the basement and experiment with a LCR configuration with those and the KEFs. I have the feeling I may ultimately just continue to go with a phantom center, or else invest in another 103/3 as a center (and the setup headaches that go with that).

In the meantime, if anyone has any other good experiences getting a close timbre match between the old KEF reference speakers (103/3, 104/2, 107) and a different center, or any feedback at all, I'd love to hear about it.

Jeff

McCall

11-02-06, 03:42 PM

The B& W center I have is part of the 600 series. I forget which at the moment. and they are at my other house.

kronkite

11-03-06, 08:51 AM

Thx for the feedback guys, much appreciated. :)

McCall - which B&W speaker are you using for the center?

sivadselim - ya, the metal tweeter consideration was something I thought about. My Axiom surrounds use metal dome and they are definitely a little brighter than the KEFs. It doesn't really cause an issue because they're surrounds, but I do have doubts how well mixing in a metal dome tweeter in the LCR speakers would work.

In addition to the 103/3's, I also have some PSB Image 4T's in the house. Maybe this weekend I'll lug one down to the basement and experiment with a LCR configuration with those and the KEFs. I have the feeling I may ultimately just continue to go with a phantom center, or else invest in another 103/3 as a center (and the setup headaches that go with that).

In the meantime, if anyone has any other good experiences getting a close timbre match between the old KEF reference speakers (103/3, 104/2, 107) and a different center, or any feedback at all, I'd love to hear about it.

Jeff

If the 103/3s are too big/complex to use as a center, maybe you can find a smaller KEF C-series speaker from the same era? The drivers are more likely to match, I'd think, than some newer speaker.

JeffKB

11-05-06, 11:46 AM

If the 103/3s are too big/complex to use as a center, maybe you can find a smaller KEF C-series speaker from the same era? The drivers are more likely to match, I'd think, than some newer speaker.
Well, I think I'm giving up on the idea of a center speaker. I hauled a PSB 4T down to my basement HT last night and ran the PSB as the left channel and used the 103/3's as the center and right. Timbre match didn't bother me that much - but I just wasn't that impressed with the difference between a phantom and real center. Looks like I'll be turning my attention to subwoofers instead - I think that will make a bigger difference in the scheme of things.

I did discover one thing in all of this however. I had read on the internet that just about all of the older KEF Reference speakers suffer from dryrot of the inner woofer surround. When I detached my speakers from their stands, I checked mine (they're inside the cabinet) and sure enough they were all but disintegrated. I don't know how much it actually impacts the sound, but I might take the dollars I was planning on spending for the center and spend it on reconing instead. Looks like there's a dealer in Florida (Sound Ideas) that advertises the service on eBay.

stubeeef

11-05-06, 08:56 PM

I have a pair of 105.2's and yes they are sitting in a storage unit! I need one re-coned as my 3yr old took them to task.
I also have a pair of 101.1's that I will own till I die, these are the sweetest bookshelves ever made, bar none! (how's that for a superlative)
I am building a HT now and the iQ9's or iQ7's would fit as L/R the iQ6c as center, but what about a timbre matched, ceiling mountable (not too heavy or large) surround for a 7.x system?

stubeeef

11-05-06, 09:01 PM

Does anyone know a good online deal for KEF speakers? I'm hoping to avoid a bit of the fulll msrp and or taxes expense.

2 iQ9-maple (flr std/each/maple/KEF)
1 iQ6C-maple (center channel/each/aple/KEF/)
2 iQ8DS-mpl (dipole/mpl/pr/KEF)

I have never used them, but they say they are authorized Kef dealers

http://www.hipposaudiovideo.com/

trosko

11-13-06, 04:41 PM

I'm looking to replace a Bose system and have a fairly small room (10' x 12'). I'm trying to decide on the right speaker system. I've heard the JM Lab system and liked it, but I'm interested to know how it would compare to the KEF system. Both can be found new for around $1000 - 1100. Not a ton of reviews on either that I can find. I'll be powering it with a Yamaha RXV-2600.

Frenchies versus the Brits. Let's get it on! :p

trosko

11-13-06, 04:43 PM

I'm looking to replace a Bose system and have a fairly small room (10' x 12'). I'm trying to decide on the right speaker system. I've heard the JM Lab system and liked it, but I'm interested to know how it would compare to the KEF system. I'll be about 80-20 home theater to music. Both can be found new for around $1000 - 1100. Not a ton of reviews on either that I can find. I'll be powering it with a Yamaha RXV-2600.

Frenchies versus the Brits. Let's get it on! :p

chiliman

12-03-06, 11:52 PM

Great thread. Throw one more "me too" into it.

I have loved my Kef setup since putting it together back in '96. I have Reference III's up front along with the Ref 200-C center. After moving into my most recent home I needed to get away from floor standing rears so I replaced my Ref I's (sitting in storage!) with a pair of 2Qds and a pair of iQ3's for a 7.1 setup.

A couple of years ago I got the upgrade bug and searched high and low for something I prefered and didn't find anything for less than twice the money of Kefs. It's a priviliged man's secret if you ask me!

Randy

locomo

12-04-06, 12:34 AM

dar322

12-04-06, 06:31 PM

I've had KEF C40's over the last 18 years, and recently replaced them with the Q5's. You can find KEF's discounted in the USA at accessories4less. Fast delivery, and you can save a bunch.
Also just replaced my Adom Tuner/Preamp with a Denon Receiver (2307CI) but still use my Carver M-500T Amp.
Can't go wrong with the KEF's.
BTW, anyone know what C40's are worth these days?
Thanks.

stevenassco

12-04-06, 07:06 PM

here is a recent test for comparison. The CM7 is about double the price so totally fair but good none the less

http://www.avreview.co.uk/news/article/mps/UAN/922/v/1/sp/

chiliman

12-05-06, 11:07 AM

I'm like a few other posters here in that I have some older Kef's and would love to find a center channel to match.
I have a pair of these Monitor series:
http://www.kef.com/history/1990_2/rdmthree.asp
and they really do sound sweet.

I've had the Ref 200C for about 10 years and have had the Q9C and 100C in my system for a period of time too. The 200C and 100C were built with the same drivers as the RDM 3's and would match up very well and I was happy with the Q9C too.

A quick search on Ebay found a 200C for what I have seen as the going rate being sold by a company with a very good feedback rating, I also saw a model 90 which is very similar to the 100C. If the 200C is more than you are looking to spend then the 100C or 90 might be a better option than the Q9C

Randy

Student of A/V

12-08-06, 02:56 AM

I have a pair of Reference Series 104.2, owned sinced 1987. I just discovered that during a recent move one of my mid-ranged drivers (and speaker cover) were damaged . I called KEF USA in N.J. and to my horror they no longer stocked the drivers. If possible, can someone please provide a source that may have replacement parts for cira 1980s KEF Reference Series. Thanks in advance!

BTW, I currently have the 104.2s intergrated in my small HT/Media room along with Klipsch center and rears (yes, I know this seem like a huge mismatch...but somehow it doesn't sound bad), anyway recent years, I never found a timbered matched center.

locomo

12-09-06, 01:24 AM

I've had the Ref 200C for about 10 years and have had the Q9C and 100C in my system for a period of time too. The 200C and 100C were built with the same drivers as the RDM 3's and would match up very well and I was happy with the Q9C too.

A quick search on Ebay found a 200C for what I have seen as the going rate being sold by a company with a very good feedback rating, I also saw a model 90 which is very similar to the 100C. If the 200C is more than you are looking to spend then the 100C or 90 might be a better option than the Q9C

Randy

Thanks Randy,
I'm assuming they do have the ferrofluid rather than the titanium tweeters.
I'm going to keep an eye on them, especially a cherry wood for the WAF.

Pambs

12-09-06, 03:21 AM

i have a pair of reference model 2 2
and a reference 200c for centre

pre/pre Lexicon Mc8
amps for main denon poa 6600 monoblocks
center and surrounds lexicon lx5

i'm looking to change my surrounds, i have some kenwood floorstanding but i'm looking for something i can mount on the walls and has similar sound to the rest

tdigden

12-12-06, 04:39 PM

XQ5 - Fronts
XQ2c - Center
iQ5 - Rears

speeeedy

12-15-06, 03:06 PM

KEF reference 205s, 202c, 201s and 2 psw 4000s. I had the q series before these and loved them until I blew a bunch of speakers and x overs. I took them back to UE for repair and after 6 months I got the center ch. back and one front and they were not fixed. So UE gave me my money back after about 6-8 months of owning them and I picked up my reference series on clearance.

ATD1

12-15-06, 09:52 PM

Deathwish238

12-17-06, 08:17 AM

If you like the sound of the Yamaha w/ the KEFs...go for it

kronkite

12-18-06, 09:33 AM

ATD1

12-18-06, 09:24 PM

If you like the sound of the Yamaha w/ the KEFs...go for it

Well I haven't actually been able to listen to the Yammie with the KEF's...just wondering if anyone has any input or experience with these 2 together.

Thanks

speeeedy

12-19-06, 04:43 PM

2 psw 4000s (!)
And 2 sunfires for in the rear. If I could afford it I would replace the sunfires with 2 more of the PSWs.They are a beatifull looking and sounding sub. They go VERY well with my KEF reference speakers. I am surprised there is not more KEF owners hear.

Hendrik vR

12-21-06, 03:33 AM

Current 6.1 setup
Main L+R : C35
F Center : Ref Model 100
Sur L+R : Q15
R Center : Model 80C
Sub : Model 30B

A new set of iQ8ds is on its way, so the 80C will be dropped and the Q15's will move to the rear for a 7.1 setup.

I also want to replace the C35's with iQ7's or iQ9's. Recommendations? Which are better value for money?

The Q15's are similar to the iQ3's spec-wise. Are they good enough or would you suggest I replace them?

Also, should I replace my Model 100 with a iQ6c?

I am running off two Rotel 976 power amps, ie. 12 channels. (only using 6 at the moment) Is it a good idea to bi-amp the iQ7/iQ9's? What is the impedance of these speakers when bi-amped?

Thanks

rharrison

12-26-06, 11:33 PM

Hey, I've a pair of 103/3's running left and right in my HT. Several years ago, I picked up a single 103/3 and matching Kube on Ebay for $350 or so - and that's what I'm using right now for a center. It's on it's side, and I veneered the bottom so it looks great.

However, for many years I used an Energy center channel. I forget the model, but it is the dual 6.5" woofer with exposed titanium tweeter version. I know... titanium tweeter mixed with a cloth dome L/R???? It worked pretty well.

Good luck...

FYI - I'm in the Seattle area as well.

ross

12-26-06, 11:48 PM

I haven't been in the forum lately, but I wanted to say that I've had a pair of KEF 107 Reference speakers for the past 17 years and they are still the best sounding speakers I've ever heard. Every now and then someone will come over and invariably I get comments like - What are those? or even where can I get them. My response is that they aren't easy to come by! It's hard to believe that they still even work, but only the equalizer ever wore out and I replaced that not very easily about 4 years ago.

Rgrds-Ross

timanc

12-28-06, 08:41 PM

I'm getting ready to purchase KEF speakers for HT and whole house audio as follows -- iq9, iq6, psw2500, and ci160.2 for rear surround. Any thoughts or cautions? I just listed to iq1 and thought they sounded good, but lacked the kick of an OLD pair of Polks I have. I'm looking to power the new speakers with an onkyo 803. System will be mostly for movies, but I listen to a lot of music also.

claf-43

12-30-06, 01:23 AM

KEF Q7s front
KEF 9C Centre
KEF Q1s rear

Love these things!

