Important Safety Information
Thank you for purchasing KEF Reference Series
loudspeakers. These have been designed to
faithfully reproduce high quality sound over many
years of use and should provide realistic
reproduction of music and speech. Please take a
little time to read these instructions prior to use.
However, if you have small children, large pets,
the infirm, uneven flooring or unusually thick
carpeting in your home, then correct adjustment
of the foot assemblies is imperative, if safe,
stable operation is to be achieved.
Warning: The metal tweeter dome now has
®
Your KEF Reference Loudspeakers are tall,
slim and extremely heavy. Installed correctly on
a smooth, level surface, your loudspeakers
should be entirely safe to listen to and to
live with.
protective mesh at the centre of the Uni-Q
driver array; if however this is compromised and
the dome itself is dented, it will permanently
impair performance.
1. Read this manual carefully, especially the
safety information, before attempting to
assemble and operate the system.
4. Trailing cables are dangerous. Ensure all
cables are secure and tidy.
5. When stripping cables use only tools
designed specifically for the purpose ie:
correct wire cutters or cable strippers.
Do not attempt to strip cables with a knife as
this could result in serious injury.
2. Follow the unpacking and assembly
instructions on the cartons. Please note that
lifting the heavier Model 207/2 and Model
204/2c requires two able-bodied persons.
3. Never connect the system directly to the
electricity supply.
General Care of your System
1. Avoid temperature extremes.
2. Avoid damp.
3. Avoid direct sunlight.
4. Clean with the KEF cloth provided.
5. Do not use spirit based cleaners.
OWNERS MANUAL
If you are at all uncertain about setting up, operating or caring for your system
your dealer will be pleased to assist you.
Model 201/2
Model 202/2c
Model 203/2
Model 204/2c
Model 205/2
Model 206/2ds Model 207/2
Part No.: 290201E
Issue 2: January 2007
1
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Introduction
Since its formation in 1961, KEF has pioneered
The latest Uni-Q array implemented in this
range is a sophisticated device offering a
combination of wider bandwidth and wider
dispersion than its predecessor.
many innovations in loudspeaker technology and
design. Your new Reference Series loudspeakers
contain one of the latest of these advances -
the KEF ‘Project Austin’ Uni-Q driver array.
Both the midrange and high frequency drivers
have been symbiotically designed to take us one
step closer to the ideal of a controlled directivity
point source acoustic radiating system.
The 165mm (6.5in.) midrange section has a
shallow ‘Uni-Form’ cone profile which gives
excellent midrange performance but also
provides the optimum waveguide for the
coincidentally mounted tweeter.
In this innovative KEF design, not only are the
mid and high-frequency drivers on the same axis
(co-axial), but their acoustic centres are also on
the same plane (co-planar). The profile of the
mid-frequency driver’s cone modifies the
directivity factor (or ‘Q’) of the high frequency
unit such that both drive units have the same
directivity in the critical crossover region,
where they are operating at similar frequencies.
This unification of the ‘Q’ of the drive units lies
behind the name “Uni-Q”.
This new two piece 25mm (1in.) titanium dome
tweeter has been developed utilising Finite
Elements Analysis techniques to provide
‘pistonic’ motion to a much higher frequency,
Now incorporated in many KEF loudspeakers,
the Uni-Q driver array yields immediate and
readily audible sonic benefits. With no sharp
discontinuity in ‘Q’ at the crossover frequency,
correct tonal balance is not confined to a
single ‘sweet spot’ in the listening room and
is extended to cover a far broader area.
With sound arriving in phase, the sound source
is brought into the sharpest possible focus.
With properly recorded material and as part of
a good quality system, well set-up, loudspeakers
with KEF Uni-Q can reveal the location of each
musical voice in the stereo image with pin-point
accuracy and with a much smoother response
being maintained off-axis - where most people
listen - than before.
eliminating the need for
hyper-tweeter.
a
separate
It also features
a
vented pole piece,
increasing the air space behind the dome
providing an extended but smooth high
frequency performance whilst retaining ultra
wide
bandwidth
source
compatibility:
DVD-A/SACD.
5
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Overview of Common Features of KEF Reference
Model 207/2
The KEF Reference Series products covered by
this manual are loudspeakers designed primarily
to operate away from room boundaries
(free space), where the renowned stereo
imaging of the Uni-Q driver array is at its best.
However, a bass level adjustment is provided
(Uni Balance) on all Reference Series Models
which corrects the response to allow for
placement close to a wall.
IDL divides the enclosure into two half-height
enclosures, one for each bass driver, with much
improved internal acoustics.
The flagship of the new KEF Reference
range, Model 207/2 is designed to faithfully
reproduce the full bandwidth and
dynamics of music signals. It is a no
compromise design where acoustic
performance is the prime objective.
The dividing network has its cross-over
points at 120Hz, 400Hz and 2.3kHz
and smoothly directs appropriate
frequencies to the relevant drive units.
The new 165mm (6.5in.) Reference Series
Uni-Q driver array is used here for upper
mid, high and very high frequencies.
Thanks to their internal Magnetic Shielding,
these loudspeakers may be used close-to or
beside a television set or video monitor,
when used in front left and right channel
positions in Home Theatre or Surround
Sound applications.
A complex, fully fourth order, high-quality,
hand-soldered dividing network and five
drive units are utilised in the Model 207/2.
