Successors of the LS50, the KEF LS50 Meta speakers are passive bookshelf acoustic systems that feature the company's innovative solution - Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT). This very technology is also applied in the wireless KEF LS50 Wireless II.@@The Uni-Q driver together with MAT
The KEF LS50 Meta is a passive two-way studio monitor speaker equipped with the 12th generation Uni-Q coaxial driver and a MAT (Metamaterial Absorption Technology) disc located behind the driver, which absorbs backwave radiation. The sound will be very accurate and detailed from any point in the room.
This new driver array provides reduced coloration, lower distortion, and highly detailed and natural sound reproduction, surpassing what was previously possible, while evenly distributing the sound throughout the room. The Uni-Q driver for the KEF LS50 Meta was developed based on the Uni-Q used in the KEF R series with modifications to accommodate the system's design. The addition of MAT technology required significant changes to the driver's construction, allowing for improvements in technologies such as tweeter tube damping.
Since the R series speakers consist of a 3-way design, and the LS50 Meta is a 2-way speaker system, the midrange driver had to cover a much wider frequency range, including low frequencies. While it is well-suited for integration into the system, it still poses performance challenges. Therefore, KEF engineers made a series of changes to the magnet system, suspension, and cone of the midrange driver to achieve maximum smooth operation.
Metamaterials
The Absorbing Metamaterial (MAT) technology was developed by KEF engineers in collaboration with the Hong Kong-based company Acoustic Metamaterials Group. Metamaterials allow for the absorption of almost all sound energy from the rear side of the speaker, while occupying minimal space in the acoustic system's enclosure.
KEF's MAT technology involves the use of a special labyrinth-like structure, where each segment absorbs sound in a specific frequency range and behaves like an "acoustic black hole," collectively absorbing 99% of unwanted sound energy, whereas traditional absorbers like polyester only provide 60% absorption.
Construction
The construction of the KEF LS50 Meta enclosure is identical to the original LS50 speakers. However, there are a few changes in the rear part of the enclosure to improve performance and aesthetics. The speakers can be placed on any flat surface or on the matching KEF S2 stands, which perfectly complement the size and color of the acoustic systems.
Specifications:
- Design: two-way with a phase inverter
- HF driver: 25mm (1-inch) ventilated dome driver with aluminum diaphragm
- MF driver: 130mm (5.25-inch) driver with magnesium-aluminum alloy diaphragm
- Frequency response (-6 dB): 47 Hz - 45 kHz
- Frequency response (±3 dB): 79 Hz - 28 kHz
- Crossover frequency: 2.1 kHz
- Recommended amplifier power: 40 - 100 W
- Sensitivity (2.83V / 1m): 85 dB
- Nominal impedance: 8 Ohms (minimum 3.2 Ohms)
- Maximum sound pressure level: 106 dB
- Dimensions: 302 x 200 x 278 mm
- Weight: 7.8 kg
Package includes:
- Speakers
- Documentation