Tobester

01-14-07, 11:20 AM

I just pruchased a pair of Kef reference three and think they are great. I have owned a pair of 103/3 since 93 and C90 since 97. I have been experiminting with the c90 center and using the 103/3s pair (not uniQ and not the best match) as surrounds. Last night I unplugged the 103/3 and tried a pair of Klipsch RS62 surrounds (part of a set of Klipsch 7.1 speakers I plan to sell) mounted on the back wall. I liked this much better for surround and for 5ch music. Now I don't think it was because they are Klipsch although these are very good Klipsch and very dynamic. I think in my room bipoles or dipoles just may work better. My seating is against the rear wall and so surrounds almost have to go on the rear walls (if they are wall mount ) due to door openings and windows. It seems scandalous to mix kef and klipsch since they should have very different sound. Any suggestions on the surrounds. I see some have used the IQ8ds. I have seen a TDM 34 ds (I believe that is it is called) for sale before on audiogon. Has anyone had experience with these? Should I not dismiss the Klipsch surrounds? I plan to replace the c90 with a c200. If I don't use the 103/3 I will move them to a workout room so they will not go to waste.
Tom

Tobester

01-16-07, 08:08 AM

I did buy the ref 200c and waiting on it's arrival. We really need more Kef owners on this forum.
Tom

kronkite

01-26-07, 01:37 PM

Maybe this is old news, but I just noticed on the KEF website that they released a new Reference series:
http://www.kef.com/products/reference06/GLOBAL/productRange_all/default.aspx

mektare

01-29-07, 02:12 PM

Just purchased KEF xQ package.

Fronts: xQ5
Center: xQ2C
Rear: xQ1

They are driven by denon 3806. I am blown away by the system's performance, but want to know from other KEF owners if Denon 3806 with 120 Watt/channel is sufficient to power these. I have not yet calibrated the system, and it has only pumped 20 hours music/movies so far.

KEF rocks!
-A KEF Fan

sivadselim

01-29-07, 03:07 PM

Maybe this is old news, but I just noticed on the KEF website that they released a new Reference series:
http://www.kef.com/products/reference06/GLOBAL/productRange_all/default.aspx
Wow. No separate hypertweeter.

btstarke

01-30-07, 02:00 PM

dakar80124

01-30-07, 05:02 PM

I had a chance to get the previous Reference series at 50% and should have jumped on the deal. I can get the IQ9's now for 50% off MSRP, but not sure if I shouldn't hold out to see if I can get the new reference series, since I am moving into a new house. I am currently using a yamaha rxv 2500 reciever but have a chance to get an onkyo TXNR 1000 at a steal as well but didn't know if it would be too much for the KEF's.

Anyone have any thoguhts on the IQ 9's vs the Reference 205/207 series and which reiever to use?

There isn't any comparison. I did not like the IQ speakers much, but I really like the XQ series and am in love with the Reference series. I want to hear the new Reference /2 speakers. I wonder how much different it sounds. The bad thing is they jacked the price way up on them too. They take out the hypertweeter thus making the design somewhat simpler, yet still jack the price. :mad:

btstarke

01-30-07, 07:10 PM

^ any opinions on which reciever to use?

fourml8r

01-30-07, 07:49 PM

Hey guys...I'm really new here looking for some advice. Just purchased the new Yamaha RX-V1700 receiver and am now trying to put together some kind of HT setup. Went to my local Tweeter and listened to the Polk RTi which were too bright with this receiver. The LSi series sounded much better but were way more in price. Anyway my reason for posting here is to ask what you think about pairing the Yammie with the IQ9's, IQ6C, and KEF IQ in-ceiling surrounds.

Any help would be great...thanks.

i have some older kef reference 105.3 (front) and 104.2 (rear) and they sound great with my yamaha 2600. but to be honest i used to have denon and thought the sound was slightly "warmer" and better overall. but last 2 denons shorted out so i have switched to yamaha for the moment. plus i got a deal on the 2600 ($860 from an authorized local retailer)

dar322

01-31-07, 07:19 PM

I just bought a pair of Q5's to replace my C40's. The Q5's are awesome. I have a 500W Carver amp. Very clean, crisp sound. I have it hooked into a Denon receiver. Pure Digital sound with the CD's DVDs. Phono sounds great too, but I give the Amp lots of credit for that.

avs_jag

02-08-07, 12:35 AM

Anyone have any thoughts on KEF KHT3005 set vs PLK RM6750?

SJHT

02-08-07, 01:13 PM

Wow. No separate hypertweeter.

The new design of the tweeter makes this possible.... However, the cost of the new Reference Series really went up. For example, 205/2 (new model) go for $5,500 each! (vs. $4K today for the 205 which you can already find discounts for as dealers are clearing them out). They have made many improvements in the new models, but I wonder if the new higher cost is justified. I believe the previous Ref series debuted in 2001, so it has been a while since they made major changes.... SJ

sivadselim

02-08-07, 02:14 PM

The new design of the tweeter makes this possible....
Yeah, if it can cover the same range just as well, then this would "re-unify" the UniQ driver making for an awesome single point presentation of most of the sound.

Still too expensive, though.

ribbit

02-21-07, 03:25 AM

sivadselim

02-21-07, 11:58 AM

what's the difference between the Q1 and the iQ3? is there a difference in aesthetics? (i'm just not seeing it)

does anybody know how many binding posts there are at the back of the q1? are these bi-ampable?
The Q series is the previous model series to the iQ series. The iQ series replaced the Q series. Regarding the Q1 and iQ3, essentially, they are the same size driver-wise. The iQ3 woofer is made of a different material than the Q1's. Not sure whether the tweeters are different or not. I also do not know how different the internal electronics (crossover) are. The cabinets, although very similar, are not identical.

The Q1's have 4 binding posts and ARE bi-ampable/bi-wirable.

videoaddikt

03-02-07, 01:23 PM

In my experience KEFs always favored music over film. But I think they have crossed that bridge with little loss in the journey. I think that's a better bias though than the other way around.
I had a pair of 104/2s that I really made me an audiophile also (as someone posted early on).
I sold them eventually, and certainly to someone who wanted the 'name' and never really appreciated what they do. I regret it now.
Looking into the iQ series, same combo recommended by S&V and several other reviewers.
Need to do a personal audition.
Earlier ones (like the 104) had little bass extension. KEF offered an electronic equalizer to improve it, which it did, but tended to muddy up the the pristine midrange.
Now, I don't think they lack much of anything, depending on your room and budget, of course.
Time to go back and listen to some more KEFs again. Too bad there is not more interest on the forum.

SJHT

03-02-07, 04:14 PM

I still have my 104/2s that I use for my front speakers. I don't use the electronic equalizer any more, but they still sound pretty darn good. Bass is not that great, but these old speakers coupled with a great sub (with bass management from my processor) breathed new life into them. They still sound fantastic especially in the mid-range. I'm starting to get the upgrade bug and will likely replace them. I want to get full range speakers with a more tightness and response. Interesting that I have replaced everything else in my setup many times over the years, but the old 104/2s still have a place. The new KEF reference series that just were announced look great, but come with a high price tag. SJ

videoaddikt

03-03-07, 01:30 AM

SJHT

03-03-07, 02:07 AM

Yeah, I've listened to several new speakers, but can't get the mid range that my 104/2s deliver. If you looked at mine, you would think they were brand new. Not a scratch on them :) I'm going to listen to the new KEFs to see how they sound. I listen to a lot of jazz and the old 104/2s still sound great. They actually hold up fairly well with movies. I have a KEF 100 center and KEF Q surrounds (7.1 setup). Still not bad given the age of the 104/2s. I really think that my sub and the new electronics have really helped them survive for me..... SJ

DS-21

03-03-07, 05:21 AM

Wow. No separate hypertweeter.

I'm glad. Supertweeters are IMO more trouble than they're worth. On both previous KEFs and recent Tannoys, they take what was a nice controlled-directivity system and do strange things to the mid-treble that don't need to happen, for a HF extension bump that is of little practical consequence. The supertweet also dramatically shrinks the sweet spot, and provides further problems because the optimal listening angle for any coincident or concentric driver is NOT directly on-axis but a bit off.

I'm at my lowest level of KEF speaker ownership since I was 17. Right now the only KEF speakers I'm running are Q-Compacts as my rear surrounds in the main system, and the old-school KAR System 160Q in my project car. Mostly that's because my tolerance for dynamic compression has gone down, and I've kind of graduated to the logical next step, Tannoys using their Dual Concentic drivers. Tannoy Duals give me everything I loved from my KEFs but with higher efficiency and less compression. In the past, I have owned the following KEF speakers.

-Q15 + Q95c
-Q35 (different residence)
-RDM one (outstanding desktop monitor)
-RDM two
-Reference Two + 200 center
-A second pair of Q-Compacts

All of them were excellent, honestly.

videoaddikt

03-03-07, 12:04 PM

SJHT

03-03-07, 07:11 PM

Will do. My local KEF dealer told me they would have them within a few weeks. SJ

purplesky

03-04-07, 12:27 AM

I picked up the 3005 system and I am loving this system. I am really interested in the IQ9s for music. Does anyone here have these speakers? Whats your take on them?

sivadselim

03-04-07, 12:45 AM

Glad to see the KEF owners thread gettin' a little action. :)

Now, if they would only improve their marketing strategy in the states. :rolleyes:

snatch

03-04-07, 12:59 AM

Anyone have any thoughts on KEF KHT3005 set vs PLK RM6750?

No comparison. The KEF's kill those Polks. A more accurate comparison might be the Polk RM6880. Even then, they don't sound as rich as the KEF's.

fourml8r

03-04-07, 07:12 AM

Good luck with that. I never had an opportunity to experiment with a sub and my KEFs. That would be interesting, and no reason it should not play right with a quality sub, the right crossover, and better electronics. The first time I heard the 104s I ended up buying a lower model, can't remember now what it was. The dealer gave me full credit on a trade up for one year on any other KEF. I was back only 2 weeks later to get the 104/2s, I could not get that sweet sound out of my head.

Ditto here, can't find anything to replace my 105.3 fronts and 104.2 rears. well at least can't find anything in a reasonable price range. people don't realize, speaker technology has not really advanced significantly in 20 years, so all that high end vintage stuff is very reasonably priced compared to new high end stuff.

i added a psb subsonic 6i sub and use the optimization mic on my yamaha 2600 to map out the response. and then the user can tweak it to their liking.

purplesky

03-04-07, 01:07 PM

Keff should be really happy that CC picked up their 3005 egg shells. There just aren't that many places to hear Keffs since they are a higher end product. I guess the fact that Keffs will not be discounted off their list is part the reason retailors in the states don't carry them. Vanns.com out of MT. had a killer deal recently giving a free pair of eggshells with the 3005 system to take it to 7.1.

stubeeef

03-04-07, 06:01 PM

Ditto here, can't find anything to replace my 105.3 fronts and 104.2 rears. well at least can't find anything in a reasonable price range. people don't realize, speaker technology has not really advanced significantly in 20 years, so all that high end vintage stuff is very reasonably priced compared to new high end stuff.

I still have a pair of 105.2's in my storage unit, my 9 yr old damaged a woofer when she was 3. Never have gotten them fixed. Still have my 101.1's too, they are heaven IMHO. Had them running rear channels in an old Carver setup w/ sonic holography.

Anyway, I can't hear as well anymore (20yr pilot) so am looking at a simple arrangement for my new basement HT. Probably an SVS speaker setup.

Have always loved Kef's, and the speakers from the 80's are still very competitive IMHO.

pbicich

03-07-07, 12:56 AM

Anyone have a take on the difference in sound quality(not technichal differeneces) between the 2005.2 and the 3005.2 systems. And what would be a solid receiver(for the money$) for either?

