KEF LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speaker Review. Not what I expected 🙃
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 มิ.ย. 2021
- Reviewed Today: KEF LS50 Meta
us.kef.com/ls50-meta.html
Preamp & Power Amplifier & Integrated amps used:
Kinki Studio EX-P7: www.kinki-studio.com/ex-p7
Kinki Studio EX-B7 monoblock: www.kinki-studio.com/ex-b7
Source: Bluesound Node 2i
www.crutchfield.com/p_813NODE...
(all music is hi-res streamed from Tidal)
DAC: Schiit Modius
www.schiit.com/products/modius
RCA Cables: Analysis Plus Oval One
analysis.plus/product/oval-on...
Speaker & Power Cables: Maze Audio REF4
www.mazeaudio.com/speaker-cabl...
Subwoofers Used:
Rythmik FVX12 www.rythmikaudio.com/FVX12.html
Kef KC62 www.shop.us.kef.com/subwoofer...
SVS 3000 Micro www.svsound.com/products/3000...
REL T5x Pair rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofe...
REL T9x Pair rel.net/shop/powered-subwoofe...
Rythmik F12SE www.rythmikaudio.com/F12SE.html
Your results may vary based on your ears, room, and associated equipment: - เพลง
![ลักพาตัว เอาลูกเอิร์นกลับมา...!! [เอิร์นไดเม่]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/f4NVKlZ5qkk/mqdefault.jpg)
Loving my Metas in a small room setup with sb1000 sub. This review is spot on based on my experience,.nice work sir 👍
Awesome review Nemo and very interesting comparisons to the other speakers - although we haven't had a chance to listen to the LS50s, we've always liked the sound of good concentric drivers. I bet these sound amazing. Keep up the great work as always :)
They're cool because they're noticeably different in their presentation with respect to imaging when compared to just about anything else. I think that's what a lot of people love. As much as I liked them I'd still rather up the budget another $500 and go for the Focal Aria 906 or the bigger brother KEF R3, but not everyone has the luxury to just up the budget by 30%.
Awesome review. Can't believe it took me so long to find this guy.
Hi Mark, welcome aboard!
You compared the Metas to all the speakers I was interested in! Great job!
What did you decide on?
@@juandoe7802 I didn’t really want to go out (COVID) to dealers to audition and compare speakers. I went with the Metas out of convenience (store down the street from me). No regrets, though I find its midrange a bit more forward than to what I’m used to. I have done a lot of “research” on the Net since this video. If I were to do it again, I’d also consider the Buchardt S400 Mk II and Monitor Audio Silver 100 7G.
@@foblivio Thank you for the feedback. I'm looking into buying these because someone is selling them for about a grand used....purchased last july so not even a year, but I want them for near-field lisenting, so they'd sit on my desk to connect my PC to. What would you say the near field listening is like to you on these?
@@juandoe7802 I don’t use them near-field but a lot of people do, main reason being that the tweeter and the mid-bass drivers are concentric. A regular two-way has the drivers spread apart, and that can result in comb filtering. Do bear in mind they are rather big and heavy for a small desk. A grand is a good deal. I have them as my main speakers, augmented by a sub.
I like your style! Straight to the point, no mumbo jumbo..... thumbs up 👍
thank you sir!
I gave you a thumbs up, but I couldn't relate to the Focal comparisons. However, as an LS50 Meta owner, I am now intrigued about the Focal. Thanks, nicely done.
Thank's Doc, the Meta is a seriously fantastic speaker.
Great review with lot of comparisons.
Thanks!
Great review. Thank you very much !
My pleasure!
I love my 2019 LS50's without the Meta material. I paid $980 brand new and can't justify the cost of an upgrade. Nice job on the review. I subscribed as a result.
Hey Michael, welcome aboard, we have a free discord too if you like that sort of thing. Links are in all the newer vids. I know the old ls50 was still an awesome speaker!!
Thanks much!!
Great review!
aye!!!!!!!!! :)
Excellent review. The R3's increase vertical soundstage. Both LS50 Meta and R3 just excellent.
I could see that, killer sound either way.
I experienced the opposite- ls50 meta lifted the soundstage considerably.
@@whitecrowuk575 Strange I sold my R3's and the Metas are clearly more point source, but still have vertical soundstage. Room interaction and speaker placement are huge and could be playing a part if they are giving you a taller soundstage. Also the R3's are definitely different and feel fuller and seemed to fill my apt more.
The fact that he had to up the volume while listening to the LS50 probably goes with the fact that they're very limited on the bottom end and sound small. My brother in law has the original LS50 and I have to say I never liked them despite the fancy T+A amp and vinyl setup of his.
Got excited when I saw this video. I got the wireless 2 Metas and I love them. Just love vocals through them. Thinking of pairing them with a pair of Rel t7x or t5x.
That would be a great pairing, then again these seemed to pair well with most subs so honestly I'd say get whatever sub you want :D You can get an SQ sub like REL or Rythmik or a more SPL focused sub like SVS, they all sounded good with the Meta. With SVS it added more weight to the sound which was cool, with the REL it added a fuller sound so it's really just a matter of taste.
@@NemoPropaganda appreciate that! So many choices it’s hard to decide. I’ll probably end up with the RELs just due to the higher wife approval factor. Lol
@@pmizz7959 ah yes, it is easily the most beautiful of the group!
1:35 This cannot be overstated.
Picking these up feels like picking up a small CRT tv with all the weight in the front.