A
250mm (10in.) lower mid-range
unit fitted within its own individual
compartment and two 250mm (10in.)
fibre reinforced pulp-cone bass units,
mounted in IDL (Independent Driver
Loading) configuration, complete the
driver complement.
In addition, all the models listed feature
a
four step independent HF adjustment
The centre loudspeakers also include
a
(also accessed via the Uni Balance terminals) to
allow further tailoring to a particular acoustic
environment or to allow for the presentation
of accompanying electronics.
bass adjustment for TV or wall mounting,
plus a high frequency boost facility for when
they need to be mounted behind an acoustically
transparent screen.
All models use Reference matched drive units
and crossovers that have been manufactured to
laboratory-standards and rigorously tested at
every stage of production. The driver
complement of each system reflects the
increasing performance capabilities of each
model, particularly its ability to reproduce wider
bandwidth at higher output levels.
All models are timbre matched to each other so
combining different models in an AV system is no
problem. Extra Reference loudspeakers can be
added to your system with the knowledge
that the system tonal balance and integration will
be maintained.
Wide entry, gold-plated tri-wire/tri-amp
terminals are fitted to the custom-designed
moulded terminal assembly at the rear of the
loudspeaker cabinet. This allows the use of the
many different gauges of loudspeaker cable that
are available.
Independent Driver Loading (IDL) is utilised for
the bass sections of this new Reference Range.
Using two identical bass units rather than a
single larger one has the advantage of
maintaining a slim profile for the cabinet and
subsequently wide and even sound dispersion.
Internally, however, a tall slim enclosure suffers
from strong top-to-bottom acoustic standing
waves which are very difficult to control.
Model 205/2
Model 203/2
Four drive units in a three-way configuration are
employed in the Model 205/2. The single Uni-Q
driver array for upper mid-range and high
frequencies with ultrasonic extension, and a pair
of 200mm (8in.) drive units in IDL configuration
for low frequencies. This system works optimally
in medium to large rooms where its controlled
and extended bass lays a strong foundation to
the superior imaging of the Uni-Q driver array.
Model 203/2 is a floorstanding three-way
loudspeaker with four drive units designed for
high quality reproduction in medium sized rooms
or where space is limited. Two 165mm (6.5in.)
drive units in IDL configuration handle bass
frequencies, the mid-range and high frequencies
are handled by the Uni-Q driver array
extending the response smoothly into the
ultrasonic region.
6
7
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Installation and Operation
Unpacking, Handling and Aftercare
These Reference Series loudspeakers are
packed one loudspeaker per carton. Prior to
unpacking, please ensure that the serial numbers
of the loudspeakers supplied match each other.
Then, unpack the loudspeakers carefully
and inspect for any sign of damage.
Your loudspeakers left KEF in perfect condition.
If any damage is apparent, you should notify your
retailer or consultant immediately. Retain the
packaging in case a need arises for you to
transport the loudspeakers at a later date.
The cabinets are finished in real wood veneer
and should be treated with the same care with
which you would treat fine furniture. A suitable
cleaning cloth is included in the customer care
pack to maintain the original finish and lustre.
Model 201/2
Model 206/2ds
It is normal for the appearance of wood veneer
to change with the passing of time, but locations
in direct sunlight should, if possible, be avoided.
Furthermore the cabinets should not be allowed
to become wet.
This is a three-way loudspeaker designed
primarily for high quality reproduction as a main
loudspeaker in small rooms or as a high quality
satellite loudspeaker in AV systems where space
is at a premium. Model 201/2 has three drive
units, two of which are combined in the single
165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q driver array, with a
165mm (6.5in.) fibre reinforced pulp cone
bass unit mounted in a reflex enclosure,
completing the driver line up.
The Model 206/2ds is a dedicated dipole rear
surround loudspeaker for KEF Reference
multi-channel systems. Incorporating two
Reference Series Uni-Q driver arrays and an
additional 200mm (8in.) ultra low distortion bass
driver, the Model 206/2ds is perfectly timbre
matched with the other Reference Series
loudspeakers.
You will notice that a special KEF care-pack is
included with each pair of loudspeakers.
This pack contains a cleaning cloth and all the
required accessories for connecting and
positioning your loudspeakers. The care pack
also contains the unique product build
certificate. This is a valuable document and
guarantees the quality and craftsmanship of
your loudspeakers.
Each Reference Series floorstanding loudspeaker
is supplied with KEF designed substantial spikes
and locking nuts (also in the care pack).
This enables fine adjustment of level, depending
on your preferred location of the loudspeakers
whatever the floor covering, carpet, tile or block
wood. In addition to the spikes and locking nuts
each Model 207/2 also comes with castors.
Model 202/2c
Model 204/2c
Model 202/2c is a centre channel loudspeaker
designed primarily to match the Model 201/2
and Model 203/2 main loudspeakers and smaller
screens. It uses the same drive unit complement
as the Model 203/2 and, like the larger Model
204/2c is timbre matched to the other
Reference Series loudspeakers thereby allowing
a seamlessly integrated 3D soundstage to be set
up in the listening room. The size has been
chosen to allow it to be mounted more
conveniently underneath the screen within the
typical dimensions of a 32in. widescreen TV or
panel stand.
Truly a statement centre channel loudspeaker,
the Model 204/2c fully exploits the dynamics
and bandwidth of modern AV soundtracks.
With around 70% of a typical soundtrack coming
from the centre channel it makes sense to
make this loudspeaker a truly capable one.