Right now am using the KIT100 with my Samsung 6187 in a 10X13 room, but while it sounds good for 2 speakers am looking for a little more umph! Im not a huge audiophile but i can usually tell if something sounds bad, and it seems to me that these speakers are below the radar online,ebay,and even on the avs forums. Are Kefs seen as a second class citizen? Just asking as someone that has little clue. Thanks

Ikari Warrior

03-14-07, 10:17 AM

Hey guys, last weekend I went out to look for some cheap floorstanders and ended up lucking into a pair of open box iQ9's for $179 each. Obviously I couldn't pass these up, so now I have been thrust from the world of budget speakers to the realm of high class audio.

The iQ9's overpower everything in my setup with the best sound I've ever heard. So now I'm forced to complete the set. I want to go with the iQ6 for the center, and my sub is good already so I'm set with that.

For the surrounds, what did you guys go with? I'm looking at the iQ3's for $450 a pair. What's the difference between the 2's and the 3's? The 2's seem to retail at Amazon for $300 each (it doesn't say pair on them) while the 3's seem to have better stats for $450 for two? I don't have walls around the theater area so I don't think the iQ8's would be that great for me, and they're pricier than a pair of 3's. I see some people using 5's or 7's as surrounds, and Circuit City has 9's as the surrounds, is that necessary?

sivadselim

03-14-07, 10:23 AM

Hey guys, last weekend I went out to look for some cheap floorstanders and ended up lucking into a pair of open box iQ9's for $179 each.
That's a great deal.

For the surrounds, what did you guys go with? I'm looking at the iQ3's for $450 a pair. Why are the 2's $300 each while the 3's seem to have better stats for$450 for to? ................. and Circuit City has 9's as the surrounds, is that necessary?
There are no iQ2s. There is the iQ2c center channel speaker. And there are iQ1s.

CC has the iQ9s as the surrounds "because they can". But the iQ3s should easily suffice, unless you're really into multichannel music and matching the surrounds exactly to the fronts is that important to you, in which case you'd probably want a 5th iQ9 as your center speaker.

Get the iQ3s as your surrounds, or even the iQ1s.

Ikari Warrior

03-14-07, 10:25 AM

Sorry, I meant 1's. I was reading the names too quickly at amazon and saw iQ1 2-way speaker as "iQ2".

Ikari Warrior

03-14-07, 10:32 AM

CC has the iQ9s as the surrounds "because they can". But the iQ3s should easily suffice, unless you're really into multichannel music and matching the surrounds exactly to the fronts is that important to you, in which case you'd probably want a 5th iQ9 as your center speaker.

Get the iQ3s as your surrounds, or even the iQ1s.

I'm not into multichannel music at all, mainly Bluray/HD DVD movies, gaming, and hidef cable.

I really couldn't afford to get all iQ9's, although it'd be cool. I can barely afford any of this to begin with, I wasn't even considering getting into this quality of audio and probably never would have if I hadn't found this deal on the fronts. Now I pretty much have to finish the set because after hearing them I can't go back :D

What's the difference between the 1's and 3's?

sivadselim

03-14-07, 10:33 AM

Sorry, I meant 1's. I was reading the names too quickly at amazon and saw iQ1 2-way speaker as "iQ2".
The iQ1s are $299.99/pair at amazon.com. The iQ3s are $449.99/pair. It says "speakers" with an "S" on the end.

Notice how the prices for the iQ9s and iQ5s are per speaker (no "S" on the end). And notice how good a deal you got on the iQ9s; they're usually $599.99/each!

sivadselim

03-14-07, 10:36 AM

What's the difference between the 1's and 3's?
The 1s have a 5.25" driver. The 3s have a 6.5" driver; the same size as your iQ9s drivers.

The iQ6c center you're looking at has 5.25" drivers (albeit 3 of them). If I were you, I'd save a little dough and just get the iQ1s for your surrounds. They should work fine as surrounds since this is mostly for movies.

z500

03-14-07, 02:02 PM

I have a pair of the Reference 103/3's from the Raymond Cooke era. Although I've owned them for about 17 years, they still put a smile on my face. :) I have no current desire to part with them.

As of last saturday I am also the proud owner of a pair of KEF 103/3's. I first heard them at a friend's the saturday before, and immediately fell in love with the sound - very clear and crisp, very easy on the ear. As luck would have it, two days later my friend pointed out a pair for sale on the internet. Auditioned them, paid for them, schlepped them home, and I'm still grinning. 18 years old, perfect sound, and for only € 350. What a bargain!

Walter Zed

Ikari Warrior

03-18-07, 05:26 PM

Well my iQ6 is coming in tomorow, so that should fill the center quite nicely. I listened to it at CC this weekend playing Ice Age on BD and it sounded terrific. I can't wait to replace my current center, it sounds so muffled compare to the iQ9s.

I should be set for a little while, so I can pay off the the front three. Now I have to decide what to get for the surrounds, something smaller (like the iQ 1s or 3s) or a bit bigger (5s, 7's or open box 9's).

What do you guys use for surrounds?

ribbit

03-18-07, 07:12 PM

The Q series is the previous model series to the iQ series. The iQ series replaced the Q series. Regarding the Q1 and iQ3, essentially, they are the same size driver-wise. The iQ3 woofer is made of a different material than the Q1's. Not sure whether the tweeters are different or not. I also do not know how different the internal electronics (crossover) are. The cabinets, although very similar, are not identical.

The Q1's have 4 binding posts and ARE bi-ampable/bi-wirable.

thanks for the info. I ended up getting a pair of Q1's for my bedroom.

henryd31

03-18-07, 07:51 PM

Hi,

I'm a "budget" user of the KEF family, just a pair of iQ1's with the iQ2C center
channel driven by Onkyo 504 receiver. This was my first part of first home theater
ever to be built, that was some months back, before this thread was started.
In any case, I love these speakers, but obviously have nothing to compare them
to with credible experience. I was looking to get a more budget type setup but
when hearing these speakers at local store, and getting 25% discount on the
whole package, I was happy to get them :)

In any case, anyone could recommend a decent, but still "budget" type sub for
this setup ? I'm not going to worry about surrounds as I don't have an easy place
to put them for now. But a sub could add to the movie experience easily here.
Thanks.

videoaddikt

03-18-07, 09:48 PM

I'm not into multichannel music at all, mainly Bluray/HD DVD movies, gaming, and hidef cable.

Then you never heard 'Phantom of the Opera' on HD DVD in TrueHD through 5.1 analog? Incredible!

If that's not your taste, other TrueHD copies should yield similar results. Nine Inch Nails was just released in TrueHD for both formats.

Ikari Warrior

03-19-07, 07:34 AM

I have Troy, Superman Returns, Posieden, and Batman Begins in TrueHD. When I get a new receiver I'll be doing LPCM for BluRay movies as well.
So what are you suggesting I get for surrounds?

JohnR_IN_LA

03-19-07, 09:24 AM

For what its worth, i bought some Canton's from that KEF importer, Accessories4less.com, and never found the blemish, they seemed perfect.

So if your looking to save a little money, that dealer may not be a bad source.

mlazoff

03-19-07, 12:40 PM

It's good to hear feedback about accessories4less since they seem to have the best prices on the Web. I was under the impression that "cosmetic imperfection" could apply to either a blemish in the appearance, or that the speaker is Grade B from the factory -- including refurbished -- in which case we would not be told beyone the "cosmetic imperfection" notation which is the problem. Several selections at accessories4less are marked "new" and they tell me that means they are Grade A , but the prices look comparable to the "cosmetic imperfections." Anyone know exactly what accessories4less is selling as "cosmetic imperfections" and as "new"?

This is my first post, and I so appreciate this forum. I own a pair of XQ5s, driven by NAD T763, and I am looking to upgrade my center (currently q6c) and surrounds (currently 2003 eggs). The center would be XQ2c and the surrounds XQ1s, I suppose. I'd love to hear what others are using.

Also, I heard from another online store that KEFs are releasing new XQs in June -- though what I'm told sounds very similar to what I read earlier on this thread about the new Reference line. Is KEF upgrading both lines at the same time?

Thanks,
Marjorie

videoaddikt

03-19-07, 12:49 PM

I have Troy, Superman Returns, Posieden, and Batman Begins in TrueHD. When I get a new receiver I'll be doing LPCM for BluRay movies as well.
So what are you suggesting I get for surrounds?

Well, I wasn't.. LOL.. I am not there myself, I am interested in 'possibly' replacing a present 5.1 system. The last KEFs I owned were the 104.2
I have an M&K THX system which is quite good. In fact, I am not sure how much I could improve on them without spending a lot more $$$. But I've had them a few years and I thought is was about time I at least listen to what is out there now.
For my room, I don't think I would gain as much with dipoles, and would likely stick with direct radiating surrounds. Your situation may vary for sure.
But I've always liked KEF for the most part, and hope to audition them soon somewhere.

sivadselim

03-19-07, 01:50 PM

This is my first post, and I so appreciate this forum. I own a pair of XQ5s, driven by NAD T763, and I am looking to upgrade my center (currently q6c) and surrounds (currently 2003 eggs). The center would be XQ2c and the surrounds XQ1s, I suppose. I'd love to hear what others are using.

That's the setup I use.

mlazoff

03-19-07, 04:34 PM

Sivadselim, do you think that upgrading to XQ1s would be too much "sound" for just an 18x15 living room? I'm definitely upgrading to the XQ2c, I'm afraid with the full set I'd feel like I'm surrounded by hypertweeters!

JohnR_IN_LA

03-19-07, 05:43 PM

Also, my Cantons sound perfect, except for, of course ... the fact that they are Cantons - not the most quality speaker on the market!

Ikari Warrior

03-28-07, 06:48 AM

Well my iQ6 arrived. After a short stint under my screen, the sound was too muffled so I built a hanging ceiling mount that holds the speaker right above the top of my screen, angled down towards the listeners. It sounds great now.

Yesterday while driving around for work I stopped at a CC about 2 hours away and they had more open box iQ9s, this time for $349. Although its like twice what I paid for the first pair, I'm seriously considering picking these up to use as fronts and moving my current 9's to the surrounds (the new pair are cosmetically better looking). It's probably overkill, but for the same price as the 5's I might as well finish this whole thing up with the best I can get.

Zen Fool

03-29-07, 09:59 PM

Hey guys, I was wondering if someone could answer a couple questions about KEFs, so I thought this would be the best place to ask.

I've been thinking about replacing my current speakers for a while and for some reason a couple KEFs caught my eye. Primarily, the iQ1/iQ3, iQ5, and the XQ1s.

If I plan on using a sub for most of my bass xover at 80hz, is there a reason I should really worry about the iQ5? Next, is the hypertweeter on the XQ1 worth it? Does it really help in terms of transition or anything else that makes it a must have?

Also, how do these compare to other speakers in terms of sound such as decay and whatnot? I don't like fast decay like Klipsch, more in line with JBLs tweeters. If you were to compare them to other speakers, what would be the closest resemblance?

Currently I'm using a pair of JBL E60s and they're just too laid back and not offering as high as an extension as I would like.

Anyway, sorry for asking so many questions. I don't have any dealers near my area which makes it a PITA to audition them.

Ikari Warrior

04-02-07, 11:27 AM

Ikari Warrior

04-02-07, 01:08 PM

I just wanted to commend amazon.com for their great customer service. In quite the tragic accident, my week old iQ6 was fatally damaged yesterday in a fall from it's shelf. Amazon had a replacement already shipped out this morning. I was very impressed and will definitely give them more of my business in the future.

I had just got my setup finalized too, I picked up those two iQ9s to make a complete set of 4 9's and the new iQ6 as the center, and brought home a closeout DG1000 receiver to complete the package on Saturday. I never even got to hear the whole thing running as a unit. Now I'm running a phantom center through the front 9s until the new 6 comes in next week.