I pulled these out of the box with Nemo's warning in mind and still was surprised at how weirdly they're balanced. Seeing how many Kef speakers are on Ebay with dents in the driver, I think it surprises a lot of people.
ahahaha, the CRT example is spot on! Fair warning tube amps are similar in being oddly weighted.
Really good reviewer.
Thank you kindly!
Another great review, Nemo! For a large bedroom setup, would you recommend the LS50 Meta's or the Buchardt S400s?
The meta is a small room speaker. Easy choice, go with the s400.
Thanks for the review Nemo… From you, i was looking for the optimal subwoofer to pair the Metas : Thinking of getting 3 of them for center video needs and thus not sure if two 12 Rithmik for an articulated base (which I love) but also punchy for video. Do u have any other better recommendations?
Not really, F12SE is pretty much the best you can get for the money.
I have to ask and I hope you can answer. When you tested the REL TX series subs what connection did you use? I have a T7X connected to my NAD C298 Amp via the High input connection with a pair of Paradigm Founder 40B speakers. I have yet to run Dirac with the NAD C-658 streamer but am concerned that Dirac will be confused if I run the High level cable that comes with REL and is recommended by REL to allow for the speed and audio matching with the track being played. What recommendations do you have in what is the best set up for a REL. Sub out or the high input connection which they supply the cable for? I ask for a couple of reasons, one being the Dirac set up and the other is to understand that frequencies lower than what the 40B's can handle will be picked up by the REL. Is this a better set up and justifiable set up for bookshelf speakers with a single or dual REL set up? Sometimes I wonder if the speakers can handle higher volumes without distorting the bass but yet the REL picks up the lower frequencies and there is still a lot of air moving through the bookshelf. So is sub out a better option allowing the speakers to work easier and focus on the mid's and highs while the REL's handle all the low frequencies?
I answer all comments, plz don’t ask the same question multiple times. It creates confusion with the limited time I have to answer comments.
Looking for a vocals champion (both male and female). The higher end Elac’s are a little warm for me and it sounds like the Metas or Focal Arias could be better in that regard. In the 1-2k range, with a Rel T7x sub, what would be the best speaker in terms of making it impossible to lose track of the vocalist. Best sharpness/clarity and definition while not allowing the vocals to sound like they’re coming from too far away on the stage or dark at all. My dac and amp are decently warm so I think I could handle a little brightness. Awesome videos, thanks!
That's a tough one, room treatment at the first reflection points is the best thing you can do for center vocal imaging. I would start there. Are these LS50 Meta an option? You could also go for something like the Polk R500/600, I just reviewed the smaller R100. The speaker is on the warmer side but the speaker still has good clarity, though not as much as Focal Chora/Aria or LS50-Meta.
I was going to try the Metas first, but considered the polks you just reviewed. I’d personally rather add another T7x than move up to the floorstanders but idk if that’s a smart approach. I also see there is a Legend series in the polks that run 2k a pair- which I thought could only be an improved version of the Reserve, but maybe not I suppose. Given that I don’t need as much bass out of the speakers I will likely try the metas soon. May even try with the sb3000 I use for HT, that thing is more musical than I expected. If I think I find a perfect matching I’ll let you know!
You tested so many subwoofers with LS50 with a bad back, don't strain it my friend.
To share a few thoughts. I had a chance to play with LS50W2 at home and I was so impressed with the imaging, the singer was literally standing in my room. Personally, I find LS50W a little more engaging over the Chora 816. At low volume movie time, I am more excited with LS50W while I have to crank the volume higher for 816 to have the same effect. BUT, what I dont like about the Wireless version is vocal for movie..... I dunno how to describe it but something is missing, kinda sound hollow. Nevertheless, I am driving the 816 with Marantz NR1200 and maybe it is not good enough for 816. I am hoping to upgrade to Niam Atom/Nova one day and who knows, when Meta comes in Black on Black, White on White I might fall for it. Thanks for another great review.
Thank you bro, setting up the subs is the easy part, I just slide them on my carpet. Putting them back in the box is the real challenge :D Your experience is a little different than mind, my smaller Chora 806 was far better at lower volumes than the Meta, then again their is a large difference in sensitivity between the two and you having the powered version means sensitivity doesn't really matter.
I've yet to hear the ls50 meta but I've had a few kefs in the family. I've had the q950, one of my brothers has the r3 and other brother the r5 before going back the b&w
I need a word of advice. I have a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 6 powered by a Parasound 200pre/275v2 combo, It sounds very good to me, but I would love more refinement in the sound. My listening room it is smaller than 200 ft/sq, so thinking out loud, the low end frequency response will not to be an issue. Do you think that moving from MA S6 to KEF LS50 Meta is a right move?
Hey Alvaro, it's hard to say what part of the system is lacking in refinement as I've not heard any of those pieces. The Meta is fantastic but if your pre/power amp is what's lacking in refinement you will find yourself with the same issue. If your using the pre's internal dac I would maybe upgrade your dac to something like an ARES 2 and see if that helps.
Great review man, thank you. I know the emotiva T2+ is a tower but are you planning review those ? I'm between this and the emotiva. Any thoughts ?
No but I personally own the smaller B1+. It's really this simple though. Smaller room, sit really close, and you plan to add a subwoofer for sure then get the KEF LS50. Bigger room, sit further away, listen louder T2+.
@@NemoPropaganda thank you for the tip.
Hi. Thanks for great review.
