I have the gray ones, red uni-Q, biamping them with an Adcom 2535L. (Class A always!} Really opened up the low end. Source is a Brooklyn Bridge. Thank you for posting.
I don't blame them, but most UA-cam reviewers gravitate towards small bookshelf speakers due to shipping, set up, and returning them. Easier to work with a 20 lb. speaker than one pushing 100 lbs. But yeah, as the old saying goes, "there's no replacement for displacement" at least in rooms that can do them justice. Glad to see Steve do a "large" speaker for a change.
@@rosswarren436 Hi Russ, yeah, agreed, and to your point, it really needs to be big speakers, big room, and small speakers, small room, to a certain extent. hence many people gravitate towards the bookshelf speakers on stands, or the small desk top type, since space, or even ratty acoustics is an issue, iow, sub/satellite combo. For those with those problems and/or other problems of proximity (iow, sonic disturbance), headphones, and headphone amps are really popular. I didn’t mean to sound like a snob, but there are just times when size is the best solution.😉
@@shipsahoy1793 yeah, I don't normally listen at "crazy" volumes anymore, but my old AR-9 speakers powered by a Carver amp in my 13' x 25' living room could sound like you were at a rock show. I'll likely get floor standers again, but I know many people seem to be happy with bookshelf speakers supplemented by a subwoofer or two. Large speakers as Steve notes can just sound so effortless in presenting music while a small bookshelf can be perceived as running out of steam. I do want whatever I get to sound good at both low (65dB) and higher volumes.
@@shipsahoy1793 I think cost is also another consideration for a lot of people. I started my interest in audio gear with headphones since that’s what I could actually afford.
@@Oxibase Yep, that is another big consideration. Even for guys (like me) that have been around, have lots of “stuff” for different reasons or purposes, and don’t have the green we used to. I’m so glad I have some good higher end stuff that I wouldn’t be able to buy now, so I have to take care of it. Hopefully, it will all out live me, especially the speakers! I thank the man upstairs for letting me keep my hearing to a bandwidth that allows me to enjoy music almost as well as I could when I was younger. I have friends that weren’t so lucky! Like Ross, I essentially keep it below 90 dBA, with a lot of long listening sessions in the 65-85 dBA range where my ears are.
The walnut finish is book matched veneer with impeccable finish on all six sides. When new the finish doesn't look very dark, but will amber over time into a very rich dark walnut color. Sunlight will speed up the process considerably. It took mine a couple years to go to a dark walnut and looks much better than when new. The R series are made in China in Kef's own factory, which makes them a great value. Quality control with lower labor costs.
Aside from being myself a fan of Steve... I happened to be looking at the pricing of the Rx versus Rx Metas just last night, thinking about where I might want to spend my own money. So, I was also genuinely invested in this very timely review!
'A killer?' Well you know there's so many of these in the US aren't there? But you know what? Steve's audiophiliac system of the day always reminds me of women comparing their new cookers. You know these are so often such sad, sorry little male stereo systems?
I had different speakers from Kef and I loved them, at a certain point I didn’t like the new models, but I kept following the branch and the latest 16 years for me they were really back on track. So when I wanted to buy a pair of bookshelf speakers I went for the LS 50 ore the R3 but they needed a to expensive amplifier for my budget so I bought a pair of Amphion Argon One speakers with sounded extreem good with my Marantz streamer receiver, the K3 who I liked very much needed more power to sound than my Marantz could deliver, ( I bought the Marantz to combine with B&W 606/607 but they sounded to harsh for my taste). Love your channel.Ludo Belgium.
Steve have you ever looked at the speaker brand from the viewer system of the day-Philharmonic? Read interesting things online and would be curious your take
Very good review Steve. Nice your attention to placement, room suitability etc. Had KEF R7 speakers (not meta version) a few years ago and I recognize some of your experiences (neutral, bass, spaciousness etc). Those were already very good loudspeakers that heralded my return to the hi-fi world. With the Hegel H190 that was a great combination. I heard the KEF Reference 5 Meta last year, it was already top notch, so this R7 meta version will probably be great too.
Haven't heard any other KEF, but my KEF Coda 7 bookshelves are still my favorites! Got them ten years ago on craigslist for $50 and they sound so sweet. So of course this video got me salivating for more KEF goodness.
As usual, very helpful review - you always articulate the differences between the speakers that you use to compare and the reviewed speaker. As I listened, it struck me that another form of review that could be quite useful would be to select a group of speakers that you consider to be especially good for a certain type of music or listening situation. For example, like many older music lovers, I have a lot of hearing loss in mid to upper frequencies. While I listen to a very broad range of music, I have a great appreciation for vocals, especially female. While I could EQ my system, perhaps another way of helping me hear is to use speakers that are particularly good at detail and separation in the mid-range. Many audio equipment reviews may mention these qualities but, of course, each reviewer will have a unique perspective on whether a given speaker has, say, crisp, fast bass. A single (experienced!) reviewer, however, can apply their particular experience of such qualities on a consistent basis between a range of speakers. So, reviews that address groups of speakers that meet particular listening preferences or needs would be really cool and helpful. Just a thought. Love the channel.
Could you talk a little more about the comparison with the b&w 705 s3? You mentioned the 705 has more detail in the highs. How do they compare regarding the mids?
Nice review but not quite clear about the difference in sound-quality between the Reference 3 Meta and the R7 Meta. Also, would someone please compare the regular R7 to its Meta version?
Hi Steve l love your channel a lot , you're one of the best audio Reviewer in the community. Recently I watched the latest Martin Logan xt f100 speakers reviewed by Andrew Robinson, if possible could you do a review as well or a smaller range like the f10 f20 , greatly appreciated what you've been contributing the amazing knowledge in audio reviews, Thank you for everything 😀.