Overall I love the iQ series so far and can't wait to get the whole setup up and running and properly calibrated.

sivadselim

04-02-07, 01:45 PM

I had just got my setup finalized too, I picked up those two iQ9s to make a complete set of 4 9's and the new iQ6 as the center, .............
That's quite a setup. Bet it sounds great. Congrats.

sivadselim

04-02-07, 01:57 PM

If I plan on using a sub for most of my bass xover at 80hz, is there a reason I should really worry about the iQ5?
Well, the lower driver in the iQ5 is crossed in @ 280Hz, so the UniQ driver has to do less work than that in the iQ1s/iQ3s as it doesn't have to reproduce frequencies below that as the single UniQ driver in the iQ1s/iQ3s has to. This potentially results in smoother midrange reproduction. Having a dedicated low frequency driver allows potentially better bass response, too. Even with an 80Hz crossover, there would be well over an octave reproduced by the low frequency driver in the iQ5s. Also, the less the UniQ driver has to move, the less chance that there is some known distortion that's unique to the concentric UniQ design induced in the centrally located tweeter section.

Next, is the hypertweeter on the XQ1 worth it? Does it really help in terms of transition or anything else that makes it a must have?
The hypertweeter is crossed in @ 15kHz. This takes a little of the work off the tweeter and allows it to potentially perform more smoothly. I had the older, previous Q series speakers before I got my XQs and there is definitely a difference in the high-end clarity. Whether it's worth it depends upon the price you can get them for. They're pretty expensive relative to the iQ series.

Zen Fool

04-02-07, 08:53 PM

I would look around a Circuit City's locally. I have found 9 iQ9's discounted by 50% or more across three locations. They also had iQ2 and iQ6 centers at the same discount. I ended up with a set of 4 9's and my friend bought a pair of 9's and a 6 for his center. They may be doing the same with the 3's and 5's soon. For the price of the bookshelf speakers you may be able to find towers, if you're even interested in going that route.

I would almost go that route if we had a Circuit City anywhere near me. Unfortunately I've tried the store locater with all the major cities and can't find a single one. :(

Also, the less the UniQ driver has to move, the less chance that there is some known distortion that's unique to the concentric UniQ design induced in the centrally located tweeter section.

It doesn't look like I'll be able to get the iQ5s anytime soon, let alone I'm weary of another set of towers the more I get to thinking about college. I've almost strangled friends that tried to place their drinks on my current set of speakers, I'm sure there would be blood spots in the near future if I went with the iQ5s :p

All kidding aside though, is the distortion you speak of very common? Is there any detailed experiences of it, what percentage it usually adds up to, etc?

Lastly, would an upgrade to an iQ1/3 be much better than my JBL E60s? Without messing with EQ I get about +/- 15dB across the board throughout (not a very flat response). When I use the EQ I have available I'm able to limit it to +/- 10 with a more consistent line (still the mids remain recessed). Obviously my room accoustics aren't playing nicely, but there's no way I could afford to treat my dinky living space, let alone a dorm for college ^_^'

sivadselim

04-03-07, 12:01 AM

All kidding aside though, is the distortion you speak of very common? Is there any detailed experiences of it, what percentage it usually adds up to, etc?

The distortion is a known anomaly of the UniQ design. The driver that the tweeter is centered in moves, so the tweeter output is affected by the constantly moving "baffle" that is the driver itself. They've tried to minimize it with the material the driver is made of and it's surface coating. It's not at all severe, and in reality, unnoticable, but it can be measured and is a known artifact of the UniQ design.

Zen Fool

04-03-07, 12:31 AM

SJHT

04-22-07, 04:09 PM

Anyone hear the new KEF Reference Speakers? My dealer recently got the 205/2s in and I'm going to try and listen to them in a few weeks. SJ

porsch1909

04-25-07, 04:51 AM

hi all.

I have Kef KHT3005 for home cinema and a pair of old Kef 104/2 reference speakers from the 80s.

All are fantastic. But one of my eggs has died. Taken it back to the shop. Not even a year old!

bboncorr1

04-27-07, 02:58 PM

hi guys,

im going to be upgrading my whole system soon and KEF got my attention with its customer reviews. right now i own a defenitive technology setup thats decent enough but im considering upgrading if the price and performance is right. i havnt had the pleasure of hearing a KEF setup but i plan on listening to some real soon if i can find a local dealer with them on display.

are these speakers an upgrade over my current setup for movies, video games, and the occasional music listening?

basicaly im looking into the reference setup and i got a few questions,

1. what are the major differences in the towers? im looking at the 203/2 and 205/2 mainly since the 207/2 is just outside the price range im looking into. infact its a mission alone to get them past my girl without much questioning.

2. what is the big difference between the 2 centre speakers in the reference line? im a big believer in never skimping out on centre speakers since there used for so much of the sound.

3. what max sized room is recomended for these speakers? right now im in an apartment but will be getting a house this summer. this will effect what setup i get of course so it will be good to know ahead of time.

sivadselim

04-27-07, 05:28 PM

are these speakers an upgrade over my current setup for movies, video games, and the occasional music listening?
The KEF Reference line is definitely a notch above your current speakers, but if you're only doing "occasional music listening" and plan on using these mostly for movies and video gaming, you may want to consider whether you really want to spend what you're going to have to spend to get the Reference line simply for movies and video games. Frankly, your current speaker setup is probably great for movies and video games. Add a really nice separate subwoofer when you move out of your apartment, and you should be good to go for movies and video games.

To get your money's worth out of the Reference line, you'll probably need to replace some of your other components, specifically your receiver, with high-end separates. The Reference line is certainly NOT for the faint of heart. These are very high-end, very expensive speakers.

basicaly im looking into the reference setup and i got a few questions,

1. what are the major differences in the towers? im looking at the 203/2 and 205/2 mainly since the 207/2 is just outside the price range im looking into. infact its a mission alone to get them past my girl without much questioning.

2. what is the big difference between the 2 centre speakers in the reference line? im a big believer in never skimping out on centre speakers since there used for so much of the sound.

Ummm................... your answers are HERE (http://www.kef.com/products/reference06/US/productRange_all/default.aspx).

SJHT

04-27-07, 05:57 PM

You can download the brochure from the site mentioned above which will give you all the specifics of each model range. The $3K (for the pair) between the 203/2 and 205/2 has to do with the range, size of the drivers, etc. Just look at the specs. I'm planning on listening to the 205/2s this weekend. Got my SACDs ready to go! The centers are similar. More drivers/power/etc. SJ

bboncorr1

04-27-07, 11:14 PM

The KEF Reference line is definitely a notch above your current speakers, but if you're only doing "occasional music listening" and plan on using these mostly for movies and video gaming, you may want to consider whether you really want to spend what you're going to have to spend to get the Reference line simply for movies and video games. Frankly, your current speaker setup is probably great for movies and video games. Add a really nice separate subwoofer when you move out of your apartment, and you should be good to go for movies and video games.

To get your money's worth out of the Reference line, you'll probably need to replace some of your other components, specifically your receiver, with high-end separates. The Reference line is certainly NOT for the faint of heart. These are very high-end, very expensive speakers.

Ummm................... your answers are HERE (http://www.kef.com/products/reference06/US/productRange_all/default.aspx).

well i plan on upgrading my whole setup this summer. im gonna start with the speakers since im waiting for the new sony lcos to get released later this summer/fall and recievers with onboard lossless codecs or chips for dts mastered. cash wont really be a big deal but im not gonna go crazy. im not sure i want my current setup so i might go with a KEF setup or higher end definitive technology setup. i do plan on buying 2 recievers so i might just buy the new yamaha rx-v861 this june and buy the other reciever this fall (or sooner is yamaha comes with a reciever with what im looking for).

here is basicaly what i plan on doing this summer so you can understand how massive of an overhaul im gonna be going through.

1. 3 new HDtvs. 1 tv in bedroom, upstairs living room, and httr. i plan on turning in my xbr1 useing my best buy warranty since it has the famous green and purple stains all over the screen. i have been through 3 repair attempts already and sony wont replace it so im waiting for the new models to come out and use b.b. instead. im also looking at a 40" and 32" lcd or plasma for the other 2 rooms.

2. recievers. im taking my current reciever and putting it in the bedroom. then picking up 2 more for the other 2 rooms. i plan on spending approx. $2500 through online retailers for them.

3. speakers. im taking my current setup and putting them in the upstairs livingroom. then taking my other yamaha sat. 6.1 setup and putting them in the bedroom. now i just got to figure out if i really need a KEF reference setup in the httr.

4. various. new cables, hd-dvd, brd player, universal remotes. i already have a ps3 and xbox 360 so thats taken care of. im also looking into surge protectors with line filters and power supply backups.

so as you can see its an overhaul and picking up a reciever isnt really a big deal. i might even sell my current setup in favor of a sat. setup for the living room.

SJHT

04-28-07, 08:49 AM

well i plan on upgrading my whole setup this summer. im gonna start with the speakers since im waiting for the new sony lcos to get released later this summer/fall and recievers with onboard lossless codecs or chips for dts mastered. cash wont really be a big deal but im not gonna go crazy. im not sure i want my current setup so i might go with a KEF setup or higher end definitive technology setup. i do plan on buying 2 recievers so i might just buy the new yamaha rx-v861 this june and buy the other reciever this fall (or sooner is yamaha comes with a reciever with what im looking for).

here is basicaly what i plan on doing this summer so you can understand how massive of an overhaul im gonna be going through.

1. 3 new HDtvs. 1 tv in bedroom, upstairs living room, and httr. i plan on turning in my xbr1 useing my best buy warranty since it has the famous green and purple stains all over the screen. i have been through 3 repair attempts already and sony wont replace it so im waiting for the new models to come out and use b.b. instead. im also looking at a 40" and 32" lcd or plasma for the other 2 rooms.

2. recievers. im taking my current reciever and putting it in the bedroom. then picking up 2 more for the other 2 rooms. i plan on spending approx. $2500 through online retailers for them.

3. speakers. im taking my current setup and putting them in the upstairs livingroom. then taking my other yamaha sat. 6.1 setup and putting them in the bedroom. now i just got to figure out if i really need a KEF reference setup in the httr.

4. various. new cables, hd-dvd, brd player, universal remotes. i already have a ps3 and xbox 360 so thats taken care of. im also looking into surge protectors with line filters and power supply backups.

so as you can see its an overhaul and picking up a reciever isnt really a big deal. i might even sell my current setup in favor of a sat. setup for the living room.

If you are seriously considering KEF Reference speakers, then you also may want to consider going with separates vs. a receiver. SJ

DS-21

04-28-07, 04:29 PM

If you are seriously considering KEF Reference speakers, then you also may want to consider going with separates vs. a receiver. SJ

That's a waste of money on speakers like the KEFs, because KEF engineers their speakers properly. They are reasonably efficient and are easy to drive in terms of impedance and phase angles.

SJHT

04-29-07, 08:55 AM

Just seems if you are willing to spend $11K for a pair of 205/2s, then you might want great amplification. These are KEFs reference line of speakers. I agree they are efficient, but I have heard what good amplification can do to their sound. I listened to them yesterday. We swapped around amplification and they become even more impressive with the right amp. Regardless, they sounded fantastic. SJ

DS-21

04-29-07, 11:35 AM

Just seems if you are willing to spend $11K for a pair of 205/2s, then you might want great amplification.

Amplification is a commodity today. Almost all amps sound the same. The only reasons to pick one over another are appearance, build quality, and snob appeasement.

SJHT

04-29-07, 11:55 AM

Amplification is a commodity today. Almost all amps sound the same. The only reasons to pick one over another are appearance, build quality, and snob appeasement.

