KEF Reveals CEDIA 2017 Product Lineup

Several new audio products have been announced.

To coincide with the CEDIA 2017 tech show in San Diego this week, KEF has announced new gear and product updates. The lineup includes the Ci5160REF THX Ultra 2 speaker, Q50a Atmos Module, KUBE Subwoofer Series, LS50W speaker, and Space One Wireless headphones.

Here's a full rundown of all the company's latest products and announcements from the show:

Ci5160REF THX Ultra 2 Speakers

First up, the company has announced the launch of the latest addition to its Extreme Home Theatre THX Ci Series. The new Ci5160REF THX Ultra 2 speakers are shipping now for an MSRP of $10,000 per unit.

The in-wall speakers feature four linear 6.5 inch bass drivers, along with KEF's flagship 5 inch MF/HF Uni-Q driver array with a 1 inch vented aluminum dome tweeter at the array's acoustic center. Likewise, each unit is finished with a brushed 7/16" thick aluminum front baffle and can be bi-wired and bi-amped. Likewise, the speaker features a High Frequency Lift designed for use behind a perforated projection screen. Finally, the Ci5160REF is THX Ultra2 Certified, ensuring optimum sound in a home theater measuring 3,000 cubic feet with a viewing distance of 12 feet or more from the screen.

Here's a rundown of key specs per KEF:

- Nominal Impedance: 4Ω

- Sensitivity: 90dB (2.83V/ 1m)

- Frequency Response: 40Hz - 28kHz (±6dB).

- Amplifier Requirements: 40 to 500 watts.

Q50a Atmos Modules

Next, KEF has also announced a new addition to its Q Series. The Q50a is the company's latest Dolby Atmos enabled module.

The two-way closed box speaker is designed to sit atop a user's existing speaker, firing sound upward to bounce effects off the ceiling to simulate overhead audio for Dolby Atmos mixes. Likewise, the device uses KEF's newest Uni-Q driver array, placing the tweeter in the acoustic center of the midrange and bass cone for a more detailed, accurate sound. In addition, this updated version of the Q Series Uni-Q driver features a damped tweeter loading tube, improved lower treble performance, and a new low-distortion inductor on the crossover.

Here's a full rundown of key specs per KEF:

- Design – Two-way Closed Box

- Uni-Q Driver Array – 5.25"

- Frequency range Free Field (-6dB) – 96Hz-19.5kHz

- Frequency Response (±3dB) – 105Hz-18.5kHz

- Crossover Frequency – 2.5kHz

- Amplifier Requirements – 10-100W

- Sensitivity (2.83V/1m) – 86dB

- Maximum Output – 106dB

- Nominal impedance – 8Ω (min.4.6Ω)

- Weight – 9.36 lbs.

- Dimension (H x W x D) – 6.85” x 7.08” x 10.03”

Pricing and availability for the new Q50a Dolby Atmos modules are not currently listed.

KUBE Subwoofer Series

Beyond speaker models, KEF has revealed a new line of subwoofers as well. The new KUBE Subwoofer Series includes the KUBE 8b, KUBE 10b, and KUBE 12b.

All three models feature a DSP pre-amplifier, 300 watt RMS, and a front-firing LF driver. Likewise, the subwoofers use KEF Smart Compression Limiting, allowing the DSP to analyze the input signal and apply compression limiting to prevent amplifier clipping while also keeping the driver in its linear operating range. In addition, the units also implement KEF Smart Connect to automatically adjust volume depending on whether an LFE or Stereo input is connected. Finally, each subwoofer offers three pre-programmed custom EQ settings for free standing, corner, and wall and in-cabinet installations.

All three KEF KUBE Subwoofers are set to launch in November. Here's a full rundown of specs and pricing for each model per KEF:

KUBE 12b

- Frequency Range: (+/-3dB) 22Hz – 140Hz

- Max SPL: 114

- Driver Size: 12”

- Dimensions: 15.5” W x 15.5” D x 16.5” H

- Price: $700

KUBE 10b

- Frequency Range: (+/-3dB) 24 to 140Hz

- Max SPL: 111

- Driver Size: 10”

- Dimensions: 14” W x 14” D x 15”

- Price: $600

KUBE 8b

- Frequency Range: (-6dB) 34Hz - 140Hz

- Max SPL: 105

- Driver Size: 8”

- Dimensions: 11.6” W x 11.6” D x 11.6” H

- Price: $500

LS50W Speaker Adds New Features

In addition to new products, KEF has also announced a few new features for its LS50W Active Wireless Music System. The LS50W is currently on display at CEDIA and is available now in Titanium Grey/Red, Gloss Black/Blue, and Gloss White/Copper for an MSRP of $2,200.

The complete and fully active wireless music system is based on the company's LS50 speakers. The system features a 192kHz/24-bit high-resolution digital signal path and is driven by factory-optimized 230-watt x2 amplification in a bi-amp dual mono configuration. Advanced time-correcting DSP crossover with KEF’s exclusive Uni-Q technology is integrated as well. Connectivity options include dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, an asynchronous USB port, digital (toslink) input, and an RCA analog input.

New and upcoming features announced for the LS50W include:

- TIDAL streaming via the LS50W app (iOS or Android)

- ROON streaming (to be announced at CEDIA)

- SPOTIFY streaming (available Q4 2017)

- IP Control for whole house systems and integration (available Q4 2017)

- DSP control from each of the LS50W’s five inputs (Wireless, Bluetooth, USB, Optical, AUX)

- Bespoke stands for enhanced performance and style

Space One Wireless headphones

Finally, KEF has revealed a new collaboration with Porsche Design to produce the Space One Wireless Headphones. The over-ear headphones serve as an updated wireless version of the standard Space One model.

The Space One Wireless headphones offer support for CD-quality music streaming through Bluetooth Qualcomm aptX, along with optional wired playback via a 3.5mm headphone cable. Likewise, the device includes KEF's specially-tuned active noise cancellation tech and is rated for 30-hours of battery life. In addition, the headphones feature 40mm drivers with a large 20mm neodymium magnet and a lightweight copper-clad aluminum wire voice coil. 

KEF and Porsche Design's Space One Wireless Headphones will be available on October 1 for an MSRP of $399.

Source: KEF

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