I wish I had a fellow audiophile to listen to my system but I dont really know anyone even into hi fi! I built some transmission lines 20 years ago from a design in Hifi news and record review,a Richard McDonald design,there now 3 way using kef drivers b200"s with a extra bass driver on the top face,3 way active amplification,they sound amazing,the bass response is very deep but it would be nice to have another option.
Steve, before Herb is about to start community gardening season once again I'd appreciate one more interview. Topic: "Getting older as an audiophile, age-related hearing loss and how to deal with it to maintain enthusiasm."
Well, I think he was thinking about it as a "unit" not the separate drivers that "unit" contains. KEF even differentiates them that way in their literature. I guess you could say it is a "full-range unit", but yeah, not a single driver.
Exactly... look at the surround on the LS50 vis-à-vis the surround of the bigger KEFs... The two way LS50 has more throw to the ring driver woofer ... whereas the three ways high pass the coax, and the ring driver doesn't need the extra surround throw. Thats just speculation, I've never encountered anyone addressing this.
@johnprice4819 thankfully I got into the world of Kef speakers once the Meta was introduced..cause I couldn't understand at first the hype when the Ls50's conquered the hifi world
You have a very cool style...enjoyed your review a lot. I would like you to review the Arendal 1723 towers. It's getting a lot of attention. I would enjoy hearing your take. Thanks
You mentioned playing at 90 db. Is that safe? My system sounds much better (more dynamic) if I open it up a bit so that peaks are around 90 db, but I worry about hearing damage. Have you ever done a vid on safe listening levels?
Hi Steve, love your videos! If you could have one pair of speakers and had to choose between the KEF R7 Meta and the Dynaudio Heritage Special which would it be? The speakers would be powered by a Hegel H190. Thanks in advance!
Hi Steve! I’m trying so hard to decide over an upcoming upgrade. I have long livingroom, 60sqm, with the listening are in the middle and moderate-low auditions. What should I choose? R7 or R11? €2000 vs €3000. Is it worth it to go R11? It’s true that my current amp is Rega Elex-r running Monitor Audio Silver 200. I’m looking into Rotel RA-1592 MKII as well. Thank you!
Steve, i currently own a pair of Klipsch RF 7 Iiis. I'm thinking about replacing them with KEFs. I can't decide if I want to get the R series Meta (R11) or go straight to the Reference 3 meta. I'm Not sure if the improvement is worth the money. What's your opinion?
Did you ever decide? I’m curious cause I have Klipsch rf7iiis as well and was torn between changing to the kef r11s or the bowers and Wilkins 700 series
I'd love to see Steve review Wilson' Sabrina X speakers - I live in a small California bungalow, so I can relate to people living in apartment like Steve. My house is too small for any of Wilson's larger speakers, but the Sabrinas would work well. .
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac Tx for replying Steve. I won't ask why you won't review them - it's your channel and your decision (but it is puzzling). Btw, I downloaded, listened to and enjoyed the Fine Young Cannibals remix you mentioned. I really appreciate your music tips. Thx!
hoping to get a demo of the R7 meta and R3 meta at a dealer soon. I had a pair of Q350 which I loved. I was always tossing up between a LS50 meta and R3 for a new pair. then the R3 metas came out! can’t wait to hear them both Wondering if anyone has experience on comparing the sound stage between the q350, LS 50 meta and the R3?
@@roeland1205 listening to some good demos online, I found the wharfedale 12.2 were quite close to LS50 metas in terms of dynamics etc. In your experience, was there much difference between the Q350 and the LS50 Ms? I really cant wait to hear a pair of the R3 meta and R7 metas in person.
@@snakeobias not so much in dynamics. They are both 2 way small box speakers. I would even say that with ample power the Q350 can be more dynamic then the LS50. LS50 however is in another league when it comes to detail retrieval, soundstage and imaging. For me it can be overbearing even. However I did not get to listen to my own tube amp on 4ohm taps. I suspect this would give me another perspective on the LS50s. In any case, amplification is a real concern with these speakers. They just love power even though their specs suggest something else.
I can speak on this, had original ls50 and ls50 meta (very minimal differences), the sleeper? Well I liked the q350 better overall, the R3 I haven't had but have heard they are really good. Best bang for the buck I'd say the q350.
@@roeland1205 fair enough. I loved my 350s, I had to keep them on the side due to my poor room set up, but they still sounded excellent. I traded them in because, like you said, theres a little bit of detail missing. But after being without them for a while, I kind of miss that sound. So the LS50 Metas have a better soundstage than the Q350s? Its hard to find a balance between all those things (dynamics, imaging etc). thanks for your input
Steve, I implore you to review the little xDuoo MT-604 headphone amp! I just bought one and upgraded the 4 tubes. WOW! What a pleasant surprise! Marvelous sound, even if it were 5X more expensive. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE. 😁
Hi Steve, I just received my pair today and have about 8 hours of listening time into them. My first impression is the upper midrange vocals are just a bit harsh, everything else is good. I’m sure they have to break in a bit more. The lower midrange could use a bit more weight. The highs are fine and bass is good but not real deep, wish it had a bit more punch. I’m using an Ayon tube 70/rms pure class a with lots of current with PS Audio preamp and dac. I’ll report back after 50 hours and give my final verdict as whether I will keep them or not. Disclaimer: all this is very subjective and subject to many variables so your results may vary..😂😂😂😂
@@menash41 yeah, I tried everything possible to no avail, maybe poor synergy with my amp. I sent them back and I’m auditioning a set of Polk Legends L600. So far they are excellent, very smooth midrange, good detail but not clinical, excellent dep textured bass, and image excellent . So far I tried Kef R5 Metas and ML X100 and the Polks hands down are better and for quite a bit less money. And it’s not about money and it is about value;I had a budget of 5-6k a pair. Even the fit and finish on the Polks are better. And I can honestly say in my humble opinion that to do better than the Polks, one would have to spend quite a bit more than 5k on a set. Thank you for your feedback.
