We conclude this triptych with the KEF, Elac, Monitor Audio and ATC. Four very different speakers with four different interpretations. Which one is the best? That’s up to you. It’s your ears and it’s your taste.
Are you looking for something that is very correct and gives great insight? Then the ATC or Elac might be your “thing. If you are looking for something with more warmth, then you may want to check out KEF or Monitor Audio.
What an incredibly interesting series this was! Fourteen bookshelf speakers on two totally different amplifiers. That shows you what is available and how much difference an amplifier can make. By the way, this is also the reason we test on multiple amplifiers; matching is crucial! In this round we had three Brits and one German. The KEF and Monitor Audio were on the warm side, with the Monitor Audio playing a bit more lively and open. The Elac and ATC were a bit more neutrally tuned, with the ATC playing most correctly.
Type test
Multitest
Production country
Differs
Properties
Brand and model: KEF R3 Meta
Build quality: Very sturdy, nicely finished
Overall impression: Warm speaker, superbly built, very clean in reproduction. Timing could be better
Price: €2200
Brand and model: Elac Vela BS403
Build quality: Beautifully made. Sturdy, compact.
Overall impression: Fine, neutral speaker. Layed back character.
-> Shadow Flare Position Impact on Frequency Response
and…
[ While using the speakers full-range is OK, I found that when I added a subwoofer (SVS SB-2000 Pro and SB-3000, separately), the entire sound became immensely more enveloping. Somehow, it even seems to increase the overall sense of “space” these speakers provide with the right recording. For that reason, I do suggest a subwoofer with these speakers. ]
Old KEF R3, by Erin
https://erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/kef_r3
-> Shadow Flare Position Impact on Frequency Response
and…
[ While using the speakers full-range is OK, I found that when I added a subwoofer (SVS SB-2000 Pro and SB-3000, separately), the entire sound became immensely more enveloping. Somehow, it even seems to increase the overall sense of “space” these speakers provide with the right recording. For that reason, I do suggest a subwoofer with these speakers. ]
Makes sense!
KEF R3 meta measurements
You forgot: KEF R3 meta – decay – straight – 3ms.png
I think they still have not solved the problem of the woofer integration with the excellent coaxial, as it happened with the previous model, the R3.
I will listen again to the part of the test referring to them.
Thank you very much (to ALL) for your work.
– Greetings from Tarragona (SPAIN) –
Welcome!