The Reference 5 display speakers here benefit greatly from the Belden Iconoclast speaker cables, more than most other speakers. The cables open up the top end and extend and define the deep bass. This sounds like a narrow recommendation but it nails it. Otherwise the Ref5s can be a little soft on top. The MA 200 IIs are in the same room here. I agree the sound with them is denser in a good way, but they don’t sound dark on top.
Monitor Audio Pl 300ii vs. KEF Reference 5
I own the KEF Reference 5s. I borrowed the Monitor Audio Pl300 ii speakers for comparison, which is still under way. Thoughts so far: Both are good speakers. The KEFs provide a lot of detail. Listening to classical music, you can hear orchestral instruments and sections pretty clearly. Background and counter melodies can be identified. Piano music is very realistic. The MAs do not provide as much instrumental detail but they do have a more mellow, deeper, broader sound. Which is better is really a matter of personal choice. As I said, I’m still listening so these are some quick preliminary reactions. More later.