Are you ready to transform your listening experience?
In this KEF Q950 review, we delve deep into the heart of what makes these speakers a game-changer in the world of high-fidelity audio.
From their striking design to their unparalleled sound quality, the KEF Q950 isn’t just another addition to your audio setup; it’s a journey into the realm of acoustic excellence.
Join me as I unpack every detail, test them in varied scenarios, and ultimately reveal if they truly live up to the hype.
Whether you’re an audiophile, a movie buff, or just someone who appreciates great sound, this review is your ticket to discovering what the KEF Q950 has to offer. Let’s dive in!
Kef Q950 Specs
Size and Weight: 30 x 17 x 14 inches / 30 Pounds
Colors: Black, Walnut and White
Impedance: 8Ω (min.3.7Ω)
Frequency response range: 51Hz – 28kHz
Sensitivity: 86 dB
Speaker Maximum Output Power: 150 Watts
Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary
Kef Q950
Pros
- Innovative Uni-Q Driver Array
- Elegant Design
- Build Quality
Cons
- Price Point
- Size and Weight
🔊 DESIGN
Build Quality
Handling these speakers, one can’t help but be impressed by their robust construction. The solid MDF build with meticulous internal bracing is palpable, exuding a sense of durability and quality. Each speaker, weighing a substantial 20.6 kg, stands firm and stable, courtesy of the well-designed outrigger plinth bases. It’s a design that promises longevity and enduring performance.
Cabinet Design
The sealed cabinet design of the Q950 is a noteworthy feature. This design choice, diverging from the more common rear-ported models, ensures a consistent bass response. It’s a subtle yet impactful design decision, allowing these speakers to perform optimally in various room settings without compromising on their elegant appearance.
The Heart of the Q950: Uni-Q Driver Array
Unveiling the Uni-Q driver array by removing the magnetic grilles was a moment of revelation. Positioned centrally in the cabinet, this driver array isn’t just the core of KEF’s acclaimed sound dispersion but also a testament to their innovative design ethos. It’s this blend of aesthetic appeal and functional brilliance that sets the Q950 apart in the realm of high-end speakers.
An Audiophile's Perspective
As an audiophile, the KEF Q950 speakers have been more than just a sound system; they’ve been an integral part of my daily life. While their substantial size and weight may pose a challenge for smaller spaces, in a suitably spacious setting, they shine—both as a visual centerpiece and as a powerhouse of sound.
🎵 SOUND QUALITY
Understanding the KEF Q950's Specs
Before diving into the music, let’s appreciate the technical prowess of the Q950. With a frequency response of 51Hz – 28kHz and a sensitivity of 86dB, these speakers are designed to handle a wide range of sounds with finesse. The nominal impedance of 8Ω, dipping to a minimum of 3.7Ω, indicates their compatibility with a variety of amplifiers, though they truly shine with a robust power source.
Bass Response
For my test, I chose “Hotel California” by The Eagles, a track with a complex mix of guitar strings, distinct vocals, and varying dynamics. This choice was deliberate, as it encompasses a broad spectrum of frequencies and instruments, ideal for testing the Q950’s range and accuracy.
The opening strums of the guitar immediately showcased the Q950’s prowess in handling lower frequencies. The bass was rich and full, without any muddiness. The Q950’s redesigned cabinet and improved Uni-Q driver array, along with the auxiliary bass radiators, delivered bass notes that were deep yet articulate, perfect for the rhythmic undercurrent of the song.
Midrange Performance
As the song progressed, the midrange clarity of the Q950 took center stage. The vocals were rendered with exceptional transparency, each lyric discernible and emotive. The intricate guitar work in the midrange frequencies was detailed and resonant, demonstrating the speaker’s ability to handle complex musical passages with ease.
High Frequencies
The KEF Q950’s treble handling was equally impressive. The high notes of the guitar solos were sharp and well-defined, yet they never veered into harshness. This is a testament to the Q950’s enhanced Uni-Q Driver Array and the careful engineering of the tweeter, ensuring that high frequencies are crisp and clear.
Imaging and Soundstage
What truly set the Q950 apart was its exceptional imaging and soundstage. The speakers created a three-dimensional audio landscape, making it feel as if the band was performing live in my room. The placement of instruments was precise, each occupying its own space, yet contributing to a cohesive whole.
Power and Performance
Initially, I powered the Q950s with a modest amplifier, and they performed admirably. However, when I switched to a more powerful amp, the transformation was dramatic. The speakers unleashed their full potential, with even greater clarity and dynamism. It was a clear demonstration of how the Q950s, with the right power, can elevate the listening experience to new heights.
🔄CONNECTIVITY AND INSTALLATION
The KEF Q950 Floorstanding speaker, the latest gem in KEF’s award-winning Q Series, is not just about phenomenal sound. It’s also about seamless connectivity and ease of installation, making it a perfect fit for your home audio system.