Four 165mm (6.5in.) LF units combine with
the 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q driver array in a three
way reflex system which, like the Model 202/2c,
not only has a bass level adjustment for
close to wall mounting but also a treble boost
facility for mounting behind an acoustically
transparent screen.
OW
N
Mo
E
d
el
R
20
1
S
/2
Models 202/2c and 204/2c have magnetically
shielded drive units and crossover networks
thus minimising any interference with CRT
type televisions.
Four specialised rubber feet or bumpers are
firmly fixed to the base during production to
make sitting easier straight from the box.
In addition, dedicated stands are available for
the Model 202/2c and Model 204/2c centre
loudspeakers which allows them to be
securely mounted for optimum performance in
free space.
MA
Mo
d
el
20
N
U
2
/2
AL
Mo
d
el
20
3
/2
Mo
d
el
20
4/
2
Mo
d
el
20
5/
2
Mo
d
el
20
6
/2
d
Mo
d
el
207
/2
8
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Adjusting the Feet and/or Spikes
Loudspeaker Placement and Room Acoustics
Under normal circumstances your loudspeakers
will be commissioned by your retailer or
consultant, who will have been trained in their
installation by KEF.
A rigidly-sited loudspeaker performs better than
one that can move because it enables the cabinet
to remain fixed while the drive units are allowed
to move as determined by the source signal.
The listening room is one of the most variable
elements in the hi-fi chain and its effect cannot
be emphasised too strongly, nor can its effects be
reliably predicted. Spacing the loudspeakers
approximately 2m - 3m (6ft. - 10ft.) apart will
allow the stereo images to develop fully.
You should sit at a distance at least equal to and
preferably greater than the distance between
the loudspeakers.
relative to the walls, ceiling and floor,
where possible.
Be aware also that soft furnishings near to a
loudspeaker will deaden the sound - similarly,
nearby reflective surfaces may brighten up the
sound. Move the loudspeakers until you are
satisfied that the sound is right and that the
stereo image is well defined.
KEF strongly recommend that you do
not attempt to level your loudspeakers
single-handed.
Best results will be obtained if the loudspeakers
are level and stable. Check the general stability
of each loudspeaker by gently rocking it from
side to side, front-to-back and diagonally.
Often, you will find that the loudspeaker is close
to vertical, but rocks because one spike (or two
spikes diagonally) seems too short.
Recruit the assistance of another adult -
or consult an authorised KEF Reference outlet
for assistance which may be chargeable if the
purchase was not made through them originally.
Positioning the loudspeaker in a corner or near
to a side wall is not recommended as the
significant bass boost caused by this position will
affect the sound and cause the stereo image to
deteriorate. However, placement close to the
front wall is catered for in the Uni Balance
feature (see later). It is best to place the
loudspeakers symmetrically within the room,
Like all other KEF Uni-Q loudspeakers,
your Reference Series loudspeakers are
designed to be used with little or no ‘toe-in’.
However if required a ‘brighter’, or ‘sharper’
sound may be obtained by pointing the
loudspeakers directly towards the listening
position or adjusting the HF output
(via Uni Balance).
If the general stability is good, but the
loudspeaker is leaning to left, right, backward or
forward, then equal minor adjustments to the
two spikes opposite to the direction of lean
should be made.
The spike/locking nut combination supplied is
designed to provide small adjustments, not to
compensate for seriously irregular floors.
A spirit level is provided with certain models to
gauge when the loudspeaker is perfectly level.
min.
min.
*
}
* Only supplied with
Model 207/2
10
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Loudspeaker Positioning
2m
2m
(6' 8")
(6' 8")
12
13
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Amplifier to Loudspeaker Connections
Uni Balance Adjustment
All connections should be made with the
amplifier switched OFF. Ensure the integrity of all
connections prior to switching the amplifier ON.
If the connections are not made correctly the
sound will deteriorate giving poor bass output
and a diffuse presentation of the soundstage.
Models 201/2, 203/2, 205/2, 207/2 and 206/2ds
Models 201/2, 203/2, 205/2, 207/2 and 206/2ds
incorporate separate adjustments for bass and
treble output situated at the top of the terminal
panel (see below). The left hand terminal
allows a two position bass level adjustment
while the centre and right hand terminals
allow a four position tweeter level setting.
Three gold plated screw caps are supplied with
each loudspeaker, one for the LF and two for the
HF adjustment.
KEF Reference Series loudspeakers are
fitted with purpose designed gold-plated
Tri-wire/Tri-amp terminals which will accept
bare wire, spade or 4mm connectors.
Bare wire connections are the simplest to
achieve and involve stripping 12.5mm (1.2in.) of
insulation to expose the loudspeaker wire core.
(You should twist together, using clean fingers,
the ends of each multi-stranded core prior to
the next stage to ensure a good signal contact).
Having unscrewed the lower terminal cap,
push the wire through the exposed hole in the
terminal body and screw the cap down tightly.
Most good quality loudspeaker cables have some
indication, such as colour coding or ‘ribbing’
on the insulating material, indicating which
conductor is ‘+’ or positive. Connection to the
loudspeakers can then be made as follows:
LF Adjustment
With the supplied cap screwed into the
‘LF Adjust’ terminal the bass level is set at the
‘flat’ setting - for free space positioning. When a
loudspeaker is positioned close to a wall
the perceived bass level is increased by
approximately 2dB.
If the cap is removed from the LF Adjust
terminal the bass level is reduced to correct
the loudspeaker response for the proximity of
the wall.