Have you heard the new KEF 205/2s with different amps? Did they all sound the same to you? SJ

sivadselim

04-29-07, 02:11 PM

Amplification is a commodity today. Almost all amps sound the same. The only reasons to pick one over another are appearance, build quality, and snob appeasement.
:rolleyes:

clrv

04-29-07, 03:26 PM

Amplification is a commodity today. Almost all amps sound the same. The only reasons to pick one over another are appearance, build quality, and snob appeasement.

Are you kidding me :eek:

Claw97000

04-29-07, 04:15 PM

Hello, I have the opportunity to purchase a KHT 1005 set, for about 120 $, is this worth the money and will it sound worthwhile? I've never heard KEF before, and my old setup was a theater in a box from samsung, older model but it was 5.1. I use my speakers for movies and XBox 360 with HD DVD add on. Thanks for any help!

SJHT

05-03-07, 11:30 AM

Well, I decided to purchase a pair of 205/2s to replace my well used 104/2s. I hope these new KEF Reference speakers last as long as they did. The 205/2s sound just fantastic. Really transparent, great imaging, almost a "crisp/light" feel to the sound. Also, really a good full range speaker with a warm midrange. The cabinetry/finish is top notch. Should have them in a few weeks at home. But, my gosh, they weren't cheap. :eek:

My dealer doesn't have other speakers of the new Reference line yet (centers, surrounds). Should be coming out within the next month or so. SJ

sivadselim

05-03-07, 01:45 PM

But, my gosh, they weren't cheap. :eek:

No......................they aren't. :eek:

I'm jealous! Enjoy your new speakers! :cool:

dftkell

05-03-07, 02:35 PM

Amplification is a commodity today. Almost all amps sound the same. The only reasons to pick one over another are appearance, build quality, and snob appeasement.

100% correct.

All modern solid-state amplifiers should have no sound of their own.

McCall

05-03-07, 03:13 PM

Makes me wonder if you guys have heard music out of really good amps on an AB type switch with more run of the mill amps.

sivadselim

05-03-07, 03:13 PM

100% correct.

All modern solid-state amplifiers should have no sound of their own.
:rolleyes:

Can you show me a receiver that delivers 200+ watts/channel into 7 channels (or even 2 channels) with the cleanliness that a separate amplifier(s) can?

And what about pre-amp/processors?

clrv

05-03-07, 03:24 PM

100% correct.

All modern solid-state amplifiers should have no sound of their own.

I do AB test all day long with people. Please do not confuse people with this statement as I am sure you have not done a true AB comparison. There is a difference in amps. To really hear the difference you need a good source and good speakers. If you are ever in my area dftkell come and see me and I will let you listen for yourself.

EricD

05-03-07, 06:37 PM

New XQ1 owner here. Love them! I thought they sounded better than the B&W 705s. The B&W were a little better on the low mids but seemed to distort a little. Just do a search online and you can find them for almost half their retail price! Looks like they are making way for a new line.

dftkell

05-03-07, 06:52 PM

I do AB test all day long with people. Please do not confuse people with this statement as I am sure you have not done a true AB comparison. There is a difference in amps. To really hear the difference you need a good source and good speakers. If you are ever in my area dftkell come and see me and I will let you listen for yourself.

Here's a quote from the Audiocritic.com in an amplifier review:

"I repeat, for the nth time, that all amplifiers having high input impedance, low output impedance, flat frequency response, low distortion, and low noise floor sound exactly the same when operated at matched levels and not clipped. (Those who are unable to stomach this simple truth, proved over and over again in double-blind listening tests, should stick with Stereophile.)"

One of the keys to doing an A/B test is that the levels have to be matched. If they are not matched...even one is even slightly off...they will sound different because one is louder. Most A/B tests aren't properly done.

I'm not trying to confuse people. I was actually agreeing with a previous poster in this thread.

If an an amplifier has high input impedance, low output impedance, flat frequency response, low distortion, and low noise floor sound it should have no sound of it's own.

Practically every modern, well-engineered amplifier meets these requirements.

You should check out this article amoung other articles/reviews on the site:

http://theaudiocritic.com/blog/index.php?op=ViewArticle&articleId=36&blogId=1

EricD

05-03-07, 07:32 PM

Isn't this the KEF speaker thread?

dftkell

05-03-07, 08:01 PM

My original post was a response in regards to a statement made here about power amplifiers being a commodity. (Not receivers.)

And now, back to KEF speakers...

mobius

05-03-07, 10:27 PM

The distortion is a known anomaly of the UniQ design. The driver that the tweeter is centered in moves, so the tweeter output is affected by the constantly moving "baffle" that is the driver itself. They've tried to minimize it with the material the driver is made of and it's surface coating. It's not at all severe, and in reality, unnoticable, but it can be measured and is a known artifact of the UniQ design.

Yep, even vaunted driver manufacturer SEAS has a bit of measurable distortion in their T18RE coax driver. Still, if you look at Vance Dickason's LSDC, you'll see a center channel design very similar in concept (less the physical time alignment offered by the Uni-Q's) to the iQ6's. Basically, it's a center M-T array (vertically aligned) with two mid-woofers flanking, only firing at 20 degree angles towards the left and right of the listening space. He considered this the ideal CC.

KEF and Linn have always been two of my favorite HIFI companies. I still kick myself for selling my Linn Sondek turntable. What initially sold me on the LP12 was listening to Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture cannon fire through a pair of KEF 104.2's IIRC. :) Like others have said, the bottom end didn't rattle my teeth, but damn, what bandwidth was reproducible sounded very convincing.

DS-21

05-04-07, 06:42 AM

My original post was a response in regards to a statement made here about power amplifiers being a commodity. (Not receivers.)

And now, back to KEF speakers...

It's worth adding that the typical KEF speaker design takes the amp out of the equation even more than most speaker designs, because KEF tends to design for a very flat impedance curve. So anyone who thinks that amps make a difference on KEF speakers is either deluded or using something with flea power that's constantly overdriving itself.

SJHT

05-04-07, 11:33 AM

It's worth adding that the typical KEF speaker design takes the amp out of the equation even more than most speaker designs, because KEF tends to design for a very flat impedance curve. So anyone who thinks that amps make a difference on KEF speakers is either deluded or using something with flea power that's constantly overdriving itself.

Well, call me deluded then.... :confused: I could tell the subtle differences between various high end amps on the new Reference 205/2s which I just purchased. SJ

clrv

05-04-07, 11:45 AM

This is one of those topics that I normally don't let myself get into, but you will hear the difference. I will leave it alone now.

SJHT

05-04-07, 11:49 AM

Next we can discuss speaker cables? :)

dftkell

05-04-07, 12:42 PM

http://www.roger-russell.com/wire/wire.htm

Just kidding...sorry, I had too. :)

486398

05-06-07, 09:32 AM

Is there a thread for the 3005 series?

sivadselim

05-06-07, 01:06 PM

Is there a thread for the 3005 series?
Not a separate thread that I know of.

Did you "search" the forum?

486398

05-07-07, 06:51 PM

ya I didn't find anything, wish there was

superbnerb

05-07-07, 07:48 PM

i started a thread about the kef 3005 series... kinda. I wanted to know if they were any good and here is what resulted http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10477266

buddy4711

05-08-07, 11:59 AM

just to get confirmation: I ordered a pair of kef reference 205/2 together with anthem a2 / A5. will that perform well? I was listening to the former 205 and they sounded really outstanding.

SJHT

05-08-07, 04:38 PM

I also just ordered the new KEF 205/2s. They sound fanstastic. Never heard them with the Anthem before, so I can not comment. Did you listen to the new 205/2s? I believe they sound better than the previous models (which were great)... SJ

sivadselim

05-08-07, 07:31 PM

Man, I'm jealous! :o

Just out of curiosity, what are you guys paying for the new 205/2s? :eek:

SJHT

05-08-07, 08:40 PM

Man, I'm jealous! :o

Just out of curiosity, what are you guys paying for the new 205/2s? :eek:

$11K (retail) :eek:

My 104/2s lasted 20 years before I just upgraded to the new 205/2s. SJ

buddy4711

05-09-07, 08:14 AM

pal1982

05-09-07, 08:57 AM

$11K (retail) :eek:

My 104/2s lasted 20 years before I just upgraded to the new 205/2s. SJ

I just sold a pair for $9900 and i would sell for the same again. Very limited quantities though.

Oh, and if any are interested i do a monthly newsletter all about high end audio and video that goes out to customers, its free and its real informational. Just email me with your info. Sending out the May Issue on the 15th.

tufferd

05-09-07, 03:13 PM

Hi everyone, I am one of those who sit back and try to digest all the info without intruding. But hopefully you can help me save some time with some directed advice.

I am for all intents and purposes a virgin to audio video. Just purchased a house and am setting up a media room primarily for watching movies via a 1080p plasma.

I saw heard the kef kht3500 at circuit city and was very impressed. I have decided to use these for my theater surround sound.

I do not plan on breaking any windows or having pictures come loose from the walls. So my question is what would be an adequate Receiver for me to purchase? Any of your suggestions would be very welcome. Thanks you so much for all the info so far and your help with this decision.

pal1982

05-09-07, 03:18 PM

dftkell

05-09-07, 03:31 PM

tufferd--- Go with the Arcam AVR250 you'll love it, guarenteed!!

The Arcam AVR250 is a nice receiver but it's overkill for the KEF KHT 3005 package.

You will get perfectly good sound by spending half that, or even less.

You can look at Outlaw audio, Denon, Onkyo, Yamaha etc.

I think Onkyo has a new lineup of receivers coming out that support HDMI 1.3. Might be worth investigating and waiting a few weeks for.

pal1982

05-09-07, 03:39 PM

I sill like the Arcam, you get some amazing sound from those little sats, plus it allows you some headroom for later, however if its outta your budget the Denon 2807, or 3806 is awesome as well!

tufferd

05-10-07, 03:06 PM

I sill like the Arcam, you get some amazing sound from those little sats, plus it allows you some headroom for later, however if its outta your budget the Denon 2807, or 3806 is awesome as well!

Thanks for your responses. What is the difference between the DENON AVR 2807 and the AVR 987? Any material differences?

Is it worth waiting for the 2808 with HDMI1.3 capabilities? thanks

borhan

05-11-07, 12:18 AM

Hey guys, should I do the Polk RTi6s $200 for the pair or the iQ3s for $25 more as my front left and right speakers? I would like to do floorstanders but I have this media wall that will only fit speakers that are 28" high inside. Would you think if I get iQ9s and stick them outside the media wall, they would look stupid? Thanks :D

SJHT

05-11-07, 12:27 AM

I was listening to the the new 203, and those were already outstanding...so I thought that for a couple of more bucks the 205/2 will be the ones... (I paid around Sfr 15k / $12k over here in switzerland). Besides the sound the design is superbe IMHO (I will get them in shiny black, hotter than hot...)

I've not seen the black, but I was told that the cabinets are done by a piano finisher. They should look fantastic. I'm getting the 205/2s in walnut... SJ

pal1982

05-11-07, 03:07 PM

First off don't do the AVR-987 bad idea.... basically junky guts. And if you can hold out for the AVR-2808 it has A TON of new features that will really be useful... i can send you a .PDF of all the new features on the new receivers if you would like.

pbarach

05-11-07, 10:18 PM

What difference do you notice in the sound quality between these two lines of speakers?

pbarach

05-11-07, 10:22 PM

[QUOTE=mlazoff]It's good to hear feedback about accessories4less since they seem to have the best prices on the Web.This is my first post, and I so appreciate this forum. I own a pair of XQ5s, driven by NAD T763, and I am looking to upgrade my center (currently q6c) and surrounds (currently 2003 eggs). The center would be XQ2c and the surrounds XQ1s, I suppose. I'd love to hear what others are using./QUOTE]

Can you tell me how you like the XQ5's, and how they compared to other models that you considered? I have a set of Q7's for my main speakers, and I wonder how much of an improvement in sound quality I'd get. This is in a home theater system with a sub, so I'm not that concerning with deep bass extension.

pbarach

05-11-07, 10:28 PM

Just purchased KEF xQ package.