I need a hint. I have guest room with two sofas. One is 1m from speakers (boxes behind listener), the other around 3..3.5m.
Does it make sense to hang speakers to the sealing (center of speaker ~2,4m above the floor). Would it help or destroy sound stage?
I couldn't say, every room is different.
Hi, do you think, that the LS50 Meta and the Marantz Model 40n is a good match?
I have been a Kef Ls50 owner since 2017.
The KEF is a relatively benign load and places few such demands on the amplifier. Still, at its limits (either a very complex piece of music or playing at very high or very low volume levels), even the LS50 can cause the combination of amplifier and loudspeaker to sound shrill. That said, I'm looking to upgrade my current Marantz PM8005 amplifier.
My source components are Cambridge CXN V2 and a Rega Dac. I plan to get a very good in-built dac inside my amplifier and discontinue the Rega. So ideally, I need an amplifier with balanced outputs and would be looking at an amplifier with a minimum of 100w into 8 ohms.
Can you recommend some models worth looking at, for around £2000 - £3000, that will drive KEF Ls50s at higher and lower volumes?
Many thanks.
Out of all the amps I've reviewed I don't know of any that fit that criteria, I have not reviewed that many amps though. I was gonna say just get the Choco Sound EMEI and add an external dac but it doesn't have xlr outputs or a built in dac.
great review. I agree with the Buchardt s400. Please recommend an amp for the s400 for under $2k. now i'm using outlaw rr2160, wondering if worth to upgrade?? thx
I don't have many reference points for amplifiers unfortunately, I've heard a few cheaper amps but nothing between 1000-2000 dollars :(. But based on the voicing the Kinki Studio gear I have is a very ideal partner and the EXM1 is $2400. The IotaVX is my cheap S-400 recommendation at $550 but I have no recommendation in-between, I'm sorry. A few people have commented that the AudioLab 8300A is good but personally if it were me I would roll the dice on one of the Odyssey Audio Cyclops models with remote functionality added and make sure to chat with them to be sure it's voiced to compliment the speakers well and has the inputs & outputs you want. Or just step up to the Kinki Studio.
@@NemoPropaganda Thank you very much
There is a speaker by Philharmonic Audio /Salk Audio called the BMR Monitor. Would love to hear your. Hear- Pinion on that speaker Vs this Speaker and your Bucharht S 400.
Hearpinion, love that! Most companies won't send me review samples unfortunately but I'll try reaching out.
Please please do a review of the dark horse of bookshelves : The Edifier S3000 Pro. Would love to hear your opinion on this set of amazing speakers.
Hi riaad, sorry but I don't review powered speakers :(
Thank you nice review. Do you think the clarity of treble or tweeter will sound like a CD track high crispy sound? I'm looking for speakers that would sound just like a CD track high crispy note. I've got too much bass with my sb3000 for my small room but my bookshelf (q acoustics 3030i) and centre speakers (q acoustics 3090ci) aren't really giving me enough crispy high treble. What would you recommend please?
I don't know how much sparkle you want but try to demo Focal Chora and B&W 606 or 607 S2.
@@NemoPropaganda thanks
I think it is very nice to see that KEF is coming up with solutions to problems that are outside the box. But I'm having a little trouble understanding how, if this META disc is good to absorb frequencies from 600hz up, how is it that it is set up to absorb the back wave of the tweeter, but the tweeter is crossed over at 2.1khz. If that's the case then the META mat in this particular case is working from 2.1khz and up and not 600hz and up as advertised.
that's a good question, is the mat not also working for the mid woofer though?
@@NemoPropaganda I'm not sure how it would capture the mid frequencies from the woofer "600hz to 2.1khz" if the META disc is only connected to the back of the tweeter. You can clearly see on the diagrams that the back of the tweeter has a channel like hole where the back wave enters into the disc. But you can also see in the diagram that the back of the woofer show no way for its back wave to enter the disc. So, perhaps the META disc is capable of absorbing frequencies from 600hz and up, but in this particular application it is only being implemented to operate from 2.1khz and up.
@@JuanLega I'd say that's a logical conclusion, perhaps there are some resonances it may also absorb. Personally I don't pay attention to this kind of stuff, only how it performs in a real world environment. The LS50 Meta is fantastic. As long as you don't put it in a big room most people will really like it. Aside from the funny look lol.
@@JuanLega I'll agree with what you said. It's sounds like a design speck for the disc. Not so much how performs with the system, though in a coincident driver system, I can see how their could be some crosstalk between woofer and tweeter. Possibly resonance in the tangerine waveguide. I can't say I know. I have a driver sitting on my bench, but I don't own a pair of these as of yet. The meta disc appears to be glued on. On the previous speakers, you could disassemble the tweeter from the woofer. These don't come apart.
Muy buenos tus videos! Prefieres estos kef LS50 o los focal aria 906??
Me gustan mucho ambos, el rendimiento de cada uno y el sonido es similar, pero en los Estados Unidos el precio es muy diferente y Aria 906 son muy caros ahora a $ 2200, por lo que el LS50 Meta es muy competitivo a $ 1600. Creo que cuál es mejor depende del precio en su región.
Hey man a great review once more. I wish you could review the new Polk Audio Reserve R200 bookshelves or maybe even the new Elac Unifi Reference ones. I have been thinking to sell my Triangle Borea BRO3's and add some extra cash to get the R200's as i am not quite happy with them but it could also be my amp that i don't like or my room acoustics that suck, so dunno.......
ah yeah, it can be tough to nail down what the issue is, for most people it's the room. I'll see if I can get the R200.
