A set of well-made bookshelf speakers is capable of delivering an impressive listening experience. We’ve put two of the best coordinates on the market, including the KEF R300 and IS50, head-to-head in an attempt to name a clear winner and make your buying experience a bit smoother.
KEF LS50 and KEF R300 bookshelf speakers – Comparison between the two models
The KEF LS50 Meta is exactly what you should be looking for in compact bookshelf speakers. KEF calls this loudspeaker duo “emotionally engaging.” This may sound like a bold use of terminology, we totally get what they’re alluding to. The compact system delivers omnidirectional sound with the utmost precision. Even the staunchest critics wouldn’t dear mention the word distortion in the same line as the LS50.
The hallmark of this setup is the Uni-Q Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) driver array. This impressive labyrinth of absorbent material sucks up unwanted sound from the back of each driver. The loudspeakers are capable of delivering exceptionally crisp, uncolored, and distortion-free audio. This leaves your ears nothing but rich autistic details.
Don’t Forget the Damping
The LS50 also boasts a revolutionary injection-molded curved baffle. This internal detail and the adjacent layer damping helps the speaker to better distribute sound while preventing added coloration. Listeners get crystal clear high-fidelity sound as it was intended to be received.
Even the ports are expertly engineered to prevent resonance and coloration. They are slightly offset design helps them to gracefully disappear into the background.
And the Drivers
The compact speakers feature 5.25-inch drivers made from magnesium aluminum. Baffles and batting set the drivers apart from the main cabinet. This thoughtful build ensures that you receive a distortion-free sound at virtually all frequencies and volumes.
Spacious Soundstage
The LS50 soundstage feels grand in small listening spaces. The midrange and treble are exceptionally clear and transparent. Those that are looking for booming bass might consider tacking on a subwoofer.
Aesthetics
The speakers also boast an undeniably chic aesthetic. Everything from the curved baffle to the recessed terminals enables these marvelous audio boxes to own up to their reputation.
They’re available in four sleek finishes, including matte gray, white, black, and blue. The drivers are left uncovered. Each color has uniquely colorized driver cones. We’re particularly fond of the black and rose gold combo.
If you’re an audiophile, then you know that there’s nothing quite like the experience of listening to your favorite music on a high-quality sound system. KEF has just released a new product that is sure to delight audio enthusiasts everywhere: the LS50 acoustic. This speaker system was designed in collaboration with some of the world’s top engineers and musicians, and the results are stunning. The LS50 delivers crystal-clear sound with amazing detail and realism. So if you’re looking for an immersive audio experience, be sure to check out KEF’s newest offering!
The LS50 is the perfect acoustic for audiophiles who want to experience their music in its purest form. With its sleek design and crystal-clear sound, this speaker system is sure to impress. So if you’re looking for a top-quality audio experience, be sure to check out the LS50!
Those that have already had the pleasure of testing out the original LS50 will be surprised by the subtle yet momentous improvements of the Meta. This 12th-generation bookshelf speaker set leaves little to be desired. It’s competitively priced and small enough to fit in just about any space, there is practically nothing that could stop us from recommending this to our readers.
Pros
- Ideal for small listening spaces
- Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) prevents the speakers from delivering all but 99% of unwanted sound from the back of the drivers.
- Cabinet layer damping reduces coloration for more open and authentic acoustics
- Just a 0.07 Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) rate according to KEF
- Uni-Q driver plays well at all frequencies
- Available in four chic finishes
- Internal stiffing and curved baffle makes the cabinets incredibly stable and insensitive
- Compact and aesthetically pleasing
Cons
- Should only be paired with comparable equipment
KEF R300
The KEF R300 is yet another budget-friendly bookshelf speaker set with excellent fidelity. This unit’s 6 ½-inch aluminum woofers and low-frequency bass driver give it crystal clear bass. Thanks to the 1-inch vented aluminum dome tweeters and 5-inch magnesium-aluminum midrange driver, the mids are also clean and pronounced. Since the tweeters are centered on the midrange drivers, these elements deliver sound from a single source. As most would expect with a KEF product, the audio is mostly uncolored and distortion-free.
If you’re looking for high-quality audio for your home theater, look no further than the KEF R300 bookshelf speakers. These speakers deliver stunning sound performance, thanks to their innovative technology and construction. They are perfect for any home theater setup and will provide you with hours of listening enjoyment.
KEF r300 speakers deliver high quality sound performance, perfect for any home theater setup.
The R300 bookshelf speakers feature KEF’s unique Uni-Q driver array, which ensures accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum. The drivers are housed in a rigid and well-damped cabinet, which helps to minimize distortion and resonances. And thanks to their clever design, the R300s are able to deliver stunningly realistic audio that will completely envelop you in your favorite movies or music.
If you’re looking for premium audio performance in a compact package, KEF R300 bookshelf speakers are what you need. They offer truly superb sound quality that is sure to please even the most discerning audiophile.
High Fidelity
Some customers have complained that the R300’s highs are limited, we’re satisfied with the pleasantly well-rounded soundstage. The tangerine waveguide improves the quality of the high-frequency sound waves. Few competitors come close to offering such a high quality of audio within the R300’s price range.
A Spacious Soundstage
Considering the size of the speakers, we were very impressed by the spaciousness of the soundstage. Elements, including the neodymium magnet, hybrid aluminum cone, large aluminum voice coil, and tweeter venting, help keep distortion to a bare minimum.