You won’t believe what I ended up choosing for what I feel is the best all around speaker under 6k, the SVS Ultra Towers. The bass is detailed and deep, midrange is smooth and has weight, and the highs are neutral with good extension. I’ve tried Kef, Martin Logan, Mofi Source Point 10, Tekton Pendragon, and Polk Legend 600 which I feel is a runner up to the Ultra Towers. So there you go, spending more money doesn’t always equate to yielding better sound. I feel I would have to spend upwards of 10k to get a bit more refinement and it’s just not worth it. Or maybe it just comes down to synergy with Ayon spirit tube power amp, who know. I rest my case--for now. 😉
I have the Kef R11 spkrs. They look great but sound wise don't really hold their weight against other spkrs. I find the bass sloppy with no punch and the rear firing ports are probably part of the problem. I found that a McIntosh and Luxman with EQ help improve the quality of sound. I'm selling my R11'S and looking at other options outside of Kef.
About 1 month after writing this, I sold my KEF R11's and purchased a pair of Warfedale Elysium 4 speakers, and wow! Paired with my McIntosh MA12000 integrated amp with EQ these speakers sound really good, way better than KEF did.
I had a positive experience with KEF speakers from the past. Played it loud and not so loud and was please with the sound. On a different note, calling your product Meta could either be a benefit or a liability.
Still in the 60 day free trial period dirty weekends. Thin mid-range? I feel that way about the upper mid-range to treble. And in that area, more recessed than thin. Maybe they are synonyms when it comes to sound. I guess the mid-range covers a very wide range of tones.
I had R 11 which was disaster in bass region for a such a big speaker. It was driven with $50K amplifier, so I am sceptic about R7 and the bass that can produce. Do not believe reviewers, check it for yourself.
At the ages over 40 most people have no use of a hysterical high frequences Its more wise too buy a speaker that isnt expensiv and draw down the treble with the treblenob.
Hey Steve - you mention big speakers have a big sound in a few videos - what does that actually mean? Is that about bass quantity? Is it possible to achieve a big sound with small monitor and sub(s)? I have noticed that many large speakers only have a small, single, tweeter so I'm assuming big sound comes from the other frequencies? Thank you.
Think of it this way, big speakers create a sound that feels closer to life size than smaller speakers. Not just the sound stage, but also in small and large scale dynamics. Power delivery. An ease in presentation that small speakers, even ones supported with subwoofers never get close to.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac that's very insightful - thank you for your help 🙂 I'm guessing this has something to do with the speakers ability to move air? To move a lot of air, a small speaker must create high pressure (a little like a fan), but a big speaker can move a lot of air at low pressure (like a breeze). You feel the difference. I'm not sure how SPL's affect listening experience, but I'm guessing high SPL's can diminish sound quality. Thanks again.
@@FOH3663 not sure I gave them a shot for a few weeks. Just didn't like them. Used to scan speak soft dome. My new speaker is beryllium. Even that's less harsh and non metallic.
Steve is always recommending the new and the latest because he's out to promote the industry, not to provide you the buyer with the best possible choice for the dollars spent. Ever notice he never recommends buying used gear because there is nothing in it for himself or his friends in the industry. Buy any of the items he recommends and in six to ten years how much do you think it will be worth? Now go out and buy some classic vintage gear and watch it's value grow. This should be a factor in anyone's decision about which gear to send their money on. But with SG it never is... it's only about promoting the very latest from the audio industry. The bottom line for Steve is the sales figure for audio makers/sellers many of which are his buddies.
Oh my. This is the first time I find I disagree with you! Maybe the R7 is different, but I just bought the R3 Meta and returned them. Compared to the LS50 they were harsh, the treble and soundstage not as precise and the bass on the vocals was boomy due to the lower driver! Maybe they need more running in but I ran them allot for two weeks and was deeply dissapointed
That seems surprising to me, every review I have seen that compared the LS50s against the R3s came to the conclusion that the R3s were fuller sounding, naturally being 3-way, but more relaxed in dynamics than the LS50s. I have to listen to the new Metas one of these days.
Great review Steve. How do you think the R7 Meta would compare against the Cornwall 4 you had there for a while? And do you think the Reference 3 Meta is worth 3 times the money over the R7 Meta?
Cornwall is less accurate/neutral, more closed in midrange, but bigger, punchier bass, plays loud with greater ease, superior quiet listening with Cornwalls. R3 is worth it, especially is large rooms.
Steve ... Did your friend Herb Reichert get a chance to listen to these KEF R7 Meta set up in your listening room? As I recall, Herb was/is using a Parasound Halo A21+ stereo amplifier as one of his reference amplifiers, and I suspect that amplifier might be a very good choice to drive those loudspeakers. Borrowing that amplifier for some of your listening would have been a worthwhile effort and a good opportunity, if Herb was amenable to that notion. Too late now. I recently saw a few new B-stock units of that amplifier selling for $2.4k from one of the big retail vendors, which is a nice discount from the 3.5k MSRP.
Steve, the LS50 Uni-Q isn't a single full range driver.. 1:56 It's a 2-way tweeter + midwoofer. Can't believe you're making this claim after owning the LS50s (og and/or Meta) all these years.
Hi Steve. I love your channel You make me buy too many records, but that's my problem. The reason I'm writing is I wonder if you know the family band of "Kitty, Daisy & Lewis". They record their own music in total analog to the extent that their first 2 albums were pressed on CD, LP, and a book of 78s that they they master and cut on their own 78 cutter. Check them out. Cheers from Toronto, Dominic
Nudging 7 grand for a Tang Band on a board with a 15" bass guitar driver? And sounding not as good in the highs as the KEF cos the Tang Band doesn't have tweeters. Honestly you could make that for way less than a grand. And if you made a tiny gap between the 5" driver and the board you would get better highs. If you made some of those speakers yourself, you would be able to do what you like to them...like implementing the gap with spacers. Start with a 1 cm gap. This makes way more highs and makes you "see" their throats! Not hard to put a couple of drivers on a board.