I can’t wait for them to bring the “meta” technology to the R series. I’m a fan of 3-way, not 2-ways so it’s a mater of time till it comes to other Kef speakers. The ls50 meta (not the old one) is better than the r3s, but the r3s beat the old ls50s (non-metas)
Really? My friend who owns both says the R3 is still on another level but I havn't heard them yet.
@@NemoPropaganda yeah, I heard both through a Macintosh amp, and the highs (clarity and detail) are better on meta. I’m a sucker for perfect highs
@@Novilicious I wonder if the Macintosh gear rolled off the R3 a bit, my friend reports the R3 is noticeably sharper up top, then again that could be what you didn't like. They're only $500 apart so there shouldn't be a huge difference in one direction or another.
@@NemoPropaganda I agree, that’s 100% possible.
I have a pair of R3 and LS50 Wirless (not Wirless II/Meta). I can say that the LS50 is a good amount brighter than the R3, which personally is bothersome so I tend to like the R3 more. The sense of scale, dynamics, and air they bring is just better. But then again I haven't heard the metas...
This is the third time I've watched this video and been unable to find the exact words I want to say and I think that's mainly because I go on these long pointless rants and I've been trying to avoid doing those lately but I think I need to say this in case there might even be 1 person out there who can relate...
The reason I think the content on this channel is so underrated and so much more prolific than basically every other audio gear channel out there is because these reviews are done with no advertising or commerce driven agenda whatsoever which has resulted in something more akin to a data archive of scientific observations, than just typical "youtube reviews".
Apart from the obvious benefits that come with unbiased uncensored reviews, the hidden benefit (at least for me) is that I've been able to form some rock solid opinions from the content on this channel, that would have been otherwise impossible to form without hearing the gear in person. This is 100% credited to the unique approach and delivery of the content. I don't live in the US and I can't audition 99% of the equipment out there that interests me, so being able to make an "informed" but remote decision is of extreme importance to me. Nemo I cannot thank you enough for the time and effort you put into this content bro. Seriously.
Here's a list of the top 10 opinions I've been able to form based EXCLUSIVELY from the content of this channel... Opinions that I would not be able to form by just watching other youtube content:
#1) A review CAN provide enough information to GUARANTEE success in purchasing a speaker with sound quality you will love.
#2) All speakers and (more so) subwoofers, can generally be split into these 2 categories: Either excelling at 1) music or 2) movies.
#3) Size Matters... ONLY if YOU insist it does.
#4) You CANNOT achieve great sound quality under a certain budget. In other words great budget speakers DO NOT exist.
#5) Surround Sound is overrated (which leads nicely into #6)
#6) Even for a dedicated home cinema setup you are FAR better off with amazing sounding 2 channel or 2.1 channel speakers than any multichannel surround (5.1/ 7.1 or DTS-X/Atmos) speaker setup that's just kinda okay sounding... (fight me!)
#7) Digital audio compression is the work of the devil
#8) If you have even a slight background with playing musical instruments you are already an audiophile. Buy cheaper personal audio equipment at your own peril.
#9) Small differences in speaker audio quality have HUGE overall impacts
#10) The subwoofer's role in both audio and home theater systems is by far the most misunderstood of all audio components and therefore also by far the most poorly integrated audio component in most personal audio setups.
Hey Yama, I always love your comments. Let me clarify a bit though:
#1) Agree, as long as you follow them and become familiar with their style and what they mean when they say certain words.
#2) Correct! Recently I refer to them as SPL or SQ focused.
#3) Agree mostly, size matters but with enough $$$ even small gear can be just as amazing.
#4) Disagree because It depends what you're used to.
#5) Agree
#6) Strongly Agree, a great 2.1 will outperform a crappy 7.2.
#7) Agree
#8) Agree
#9) Agree
#10) Strongly Agree
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks bro... the only # we really disagree on is #4. My size matters opinion in #3 was just my (obviously failed) attempt to say exactly what you said in a "tongue in cheek" witty or clever way. Keep up the great work.
@@yamafanboy so I guess for #4 it's true, just maybe different people will have different opinions on what the minimum budget for good sound is. To me it's like $400-$500 minimum. Arylic A50 paired with a deent set of entry speakers like Emotiva B1+, the total is under $500 and you have a little mini amp with built in streamer and a decent set of speakers. Anything cheaper kind of sounds like shit to me.
@@NemoPropaganda I agree $100% with that $400 to $500 minimum budget. Stuff gets lost in translation when I try to drastically condense my thoughts into short single sentences so I'll also do what the judge who presided over the George Floyd case did and present my analysis on how I arrived at my opinion for #4 to explain why I came to that conclusion.
First of all when I said you cannot achieve great sound quality under a certain budget I meant it IS possible to get "good" or "decent" sound out of budget speakers but not "GREAT" sound.
How I arrived at this is because I have a long history with cheaper speakers. I have owned a number of sony bookshelf systems then switched to an AVR with Micca speakers. Also, many of the people I hangout with use bottom shelf stuff from brands like pioneer, panasonic, samsung, JVC, RCA and Onkyo and because i'm considered the tech guy I was always asked to help them set their systems up for the best possible sound. Also professionally, at a former job there were Alesis Studio monitor speakers for the video editing suites. All of those systems I listed had one thing in common... NOT ONE of them actually sounded GREAT! Some were ok some were good and some were downright garbage.