Make sure that no stray strands come into
contact with the opposite terminal; this could
cause a short circuit between the terminals and
may damage your amplifier.
The left channel amplifier output terminal
marked ‘+’ or coloured RED connects to the left
loudspeaker terminal marked ‘+’. The left
channel amplifier output terminal marked ‘-’ or
coloured BLACK connects to the left
loudspeaker terminal marked ‘-’. Similarly,
these instructions should be followed for
making connections between the right channel
amplifier output and the right loudspeaker.
Correct polarity, or phase, is vital to the proper
operation of the system.
Be aware that a higher quality run of cable will
always give a more rewarding presentation than
multiple runs of an inferior cable.
Amplifier Requirements and Power Handling
Level (dB)
1. Flat
cap in
In KEF literature and in the specification
table within these instructions are listed
a range of amplifier power outputs to match
gross distortion, either of the amplifier or the
LF
level (dB)
1
0.0
loudspeaker, resulting in power peaks greatly in
excess of the ratings specified. Care should be
taken as the possibility still exists under certain
conditions (such as excessive bass or treble
boost caused by tone and/or loudness controls,
graphic equalisers, etc.) that the loudspeakers
can be overloaded and damaged. The lower
limits of amplifier power are those necessary to
give a reasonable sound pressure level under
domestic conditions.
Mode
2
your
Reference
Series
loudspeakers.
-2.0
1.
2.
cap in
0.0
Conditions of use (room size, type of
programme, preferred listening level) and the
nature of the loudspeaker/amplifier interface
vary so widely that it is not possible to lay down
hard and fast rules about amplifiers and the
loudspeakers they drive.
cap out
-2.0
Frequency
50 Hz 150 Hz
300 Hz
2. Cut
cap out
KEF loudspeakers are built to rigorous standards
of quality and consistency and the upper limits of
the amplifier requirements shown are those
which the loudspeaker in question should handle
without distress or damage when used under
normal domestic conditions.
Remember it is easier to damage the
loudspeaker by using a small amplifier driven into
distortion by too much volume, possibly with
bass and treble boost, than by using a larger
amplifier which has power in reserve.
If higher than specified amplifier powers are
used, great care should be taken to avoid
abnormal conditions such as switch-on surges or
If in doubt, ask the advice of your retailer
or consultant.
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Placement Adjustment Models 202/2c and 204/2c
HF Adjustment
The ‘HF Adjust’ A and B terminals control the
high frequency output of the loudspeaker.
This facility allows the user to adjust the
‘brightness’ of the loudspeaker to suit listening
room acoustics, partnering electronics and
personal taste.
Four settings for tweeter output level are
possible +0.75, 0 (‘flat’), -0.75 and -1.5dB.For a
‘brighter’ or ‘sharper’ sound select +0.75, to
remove brightness select -0.75 or -1.5dB.
The adjustment is made by screwing one,
both or neither of the gold plated screw caps
into the HF Adjust ‘A’ and ‘B’ terminals,
according to the table below. The default setting
is 0 (‘flat’) - one screw cap in terminal ‘B’.
LF Adjustment
The two centre channel loudspeakers,
Models 202/2c and 204/2c, incorporate a two
position ‘Free Space/Television’ Uni Balance that
adjusts the bass level depending on whether the
loudspeaker is mounted freestanding or close to
a TV or wall boundary. In the Model 202/2c the
‘television’ setting corrects the bass response
for when the loudspeaker is placed on top of,
or directly underneath, a TV. In the Model
204/2c the ‘television’ setting corrects the bass
response for when the loudspeaker is placed on
a stand close to a wall.
Level (dB)
N
N
EE
EE
R
R
SC
SC
AL
RM
NO
AL
RM
NO
F
F
J
H.
H.
US
NORMAL
SCREEN
T
T
US
J
H.F
.
N
N
O
SI
ADJUST
SIO
VI
I
LF
EV
L
LE
TE
TE
FREE SPACE
TELEVISION
E
E
C
C
PA
E S
PA
E S
E
E
FR
FR
L.F
.
ADJUST
F
F
L.
US
J
L.
1
T
level (dB)
Mode
0.0
1.
-3.0
2
Frequency
300 Hz
Level (dB)
Level (dB)
Cap
Mode A B
HF
level (dB)
LF
2.
1
2
level (dB)
Mode
0.0
1
2
3
4
+0.75
0.00
-0.75
1.50
-2.0
1.
2. out in
3. in out
4. out out
in in
+0.75
0.00
Frequency
50 Hz
150 Hz 300 Hz
-0.75
-1.50
Frequency
2 kHz
HF Adjustment Models 202/2c
and 204/2c
3.
The two centre loudspeakers Models 202/2c
and 204/2c incorporate a two position high
frequency level adjustment which allows
compensation for the sound attenuation when
the loudspeaker is positioned behind a typical
acoustically transparent projection screen,
see below. Select ‘Screen’ when the loudspeaker
is positioned behind a screen.
Level (dB)
4.
N
EE
R
SC
N
EE
R
SC
AL
RM
NO
F
H.
F
J
H.
LF
level (dB)
T
N
US
O
ISI
EV
L
TE
N
IO
S
VI
LE
NORMAL
SCREEN
E
C
PA
E S
TE
E
FR
H.F
.
F
US
ADJUST
L.
T
F
Mode
J
L.
FREE SPACE
TELEVISION
T
US
J
L.F
.