Oh yes, I agree would be interesting. But I've already returned the R7s. If I use my imagination to do a comparison I would guess the LS 60 bass goes deeper, and because it's a skinny speaker it disappears more than the R7. The R7 would likely have a better balanced mid range, the two 6 1/2 inch drivers flanking the Uni Q would account for that. But it's all up for grabs.
I have a problem with engineers who can't make a speaker with at least 90 plus sensitivity. What's the problem.. here's one example it shows how good or bad your actual equipment works.....
This speaker is hard to find good comparative reviews on. Every subjective thing said here could also apply to most good speakers, where is the Forte4 and other $5K speaker comparisons? People in the market for the expensive reference don't care about the R7 meta.
Wow, this review was all over the place with no logical flow. Maybe you should script these out a little more before recording them. You spent more time explaining how other speakers sound in comparison to the KEFs than you did explaining how the KEFs sound. And could you have mentioned the KEF Reference 3 a few more times? Who cares about those? They’re three times the price. And comparing a mid-sized floorstander to the tiny LS-50s and B&Ws, really? Where was the comparison to the KEF R3 which was your speaker of the year a few years ago, and is basically the R7 with one less bass woofer??? That’s what we were hoping to hear your opinion on. What a complete disappointment.
Honestly I stopped watching your channel, because the rate of new products that you review is simply not realistic for the average person… I mean once a person finds speakers or whatever they love, the search ends, it would be unrealistic to just endlessly upgrade and spend the $$$ that’s how I feel about it. Yes I stopped watching other channels too, unless if it is truly something unique and new. Maybe I would watch more if you have something else and not just new product reviews , imo ;) Cheers!!
Could still be interesting to know what's out there . . . you can't really expect channels to stop posting reviews after they've reviewed the one pair of speakers that you happen to buy, right?
@@andrehendrik true, but just got tired of constantly seeing expensive products being reviewed like, I have settled on my EPOS ES14 and I love them!!! Cheers!!
yep- upgrade-itis is a killer. My grandfather used to say “be content content content. Theres nothing like contentment”. After getting into hifi gear I’m starting to take heed of that advice.
![АЛАУДИНОВ у Скабеевой: эти их ВСУ нас НЕ ДОГОНЯТ 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/an0anqU4WGQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Steve - your joy at this hobby is infectious and really cheers me up. Thank you for being there.
I love all these photos of the Audiophiliac's personal rooms, because you can see all his HiFi gear, his music collections and so on. Great show. :)
Now we want to hear about how the KEF Ref1 meta stacks up among these speakers!
I have the gray ones, red uni-Q, biamping them with an Adcom 2535L. (Class A always!} Really opened up the low end. Source is a Brooklyn Bridge. Thank you for posting.
Finally someone realizes size ‘actually’ matters regarding full range sound! 🤯
I don't blame them, but most UA-cam reviewers gravitate towards small bookshelf speakers due to shipping, set up, and returning them. Easier to work with a 20 lb. speaker than one pushing 100 lbs. But yeah, as the old saying goes, "there's no replacement for displacement" at least in rooms that can do them justice. Glad to see Steve do a "large" speaker for a change.
@@rosswarren436 Hi Russ, yeah, agreed, and to your point, it really needs to be big speakers, big room, and small speakers, small room, to a certain extent. hence many people gravitate towards the bookshelf speakers on stands, or the small desk top type, since space, or even ratty acoustics is an issue, iow, sub/satellite combo. For those with those problems and/or other problems of proximity (iow, sonic disturbance), headphones, and headphone amps are really popular. I didn’t mean to sound like a snob, but there are just times when size is the best solution.😉
@@shipsahoy1793 yeah, I don't normally listen at "crazy" volumes anymore, but my old AR-9 speakers powered by a Carver amp in my 13' x 25' living room could sound like you were at a rock show.
I'll likely get floor standers again, but I know many people seem to be happy with bookshelf speakers supplemented by a subwoofer or two.
Large speakers as Steve notes can just sound so effortless in presenting music while a small bookshelf can be perceived as running out of steam.
I do want whatever I get to sound good at both low (65dB) and higher volumes.
@@shipsahoy1793 I think cost is also another consideration for a lot of people. I started my interest in audio gear with headphones since that’s what I could actually afford.
@@Oxibase Yep, that is another big consideration. Even for guys (like me) that have been around, have lots of “stuff” for different reasons or purposes, and don’t have the green we used to. I’m so glad I have some good higher end stuff that I wouldn’t be able to buy now, so I have to take care of it. Hopefully, it will all out live me, especially the speakers! I thank the man upstairs for letting me keep my hearing to a bandwidth that allows me to enjoy music almost as well as I could when I was younger. I have friends that weren’t so lucky! Like Ross, I essentially keep it below 90 dBA, with a lot of long listening sessions in the 65-85 dBA range where my ears are.
The walnut finish is book matched veneer with impeccable finish on all six sides. When new the finish doesn't look very dark, but will amber over time into a very rich dark walnut color. Sunlight will speed up the process considerably. It took mine a couple years to go to a dark walnut and looks much better than when new. The R series are made in China in Kef's own factory, which makes them a great value. Quality control with lower labor costs.
I saw this video published one minute ago and by the time I clicked it, apparently there were 5 views and 9 likes. Seems like Steve has some fans!
Aside from being myself a fan of Steve... I happened to be looking at the pricing of the Rx versus Rx Metas just last night, thinking about where I might want to spend my own money. So, I was also genuinely invested in this very timely review!
What is that supposed to mean?
