LS50 vs R11/7/5 Meta


I have the LS50s (non meta) since it launched many years ago.  Since then, I've upgraded around the Ls50s -- Parasound Hint6, Mogami wire / interconnects, Technics TT.   For me, the only issue has been that the LS50s are too small for my room, but they're just too a good a platform that I really couldn't want for anything more.    The R series and LS60s have recently piqued my interest.  LS60s are not for me as they are powered and I want a separate amp.  So, I'm wondering if anyone has experience upgrading from the LS50s to something in the R line?  

128x128martinman

@martinman

Depends on how critical of a listener you are. I was in the same boat- loved the sound of the LS50s but even with subs and in my medium room they didn’t sound big enough.

I have upgraded several times since the originals and listened to all of the recent R series and REF series including Meta.

KEF has altered the voicing of the newer speakers including the LS50 meta to a point where I feel they ruined the sound of the original LS50s, a very special sound that is basically the only KEF speaker I like. The newer models sound too rolled off and bland to my ears, they veil the midrange. Also many can sound metallic with the wrong amplification.

My recommendation to you would be the Andrew Jones designed MoFi Sourcepoint 10 which are much more efficient, have a huge sound and perfect for your room.

I listened to these for quite a while at the last AXPONA audio show and they were a favorite. Crushing deep bass from the 10 inch woofers, clear neutral midrange and treble. Highly recommended.

@kraftwerkturbo : You're asking the right questions.  It's playing plenty loud enough without fatigue.  Analyzing my thoughts a bit, I think there is something missing with small bookshelfs in my room; and I think it's the midrange fullness that is suffering.  Though, given what I'm asking from the LS50s it's a stelar performer - I'm just being overly critical.  When thinking about an upgrade the LS50 are wonderful at fine detail, but what I think i'm missing is the broad brush strokes 'in the middle' if that makes any sense at all.  So, keeping with the meta line, I'm thinking that the R (or even LS60s) might fill in some of the middle parts that the LS50s just can't do because of physical limitations.  

 

@avanti1960 :  I'm partial to the LS50s because it was the first speaker that really excelled in my room and met my expectations.  I continue to be wow'ed every time I listen to them.  So, maybe what I'm really looking for is *more* LS50.  

I recently purchased a pair of used LS50 Metas at $900 including shipping. As stated previously, they are now on sale everywhere for $999 with free shipping. I have a small room and listen at moderate levels most of the time. I purchased the LS50 Metas because of all the reviews and several reviewers made them part of their 'keepers'. I'm no expert, but have found myself trying to decide whether to keep them or not. I have a pair of Harbeth Compact C7ES-3 XD speakers. I didn't intend on keeping both speakers, but I really like both of them. I have purchased a KEF KS62 sub to add a little bass, but have not received it, yet.

@martinman 

Which is why I recommended the MoFi Sourcepoint 10- it is a point source system with tweeter in the center of the main driver just like the KEFs but with a 10 inch woofer ! 

Also the Sourcepoint 8 is excellent too.  

MoFi Electronics SourcePoint 10 (Black) Bookshelf speaker at Crutchfield