ADJUST
+0.75
0.00
+0.75
0.00
These adjustments as mentioned earlier are
provided not only for ‘room tuning’ but
to allow a more sympathetic partnering to
some electronics.
Amplifiers that may have either a very forward
or bright presentation can be tamed or equally
those that have quite a warm presentation can
be given extra sparkle, it is your choice.
Frequency
2 kHz
20 kHz
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Single, Bi and Tri-wire Connections
Loudspeaker single wire connections
Tri-wiring/Tri-amping Terminals
x8
The three sets of input terminals are linked by a
high quality shorting cable. Removal of this cable
will allow the LF, MF and HF sections to be
connected separately, either by a parallel
connection from one amplifier (known as
tri-wiring) or to separate power amplifiers
driven
from
the
same
pre-amplifier
(tri-amping). Further adjustment of this cable
will allow connection of just two (pairs of)
adjacent terminals together for Bi-wiring
and Bi-amping.
Attaching Shorting Links
Loudspeaker bi-wire connections
x4
Loudspeaker tri-wire connections
x4
18
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Centre loudspeaker single wire connections
Centre loudspeaker bi-wire connections
Centre loudspeaker tri-wire connections
Loudspeaker single amplification connections
x8
x4
Loudspeaker bi-amplification connections
x2
x4
Loudspeaker tri-amplification connections
20
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Loudspeaker Cables
Centre loudspeaker single amplification connections
Poor quality cables can seriously compromise
the overall sound of your hi-fi system.
KEF recommends that high quality loudspeaker
cable be used for connecting your Reference
Series loudspeakers. It is good practice to keep
the cables as short as possible.
The left and right channel loudspeaker cables
should, wherever possible, be the same length
otherwise there may be a perceptible change in
output level between the loudspeakers.
x4
Grilles
Dedicated grille assemblies are factory fitted to
each loudspeaker. However, if you wish you may
remove the grille by gently pulling it forward
toward you. The grille is held on via ‘pegs’ that
locate into the front baffle grille-peg sockets
(or magnets which hold the top Uni-Q driver
array grille). If required, the grilles may be
removed during use, but KEF recommends
replacement following use.
KEF suggest removal of the grille for serious
listening. For cleaning purposes, the grilles
should be removed from the cabinets and
brushed lightly with a soft brush. Alternatively,
use a variable suction vacuum cleaner, with soft
brush attachment.
Centre loudspeaker bi-amplification connections
x2
Warranty
Your KEF Reference Series loudspeakers are
guaranteed against manufacturing defects in both
materials and workmanship. For further details
of how this guarantee affects you, please read
the enclosed Warranty leaflet.
It should be noted, however, that failure of
the loudspeaker due to abuse, improper or
inappropriate use and/or operation or damage
caused by other faults in your system are NOT
covered within the terms of the guarantee.
Centre loudspeaker tri-amplification connections
Service Information
Loudspeakers are inherently reliable and rarely
give trouble. It is important to remember that
faults arising in any part of the reproducing
system will be heard via the loudspeakers
and therefore when faults occur, careful and
analytical diagnosis will be required to locate the
actual source of trouble.
Service problems should be discussed in the first
instance with the dealer from whom the
loudspeakers were originally purchased.
Generally, warranty claims are best handled
by your dealer. However, in case of difficulty,
please contact:
Loudspeakers cannot generate hiss or hum.
Spurious noises of this type generally
originate in the electronic sections of the
equipment or even in the programme source
itself. Faults in a loudspeaker will be audible
on all programme sources. A fault which is
evident only when playing CDs but not,
for example, when using a radio tuner is unlikely
to originate with the loudspeakers.
Customer Services Department
KEF Audio (UK), Eccleston Road, Tovil,
MAIDSTONE, Kent, ME15 6QP UK
Telephone No.: +44 (0)1622 672261
Fax No.: +44 (0)1622 750653
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Specifications
MODEL 207/2
MODEL 205/2
MODEL 203/2
MODEL 201/2
Design :
Design :
Design :
Design :
Bass reflex four-way floorstanding loudspeaker,
Bass reflex three-way floorstanding loudspeaker,
magnetically shielded.
Bass reflex three-way floorstanding loudspeaker,
magnetically shielded.
Bass reflex three-way bookshelf loudspeaker,
magnetically shielded.
magnetically shielded.