@@justadad2304 it’s weird you were the first one to comment on your own comment
i always wondered why they didnt do the r3 meta first way back it was already a 4.5 or 5 star rated speaker it would have been instant killer
@@cosmicenforcer2534 I said they should have done the rline first instead of last brother
'A killer?' Well you know there's so many of these in the US aren't there? But you know what? Steve's audiophiliac system of the day always reminds me of women comparing their new cookers. You know these are so often such sad, sorry little male stereo systems?
@@keplermission I really like to see the "system of the day". It's great for ideas and see what works for others.
Just beginning to watch your review. Fascinated that you played FYC. One of my favorite bands from the late 80's and a staple on my playlist.
Jimmy Rushing - "Mr. 5x5" was a great dancer too
Another great review with interesting music suggestions, I particularly like the comparisons, they are clarifying.
I had different speakers from Kef and I loved them, at a certain point I didn’t like the new models, but I kept following the branch and the latest 16 years for me they were really back on track. So when I wanted to buy a pair of bookshelf speakers I went for the LS 50 ore the R3 but they needed a to expensive amplifier for my budget so I bought a pair of Amphion Argon One speakers with sounded extreem good with my Marantz streamer receiver, the K3 who I liked very much needed more power to sound than my Marantz could deliver, ( I bought the Marantz to combine with B&W 606/607 but they sounded to harsh for my taste).
Love your channel.Ludo Belgium.
Steve have you ever looked at the speaker brand from the viewer system of the day-Philharmonic? Read interesting things online and would be curious your take
Nice! Hope you review the r3 meta!
Very good review Steve. Nice your attention to placement, room suitability etc. Had KEF R7 speakers (not meta version) a few years ago and I recognize some of your experiences (neutral, bass, spaciousness etc). Those were already very good loudspeakers that heralded my return to the hi-fi world. With the Hegel H190 that was a great combination.
I heard the KEF Reference 5 Meta last year, it was already top notch, so this R7 meta version will probably be great too.
what speakers do you own now?
@@jearley22 Moved over to Dynaudio.
@@klaverro which one?
The Kef R11 Meta's are the Star in the new R-series and are Giant Killers ! Kef Reference LITE R11 Meta's ...😇🤫
Haven't heard any other KEF, but my KEF Coda 7 bookshelves are still my favorites! Got them ten years ago on craigslist for $50 and they sound so sweet. So of course this video got me salivating for more KEF goodness.
Another great review Steve
You just got love big speakers!
😁👍
Please review the KEF R3 Meta!
You are right - I bought the Monitor Audio Platinum 500II's
1.9 metres of pure soundstage and presence whatever they are fed with.
steve rocks!
Yes he does !! Love the binding post !
Bi-amping is the way to go for less Electronic Mechanical Force (EMF)
As usual, very helpful review - you always articulate the differences between the speakers that you use to compare and the reviewed speaker.
As I listened, it struck me that another form of review that could be quite useful would be to select a group of speakers that you consider to be especially good for a certain type of music or listening situation. For example, like many older music lovers, I have a lot of hearing loss in mid to upper frequencies. While I listen to a very broad range of music, I have a great appreciation for vocals, especially female. While I could EQ my system, perhaps another way of helping me hear is to use speakers that are particularly good at detail and separation in the mid-range. Many audio equipment reviews may mention these qualities but, of course, each reviewer will have a unique perspective on whether a given speaker has, say, crisp, fast bass. A single (experienced!) reviewer, however, can apply their particular experience of such qualities on a consistent basis between a range of speakers.
So, reviews that address groups of speakers that meet particular listening
preferences or needs would be really cool and helpful. Just a thought. Love the channel.
Could you talk a little more about the comparison with the b&w 705 s3? You mentioned the 705 has more detail in the highs. How do they compare regarding the mids?
Hmmm thinking of upgrading to the R3 Meta from my LS50 Meta.
Nice review but not quite clear about the difference in sound-quality between the Reference 3 Meta and the R7 Meta. Also, would someone please compare the regular R7 to its Meta version?
Exactly, terribly disjointed review - all over the place.
Good review
I wonder how the R7 compares to Martin Logan Motion XT F100?
Steve, is always such a pleasure to ear you! Do you have an opinion on the comparison between those and the BW 600s or the BW 700s?! God bless!
Hi Steve l love your channel a lot , you're one of the best audio Reviewer in the community.
Recently I watched the latest Martin Logan xt f100 speakers reviewed by Andrew Robinson, if possible could you do a review as well or a smaller range like the f10 f20 , greatly appreciated what you've been contributing the amazing knowledge in audio reviews, Thank you for everything 😀.
Glad you answered the question !
I wish I had a fellow audiophile to listen to my system but I dont really know anyone even into hi fi! I built some transmission lines 20 years ago from a design in Hifi news and record review,a Richard McDonald design,there now 3 way using kef drivers b200"s with a extra bass driver on the top face,3 way active amplification,they sound amazing,the bass response is very deep but it would be nice to have another option.
Great review! Thanks!
My room size is 30 by 22 by 12 foot ceiling both these speakers are way too small for me but I have always liked the build on the bigger KEFS
Just wondering what the Ref 1 Meta would be like in a smaller room as compared to the Ref 3 that you reviewed? Nice job on the R7, Steve. Thank you!
Steve, before Herb is about to start community gardening season once again I'd appreciate one more interview. Topic: "Getting older as an audiophile, age-related hearing loss and how to deal with it to maintain enthusiasm."
The LS 50 meta’s driver is not full range. It’s a two-way speaker, the crossover is at 2100Hz.
Well, I think he was thinking about it as a "unit" not the separate drivers that "unit" contains. KEF even differentiates them that way in their literature. I guess you could say it is a "full-range unit", but yeah, not a single driver.
Exactly... look at the surround on the LS50 vis-à-vis the surround of the bigger KEFs...
