The latest great new revision in KEFs Uni-Q technology range.
Developed from the already highly regarded Q100 series, the new range sees some sweeping changes. Smaller and lighter, these speakers offer a much less intrusive footprint and design. To do this the port has been moved to the rear of the speakers, while this may affect some of the freedom in speaker positioning it has in no way affected the quality of sound. With the KEF logo stepped above the top of the speaker the design is an obvious modernisation of the R series, some may miss the more vintage look of the Q100’s but the sound quality certainly will make up for it.
Packing in a great amount of KEF knowhow into its compact cabinet, the KEF Q150 is a small speaker that makes a big impression.
Utilising the same Uni-Q driver technology the range keeps sonic similarity to its predecessors. With the dome tweet mounted within the woofer, the soundstage continues to be complete and connected. The Tangerine waveguide system works in tandem with the tweeter positioning to integrate the frequencies smoothly. The softening of the lightweight aluminium cone with KEFs Z-flex technology is perhaps the greatest addition to the Q150. Used in KEFs concept blade speakers this Z-Flex material brings a subtlety that is a huge asset. Retaining the precision and tight bass response of the Q100s the new speaker is warmer and will appeal to a wider audience. KEF have also installed a damped tweeter loading tube, another asset in high-frequency management. The gentle decline of sound from behind the tweeter greatly improves the high mid control and low treble frequencies. Together these improvements complement each other to create a complete and rich sound, making for a dynamic and punchy speaker.
Demonstrated with the Roksan K3 CD and amp the Q150s were not short of push and detail. Listening to ‘The Heavy, How do you like me now’, the bass had more tonality to it than its predecessor. Depth of sound has never been a problem for the Q series and even for the smallest speaker in the range, there is no shortage of bottom end. Listening to ‘Rodriguez, Crucify Your Mind’, the agility of the tweeter and the new warmth in the top end brings an even more lifelike performance from vocal-focused tracks. ‘Pink Floyd, Money‘ as always is a true test of stereo imaging, showing off KEFs spacious sound field and accurate top end.
As a current owner of the Q100s and KEFs 1970s Concerto range, I would say the new Q150s are a modern take on a more vintage sound. Armed with the classic 13″ B139 drivers the Concertos have a very satin, powerful but understated bass, the new Q range has similar sonic properties, heralding a definite return to KEFs softer side. The Q150s would make excellent rear speakers in a home cinema setup or part of a great small Hi-Fi.
Click to find out more about the KEF Q150 speakers.
Author: Joe, Bath Store