Drive Unit Array :
Drive Unit Array :
2 x 200mm (8in.) LF
Drive Unit Array :
2 x 165mm (6.5in.) LF
Drive Unit Array :
2 x 250mm (10in.) LF
1 x 250mm (10in) LMF
1 x 165mm (6.5in.) LF
1 x 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q MF
including a 25mm (1in.) titanium HF
1 x 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q MF
including a 25mm (1in.) titanium HF
1 x 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q MF
including a 25mm (1in.) titanium HF
1 x 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q MF
including a 25mm (1in.) titanium HF
Frequency Response :
Frequency Response :
(@ 15° horizontally off axis 3dB)
45Hz - 60kHz
Frequency Response :
(@ 15° horizontally off axis 3dB)
50Hz - 60kHz
Frequency Response :
(@ 15° horizontally off axis 3dB)
(@ 15° horizontally off axis 3dB)
40Hz - 60kHz
55Hz - 60kHz
Crossover Frequencies :
Crossover Frequencies :
Crossover Frequencies :
Crossover Frequencies :
120Hz, 350Hz, 2.3kHz
400Hz, 2.3kHz
300Hz, 2.3kHz
450Hz, 2.5kHz
50 - 150W
Amplifier Requirements :
Amplifier Requirements :
Amplifier Requirements :
Amplifier Requirements :
50 - 400W
50 - 300W
50 - 200W
Sensitivity :
Sensitivity :
(2.83V / 1m)
90dB
Sensitivity :
(2.83V / 1m)
89dB
Sensitivity :
(2.83V / 1m)
(2.83V / 1m)
91dB
117dB
86dB
110dB
Maximum Output :
Impedance :
Maximum Output :
Maximum Output :
Maximum Output :
Impedance :
115dB
113dB
Impedance :
Impedance :
8Ω (3.0Ω min )
26Hz (-6dB)
66Kg (145lbs)
8Ω (3.2Ω min )
8Ω (3.2Ω min)
8Ω (4.2Ω min)
44Hz (-6dB)
12.3Kg (27.1lbs)
Bass Extension :
Weight :
Bass Extension :
Bass Extension :
Bass Extension :
Weight :
35Hz (-6dB)
40Hz (-6dB)
Weight :
Weight :
33Kg (72.6lbs)
26.5Kg (58.3lbs)
Dimensions (H x W x D) :
Dimensions (H x W x D) :
1105 x 285 x 433 mm
Dimensions (H x W x D) :
1020 x 248 x 405 mm
Dimensions (H x W x D) :
1226 x 400 x 685 mm
48.2 x 15.7 x 27 in.
417 x 248 x 405 mm
16.4 x 9.8 x 15.9 in.
43.5 x 11.2 x 17 in.
40.2 x 9.8 x 15.9 in.
Finishes :
Finishes :
Finishes :
Finishes :
Piano Black
High Gloss Cherry
High Gloss American Walnut
Satin Sycamore
Piano Black
Piano Black
Piano Black
High Gloss Cherry
High Gloss American Walnut
Satin Sycamore
High Gloss Cherry
High Gloss American Walnut
Satin Sycamore
High Gloss Cherry
High Gloss American Walnut
Satin Sycamore
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MODEL 202/2c
MODEL 204/2c
MODEL 206/2ds
Design :
Design :
Design :
Bass reflex three-way centre loudspeaker,
Bass reflex three-way centre loudspeaker,
Closed box three-way dipole loudspeaker,
magnetically shielded.
magnetically shielded.
magnetically shielded.
Drive Unit Array :
Drive Unit Array :
Drive Unit Array :
2 x 165mm (6.5in.) LF
4 x 165mm (6.5in.) LF
1 x 200mm (8in.) LF
1 x 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q MF
1 x 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q MF
2 x 165mm (6.5in.) Uni-Q MF
including a 25mm (1in.) titanium HF
including a 25mm (1in.) titanium HF
including 2 x 25mm (1in.) titanium HF
Frequency Response :
Frequency Response :
Frequency Response :
(@ 15° horizontally off axis 3dB)
(@ 15° horizontally off axis 3dB)
(@ 15° horizontally off axis 3dB)
65Hz - 60kHz
400Hz, 2.3kHz
50 - 200W
53Hz - 60kHz
400Hz, 2.3kHz
50 - 300W
65Hz - 60kHz
250Hz, 2.3kHz
50 - 200W
Crossover Frequencies :
Crossover frequencies :
Crossover Frequencies :
Amplifier Requirements :
Amplifier Requirements :
Amplifier Requirements :
Sensitivity :
Sensitivity :
Sensitivity :
(2.83V / 1m)
(2.83V / 1m)
(2.83V / 1m)
89dB
113dB
90dB
115dB
88dB
110dB
Maximum Output :
Impedance :
Maximum Output :
Impedance :
Maximum Output :
Impedance :
8Ω (3.2Ω min)
50Hz (-6dB)
15.6Kg (34.3lbs)
8Ω (3.2Ω min)
40Hz (-6dB)
34.6Kg (76lbs)
8Ω (3.2Ω min)
55Hz (-6dB)
11.6kg (25.5lbs)
Bass Extension :
Weight :
Bass Extension:
Weight :
Bass Extension :
Weight :
Dimensions (H x W x D) :
Dimensions (H x W x D) :
Dimensions (H x W x D) :
200 x 630 x 315 mm
7.9 x 24.8 x 12.4 in.
200 x 1100 x 425 mm
7.9 x 43.4 x 16.7 in.
324 x 400 x 200 mm
12.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 in.
Finishes :
Finishes :
Finishes :
Piano Black
High Gloss Cherry
Piano Black
High Gloss Cherry
Piano Black
High Gloss Cherry
High Gloss American Walnut
Satin Sycamore
High Gloss American Walnut
Satin Sycamore
High Gloss American Walnut
Satin Sycamore
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KEF Heritage
KEF was founded in 1961 by an electrical
diaphragm, while using new materials for the
diaphragm itself. Cooke was always looking for
new materials and settled on Bextrene as a
solution, as its lightweight plastic sheet-like
properties were flexible enough for shaping and
the material remained stable under varying
temperature and moisture conditions and was
smooth and consistent over a wide bandwidth.
As a result, in 1967, two new drive units, the 5in.
B110 and 8in. B200 appeared which, with their
countless applications, found use in some 3
million systems from KEF and many other
loudspeaker brands throughout the world.