The two way LS50 has more throw to the ring driver woofer ... whereas the three ways high pass the coax, and the ring driver doesn't need the extra surround throw.
Thats just speculation, I've never encountered anyone addressing this.
You’re going to keep pushing me higher up the line. I like the ls50 so now I need the R5, then the R11, and then a blade or muon.
I am on the same page....
It a bad page to be on.. my non-meta R3’s have me salivating for upstream models…!
@johnprice4819 thankfully I got into the world of Kef speakers once the Meta was introduced..cause I couldn't understand at first the hype when the Ls50's conquered the hifi world
Try them first! I found the R3 totally unrefined Vs the LS50 meta
You have a very cool style...enjoyed your review a lot. I would like you to review the Arendal 1723 towers. It's getting a lot of attention. I would enjoy hearing your take. Thanks
So the R11 Meta should be even bigger n badder
Steve, please is their any chance of another episode of the good old crazy hifi retail days with wacka macka clients.
You mentioned playing at 90 db. Is that safe? My system sounds much better (more dynamic) if I open it up a bit so that peaks are around 90 db, but I worry about hearing damage. Have you ever done a vid on safe listening levels?
Hi Steve, love your videos! If you could have one pair of speakers and had to choose between the KEF R7 Meta and the Dynaudio Heritage Special which would it be? The speakers would be powered by a Hegel H190. Thanks in advance!
Love the thought behind this… similar price points, profoundly different executions
Lta amp and kef r7 metas! Dreaming of being able to hear that combo! ❤
Hi Steve! I’m trying so hard to decide over an upcoming upgrade. I have long livingroom, 60sqm, with the listening are in the middle and moderate-low auditions. What should I choose? R7 or R11? €2000 vs €3000. Is it worth it to go R11? It’s true that my current amp is Rega Elex-r running Monitor Audio Silver 200. I’m looking into Rotel RA-1592 MKII as well. Thank you!
Nice :) ... I got my eye on a $5,000 dollar guitar (I'm saving for) and I'm not going to get sidetracked! lol
Steve, i currently own a pair of Klipsch RF 7 Iiis. I'm thinking about replacing them with KEFs. I can't decide if I want to get the R series Meta (R11) or go straight to the Reference 3 meta. I'm Not sure if the improvement is worth the money. What's your opinion?
Did you ever decide? I’m curious cause I have Klipsch rf7iiis as well and was torn between changing to the kef r11s or the bowers and Wilkins 700 series
I'd love to see Steve review Wilson' Sabrina X speakers - I live in a small California bungalow, so I can relate to people living in apartment like Steve. My house is too small for any of Wilson's larger speakers, but the Sabrinas would work well. .
No plans for Sabrina, but I really do like them.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac Tx for replying Steve. I won't ask why you won't review them - it's your channel and your decision (but it is puzzling).
Btw, I downloaded, listened to and enjoyed the Fine Young Cannibals remix you mentioned. I really appreciate your music tips. Thx!
Cool airplane plant.
Use to have B&W sold them and bought KEFs
hoping to get a demo of the R7 meta and R3 meta at a dealer soon. I had a pair of Q350 which I loved. I was always tossing up between a LS50 meta and R3 for a new pair. then the R3 metas came out! can’t wait to hear them both
Wondering if anyone has experience on comparing the sound stage between the q350, LS 50 meta and the R3?
I did. I like R3 the most overall. R3 is kinda like the Q350, but way way more refined.
@@roeland1205 listening to some good demos online, I found the wharfedale 12.2 were quite close to LS50 metas in terms of dynamics etc. In your experience, was there much difference between the Q350 and the LS50 Ms? I really cant wait to hear a pair of the R3 meta and R7 metas in person.
@@snakeobias not so much in dynamics. They are both 2 way small box speakers. I would even say that with ample power the Q350 can be more dynamic then the LS50. LS50 however is in another league when it comes to detail retrieval, soundstage and imaging. For me it can be overbearing even. However I did not get to listen to my own tube amp on 4ohm taps. I suspect this would give me another perspective on the LS50s. In any case, amplification is a real concern with these speakers. They just love power even though their specs suggest something else.
I can speak on this, had original ls50 and ls50 meta (very minimal differences), the sleeper? Well I liked the q350 better overall, the R3 I haven't had but have heard they are really good. Best bang for the buck I'd say the q350.
@@roeland1205 fair enough. I loved my 350s, I had to keep them on the side due to my poor room set up, but they still sounded excellent. I traded them in because, like you said, theres a little bit of detail missing. But after being without them for a while, I kind of miss that sound. So the LS50 Metas have a better soundstage than the Q350s? Its hard to find a balance between all those things (dynamics, imaging etc). thanks for your input
Steve, I implore you to review the little xDuoo MT-604 headphone amp! I just bought one and upgraded the 4 tubes. WOW! What a pleasant surprise! Marvelous sound, even if it were 5X more expensive. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE. 😁
Can you do a review on the new Yamaha 2000 receiver
Hi Steve, I just received my pair today and have about 8 hours of listening time into them. My first impression is the upper midrange vocals are just a bit harsh, everything else is good. I’m sure they have to break in a bit more. The lower midrange could use a bit more weight. The highs are fine and bass is good but not real deep, wish it had a bit more punch. I’m using an Ayon tube 70/rms pure class a with lots of current with PS Audio preamp and dac. I’ll report back after 50 hours and give my final verdict as whether I will keep them or not. Disclaimer: all this is very subjective and subject to many variables so your results may vary..😂😂😂😂
Try bringing the speakers closer together and make sure they are not towed-in.
@@menash41 yeah, I tried everything possible to no avail, maybe poor synergy with my amp. I sent them back and I’m auditioning a set of Polk Legends L600. So far they are excellent, very smooth midrange, good detail but not clinical, excellent dep textured bass, and image excellent . So far I tried Kef R5 Metas and ML X100 and the Polks hands down are better and for quite a bit less money. And it’s not about money and it is about value;I had a budget of 5-6k a pair. Even the fit and finish on the Polks are better. And I can honestly say in my humble opinion that to do better than the Polks, one would have to spend quite a bit more than 5k on a set. Thank you for your feedback.