Then I purchased a pair of Status Audio CB1 headphones which actually sound GREAT (in my opinion at least). After listening to music on them I realized that I just could not continue listening to music on the Micca speakers. The CB1 headphones were in a different universe in terms of sound quality and switching to the Miccas was a depressing step backward each time I used them. The PSB Imagine Mini speakers, are the closest sounding speakers to those CB1 headphones i've heard! The CB1 headphones have the PSB speakers beaten on low frequency bass and midrage detail but I still consider the PSB speakers to be GREAT sounding.
Now consider the Emotiva B1+ speakers. I haven't heard them but you and several other youtubers said they sound really good even though they are budget speakers. However, you did a comparison in one of your videos and said the imagine mini had better sound quality so I bought the PSB speakers instead. I realize now that I would not have been happy with the Emotiva B1+ speakers because even though I rave on about the PSB speakers I am also made aware of their shortcomings when I switch from headphones over to them and play the same track. I still consider them great sounding speakers but even just a smidge lower in sound quality would drop them into the "very good" category which is where I believe the Emotiva B1+ speakers would fall if I heard them.
Uncompressed music on the PSB speakers don't just put a smile on my face they actually make me break out in downright laughter at how great they sound. They are so accurate that for critical listening when I want headphones levels of bass accuracy I actually turn the SVS subwoofer off (although that wouldn't be necessary if I had a better subwoofer you get my point).
What defines GREAT sounding speakers to me? Their accuracy and sound characteristics should really bring your music to life in an almost emotional way, and "very good" sounding speakers just dont have that extra bit of magic in them.
Those PSB speakers were originally intended to be in the $700 price category which is decidedly NOT budget friendly IMHO. So yes you can probably get VERY GOOD sounding speakers on a tight budget or you can make cheap speakers sound fairly decent like the micca's if you're willing to do some tweaking. It still doesn't seem to negate the conclusion I've come to that.... actual GREAT sound (not just good or decent or very good but GREAT) is just not available in the budget speaker category.
@@yamafanboy I agree with that, that mirrors my own experience for sure. The Imagine Mini have a rather high performance ceiling, just hold onto them, if you ever upgrade your front end equipment it's kind of staggering to see the little imagine mini get even better. They're a speaker that can stay with you for many years to come. If there is a dac in your system and you have some extra coins laying around consider the Ares II dac, I've had mine for about a month now and it's really improved all the things you're saying you like in a system. I could literally quote you for the Ares II video and just say it "bring your music to life in an almost emotional way" because that's what that dac does.
Hey man i have changed my opinion on those Quads and have gone back to the Meta's.
After listening for a couple of weeks that ribbon tweeter started to get to me and i began to miss the smoothness and refinement of the Meta's!
Cant believe im saying this after raving about the Quads but for me the Meta's are hard to beat.
Yeah I have the Quad S1 here now, I'm not really loving them. Probably more of a desktop speaker for the S1.
I would love to see a 8" mid/bass drivers & 1.5" tweeter Uni-Q driver called the LS80, the same size you would find in the Q950's. Now that would be 😎.
They make models with more drivers for bass. The small driver produces superior midrange versus a same cost 8.
You might consider looking at the HSU CCB-8 and read the reviews.
hi nemo, nice video as always, one question what do you mean by bass note distinction ?
Bass note distinction as in do the different bass frequencies sound different. Some subwoofers or speakers bass is like all the frequencies sound like the same frequency just with different intensity.
@@NemoPropaganda got it bro thanks 🙏
How did the svs sb3000 micro play with these meta's? Im looking for a subwoofer to go with my ls50 meta's but can really afford something as expensive as the KEF KC62
it was good, since the speakers are in the middle between having light and heavy bass the SVS sub pushed them a little more towards the heavy side but it was a very good sound. The KC62 was more like the exact same sound just more extension and the Rythmik & REL were more transparent. The most important thing is in some rooms this speaker falls off a cliff closer to 70hz, if you have a room like that I think something like the Rythmik L12 will give you better midbass blending that high up. The Micro 3000 also has a PEQ so you can make it blend that high also if you know what you're doing but best to use REW if you get the Micro and have to blend that high.
@@NemoPropaganda i dont think the Rythmik is available in the uk?
i like the look of the smaller subs plus that svs app is really good. I dont have any experience with using REW it sounds quite complicated. From what your saying its sounds like the KEF KC62 is probably the best match for the Meta's, however i plan on using a sub for movies aswell which is why im leaning towards the SVS micro as it probably has a bit more low end output at louder volumes?
@@hclandscapes You are correct. The larger drivers of the 3000 Micro will be able to play lower frequencies louder and more consistently for sure! Rythmik is available in the UK but from the US so freight costs add a lot to shipping :(
I've always been fan of Kefs.
I used to own old 104s with macintosh mc275.
What amp you used them with and the preamp. Thx
Hi Gary, everything is listed in the description box.
@@NemoPropaganda thx for replying.
A little off topic but I see that you have a Kinki integrated in the background and wanted to ask what are a couple of good speakers pairings that work well with the amplifier? Cheers
Hi Erik, it's actually their preamp as I also have their mono block amps. Great speaker pairings would be just about anything really but the Buchardt S400 MKII are absolutely fantastic with Kinki gear but I've also had great success using more analytical speakers like Focal. The kinki sound is fast, detailed, refined, analytical, etc.... So fuller sounding speakers are a great match. Or conversely you can pair them with speakers that are voiced the same to have incredible clarity.