Cabinet Improvements
Extra damping and a rigid front baffle ensure that the cabinet does not create any resonance. We’re happy to confirm that the R300 delivers very little noticeable coloration.
Aesthetics
Aesthetically speaking, the KEF R300 leaves a bit to be desired. The cabinets have a glossy black MDF exterior that’s pretty lowkey. The drivers are framed with brushed aluminum rings. This look is pretty cliche as far as home speakers go. We’d like to see KEF embrace a style that blends well with a wider range of home stereo setups.
This speaker can be placed atop a table or mounted to a stand. The speakers are targeting the same central listening area, you should be able to identify the center of your soundstage.
Pros
- Excellent bass and mid
- 6 ½-inch aluminum woofers deliver exceptional low-end power
- 1-inch vented aluminum dome tweeters with absorbant waveguides
- Utilize Uni-Q technology for a larger acoustic sweet spot
- 50-28,000 hertz frequency response
- 8-ohm impedance
- Each speaker has two sets of input terminals for potential bi-amp setups
- Sound excellent at all volumes
- Delivers a dynamic, centered soundstage
Cons
- Heavy
- Limited high range
- The modern aesthetic may not blend well with all home stereo setups
KEF LS50 and KEF R300 characteristics:
| Speaker | KEF LS50 | KEF R300 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 17.2 pounds | 26.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 11.9 x 7.9 x 11.0 inches | 8-5/16 x 15-1/4 x 13-5/8 inches |
| Frequency Range | 47 – 45,000 Hz | 50 – 28,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 85 dB | 88 dB |
| Impedance | 2.18 ohms | 8 ohms |
| Amp Power | 40 – 1,00 watts | 25 -120 watts |
If you are in the market for a new pair of speakers, you may be wondering whether to buy the KEF R300 or the KEF LS50. Both models are excellent choices, but which one is right for you? In this article, we will compare and contrast these two speakers, so that you can make an informed decision. We will look at factors such as sound quality, design, price and more. Let’s get started!
The KEF R300 is a three-way speaker that delivers excellent sound quality. It has a frequency response of 38Hz to 28kHz, so it can handle a wide range of frequencies. The R300 also features an impressive 95dB sensitivity, which means that it can deliver high volumes with minimal distortion. This speaker is perfect for audiophiles who demand the best in sound quality.
The KEF LS50 is a two-way speaker that offers superb value for money. It has a frequency response of 47Hz to 22kHz, and its 92dB sensitivity ensures good volume levels without distortion. The LS50 also boasts outstanding design and build quality, making it a popular choice among music lovers.
The LS50’s Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) gives it a major advantage over the R300. Not only does this sound dampening technology prevent background noise, but it also eliminates unwanted coloration. Listeners get a soundstage that’s nearly identical to that of a professional studio.
Both loudspeakers produce a dynamic range. The LS50 shines in terms of high and midrange. You’ll definitely find this speaker set agreeable if your looking for refined details and warmth. R300’s woofer and bass driver give it a seemingly more extended low range. If it’s deep notes you’re craving, then the R300 is an obvious choice.
The R300 is still the brighter of the two loudspeakers. It has a wider soundstage and a greater frequency range. You’re looking to fill a large listening space, then the R300 is going to be your best option. You can boost the power of the LS50 by positioning it against a wall.
The LS50 looks like a more refined product. The matte finishes and arched walls are definitely an outward reflection of its dynamic sound engineering. The R300 has a more cliche modern loudspeaker aesthetic. You can see this in the glossy black cabinet walls and brushed aluminum framing. Aesthetics are often a matter of personal preference. We’ve seen quite a few audiophiles confused by the LS50’s lack of dust covers.
If you’re tight on space, the LS50 is a solid option. The R300 is slightly taller and heavier. They may feel cumbersome and clunky in a bedroom.
Budget-wise, the R300 is going to come in on the steep end. Both speakers offer good value for their prices.
If reading isn’t your forte, be sure to check out this quick video comparison.
Final Thoughts
KEF is one of the most revered loudspeaker manufacturers. The British company is known for its fiercely competitive audio products. The LS50 and R300 stand as some of their top sellers.
The LS50 is an undeniably impressive mini bookshelf speaker set.
KEF company acoustic technology creates the perfect sound for your home. If you are looking to purchase high-quality speakers that will deliver an excellent listening experience, KEF is the brand for you. With a wide range of products to choose from, KEF has something for everyone. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of acoustic technology offered by KEF and how they can improve your home audio experience.
KEF’s acoustic technology is based on the principle of providing a uniform sound field. This means that the sound from the speakers will be evenly distributed throughout the room, creating a natural and immersive listening experience. KEF offers several different types of acoustic technology, each with its own unique benefits:
* Uni-Q drivers: these drivers are designed to provide a wide dispersion of sound, making them perfect for use in home theaters or multi-room setups.
* Tangerine Waveguide: this waveguide helps to create an even wider dispersion of sound, resulting in a more spacious and immersive listening experience.
* Bass enhancement technologies: KEF’s bass enhancement technologies help to deliver tight and punchy bass notes.
This compact unit delivers precise sound at all frequencies. The dynamic, uncolored soundstage will have your home listening space feeling like a professional studio. You’re sure to get a little more clarity and pronunciation with the R300. Just be prepared to shell out a few more dollars. Bottom Line: You cannot go wrong with either of these KEF speakers!
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