You won’t believe what I ended up choosing for what I feel is the best all around speaker under 6k, the SVS Ultra Towers. The bass is detailed and deep, midrange is smooth and has weight, and the highs are neutral with good extension. I’ve tried Kef, Martin Logan, Mofi Source Point 10, Tekton Pendragon, and Polk Legend 600 which I feel is a runner up to the Ultra Towers. So there you go, spending more money doesn’t always equate to yielding better sound. I feel I would have to spend upwards of 10k to get a bit more refinement and it’s just not worth it. Or maybe it just comes down to synergy with Ayon spirit tube power amp, who know. I rest my case--for now. 😉
I have the Kef R11 spkrs. They look great but sound wise don't really hold their weight against other spkrs. I find the bass sloppy with no punch and the rear firing ports are probably part of the problem. I found that a McIntosh and Luxman with EQ help improve the quality of sound. I'm selling my R11'S and looking at other options outside of Kef.
About 1 month after writing this, I sold my KEF R11's and purchased a pair of Warfedale Elysium 4 speakers, and wow! Paired with my McIntosh MA12000 integrated amp with EQ these speakers sound really good, way better than KEF did.
@@InPursuitOfLibertydid you have the R11 metas? Or the original? The metas apparently from the reviews sound way better than the non metas
Pure Audio Project is Pure perfection
I had a positive experience with KEF speakers from the past. Played it loud and not so loud and was please with the sound.
On a different note, calling your product Meta could either be a benefit or a liability.
Still in the 60 day free trial period dirty weekends. Thin mid-range? I feel that way about the upper mid-range to treble. And in that area, more recessed than thin. Maybe they are synonyms when it comes to sound. I guess the mid-range covers a very wide range of tones.
I reckon they're very sensitive to source equipment. Try a tube preamp, or an r2r dac.
How does it compare to the KEF LS60?
Big speakers rule!! 😊.
Oh man, now I’m going to get the hate mail 😂
I had R 11 which was disaster in bass region for a such a big speaker. It was driven with $50K amplifier, so I am sceptic about R7 and the bass that can produce. Do not believe reviewers, check it for yourself.
Do you think these would do OK with a single Schiit Aegir? (40 watts per channel for 4 ohm) I don’t listen loud.
Not ideal, and mono Aegirs won't be great with the R7's 3.2 ohm load.
Anyone know if a Sansui 8080 would be safe to drive 4ohm loads? Looking at the r3 meta, not the r7.
At the ages over 40 most people have no use of a hysterical high frequences Its more wise too buy a speaker that isnt expensiv and draw down the treble with the treblenob.
What's that sound at 6:03......LOL
Hey Steve - you mention big speakers have a big sound in a few videos - what does that actually mean? Is that about bass quantity? Is it possible to achieve a big sound with small monitor and sub(s)? I have noticed that many large speakers only have a small, single, tweeter so I'm assuming big sound comes from the other frequencies? Thank you.
Think of it this way, big speakers create a sound that feels closer to life size than smaller speakers. Not just the sound stage, but also in small and large scale dynamics. Power delivery. An ease in presentation that small speakers, even ones supported with subwoofers never get close to.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac that's very insightful - thank you for your help 🙂 I'm guessing this has something to do with the speakers ability to move air? To move a lot of air, a small speaker must create high pressure (a little like a fan), but a big speaker can move a lot of air at low pressure (like a breeze). You feel the difference. I'm not sure how SPL's affect listening experience, but I'm guessing high SPL's can diminish sound quality. Thanks again.
I have psb t2 speakers. Would the KEF R7 Meta be a step up?
I'm at a crossroads.... I can't decide between the R7 meta or the concept 500. please help?
Used to have Q350, sounds like veiled on high frequency. How this R7 compare to Unifi reference?
Everything is good with you...😞
I've bearly seen the speakers in this review 👀
To me something about the kef sounds almost metallic. It's not every artist or song that brings that out but when it does.
I found the same. I'm sensitive to metallic sound
Sighted bias?
@@FOH3663 not sure I gave them a shot for a few weeks. Just didn't like them. Used to scan speak soft dome. My new speaker is beryllium. Even that's less harsh and non metallic.
Steve is always recommending the new and the latest because he's out to promote the industry, not to provide you the buyer with the best possible choice for the dollars spent. Ever notice he never recommends buying used gear because there is nothing in it for himself or his friends in the industry.
Buy any of the items he recommends and in six to ten years how much do you think it will be worth? Now go out and buy some classic vintage gear and watch it's value grow. This should be a factor in anyone's decision about which gear to send their money on. But with SG it never is... it's only about promoting the very latest from the audio industry. The bottom line for Steve is the sales figure for audio makers/sellers many of which are his buddies.
It's not just Steve, they all make money, some make a lot of money. I enjoy watching some of them. Treat them all with a pinch of salt though.
What’s better paired with the R7 for late night listening, the NAD or the LTA?
LTA
Jason, upgrade that Bifrost 2. I've heard it and it's not up to the level of the rest of your system.
How is it for hip hop?
why the camera keep showing steve ... as if we didn't see enough steve
Steve, have you ever heard a speaker by Troels Gravesen?
Oh my. This is the first time I find I disagree with you! Maybe the R7 is different, but I just bought the R3 Meta and returned them. Compared to the LS50 they were harsh, the treble and soundstage not as precise and the bass on the vocals was boomy due to the lower driver! Maybe they need more running in but I ran them allot for two weeks and was deeply dissapointed
It’s not the speakers, it’s you.