Refined Connectivity for Diverse Audio Sources
Connectivity Technology: The KEF Q950 embraces auxiliary connectivity, a versatile feature that allows you to connect to various audio sources using standard audio cables. Whether it’s your vintage turntable, modern digital receiver, or a multimedia setup, these KEF tower speakers easily become the heart of your home audio system.
Speaker Type: Standing tall as a floor-standing speaker, the KEF Q950 is ideal for a home audio system setup. Its design and structure make it a standout piece, not just in performance but as a part of your home décor.
Installation
Speaker Dimensions: With dimensions of 30 x 17 x 14 inches and weighing about 30 pounds, the KEF Q950 is a substantial piece. Knowing these dimensions is crucial for planning where to place these impressive speakers in your home.
Placement: As a floor-standing model, the KEF Q950 should be positioned on the floor, preferably in a stereo pair to optimize sound distribution. The ideal placement often depends on the room’s acoustics and your personal preference. Experimenting with different locations can significantly impact the listening experience, allowing the KEF 950 to truly shine.
🎼 USABILITY
Compatibility with Amplifiers and Receivers
The KEF Q950 is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of amplifiers and receivers, thanks to its standard speaker connections and an impedance of 8 ohms (minimum 3.2 ohms). Here are some examples of amplifiers and receivers that pair well with the KEF Q950:
Marantz SR7015 AV Receiver: This 9.2 channel receiver, known for its high-quality sound and extensive feature set, including Dolby Atmos and 4K video support, pairs excellently with the KEF Q950. It can drive the speakers with sufficient power, ensuring a dynamic and immersive listening experience.
Denon AVR-X3700H: Another great match for the Q950, this 9.2 channel AV receiver offers 3D audio support and multiple HDMI inputs. Its high-current amplification provides the power and clarity needed to bring out the best in the Q950s.
Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A2A: This 7.2 channel AV receiver with MusicCast multi-room capabilities and support for the latest HDMI standards is a great choice for integrating the Q950 into a modern home theater system.
Rotel RA-1572 Integrated Amplifier: For those preferring a stereo setup, this integrated amplifier with its robust power output and high-quality DAC offers a great way to enjoy music through the Q950s.
Integration with Home Audio Systems
Home Theater Systems: The KEF Q950 can serve as the front left and right channels in a surround sound setup, complementing a center channel speaker, subwoofer, and rear speakers for a full home theater experience.
Stereo Pairing: For music enthusiasts, setting up two Q950s as a stereo pair provides a high-fidelity listening experience, ideal for a dedicated listening room or living area.
Daily Operation and Maintenance
Ease of Use: Once connected to a compatible amplifier or receiver, the Q950s are straightforward to operate. The primary interaction for daily use will be through the connected device (e.g., adjusting volume, selecting input sources).
Maintenance: The Q950s require minimal maintenance, mainly involving regular dusting and ensuring they are kept in a stable, dry environment to preserve their finish and internal components.
⚖️Comparison with Competitors
In my quest for the ultimate sound experience, I’ve had the opportunity to compare the KEF Q950 not just in isolation but also against some of its well-known peers in the high-end speaker market. Each model brings its unique strengths to the table, making the choice intriguing for any audiophile.
KEF Q950 vs Bowers & Wilkins 603
When pitted against the Bowers & Wilkins 603, the KEF Q950 holds its ground with its detailed soundstage and innovative Uni-Q driver. The B&W 603, with its Continuum cone technology, offers a warmer sound profile. If you’re a listener who leans towards a warmer, more rounded sound, the B&W 603 might appeal more. However, for clarity and spatial detail, the Q950 remains a formidable contender.
KEF Q950 vs Klipsch RP-8000F
The Klipsch RP-8000F, known for its dynamic sound, makes an interesting comparison with the Q950. The RP-8000F’s Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter gives it an edge in dynamic range and efficiency. However, the KEF Q950 counters with its nuanced midrange and controlled bass, making it a better fit for those who prefer a balanced and detailed sound across all frequencies.
KEF Q950 vs Focal Chora 826
Focal’s Chora 826 stands out with its unique design and Flax cone technology. It offers a lively and engaging sound, which can be quite appealing. The KEF Q950, in contrast, maintains a more neutral and consistent sound profile. The choice here might come down to aesthetic preference and whether you prefer the Focal’s vibrant presentation or the KEF’s balanced approach.
💰 Price and Value
When I first considered the KEF Q950, the price made me take a step back – it’s undeniably a premium investment. But as someone who values exceptional audio quality, I knew that true value can’t just be measured in dollars and cents.
Unpacking the Value Behind the Price
Yes, these speakers sit at the higher end of the market, but what they bring to my daily life goes beyond the norm. The clarity, depth, and precision of the sound they produce have transformed my listening experiences from ordinary to extraordinary.
Comparing the KEF Q950: More Than Just a Price Tag
In the realm of high-end speakers, you encounter a range of prices and promises. After experiencing what the Q950 offers in terms of soundstage, design, and the groundbreaking Uni-Q driver, I see its price not just as a cost, but as an entry ticket to elite audio experiences. Compared to its peers, the Q950 stands out as a balanced choice, excelling in both performance and elegance.