@@NemoPropaganda going to demo a bunch this week. Dali, Monitor Audio, KEF and Dynaudio are the main players.
Just ordered a pair! Have 6 pairs of speakers in rotation now. Just need a super high end high sensitivity type like a Tekton to complete the collection.
you're a madman and I love it!
@NemoPropaganda stoked! I just watched an hour lecture on all the technology inside it, and it's like as if it was made by NASA. Even down to the fine points of the motor design you wouldn't even think of by looking at the driver. They have to be losing money on that particular model, or not making much. Have a good one!
@NemoPropaganda ok, kinda blown away by these, tuned with the speedwoofers. Really amazing, all the reviews are right. Blown away by these.
@@Audfile oh yeah, they're great, they do some really cool things with imaging!
Man you should try Elac vela speakers. Heard nothing, but good things.
I want to try the Carina actually but I can never find them below MSRP.
Can you do review on KEF ls50 wireless 2?
Hey Ang, my channel is small so I have to buy a lot of the gear myself. The Meta my friend let me borrow so I got lucky. I don't think I want to buy the W version just for a review, it's just a bit too expensive.
Would you say that the arylic A50+ can make them sound good?
good yes, loud no.
I agree with you about the curved front, I don't like it too. Looks like an eye. From your description of the volume range, I understand that they are not good for low volume listening. Am I right ?
I wouldn't say that. Just curious, which part of the video made you think that?
@@NemoPropaganda minute 3:30 where you say "it does bring a little bit of volume to bring up its sense of scale"
@@xadrian23 but I also go on to say most speakers of this size are like that.
Hi Nemo! thaks for your review. I your room, what do you prefer to pairing with LS50 meta. Do you prefer one Kc62 or two Rel (t5x or t7x?)
Depends how much you value bass under 30hz, the KC62 has tremendously more extension while the T5X has better texture and tone. The LS50 Meta is very flexible with subwoofer pairing so either option will sound great and I really mean that, I still own both of those subs because I love both :)
I like the “Musicality”. I enjoy that the stage expands with coherence, I love the musical details. I think, the texture can add some character to the LS50, which is perhaps too correct@@NemoPropaganda
@@roberleiton I think you will prefer the T5X or T7X pair then.
Any possibility of doing the R3 Meta?!
yes, very soon. Maybe this week or next week.
Oh no, I have expected a comparison with Focal Shape 65…I know you are a focal fan, but what could you say for it, honestly?
Sorry I don't use powered monitors. Focal Shape 65 would only make sense if this review was for the LS50 Wireless.
What integrated amp will do good on these? I have a Music Hall mmf-5.3 turntable.
I’m not well versed in all the amps nor am I familiar with your budget but why not go with what already know and grab the Music Hall integrated. They have 2 models that look very nice. Or just go for the Kinki Studio EXM1+.
@@NemoPropaganda Thank you. Went buying the Leak Stereo 130 with the Wharfedale Linton Heritage yesterday. Amp will take few weeks to deliver 😔.
@@CarefreeRambler ahhh yes, the waiting game lol, just do what I do and forget about it lol, when it shows up it'll be like christmas, like don't even check the tracking number!
The cabinet and crossover are 80% of the performance, yet most companies always cheap out on both of those fronts ... grrr!!
Hey Nemo!
Thanks for the video. So my budget is 1000 euros and right now I can get these for exactly that. What would your alternatives be for around 1000 euros a pair, bookshelf size ? I listen mostly to jazz, funk, soundtracks from the 60s...but also some modern singer, songwriter and the occasional electronica. So I am more keen to warm sound, than extra bright and precise. Thanks! all the best
what's up unlimited, sooo if I was shopping around $1k the Heco Celan Revolution 3 would be at the top of my list. A more affordable option would be something like the newest version of the Dynaudio Emit 10 (NOT the older M10).
Thank you very much! The Heco got me Hooked! What about Wharfedale Linton 85th or these KEFs LS50 meta / If money is not an option, which one are you taking? Still the Hecos? thaaanks@@NemoPropaganda
@@BRAATZUnlimiteD I havn't heard the wharfedales. The LS50 Meta is a great speaker if you want something more neutral but the Celan is where its at in my book, has the clarity up top, good flavor in the midrange, and nice confident bass. I bought the Celan review sample if that tells you anything :)
Say no more. Finally my search is over. I also love the design...and I am a visual type of guy, so you got me also there. So final question, what amp would you pair it with? Also - till 1k? PS: I havent changed my yt channels name since forever and I have never had such a long convo or even any convo - so I am a bit embarrassed by my name haha best, unlimited ;)@@NemoPropaganda
@@BRAATZUnlimiteD oh i don't think anyone cares about that, i got guys like bootylover2000 commenting lol, as far as amps go I don't have as many data points with amps but I think the IotaVX SA3 is still a great amp. People seem to love Audiolab but I've never heard their stuff. The Celan is pretty easy to drive so it shouldn't be too picky with amplification. If you have in home trials available in your area it might be best to narrow it down to 2 choices and go for an in home trial on one of them.
Car audio does a hack job of coaxial drivers and basically just places the tweeter in front of the midrange, blocking and interfering instead of integrating to share the same dispersion point as in Kef speakers.
yeah, it's a bit crass by comparison but the driver location is also not ideal in any way so it's a moot point.
