Old KEFs good as the new KEFs

[DavidS]

I currently have KEF 104s powered by NAD separates that was considered entry high-end about 20 years ago. I'm interested in moving to multichannel, primarily for music but also home theater (but music is the priority). I still like my KEFs and was thinking of building a system with them as the fronts. However, it's been suggested to me that I might be better of using them as surrounds and going with a whole new set of three fronts for multichannel, and then using the KEFs for the two-channel sound (and turning around) I still enjoy. Which strikes me as overly complicated. It's also been suggested that a "compatible" center speaker from another manufacturer (Boston Acoustics) would let me keep the KEFs in the front, though it might be better to get a center channel manufactured by KEF as more in synch. So here's my question: Do any of these suggestions make sense to you? Is there a current KEF center channel (and perhaps surrounds) that would sufficiently complement my 20 year old KEF?. Or should I think of upgrading the speakers altoghether and putting the KEFs on ebay?


Thanks.

 

[toquemon]

I think it's always better to use the 3 main channels with the same brand and type of speakers. KEF is still making good sounding speakers like entry-level high-end Q series. The Reference series are stunning but they're very expensive.

 

[MacManNM]

I've been looking around and can't seem to find out what type of drivers are in the 104's. I think if you like the sound of them, then just use them up front and pick up a center. I am using a 22yr old pair of McIntosh XR-16's as my fronts, and a modified BIC DV62clr as the center and it sounds great. I have no problem with timbre matching at all. The BIC uses a soft dome tweeter as do my Mc's so they match up pretty well. I think in reality, it comes down more to tonal quality, rather than driver type anyhow.

 

[DavidS]

Here are the specs (off the KEF site,which is amazingly comprehensive-- how many other companies have product info on 20 year old stuff). Most of this means nothing to me. KEF's current center speakers are designed to match their UNI-Q driver array (whatever that is), but the UNI-Q stuff came after the 104's time, so I don't know that this is anything to worry about matching. Thanks for the advice.

Specifications
Frequency Range

55Hz - 20kHz (+/- 2dB)

Drive Units

HF: T33 25mm (1")
Impregnated fabric dome
MF: 2 x B110 100mm (5") Doped Bextrene cone
LF: 2 x B200 200mm (8")
Paper cone

Crossover Point

150Hz, 3kHz

Nominal Impedance

4 ohms

Characteristic
Sensitivity Level

92dB

Amplifier Requirements

25-200W into 4 ohms

Maximum Output

112dB

Internal Volumes

LF 50 litres
MF 3 litres

Net Weight

32kg (70.5lbs)

Dimensions
(H x W x D)

900 x 280 x 415mm
35.5 x 11 x 16.4 ins

 

[MacManNM]

The BIC DV62clr, with the Ed frias mod should work with that, Along with several others. The BIC is only around $100 and the mod is like $20. It would prob be worth it to try it and see. I bought mine without hearing it and am still quite impressed.

 

[AVRat]

Budget ???

I agree with the others, use what you have for your fronts. If the budget allows, stick with the KEFs.

Center - Q9c....... $350
- Q10c..... $600

Surrounds - Q2ds......... $600
- Q1............. $450
- Qcompact... $300

Keep in mind that you will probably want a sub. And, actually looking at the frequency reponse of of all these speakers, you really need one to fill in the lower end, at least down to 25Hz or lower if you want to really feel it. The brand is not as important.

 

[DavidS]

KEF complements

Thanks for the pricing guide. I note that KEF also has in-wall speakers, which I was thinking might be nice for surrounds. Without knowing pricing, would I be sacrificing anything by going in-wall as opposed to mounting the box -- though the Q2ds look kind of cool.

 

[Buckle-meister]

KEF's current center speakers are designed to match their UNI-Q driver array (whatever that is)...

I believe it is where they place the tweeter in the centre of another speaker. It is a proprietory technology (albeit a good few years old now) of KEFs.

Regards

 

[Spiffyfast]

your going to get alot better sound quality out of a "box" speaker vs. inwall, yes the inwall speakers work, but they are really designed to be just a last resort in speakers only if there is no way a normal speaker will suit. Last resort makes it sound like they can't be quality, but they will probably sound good, just not the best a set up could possibly be.

 

[DavidS]

KEFs and new electronics

Thanks for all the advice. One final question. The dealer who was suggesting to me that I might want to replace the KEFs for 5.1 sound and use it only for two channel said that the electronics I'm considering (Denon 4805 but I'm debating whether it's worth the extra $2500 to go the 5805) might not sound as good as main speakers, and I should use them as surrounds. Of course, he didn't carry KEFs to sell to me.

Is there any reason I should think that the old KEFs may not sound as good if they're driven by higher powered amd/or more sophisticated electronics than my NAD 2200 amp?

 

[AVRat]

Where do I start!!!

First, let's dispel the myth that in-wall/ceiling speakers are not as good as their boxy siblings. Manufacturers are making sure that they are. If you would prefer to go with in-wall or ceiling then don't hesitate to do so. I have two pair of Paradigm in-ceiling CS-60Rs ($200) and am continually amazed at the quality of sound that these relatively inexpensive speakers put out. Unfortunately, the specs on most of the KEF in-walls are not that impressive with the exception of the reference types.

For surrounds you can use other brands with good results. Not knowing your room limitations let's look at your options. Generally, bi/di-pole types are preferable but they are not abundant and may cost more. Direct radiating are plentiful, available in a wide price range, and may suit your needs just fine.

As an example, I am using Def Techs for everything except my L/R which are my 24 year old ESS AMT Monitors. The center is Pro Center C2 (probably should've gone with 2000 or 2002). The side-surrounds are bi-polar in-walls (UIW-BP). The grills protrude about an inch or so, which some may have an issue with. The rears are in-ceiling (UIW 64/A Reference) because of my room layout (open to rear). http://www.definitivetech.com/loudspeakers/inwall_/inwall_.html

As to your last issue the salesman's advice, complete balderdash. Many older audiophiles have decades old speakers they would take to the grave with them if they could, but continue to upgrade their equipment as need (or desire) warrants. I am using the Denon AVR-5800 for my 7.1 system with a separate amp powering a second zone. For your purpose not knowing what it is, the 4806 may be all you need, the 5805 may be overkill. Spend the money on a good quality sub or two. Again, I like the Def Tech SuperCubes. Though many on this site will recommend SVS and HSU subs.

http://www.definitivetech.com/loudspeakers/subwoofers/subwoofers.html