Fronts: xQ5
Center: xQ2C
Rear: xQ1

How did the 3806 works with these? I have the older Q series (Q7's, Q6c, Q1's), and I'm wondering how much an improvment I'd get with the Xq series.

tufferd

05-12-07, 01:20 AM

I think I will wait for the AVR 2808 for my receiver.

For owners of the KHT 3005 system, is it true that they do not accept banana plugs? And are the stands anything special or can they be duplicated or be replaced by a different set quite easily?

Thanks

tufferd

05-12-07, 01:21 AM

Also any suggestions for type of speaker wire and sub cable? thanks

Zero/One

05-12-07, 08:47 AM

I have a few questions about the iQ series. I am looking at the iQ9 for my main front speakers. The iQ6c for my center speaker. The iQ8ds for my side surrounds. The iQ1s for the rears. My question is if I am running 170 watts threw all channels wouldnt I be pushing the center and surrounds to much? I have seen on Dolbys web page that you should have the same speakers all the way around to be ideal. I am looking at upgrading my receiver to DD+ and DTS-HD and DD-HD later this year. Should I be looking at all iQ9s all the way around except for the center speaker?

SeattleSuburbia

05-12-07, 10:09 AM

tufferd

05-16-07, 03:05 AM

DS-21

05-16-07, 03:43 PM

For owners of the KHT 3005 system, is it true that they do not accept banana plugs? And are the stands anything special or can they be duplicated or be replaced by a different set quite easily?

Thanks

If they're like my Q-Compacts, just remove the plastic piece in the top of the post. EU regulations don't allow use of dual bananas, because they're the same size and spacing as their power outlets.

pal1982

05-17-07, 04:56 PM

Hey everyone i am back, just went up to GA. for my Grandparents 5oth anniversary, i got the last pair of XQ1's in graphite... The XQ's are going away to be replaced most likely by XQ series 2. But i got a great deal, and in return can give someone a great deal on these gorgeous speakers.... Always did like the XQ's, you got a lil taste of Reference for a lot cheaper price!

SeattleSuburbia

05-17-07, 05:42 PM

spyboy

05-17-07, 05:51 PM

Hi

Does anyone else have KEF Q70's? I like the design because it minimized floor bounce.

All the Best

pal1982

05-17-07, 09:18 PM

Sorry all i was doing, is just saying i had some nice XQ's for a good deal... i apologize if it bothered ya... I didn't mean it in bad way

sivadselim

05-18-07, 12:49 PM

pal1982,

Do you have any info or links to info about the XQ series 2?

Just curious.

pal1982

05-18-07, 02:34 PM

No infor on the new XQ series 2's as of yet... once i know i will let you all know what i find out. :)

KRSCASINO

05-19-07, 11:14 PM

Need a recommendation on center channel and rear speakers - currently have a pair of 105/3 and moving them into home theater setup, thanks

SJHT

05-20-07, 12:16 AM

See if you can pick up a used KEF 100 or 200C (center channel speaker). They should be matched quite nicely with your setup. I had a pair of 104/2s that I used a KEF 100 as the center channel. Worked great for my setup. SJ

pal1982

05-20-07, 12:19 AM

I'd go for even if you can get a XQ2C... would make an awesome center as well... i was a way under estimated center! Good Luck!

pal1982

05-20-07, 12:19 AM

I'd go for even if you can get a XQ2C... would make an awesome center as well... it was a way under estimated center! Good Luck!

kiltain

05-23-07, 11:36 PM

hey guys i have the iQ7's for my fronts and the iQ6c as my center going to add 2 more iQ7's and the kef 2500 sub this oct for my birthday. and looking at the new onkyo receivers to replace my 602, thinking of the 705 or the 805. i want to bi-amp the fronts for when i listen to my classical cd's. i was looking at the 7's in the rear as well for when i listen to some of my sacd's. but i love my speakers. i heard some klipsch speakers as well as the kefs and well the kefs had a much more natural sound to them.

EricD

05-25-07, 04:07 PM

iQ's vs XQ's

I have purchased the XQ1s (can be found for a bargan now on the internet, ~$800). I have them hooked up to a standard sony reciever, not the greatest but ok (getting a new one soon, arcam or rotel). I have listened to the iQs (bookshelfs) in a store with a similar receiver driving them.

Compairison
Highs: XQ is much better. The hyper tweeter makes a big difference. Much more pronounced highs than the IQ.

Lows: Both lack lows. The XQ goes a little lower as the drivers are a little beefier but you will need a sub with these. You also need a much better amplifier as they can dip to 3.2 ohms from a nominal of 8 ohms. I moved my XQ1s to my better denon amp in a different room and they sounded much punchier with better bass, so I recommend a decent amp for these.

Imaging: Hard to say on the iQ as it was in a noisier environment, but the XQ sounds great! Classical music, from symphony to solo piano, sounds outstanding! Vocals also sound very clean and distinct.

Quality: Just by looking at them both the XQ1's really have a better build quality than the iQ's. They are much heavier (bigger drivers) and the cabinets (i got the white ones) of the XQs are much nicer than the iQs.

Overall: I guess you get what you pay for. But good deals now as you can get $1300 speakers for ~$800 for the XQs and much much less for the iQs.

pbarach

05-26-07, 05:27 AM

iQ's vs XQ's

I have purchased the XQ1s (can be found for a bargan now on the internet

Has anyone ever heard the XQ5's and how they compare to the iQ9 or the preceding Q7/Q11?

Adz523

05-26-07, 06:13 AM

I had the pleasure of listening to the KEF Reference Series 207 (I believe which is their flagship speaker) at the HES Show in NYC a couple of weeks back and thought they sounded fantastic. More than held its own against some of the other elitist type demo's going on there. They need to do more marketing on the higher end IMO. P.S. I don't deal KEF nor have any immediate plans to, but just thought I'd pass along my thoughts.

sivadselim

05-26-07, 12:26 PM

They need to do more marketing on the higher end
They need to do more marketing, period. :(
They're great speakers.

fresno1232001

05-27-07, 01:48 PM

I am going stereo to 5.1 and so I'm adding two rear speakers. I like the look of the IQ9 but have not heard them. I did hear the Monitor Audio RS8 at $1399 at pair, and they sound nice. Over $1,600 with tax and shipping. Then I got hot for the IQ9 just based on how they look and what people say about them. Available for $1198 total. Then I read about the XQ5 and I like the way they look even more. They are available in the wilds of Montana for $1800 per pair and you don't even have to drive vans there to get them. People seem to really like them, including in this thread. The hyper-tweeter on top seems to make a big difference. Bowers and Wilkins has one on top of their stand mounted 805S speakers at $2500 per pair. I'd sure love to hear a comparison of the B-W 805S against the KEF XQ5. So now I am "decided" on the XQ5s. Please will any owners weigh in here on how they sound. Someone was selling a pair of the "graphite" ones (shiney black) on Audiogon and they look beautiful. I'd buy the matching KEF XQ2C center channel speaker at the same time. It seems expensive at MSRP $1199.80, but you can find it in Montana too for a "mere" $699.80. Vans will be involved in that purchase too, but not by you driving them. I have mighty Allison Ones as front mains, now $5,300 per pair. I'll drive all this with either an Emotiva pre-pro and power amp, or the upcoming Onkyo Tx-NR905 receiver. So let's hear from you XQ5 owners and XQ2C owners. I'm at least 50% music, especially the utterly fantastic, stunning fidelity Aix Records DVD-As www.aixrecords.com. Buy some and hear your system's true abilities for the very first time. Aix DVD-As aren't just a little better. They are stunningly better. You'll be smiling and ordering more fast!
Has anyone ever heard the XQ5's and how they compare to the iQ9 or the preceding Q7/Q11?

sivadselim

05-27-07, 02:17 PM

Bowers and Wilkins has one on top of their stand mounted 805S speakers at $2500 per pair.
That's the tweeter atop the B&Ws, not a hypertweeter.

My advice regarding the XQ speakers you're asking about is to listen to them and see what you think.

fresno1232001

05-27-07, 02:23 PM

If they elect to promote them, prices will go up.
They need to learn some lessons on how to promote them, period.

pbarach

05-27-07, 02:34 PM

If they elect to promote them, prices will go up.

Are you sure? If KEF is trying to sell products that they don't promote, they won't sell many and their manufacturing cost per unit will be higher. Not only that, their dealer network is quite scarce in some areas of the US compared to their competitors (B&W, Paradigm). For example, they list only 3 dealers in all of Ohio, and 2 out of the 3 are system installers (maybe the third is, too--I'm not sure).

fresno1232001

05-27-07, 03:20 PM

What I meant is that if a brand can induce enough snob appeal by heavy snob-oriented marketing, they find that their demand curve shifts upward. They can charge more per unit and make fewer units and still have more dollar volume. A Rolex is a self-winding stainless steel watch for $4,000. You can get an Omega that is just as good for half the price. A Cadillac is made of the same steel, glass, paint and leather as a Chevy, but the name (which has been hyped with marketing) lets them charge far more money. One Swiss watch maker even doubled the price of its watches a couple years ago, knowing that due to its higher prices, it could produce and sell fewer but still have higher revenues. Your revenues minus your costs = net income before income taxes. I hope KEF stays sort of obscure, with great prices to match.
Are you sure? If KEF is trying to sell products that they don't promote, they won't sell many and their manufacturing cost per unit will be higher. Not only that, their dealer network is quite scarce in some areas of the US compared to their competitors (B&W, Paradigm). For example, they list only 3 dealers in all of Ohio, and 2 out of the 3 are system installers (maybe the third is, too--I'm not sure).

pbarach

05-27-07, 04:26 PM

What I meant is that if a brand can induce enough snob appeal by heavy snob-oriented marketing, they find that their demand curve shifts upward. They can charge more per unit and make fewer units and still have more dollar volume.

Yes, IF... there are places to buy these units. The only snob-appeal items that don't need widespread dealer networks are those that are pre-sold, e.g. Ferraris. I know where my local Caddy dealers are, and it took me a couple of minutes to locate three jewelers in the yellow pages that are authorized Rolex dealers... So I can "test drive" a Caddy or a Rolex any time. But for KEF speakers, most of which are NOT high-end products, I have to drive 200 miles.

sivadselim

05-27-07, 05:04 PM

What I meant is that if a brand can induce enough snob appeal by heavy snob-oriented marketing, they find that their demand curve shifts upward.
I can assure you KEF sells more units in their entry to mid-level line-up than in their Reference line.

The iQ series is not intended for "snobs". It's very competitively priced for the market it's intended.

Besides, they don't even have heavy snob-oriented marketing (your language). My point was that they don't really have any marketing. :)

fresno1232001

05-27-07, 06:34 PM

I agree they don't have any marketing!! But if they start snob-oriented marketing, they could get to where the snobs will pay more than current prices, and that will be bad for the sane people who might like to buy their products.
Enough on this topic. I just read a review of the KEF XQ5 and he absolutely tore it to pieces. He says they sound awful. So now I'm not so sure. The Reference 210 gets great reviews. Someone is selling a pair on ebay for $800 with the hypertweeters pushed in, what ever that means.

