KEF R3 META or Dynaudio Special 40?


I am looking to replace my current office speakers (ML Motion 20i floorstander) with some standmounts. I like the ribbon tweeters on the MLs, especially for HT where I also have them, but I am looking for something with more sparkle for my office 2-channel rig. Amp is an Atoll in200 Sig integrated with a Node 2i for streaming and a Project Carbon Evo for vinyl. The office is small (10x10x9) and untreated (including the glass French doors). I will be treating in the future, but I mostly listen at low to medium volumes so it hasn't been a huge issue thus far. I am shopping the used market with a budget of ~$1500. Right now I am looking at two local options: new in box KEF R3 META ($1500) and Used Dynaudio Special 40 ($1400). The Dyns had a small dent in one tweeter that has been pulled out but you can still see an imperfection. Neither are available for demo. The Atoll has a warmer presentation. Have any of you AB’d the two with a similar amp? The tweeter imperfection in the Dynaudio is a bit concerning, but I wonder if there is any discernible effect. The tweeter can be replace for $350.

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Showing 2 responses by dwest1023

I own both pairs of speakers. The Dyns has a more laid-back sound compared to R3 metas. The Dyns need lots of current to sound their best. When I play my Dyns I use a Pass lab 250 to drive them. I enjoy the sound of both, but the dyns are more dynamic with the right amplification. I don't think either is a bad choice and I am happy I don't have to decide between the two. The fact that the dyns have a pushed-in tweeter will not make an audible difference.

I guess it depends on setup. I’m using an Electrocompaniet 6 with cardas clear reflection and if I got anymore warmth out of my r3 metas I’d have to turn the furnace off.