You've seen nothing yet. Check I out the prototypes the 3000s, 3001, then 3005Cs 3001SEs over the course of 12 hours under disguising then as well as their modular sub the htb htb 2 htb 2 w and now called for T2.
For about 20 years kef took the top of the 207/8 and rebooted them based on all the new IP they had and the expiration of the classic Uni Q patent.
The htb and 300x series were more refined than anything else they had done and had have done since.
The 3001C has a razor flat frequency response and trickled its way to the blades meanwhile the 3001se squared off downgraded to wood but kept every element except the crucial suspension seal which is all you're really hearing.
The ls50 managed to revivify thr ls 3 5as. The metas are 20 years of work flushed down the drain and instead just going got a smooth flat response which the 3001Cs and fhe blades were already superior .
Kef isn't king to stop selling the most popular cabinets so they're going to or could squeeze the 12th gen driver, hope people forget ehy the ls50s even exist and just accept the ls50 is just a random speaker in a random box.
If you own the ls50 listen carefully. Thr metas are not "better" they're flatter but that's never been the point of the ls series st all
Some people say the same thing about every new model BMW M3 compared to the E30 BMW M3, always saying the older E30 had something none of the newer cars had, that the every new version lost something along the way and that the original E30 is the real M3 while the newer cars are technically good cars but have lost the intention of the original design. Maybe that's true, maybe it's not, it's hard to say. I don't have 20 years experience with KEF so I can't comment but I feel like every year Subaru WRX after 2014 is not a Subaru WRX and lost the spirit. So in a way I relate and understand what you mean.
Nemo's friend watching as Nemo describes the front heaviness and predisposition to drop em... 😰
what do you recommend for a small room ?
How about these LS50 Meta?
Nemo P, Why did you compare these to the Q150s, and not the Q350s . I have the Q350s, purchased earlier this year they are excellent , detailed, and deliver nice Clarity. I don't know that i would spend $1500 for bookshelf speakers for my usage in a finished basement "studio" created in the Chinese Virus Hibernation. I play the 350s with a pair of Elac Reference 6.2s ... Each have their Pros and cons.
Unfortunately, the search of Audiophilism is a task that Never Ends... per Steve G's comments on another video interviewing Jana.
@@Chiroman527 2 reasons. 1. I have not heard the Q350, and 2. I think it's way cooler to compare the meta to ltierally the cheapest speaker they make. Mmmm, not sure I agree with Steve, my search is over, it's been over for awhile now. I don't really talk about it because it could mean the end of this channel but I am supremely happy with my system and have been for a long time now.
How about testing them with and without a preamp like the Emotiva BasX?
I don't understand what you mean.
@@NemoPropaganda What I meat ti say was. Test if there is a difference when using a power amplifier with an affordable avr like the denon 2020 line of avr/avc's. I mentioned the Enotiva basX, because they are affordable🙂
I am curius to know if I can get more out of my LS50 metas with more, clean power or if the AVR is doing a good enough job. I had a Denon AVR-X2400H and now I have X3700H witch can be preamped.
@@hofmarskal I like to test speakers with the same gear so that my reviews are as consistent as possible. I like Emotiva a lot and I own their integrated amplifier. I have it upstairs in my living room where I use it for TV with a pair of PSB imagine Mini speakers and a KEF KC62 subwoofer. But for speaker reviews I will always use my Kinki Preamp and Kinki mono amplifiers as that is my reference.
@@hofmarskal sorry I did not see the second half of your question. Personally I do not like AVR like denon. I find the sound to be a little bit closed off like it doesn't let the speaker breathe. Most AVR have good processing for theater but just okay amplification for hifi. Unfortunately the frustrating part about this hobby is more expensive stuff makes a difference usually. I wish cheap amp or affordable AVR was as good as a reference mono block with separate pre amp but it's not so it can be difficult to get the best out of your system if you are also focused on theater.
@@NemoPropaganda Good answer🙂 and it makes good sence. But I think a lot of viewers er are a lot like me, and have thease amacing sterio setups. And are using an AVR for everything. In fact I do have aN IOTAVX as a sterio setup for my turntable, but the AVR gets a lot more use🙂 Im impressed that you took the time to answer me👍🇩🇰
Which speaker stands are those, Nemo?
Skylan SP-27 :)
@@NemoPropaganda Thanks broski
Nemo review the borea BR03
I dunno, maybe, the look just isn't for me, the genese trio maybe but I have a feeling BR0 range will have an update or revision in the next year. Also they're supposed to be a lively or fun which isn't a kind of sound I generally enjoy.
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
👍👍!
Listening louder than usual is usually an indication of a compressed sound, do you think it's the case for those speakers?.
not at all, more likely a combination of the low sensitivity and refined top end my amps/preamps bring to the table. Also I liked the sound so most likely I just turned it up because I liked what I heard :)
It's also an indication of a treble that isn't assaulting your ears. I listen to my Buchardt S400's quite a bit louder than my previous speakers and they are still more comfortable.
Can anyone recommend me a decent amplifier below 1000$ for LS50 Meta?
Emotiva TA1? I havn't heard the audiolab 6000 but a lot of people seem to like that bad boy too.
@@NemoPropaganda Thank you for the suggestions, unfortunately Serbia have a limited market, can't find any of these amplifiers here. Maybe in can find in the Hungary.