Besides, they don't even have heavy snob-oriented marketing (your language). My point was that they don't really have any marketing. :)

pbarach

05-27-07, 06:35 PM

I bought KEF Q7's after going to a high-end audio store in which the salesperson looked down his nose at me when I preferred the Q7's to Vandersteen 2ce's. The Q7's are hardly a contender for the best speaker in the world. However, they had me listening to the music instead of to the speakers (which was not the case with the Vandersteens, which sounded boxy in comparison). The high-end dealer has long since gone out of business--he didn't want to give anyone the time of day who wasn't going to spend $10K in his store. I think there weren't enough snobs to keep this guy in business.

Similarly, I once visited a high-end audio store in Chicago. The only source material he claimed to have in his store was a scratchy LP of a solo lute. After five minutes of very well reproduced surface noise, I left. Oh, and his store is gone, too...

fresno1232001

05-27-07, 06:43 PM

A trick in salemanship is to imply to the customer that he can't afford the really upscale product. You just outright insult the customer! "THIS item has Swiss made, titanium and gold blah blah". Sometimes the customer will then buy the product just to show this jerk that he is rich enough to do so.
I called a high end stereo shop in a big California city the other day, and he was pretty rough with me. He wants to make me mad enough at him to come in and buy the expensive speakers we were discussing, just to show him.
I bought KEF Q7's after going to a high-end audio store in which the salesperson looked down his nose at me when I preferred the Q7's to Vandersteen 2ce's.
Similarly, I once visited a high-end audio store in Chicago. The only source material he claimed to have in his store was a scratchy LP of a solo lute. After five minutes of very well reproduced surface noise, I left. Oh, and his store is gone, too...

pal1982

05-30-07, 10:10 AM

Just wanted all of you fellow KEF enthusiastist to have a heads up. I was invited to the KEF Reference Listening Experience in Tampa and West Palm Beach.... It's going aroung the USA right now so check with your local dealer! Richard from the Reference program are going to be there, along with most all the speakers except he not yet produced 207/2's... It a chance to hear and see them! In florida its going to Be June 5th and 7th, i will tell ya guys what it was like when i get back, thought you may be interested!

--Brad
P.S.-- Still waiting for the 203/2 to become available... trying to fight the good fight ;)

pal1982

05-30-07, 10:18 AM

I agree they don't have any marketing!! But if they start snob-oriented marketing, they could get to where the snobs will pay more than current prices, and that will be bad for the sane people who might like to buy their products.
Enough on this topic. I just read a review of the KEF XQ5 and he absolutely tore it to pieces. He says they sound awful. So now I'm not so sure. The Reference 210 gets great reviews. Someone is selling a pair on ebay for $800 with the hypertweeters pushed in, what ever that means.

So, so sorry for any one that had a bad expierence... But just to let you know the XQ series is a great speaker line but one with a hyper tweeter i would never buy... Will cause major problems, plus if you can wait for a few months the replacement for the XQ series will be coming out.

sivadselim

05-30-07, 01:05 PM

.............just to let you know the XQ series is a great speaker line but one with a hyper tweeter i would never buy.................. Will cause major problems,.............
Why? :confused:

Never had any problems with mine.

pal1982

05-30-07, 01:13 PM

let me rephrase that.... meant i wouldn't buy one with a smashed in hyper-tweeter

miimura

06-01-07, 03:53 PM

I have a full 5.1 set of XQ speakers (XQ5/XQ2c/XQ1) and I'm happy with them. However, I feel they don't have as much bass as I would expect from a tower speaker of their size. However, a well dialed subwoofer takes care of it very well in my situation.

When I was shopping a few years ago I was comparing them against B&W 703/HTM7/705. I thought those sounded amazing, but I ended up buying the XQs because I got a fantastic deal from a dealer in NJ who decided to stop carrying the line. The XQ5's were floor models but the rest were new. I got the whole set for about the current price of new XQ5s. I just could not justify the price jump to the B&W set and I could not do A/B because they were at different dealers 5 miles down the road from each other.

No regrets on the XQ purchase. BTW, I'm driving them with a Rotel 1056 Receiver.

- Mike

sivadselim

06-01-07, 04:03 PM

However, I feel they don't have as much bass as I would expect from a tower speaker of their size.
Yeah, their F3 is 45Hz and the bass is not these speakers forte; the midrange is.

That said, some material that I throw at mine in 2-channel mode can have some very surprisingly good-sounding bass.

Lindahl

06-01-07, 04:44 PM

For anyone that has the iQ series in Walnut, what kind of walnut is it? The pictures on Kef's website seem to show a yellowish walnut. Typically walnut has more of a red/brown color - less red than rosewood, but still looks like it has a bit of red. Is the walnut closer to the Monitor Audio walnut (which is a little more brownish than the image below), or is it more of a yellow color that is shown on Kef's website? The nearest dealer is an hour+ away, so I'd rather not waste my time if it's a bad match for our living room.

Monitor Audio RS1 in walnut:
http://img116.imageshack.us/img116/3115/82sw2.jpg

Kef iQ walnut:
http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/1645/kefpk1.jpg

sivadselim

06-01-07, 04:47 PM

For anyone that has the iQ series in Walnut, what kind of walnut is it? The pictures on Kef's website seem to show a yellowish walnut. Typically walnut has more of a red/brown color - less red than rosewood, but still looks like it has a bit of red. Is the walnut closer to the Monitor Audio walnut (which is a little more brownish than the image below), or is it more of a yellow color that is shown on Kef's website?

It's pretty much exactly like the iQ picture. Realize, though, that it's not real wood.

There are a variety of "walnuts" because there are several different species of the tree. For example, Black walnut.

pbarach

06-01-07, 05:36 PM

When I was shopping a few years ago I was comparing them against B&W 703/HTM7/705.

Can you characterize the qualitative difference in sound between the 703/705's you didn't buy, and the XQ's that you have?

It's clear from the specs that the XQ's don't claim to have much bass, so can you say something about qualitative differences between these speakers in the midrange and above?

miimura

06-01-07, 06:38 PM

sivadselim

06-01-07, 06:57 PM

Can you characterize the qualitative difference in sound between the 703/705's you didn't buy, and the XQ's that you have?

It's clear from the specs that the XQ's don't claim to have much bass, so can you say something about qualitative differences between these speakers in the midrange and above?
Of course I'm biased but I find the midrange on my XQs to be much more smooth and "real". Honestly, I find the much-touted B&W midrange on that series (on all of their series, for that matter) to be a bit "brazen" and almost "grating" for my tastes. I know the B&W owners will strongly disagree, as they really love their midrange. Both speakers offer very pronounced and noticably "different" midrange performance compared to many other speakers.

As far as the high-end of the spectrum goes, I really love what the hypertweeter does for the the high-end on my KEFs. A very open, airy, and completely unconstrained sound. Honestly, the only speakers I've heard that come close are the berylium-tweetered Focal/JMLab offerings.

Now, I must admit that I have never compared the B&Ws and KEFs, straight-up, in the same room. In fact, you'll be hard-pressed to find a dealer that stocks both KEF and B&W.

pbarach

06-01-07, 08:57 PM

Now, I must admit that I have never compared the B&Ws and KEFs, straight-up, in the same room. In fact, you'll be hard-pressed to find a dealer that stocks both KEF and B&W.

In my area, nobody stocks KEF. I have KEF's in my home theater setup (Q7's-Q6c-Q1-M&K sub) and B&W 704's in my 2-channel system elsewhere (with another M&K sub). I agree with the word "brazen" for the 704's midrange, although the 703's are supposed to have a smoother midrange.

mahansm

06-01-07, 09:53 PM

tufferd

06-02-07, 02:49 AM

Hello everyone,

Just put in the order for the Kef 3500 home theater system. Can anyone confirm if the sattelites when mounted to the wall have the ability to swivel? I know the 2005.2 swivel quite easily but the 3500 look to be built differently.

Thanks for your input , otherwise I will have to buy a stand or two.

SJHT

06-02-07, 09:22 AM

I'm moving into the whole HDTV/surround sound arena. I'm starting from stereo, with a pair of vintage Kef 107's. Yes, I bought them new in 1987. They are currently down for replacement of the woofer surrounds. I'm looking for compatible center and rear channel speakers (5.1 setup) but will simply let the 107's handle all the bass energy and skip the subwoofer.

I'm considering the Outlaw 970 or 990 Pre/Pro along with picking up some more channels of amplification. I'd appreciate thoughts/advice on speaker and pre/pro selection. There is. of course, a budget and this is not a project that will be finished in a few weeks. I don't mind shopping Ebay for some 104aB or similar vintage units.
Recommendations appreciated.

Steve Mahan
Panama City, Florida

I would try and find a KEF 200c. The KEF Reference 100c and 200c are centers that were designed to go with early Reference series speakers. The 200c would probably be great with your 107s.

Also, you really need to get some type of sub to handle the .1 channel at least. With good bass management, you can also have it handle the lower end for your other potentially smaller speakers. SJ

Shock_and_Awe

06-06-07, 04:47 PM

sivadselim

06-06-07, 05:09 PM

Hello Everyone...New to the forum.

I was thinking about buying either the Kef iQ9 or Ascend 340SE.
Anyone ever own or listen to the Ascend 304SE?
Is there a newer version that replaces the iQ9?

Thanks!!
Never heard the Ascends.

The iQ series is a relatively new KEF series already, so no, there's nothing newer that replaces the iQ9.

Shock_and_Awe

06-06-07, 08:19 PM

Thank You Siva!!
Cheers

hanfrac

06-11-07, 02:06 PM

I'm trying to get an informed opinion on the KEF FiveTwo's. I have not found enough info online to see if they live up to the claims. I'm guessing they haven't found many buyers (pretty expensive). At the local store here (northern Calif) where I was able to see them, they were not set up and the salespeople had no idea what the product was supposed to do (as opposed to the Yamaha product, which was set up in an environment.

Does anyone know if this is a good product? I'm debating whether to try to find a 5.1 substitute (I have a situation where I can't see justifying putting in rear surrounds) or living with a 3 speaker + subwoofer setup without any attempt at surround sound. thanks in advance.

pal1982

06-11-07, 03:28 PM

The FiveTwo's are an awesome system a great replacement for the Kit100 system! I just did a job where the customers bought the FiveTwo 7 system, they were in a large condo with an open living room... and it sounded great, just remember you need a subwoofer, like the HTB2.... i found the FiveTwo to be a breeze in setup, you just put the speaker leads into the receiver as if it was 5 speakers, toe them in a lil, and viola! instant 5.1... well pretty darn good 5.1 imaging, i've compared it to going to our local Magnolia and hearing the Yamaha single speaker solution (its crap don't waste your time) KEF is a great company, they will do you well, i've carried averything from iQ speakers to Ref 207's and our customers love them... hope it works out lemme know!

Tobester

06-13-07, 10:02 PM

I have a kef question that I will soon try to answer for myself. In my h/t I have kef Reference Three mains and a Reference 200C center. I love the Ref Threes for two channel audio and the 200c sounds great in my 5.1 system. My dilima of sorts is that I have three sets of speakers to choose from for the surrounds. I have a pair of 1993 103/3, a pair of XQ1s and a pair of IQ8ds. I am currently using the 103/3 with good results set up on the back wall five foot to the side of the couch which is also against the back wall. They are on their stands which puts them lower than ear level. Due to room openings I can not mount speakers directly to the sides of the couch but they have to be against or on the back wall. They sound good but perhaps a bit localised where they are. I have some wall mounts (for small tvs) I could use to raise them up above ear level (if you can imagine 50 lb speakers elevated on wall mounts) but doing so requires drilling into the wall and I have been reluctant to do that so far. I could use the same approach to mount the Xq1s in the same location. My third option is to use the dipoles but I can't mount to the side walls and that is where dipoles are meant to be mounted. I guess my questions are

1. Souldn't raising the speaker 2' above ear level take some of the localization out?

2. Shouldn't the soft dome tweeter of the 103/3 match up better with the Reference threes than the XQ1 with metal dome tweeter and hyper tweeter. I think the XQ1 sound great but might not be the best sonic match.