A new, smaller tweeter also arrived, the T27,
which led to the most famous BBC/KEF
collaboration, the LS3/5A, of which some
100,000 units were sold world-wide.
engineer named Raymond Cooke in a Nissen
Hut on the premises of a metalworking
operation called Kent Engineering & Foundry
(hence KEF), on the banks of the River Medway,
near Maidstone in Kent.
From the beginning KEF was destined to become
a company with a flair for the unusual and
controversial in terms of loudspeaker
engineering, design, and use of materials.
Within a year, KEF, under Cooke’s outstanding
vision, was planning loudspeakers with bass units
using foil-stiffened, vacuum-formed, expanded
polystyrene diaphragms and a Melinex or Mylar
tweeter. This idea was manifested in the K1,
an immediate success, followed by the bookshelf
model, Celeste, a loudspeaker with an even
more significant commercial success and one
that helped secure the early financial stability of
the new company.
During
the
1960’s
KEF
flourished.
Loudspeakers such as the Concord,
Concerto and Cresta and then, in 1969,
the Chorale began to shape the company’s
growing reputation as ‘The Loudspeaker
Engineers’, a fact justly recognized in 1970 when
KEF received the first of two Queen’s Awards
for Export Achievement.
Re-establishing a previous relationship with the
BBC in 1966, Cooke was interested in adopting
another material, Neoprene (an artificial rubber)
to help maintain sound quality in the mid-band by
using it as the surround to the loudspeaker
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The 1970’s
The 1980’s
By 1973 the company was developing the
With the installation of a Hewlett Packard
computer at the Maidstone Head Office in 1975,
the Corelli, Calinda, and Cantata were all
designed under the total system concept and
with them came a second Queen’s Award for
Export in the same year.
Ten years of growth world-wide followed,
Amidst all this excitement, 1988 also brought in
the birth of the KEF Custom Installation
loudspeakers, a move made in response to new
world market demands. The same exacting
engineering standards were naturally applied to
the range and the CR200F and its sub-bass
partner, the CR250SW set new standards from
in-wall/ceiling units.
concept of computer assisted ‘Total System’
design, at a time when the world’s very first 4-bit
microprocessor was still in its infancy.
KEF engineers, using a given set of parameters,
could for the first time actually “see” what the
response characteristics of a loudspeaker system
would be. KEF was the first loudspeaker
company in the world to take the new
technology seriously in order to achieve this.
Now it was the use of computers and digital
test methods which provided the KEF engineers
with the relevant crossover and drive unit
data at a glance, thus dramatically improving
their ability to produce loudspeakers of
outstanding accuracy. Amongst other benefits,
KEF loudspeakers could now be computer
matched as an almost identical pair - to within
one-half of a dB.
peaking with a massive onslaught on the lucrative
and influential US market in 1985 with the
setting up of KEF Electronics of America, seen as
the appropriate recognition of this important
market-place.
1977 saw the most radical KEF design yet in the
Model 105 which apart from setting new
standards for flat frequency response introduced
a design by which the mid and treble were split
from the bass box and placed within a contoured
moulded enclosure above the bass enclosure.
The added ability to angle the separate unique
head unit provided the opportunity for the user
to tailor the 105 to his or her own environment.
The loudspeaker was of such general importance
and consumer interest that a leading quality UK
Newspaper, The Daily Telegraph, featured the
Model 105 on the front cover of its magazine
supplement. More Reference Models were to
follow. 1978 saw the launch of the 101 and
103 and, in 1979 a further refined 105/2
Model appeared.
1986 saw more activity amongst the now world
famous KEF Reference Series; the 104/2, always
regarded as one of the world’s truly outstanding
loudspeakers since its 1984 launch spawned the
107, in reality an evolution of the 105/2 but with
KEF’s coupled-cavity bass loading, a system
which positions the drivers internal to the
enclosure, each separately loaded and firing into
a third common chamber which delivers very
tight and accurate bass to the listening area via a
substantial front-mounted port. This combines
the taut sonic character of a sealed box with the
higher sensitivity of a reflex design and succeeds
in providing a huge boost to bass performance.
Also came the 102 and the 103/3, both accepted
by recording and broadcast engineers as
Then, again in 1988, came Uni-Q. A design
process, painstakingly evolved by KEF over
several years, by which a single point source at
last became a reality. The HF units made use of
a rare-earth magnet material, Neodymium/
Iron/Boron which was developed for the NASA
Space Programme.10 times more powerful than
a conventional loudspeaker magnet, this material
allowed KEF engineers to make a tweeter small
enough to fit within the bass unit coil former at
the precise acoustic centre of the cone.
KEF’s Uni-Q technology delivered well-defined
stereo imaging over a much wider listening area
without the need for the time honoured sacred
“hot-spot” in the listening room. The 105/3 was
a massive success, bringing together, not just
Uni-Q (now in its second generation form),
but all of KEF’s magnificent technology -
coupled-cavity bass loading, conjugate load
matching, force cancelling rod, computer
matched crossovers and drive units, even hand
pair-matched veneer finishes - in fact almost
everything by which KEF had made its name as
the world’s foremost loudspeaker company -
in to one product. It was voted Best Imported
Speaker by the Japanese Press in 1992.
1973 then saw the introduction of the first KEF
Reference Series Model, the 104 which swept
reviewers, distributors, retailers and customers
off their feet. The archetypal ‘domestic monitor’
104 provided the standards of a broadcast
monitor loudspeaker in a domestic package,
probably for the first time.
ideal
monitors.
