British audio company KEF has introduced its first major update to the well-regarded Q Series speakers in seven years. This latest version incorporates the company’s advanced Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and other enhancements, with a price range from an accessible $600 to $2,200.
The newly launched KEF Q Series with MAT comprises a collection of eight speakers designed for various setups. Whether you’re an avid music enthusiast looking for a simple stereo arrangement or a movie buff interested in a full multi-channel home theater experience featuring up-firing height speakers for dynamic Dolby Atmos sound, this lineup has you covered.
This latest generation of the Q Series marks its ninth update since its initial release in 1991. A notable feature is the inclusion of KEF’s MAT, which was previously found in some of their premium models, such as the LS50 Meta wireless speakers and the Reference line.
KEF’s MAT technology consists of a complex maze-like structure within the speaker that effectively absorbs specific frequencies. The result is claimed to be an “acoustic black hole,” which can eliminate 99% of unwanted sound, leading to a richly detailed and distortion-free listening experience.
All eight models in the Q Series Meta lineup pair the MAT with KEF’s innovative 12th-generation Uni-Q driver technology. Each speaker is meticulously designed and tuned according to its dimensions, allowing the driver array and metamaterial to work harmoniously for enhanced clarity and detail.
In addition to the MAT, updates to the Q Series range include a shift from a two-way to a three-way speaker design for floorstanding models, such as the Q7 Meta and Q11 Meta, along with the bookshelf versions, Q Concerto Meta and Q6 Meta. This change aims to improve frequency separation between mids and highs, with a new bass driver that enhances the low-end response, resulting in deeper and cleaner bass tones.
The updated Q Series lineup encompasses a variety of models: the streamlined Q7 Meta and Q11 Meta floorstanding speakers; three bookshelf speakers—Q1 Meta, Q3 Meta, and the brand-new Q Concerto Meta, recalling the classic KEF Concerto from 1969; the Q4 Meta, KEF’s inaugural on-wall speaker, suitable for LCR configurations or as surround; the more conventional Q6 Meta center speaker, which can also serve as LCR or surround; and the versatile Q8 Meta, height speakers that can be positioned on top of the M7 or M11 floorstanders or mounted on walls for surround sound use.
As in previous models, the contemporary KEF Q Series is available in Satin Black, Satin White, and Walnut finishes. New this time is the inclusion of magnetic grilles, which were sold separately in earlier versions.
Here’s a comprehensive list of pricing and availability for the Q Series Meta speaker lineup:
- Q1 Meta: $600 per pair — bookshelf, two-way
- Q3 Meta: $800 per pair — bookshelf, two-way
- Q Concerto Meta: $1,300 per pair — bookshelf, upgraded to three-way
- Q6 Meta: $800 each — center speaker, upgraded to three-way, can be set up as left/center/right
- Q7 Meta: $900 each — floorstanding, upgraded to three-way
- Q11 Meta: $1,100 each — floorstanding, upgraded to three-way
- Q8 Meta: $800 per pair — height speaker, also suitable for wall mounting
- Q4 Meta: $500 each — on-wall speaker, can function as LCR or surround
The KEF Q Series Meta speakers will soon be accessible via KEF’s official website.
- Q Concerto Meta — Available starting September 26 for early access members of myKEF.
- Q11 Meta, Q7 Meta, Q3 Meta, Q1 Meta, Q6 Meta, Q8 Meta — available from October 10.
- Q4 Meta, SQ1 Floor Stand, PQ1 Plinth Spike Kit — available this winter.