A third option would be to sell all three pair of my current surround options and pick up a pair of Reference two or Reference one for the best sonic match.

Experimentation (when I have the time)will tell me the most but I would be interested in input from some of you Kef owners.

Tom

Tobester

06-16-07, 11:36 AM

Well there you have it. I know it was kind of a long rambling post but no response for three days! If I were asking a paradigm question I probably would have been covered up with responses. I guess there is just not a lot of Kef people out there. It's a shame. Oh well. I guess that just means I can spend less time typing and reading and more time listening to my most excellent Kef speakers. Perhaps that's it. All the Kef people are spending their time listening to music and enjoying great h/t rather than playing fan boy on this forum. Am I on to something? Could it be Kef owners are the type of people that had rather listen to speakers than talk about speakers? That must be it. I think I will join the rest of you and go listen to mine right now!

Tom

pbarach

06-16-07, 12:47 PM

Well there you have it. I know it was kind of a long rambling post but no response for three days!

I don't have any of the KEF models you asked about--their dealer network is mighty sparse in the U.S. I did hear the Q2ds, which is the predecessor of the Iq8DS, and as a dipole speaker it had less localization of movie surround channels than a direct radiator--it was designed for that purpose. I don't know how well the timbre of those speakers would match your mains, but why not try those and see before buying something else?

I have Q7's in front and I use Q1's for my surrounds. I place them on stands about 120 degrees behind the sweet spot and at ear level, aimed at the sweet spot. There is a little more localization than the ideal h/t system when it comes to movies, but it's perfect for SACD 5.1 or Dolby Digital music DVD's.

The AutoEQ system on my receiver helps noticeably in timbre-matching my surrounds to my main speakers. If you have that option, try it, too...

locomo

06-16-07, 12:48 PM

Tobester,
Stick with the soft dome tweeters.
Selling all the surrounds except the 103/3 AND buying Ref 1 or 2 might be the way to go. Then compare the 103/3 with the Ref's.
Can you put something in between the stands and the speakers to raise them?

sivadselim

06-16-07, 01:05 PM

Well there you have it. I know it was kind of a long rambling post but no response for three days!
You sorta answered your own question. At least you seemed to know more than most of us would about each of those speakers and all the caveats involved.

I'd say try them all, see what you think.

speeeedy

06-16-07, 02:51 PM

I have 205s up front and 201s in the rear. I have custom built stands so they match the same highth as my 205s. I must say they sound great. The best way to do it if you could afford it would be to by a pr. of the refs and give them a shot. If you don't like them send them back.

Tobester

06-16-07, 04:45 PM

Thanks for all the good responses. Good advise from all of you. I have not had a chance to try the other speakers yet but I did set the reference 103/3s (used as surrounds) on a couple of tall bar stools to elevate them about 18" above ear level. In my situation this definitely is better than on the stands with the tweeters about 1' below ear level. With the speakers raised the effect is less localization and more room filling. I listened to a concert dvd, a movie and a 2ch audio cd in 5ch stereo with the speaker elevated. All sounded very good but the most surprising was how the 2ch audio cd sounded in 5 ch stereo. I was not that aware of the surrounds but rather it just seemed the whole room was charged with sound. When the speakers were below ear level shifting just slightly on the couch one way or another would result in one of the surrounds overpowering the rest of the speakers. Before I permanatly mount anything I am going to find a way to try different heights. I will also try the other pairs of speakers. Since I have them I might as well play with them before I part with them. I really think the only way to better what I have in surrounds speaker wise would be something in the same era or line of Reference speakers as my mains. Anybody have a exta pair of Reference Threes they can bring over for a weekend. I would supply the marguritas. If not then I will try out what I have and get back to you on the results.

Tom

lespurgeon

06-16-07, 06:39 PM

Gee,
Looks like I'm the vintage guy here.

Living in an apartment at the moment, so the multi-channel system is in storage. I'm using a pair of KEF Q65s used for everything running off of a Rotel RX-1050.

Not sure I even care if I ever get back to 6.1 - I like the 2 channel simplicity.

shazza

06-17-07, 05:14 PM

Hello KEF owners. Apologize for jumping in before I've purchased, but I could really use some help. I've been researching an audio setup for my living room (which has been turned into our home theater room). We originally had a Yamaha YSP-1100 soundbar - but it wasn't a good choice because the room has no right or back wall. It will now go to the family room where it should work well.

I'm definitely ready for better sound. I have an interesting dilemma - I've got to deal with HAF (husband approval factor). I'd gladly put some floorstand speakers, a full center channel and surrounds without a thought for aesthetics. He's having a fit. I'm intrigued by the KEF FiveTwos... either the model 7 or 11. Putting a subwoofer in isn't a big issue. It's the surrounds that get me in trouble (I could also go for nice fronts and a center speaker). My other choice is something like the KEF 2000 or 3000 series home theater set up ... all the little speakers. I could probably sneak those in behind the couch on the stands ... and then use the system in the den when I've got the husband ready for the next upgrade.

I really appreciate any advice I can get. I didn't post a general thread, because almost no one answers those. I've done a lot of homework, and really like the KEF products. Budget isn't a big issue, but since I'm new to all this - I find going low/medium end initially helps me get ready for the next upgrade.

Here's a pic of the current setup (71" Samsung DLP 1080p with various HD sources). I know - it looks like Blockbuster went to Ikea ... this is our temporary setup until we design a built in. But, I don't want to wait for that to get some decent sound here! Thanks for any advice, and sorry for the long post.

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/4606/larascreenshotoa3.th.jpg (http://img166.imageshack.us/my.php?image=larascreenshotoa3.jpg)

mlazoff

06-17-07, 07:07 PM

Several people asked a while back for comments from XQ series owners. For about a year and a half, I've owned the XQ5s powered by an NAD 763. What most impresses me about the XQ5s is their staging/presence -- that quality in the showroom immediately sold me on the XQs (I bought the XQ5s unheard after just hearing the XQ1s). The other quality that distinguishes the XQ5s (and the XQ1s), as others have commented on, is the super tweeter and natural-sounding mid-range. All together, for me the result is music right there in front of you, so pure and real you can feel the instruments. There was no other speaker, including B&Ws in that price range that came close in that tonal sensation. I had to jump up many thousands in both speaker and power price to find that quality of sound. For that reason, I'm a big XQ fan.

I purchased the XQ5s because I wanted the XQ1 sound but with better bass, and I've not regretted it. Alas, although better than the XQ1, the weak bass has been a problem with my XQ5s as well, as others have mentioned, and is not totally resolved with a subwoofer. To me, it's not just the low-lows -- if it were only that, a good subwoofer would be the answer -- but that the XQs don't handle the high-lows well, so finding a good crossover ends up sacrificing tight bass response for bass whimpiness. To me, the worst of the XQs is that the highs and mids slightly overpower the lows which results in a sound that is a tad bright, and I'm not a fan of brightness at all -- I like flat or slightly warm, and that's not my XQ5s.

Several months ago I purchased the XQ2 center, and was surprised how much better it performed than the Q6 I was using. The difference in subtle sounds and clarity is profound with the XQ2 -- what a terrific center speaker! My surrounds are Kef eggs, which reproduce an HD 5.1 "whoosh" but do little else than muddy the waters. I wonder how much mileage I'll get by replacing them with XQ1s, if I will only use them for films and TV, not for serious music listening?

Recently, I disconnected the NAD 763 (100 watts/channel) and am now using the new Yamaha RX-V2700 (140 watts/channel). I recently purchased the Sony 46v2500 LCD and wanted something with an HDMI, and I also wanted to try out the Internet radio. With the Yamaha, the sound is way too processed, but is tolerable with the Direct Effect button pushed whenever listening to CDs. But this is interesting: the bass response is much better with the Yamaha Direct Effect, which ignores the subwoofer and pulls all power into the two front speakers only, as compared to the NAD or Yamaha's Straight Effect, which is also unprocessed sound but redirects the lows to the subwoofer. I assume the improved fullness is due to the increased power? Or is there something I'm not considering? I'm not surprised that the low bass is not as tight as when I use the subwoofer, but the high-lows are there like they weren't before, and so the overall effect is that the XQs are less bright (though the quality of the sound was slightly better with the NAD, I think).

Anyone else have experience with increased power to their XQs? Does bi-amping help?

Marjorie

sivadselim

06-17-07, 07:37 PM

Recently, I disconnected the NAD 763 (100 watts/channel) and am now using the new Yamaha RX-V2700 (140 watts/channel).

But this is interesting: the bass response is much better with the Yamaha Direct Effect, which ignores the subwoofer and pulls all power into the two front speakers only, as compared to the NAD or Yamaha's Straight Effect, which is also unprocessed sound but redirects the lows to the subwoofer. I assume the improved fullness is due to the increased power? Or is there something I'm not considering? I'm not surprised that the low bass is not as tight as when I use the subwoofer, but the high-lows are there like they weren't before, and so the overall effect is that the XQs are less bright (though the quality of the sound was slightly better with the NAD, I think).
I think what you're hearing is that different components do have their own sonic signature; not all amps/receivers sound the same.

Anyone else have experience with increased power to their XQs? Does bi-amping help?
I use a ROTEL RB-1080 @ 200w/channel for my front 2 channels and I DO think my XQ5s sound better with more power behind them than just my Denon receiver's amps. I think the XQ5s (and probably the whole series) crave power. I've heard a pair of XQ5s with a large amount of power, delivered from some really high-end equipment, behind them, and thought they sounded just incredible. The bass was so much better than what I'm used to with mine. So, yeah, they like a lot of power.

Bi-amping? It's probably not worthwhile to simply passively bi-amp them. I'm sure that an active bi-amp, done properly, would sound great.

mlazoff

06-17-07, 07:46 PM

sivadselim

06-17-07, 08:17 PM

Hi Sivadselim. The Yamaha lets you to turn their 7.1 channel into a 5.1 with the other two channels used to bi-amp the front speakers. Is that what you mean by active bi-amp? If so, how might it not be done properly -- you remove the bridges and hook it up, no?

That would be passive bi-amping. The only thing it does for you is get you a little more headroom (~3dB). It's basically the same as increasing (but not doubling) the power to the speakers. Even with the bridges removed, the crossover, electronically, still completes a circuit.

With a passive bi-amp, the amplifiers still have to amplify a full-range signal and the speaker's internal crossover is what sends the correct frequencies to the proper drivers. Most people frown upon passive bi-amping with a receiver's "extra" amps, because receivers usually have a single power supply which is shared by all the amps. Using 4 amps, instead of 2, which share a power supply is not the same as "doubling" the power to the speakers. If you were going to passively bi-amp, I would recommend you at least use outboard, dedicated amplifiers.

Active bi-amping means using upstream external crossovers that separate the frequencies before the amplifier stage. The amplifiers then only have to amplify certain frequencies and are used to drive the speaker's drivers that are no longer connected to the speaker's internal crossover. With an active bi-amp setup you are able to tweak the amount of power that goes to each driver much more specifically and precisely, allowing you to completely "tune" the output of the speaker. Active bi-amping is usually a pretty expensive endeavor.

Active bi-amping is much, much different from simply passively bi-amping. Most audiophiles do not consider passive bi-amping to be bi-amping at all.

I would not recommend you passively bi-amp with the "extra" 2 amps in your receiver. But in the end, it's your decision.

You can do a search on passive bi-amping, active bi-amping, passive versus active bi-amping, and read about all the caveats involved.