That seems surprising to me, every review I have seen that compared the LS50s against the R3s came to the conclusion that the R3s were fuller sounding, naturally being 3-way, but more relaxed in dynamics than the LS50s. I have to listen to the new Metas one of these days.
should I sell my Q750 and get the R7's ? yes or NO?
Great review Steve. How do you think the R7 Meta would compare against the Cornwall 4 you had there for a while? And do you think the Reference 3 Meta is worth 3 times the money over the R7 Meta?
Cornwall is less accurate/neutral, more closed in midrange, but bigger, punchier bass, plays loud with greater ease, superior quiet listening with Cornwalls. R3 is worth it, especially is large rooms.
The R6 is interesting because I was always pondering that the r2c is rather small.
Ive had mine for a week and the R6 is pretty good. Im in a 17 x 26 room
@@paulhendricks7386 yeah one thing the r2c lacks is bass, unfortunately they did not make it ported but larger midbass drivers is a good start.
Hej steve witch one of the amps worked the Best with the r7 metas.
LTA 40, it had more life to the sound.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac ok thanks. I think it was a good review.
Steve ... Did your friend Herb Reichert get a chance to listen to these KEF R7 Meta set up in your listening room?
As I recall, Herb was/is using a Parasound Halo A21+ stereo amplifier as one of his reference amplifiers, and I suspect that amplifier might be a very good choice to drive those loudspeakers. Borrowing that amplifier for some of your listening would have been a worthwhile effort and a good opportunity, if Herb was amenable to that notion. Too late now.
I recently saw a few new B-stock units of that amplifier selling for $2.4k from one of the big retail vendors, which is a nice discount from the 3.5k MSRP.
Steve, the LS50 Uni-Q isn't a single full range driver.. 1:56 It's a 2-way tweeter + midwoofer. Can't believe you're making this claim after owning the LS50s (og and/or Meta) all these years.
The single chassis driver is full range, surely you know that's what I meant.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac - no, like the entire video, this too was unclear.
Hi Steve. I love your channel
You make me buy too many records, but that's my problem.
The reason I'm writing is I wonder if you know the family band of "Kitty, Daisy & Lewis". They record their own music in total analog to the extent that their first 2 albums were pressed on CD, LP, and a book of 78s that they they master and cut on their own 78 cutter. Check them out. Cheers from Toronto, Dominic
Nudging 7 grand for a Tang Band on a board with a 15" bass guitar driver? And sounding not as good in the highs as the KEF cos the Tang Band doesn't have tweeters. Honestly you could make that for way less than a grand. And if you made a tiny gap between the 5" driver and the board you would get better highs. If you made some of those speakers yourself, you would be able to do what you like to them...like implementing the gap with spacers. Start with a 1 cm gap. This makes way more highs and makes you "see" their throats! Not hard to put a couple of drivers on a board.
Be interesting how these compare to the LS60s
Oh yes, I agree would be interesting. But I've already returned the R7s. If I use my imagination to do a comparison I would guess the LS 60 bass goes deeper, and because it's a skinny speaker it disappears more than the R7. The R7 would likely have a better balanced mid range, the two 6 1/2 inch drivers flanking the Uni Q would account for that. But it's all up for grabs.
anything past 70db’s can damage your hearing say what?
I have a problem with engineers who can't make a speaker with at least 90 plus sensitivity. What's the problem.. here's one example it shows how good or bad your actual equipment works.....
most speakers are not 90db sensitive, even some that cost 500,000 dollars are low sensitivity
Harder to make a smaller speaker that efficient. Easier with larger ones.
Klipsch does it with most of their speakers......
@@davidnord1979 They sure do !!!
This speaker is hard to find good comparative reviews on. Every subjective thing said here could also apply to most good speakers, where is the Forte4 and other $5K speaker comparisons? People in the market for the expensive reference don't care about the R7 meta.
90 db you will kill your hearing
What you believe….or what you heard? Really $5000? WOW I cannot believe this……
biamping these speakers would be the way to go.
Those are tri wire speaker connections.
No, biwire, the center knobs turn biwire on/off.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac I stand corrected.
Wow, this review was all over the place with no logical flow. Maybe you should script these out a little more before recording them. You spent more time explaining how other speakers sound in comparison to the KEFs than you did explaining how the KEFs sound. And could you have mentioned the KEF Reference 3 a few more times? Who cares about those? They’re three times the price. And comparing a mid-sized floorstander to the tiny LS-50s and B&Ws, really? Where was the comparison to the KEF R3 which was your speaker of the year a few years ago, and is basically the R7 with one less bass woofer??? That’s what we were hoping to hear your opinion on. What a complete disappointment.
Sorry you feel that way, but apparently you're in a minority! Thanks for watching.
KEF LS50s are BORING speakers.
To you! Apparently lots of other people think otherwise.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac they are boring, for sale all over the used market.
Honestly I stopped watching your channel, because the rate of new products that you review is simply not realistic for the average person… I mean once a person finds speakers or whatever they love, the search ends, it would be unrealistic to just endlessly upgrade and spend the $$$ that’s how I feel about it.
Yes I stopped watching other channels too, unless if it is truly something unique and new.
Maybe I would watch more if you have something else and not just new product reviews , imo ;)
Cheers!!
Could still be interesting to know what's out there . . . you can't really expect channels to stop posting reviews after they've reviewed the one pair of speakers that you happen to buy, right?
@@andrehendrik true, but just got tired of constantly seeing expensive products being reviewed like, I have settled on my EPOS ES14 and I love them!!! Cheers!!
yep- upgrade-itis is a killer. My grandfather used to say “be content content content. Theres nothing like contentment”. After getting into hifi gear I’m starting to take heed of that advice.
Good enough is good enough!
um k…
First!!!😘
Hi Steve.
That and $5K and you can buy a pair.
How much do you earn for being a Pure Audio Project representative with videos on their website?