@@kerkezz how about Vista Audio? I think they are Serbian :)
Seriously robust…and absolutely front heavy. I had one knocked off a 60cm stand onto a parquet wooden floor. Slammed into the floor face down on the front part just above the woofer. Not a dent
ooof! I'm glad a disaster was averted, hope the floors okay too :)
@@NemoPropaganda the floor came off worse than the LS50, bit of a dent. I was fearing the worst, but left stunned and relieved!
Great looking. Very good mids and soundstage. Paired well with my REL T7i subs. Lacking in top end is what killed them for me. I returned them.
Really? That's a shame, I found the top end to be very good for my personal taste but the speaker also seemed to react very differently with and without room treatment.
@@NemoPropaganda Many have also noticed the rolled off high frequencies. It just didn't suit my personal tastes. My wallet hated me for that, as I ended up with B&W 805 D3s. It's not really a fair comparison...and it shouldn't be, based on the price difference. But, I keep equipment for a very long time, so I decided to spend more. BTW...if anyone is interested, the 805 D3s are a great match with the Hegel h390.
@@mtkreger the B&W are a completely different speaker to the KEF's , especially if your moving up to the diamond series!
I used to own B&W speakers and found the treble too bright for my taste
@@hclandscapes That's the great thing about HiFi... there's a wide variety of equipment to choose from, to match up with listening tastes.
Great review buddy thank you, $1500 is a little more than I’m willing to spend
Fair enough!
World love to hear your comments on the LS50 Meta vs Polk R100.
totally different sound (and price). LS50 Meta is the more accurate, open, and analytical sounding with superior trebel presentation that is a much higher end sound overall. Polk R100 treble is not on the same level but the midrange is more tonally rich and romantic. I like both speakers a lot but the LS50 Meta earns its higher price with its superior build quality alone.
I demo'd the LS50 Meta speakers. I loved them and the top end sound was really nice. They did sound a bit boxy too, which was a shame.
Really? For me it wasn't boxy at all, the bass was strong to a point but not boxy.
@@NemoPropaganda guttenberg also Said they sounded boxless.
Boxy? Use a good amp and stands. And hang some curtains in your room.
@@Freedom89984 Good amp, stands, curtains and Gik room panels on the wall were used. The LS50’s are good for their size and money but I feel they need a good sub with them.
@@benjaminjensen7402 I take Guttenburg’s opinions with a pinch of salt.
Far too much chat my man. I was losing the will to live there and had to stop watching. No need to do so many comparisons. ( especially against the Q150). That was a hard watch.. sorry dude, I won’t be subscribing. ( I’m sure you are worried) 😂😂
All the best with your channel. 🤘
yeah, different people find different things valuable so my style won't be for everyone. Hopefully you took something away from the review, if not tons of people have covered these.
The ls50 thaught me I am not an audiophile. It has a lot of objective qualities, but I borderline hated them, so boring it hurt.
Nothing wrong with that Bob :). Personally I like cheap food, I don't care how expensive a steak is or how well "aged" it is. I'd much rather just have a nice $12 burger from an average place. You might be the same with sound and just prefer to rock out to something cheaper like a Klipsch RP600M or even a fuller sounding tower.
@@NemoPropaganda I got RP6000f's ;)
@@Bob.martens bahahahaha, well damn that was a random guess that worked out well lol
dont change the channel name bro, do not ever call it audio whatever or sub whatever, leave it as nemo propaganda for ever.
oh no, i just took the "Reviews" part out of the name :D
@@NemoPropaganda it's a hell of a good name. Same idea from a marketing team, cost at least 5 gram coke plus salaries!!!
@@exodusvelo I don't want any grams of coke lol
Don't understand. You did a 19 minute video review of the Meta in February, and now an 18 minute review in July? Why? Like everyone else who's reviewed it, you liked it. Both times.
I have no idea what on gods green earth you're talking about. I've only reviewed this speaker 1 time. In February I reviewed the Rythmik L22, Node & SB3000 long term update, Dynaudio M10, and Rythmik F12SE. I don't know why you have a chip on your shoulder but take that somewhere else my guy...
@@NemoPropaganda Thought you were this guy
th-cam.com/video/SidWd8RmOpU/w-d-xo.html
Sorry!
@@nhennessy6434 that’s Sean, we’re friends but I’m supremely better looking.
@@NemoPropaganda I'm no judge of that! BTW, I own them along with the OG LS 50s (which have been moved to surround duty). In a smaller room they do everything except deep bass, which is why I pair them with an SVS SB2000. I am happy. :)
sound like trash with complicated recordings, like death metal, black metal , doom metal, metal , metal ,metal, right?
metal rarely sounds "amazing" on revealing speakers but I'll never stop enjoying it :)
@@NemoPropaganda but can u make a demo playing some death
@@lindsethnittisju797 nah bro, youtube doesn't like that and they will flag my account :(
I think they do very well with metal such as Ramstein.
@@StillAliveAndKicking_ rammstein is metal now?
I’m very disappointed with the audio quality of this crap KEF LS50 wireless II
Sorry I have not heard the wireless version.
@@NemoPropaganda The mid frequency reproduction is poor.
@@AnilPrabhakaran that is unfortunate, the regular LS50 Meta was rather good.
A sound demo would be heaps more useful.
A sound demo on TH-cam would do these speakers an injustice.
@@Audiomainia2310 any speaker, really
As the gentleman have commented already, a sound demo would not be useful at all.
"Sound demo"
You people sure spew irrational crap.
A sound demo is far more useful than all the banging on in the world.