Is the KEF Q950 a Smart Purchase?
If you’re pondering whether the KEF Q950 is worth its price, consider this: it’s not just a speaker, it’s an audio experience that elevates every note. For those who prioritize unparalleled sound quality, the Q950 is more than just a purchase; it’s a long-term investment in musical excellence.
Who Should Buy the Kef Q950?
The Audiophile’s Dream: A Perfect Match for Sound Aficionados
If you’re an audiophile who relishes in the subtleties of sound, the KEF Q950 could be your perfect match. Its detailed soundstage, coupled with the depth and clarity of audio, makes it ideal for those who not only listen to music but experience it.
For the Design-Conscious Listener
The sleek, modern design of the KEF Q950 is not just about performance; it’s also a statement piece. If you’re someone who values the aesthetics of your audio equipment as much as its sound, these speakers blend seamlessly into a contemporary living space, enhancing its visual appeal.
Home Theater Enthusiasts
Movie lovers seeking to bring the cinema experience into their homes will find a faithful ally in the Q950. Its ability to create a broad and immersive soundstage breathes life into movie soundtracks, making every viewing an event.
Large Spaces? The Q950 Thrives
Those with spacious listening rooms will particularly appreciate the KEF Q950’s capabilities. Its design and power are tailored to fill larger spaces with rich, detailed sound. If your living area or listening room is expansive, the Q950 is engineered to utilize that space, delivering sound that is both vast and intimate.
Power Seekers: Amp Up Your Listening
If you’re someone who already owns or is willing to invest in a high-quality amplifier, the Q950 will shine even brighter. These speakers respond remarkably well to powerful amplification, so audiophiles with a penchant for robust setups will find them highly rewarding.
Real World Performance- Testing Across Different Scenarios
Home Theater (Rating: 8.5/10)
In my home theater setup, the KEF Q950s truly brought films to life. The clarity of dialogue was exceptional, ensuring no line was missed. During action sequences, the speakers delivered a punchy and dynamic sound, making every explosion and soundtrack swell feel like a cinematic event. However, I noticed that while the highs were clear, they lacked a bit of the sparkle I’ve heard in some other high-end speakers.
Large Room (Rating: 9.2/10)
My living room, quite spacious, was effortlessly filled with rich, encompassing sound by the Q950s. The speakers created a cinema-like atmosphere, making movie nights an immersive experience. Their large size, while imposing, translated into a powerful and room-filling performance.
Classical and Jazz (Rating: 9/10)
As a fan of classical and jazz, I was impressed by the Q950s’ performance. The separation of instruments was distinct, and the soundstage depth was remarkable. Listening to a violin concerto, I could almost sense the bow’s movement across the strings – a testament to the speaker’s nuanced sound reproduction.
Rock and Pop (Rating: 7.5/10)
When I switched to rock and pop, the Q950s maintained their energy, especially in the bass and midrange. However, I felt that some of the finer details in guitar riffs and high-hats were slightly subdued, lacking the raw edge that these genres sometimes demand.
Bass-Heavy Genres: Electronic and Hip-Hop (Rating: 8/10)
The bass response was generally tight and controlled, which worked well for electronic and hip-hop tracks. The speakers handled bass drops and beats with a satisfying thump, though for the deepest bass, I found myself wishing for a subwoofer to complement them.
Home Studio: Sound Mixing and Production (Rating: 7.1/10)
Using the Q950s in my home studio for mixing and mastering revealed their balanced sound profile. They were reliable for picking up subtle details in tracks, though I occasionally missed some high-frequency clarity that would have been beneficial for critical listening tasks.
Casual Listening in My Living Room
Everyday Use and Versatility (Rating: 9/10)
For everyday use, from streaming playlists to background music during gatherings, the Q950s were a delight. Their wide dispersion meant that the sound quality was consistent, no matter where I was in the room. They proved to be versatile and user-friendly, fitting seamlessly into my daily life.
Small vs. Large Rooms (Rating: 6/10) vs (Rating: 9/10)
In my smaller study room, the Q950s felt a bit overpowering, both in physical presence and sound. However, in larger spaces like my living room, they were in their element, delivering expansive and engaging audio.
Conclusion
I hope this in-depth KEF Q950 review has illuminated the exceptional qualities that these speakers bring to the table. They stand not just as a testament to KEF’s legacy in sound innovation but as a beacon for what the future of high-fidelity audio can be.
As we’ve journeyed through their capabilities, from the immersive home theater experience to the nuanced reproduction of diverse music genres, it’s clear that the KEF Q950 speakers are more than just an auditory enhancement; they’re an experience in themselves.
But the world of audio doesn’t end here. If this review has sparked your interest, there’s a whole universe of sound and audio waiting for you on our website. From the latest in speaker technology to the finest headphones, we’ve got everything to satisfy your audio curiosity. So why stop now?
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Monica Rivas is a Reviewer and Content Manager of Audiofavorite, she is an audiophile for many years and she helps people to learn all they need about audio, speakers, sound etc.