KEF’s
reputation
as
loudspeaker engineers was set in stone.
As well as the coupled-cavity bass loading
system, KEF Reference loudspeakers boasted
such highly sophisticated features as a conjugate
load network technique, which makes even a
complicated loudspeaker design simplicity itself
from the amplifier’s perspective and a heavily
damped midrange module which preserves low
coloration and fine stereo. A force cancelling
rod, fitted between the vertically opposed bass
units was an added introduction, eliminating the
possibility for coloration caused by woofer
vibrations exciting the enclosure panels.
‘Total System’ design testing equipment
The Model 105/3
Uni-Q Technology
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The 1990’s
Under new ownership in 1992 KEF Audio found
Recognition that year for the Reference Series
Model Four had reached a peak with world-wide
acclaim. Reviews by internationally famed and
respected writers were quick to praise the
merits of the company’s new flagship model with
its fourth generation Uni-Q driver and to point
out the sheer engineering excellence of the
company - an unswerving KEF attribute for over
30 years. Comments such as “the best I’ve had in
my listening room.” from the US magazine
Stereophile and “KEF’s best yet” from UK
magazine Hi-fi News were just two of the many
plaudits showered on the Model Four.
itself equipped with new ideas, new personalities
and new products. But the same philosophies of
solid engineering and innovation to provide the
finest quality product available at its particular
price-point remained firmly at the bed-rock.
In 1994 and 1995 the company brought out the
versatile and appealing Q Series, offering all the
benefits of a third generation Uni-Q driver but
in a shielded format for AV use, together with
the multi-award winning Model 100 Centre
Loudspeaker, the Model 90, the new Model
200C and the Reference Series Models One,
Two, Three and Four. KEF also introduced the
new entry level Home Theatre System for true
audiophile home theatre sound at a price to fit
most pockets. At the end of 1994 the company
had quietly launched three loudspeakers that
were to become one of the most spectacular
success stories in recent KEF history.
These were simply called Coda; affordable
loudspeakers that took the world’s Press by
storm, the baby Coda 7 clinching the coveted
UK Magazine What Hi-fi?’s “Best Buy”
Loudspeaker of the of the Year Award for 1995.
The home theatre series boomed and the
company introduced the Model 20B, a baby
brother for the Model 30B active subwoofer.
The Coda Series, particularly the Coda 7,
continually
outsold
competing
brands
throughout the world. 1996 also saw the launch
of the new Q Series and the new Monitor
Series, superbly crafted loudspeakers to meet
the challenges of the next century. Both ranges
epitomise KEF’s total commitment to
engineering qualities beyond all. As the 90’s drew
to a close, KEF introduced the Reference Series
Model 109 - The Maidstone. Over thirty five
years of technical excellence, innovation in
design and award winning engineering
combined in one stunning loudspeaker.
(Pictured Opposite).
KEF’s founding father, Raymond Cooke O.B.E.,
sadly died during 1996, but with the knowledge
that all of his original and noble principles
remained intact, and would always do so.
KEF’s acclaimed Reference Series
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The 2000’s
The millennium ushered in a new era of
groundbreaking audio innovation.
Yet more KEF innovations soon followed.
The KIT (KEF Instant Theatre) concept, for
example, proved an immediate hit - an integrated
multimedia home entertainment system for
consumers who want a complete, user-friendly
package that offers quality sound without being
complicated to set up.
Among the most important was the launch of a
new Reference Series - the forerunner of today’s
design - in 2002. This redefined the benchmark
for high-end loudspeakers by incorporating
signature KEF technologies such as Uni-Q and
the ‘pod’ concept.
One of the most revolutionary aspects of the
design is that it delivers the apparently
impossible: a three-dimensional surround sound
image from only two loudspeakers. This was
achieved by adding two flat panel drivers behind
each front loudspeaker driver to act as rear
loudspeakers by radiating the sound behind
the listening area. This radical concept has
since been applied to other KEF home
entertainment products.
The decade had begun with the introduction of a
product destined to become a design icon in its
own right: the KHT (KEF Home Theatre) 2005
system. With satellite loudspeakers nicknamed
‘KEF eggs’ because of their distinctive
elliptical shape, KHT2005 represented a real
breakthrough not only in terms of the build
quality and sonic performance that it offered
but at a price that many found “very reasonable
indeed”.
The launch of the new Q Series in 2005
further strengthened KEF’s position as an
acknowledged market leader in mid-priced
audiophile quality loudspeakers. With its high
performance Uni-Q driver array, distinctive
curved cabinets and outstanding build quality and
finish, the new range was soon being referred
to as “the baby Reference”.
With the rising demand for home entertainment
systems, the KHT series steadily grew to
encompass both smaller and larger variants.
The concept proved a worldwide success,
with all models earning enthusiastic reviews and
a plethora of awards, and the expanded range
remains popular today.
Since then though, the Reference has evolved
further still. True to our vision and roots as
high-end audio designers, KEF engineers have
been concentrating on raising the bar in terms of
ultimate sonic performance. And the result,
it has to be said, is outstanding. When the latest
KEF Reference technologies were showcased at
the prestigious High End 2006 audio show in
Munich, prototypes for our new ‘Austin’
(pictured opposite) concept loudspeakers were
voted by some the best sound of the show in
independent comparative tests.
Another patented KEF innovation of the 21st
century was Acoustic Compliance Enhancement,
or ACE. This technology was developed in the
constant quest to resolve a fundamental dilemma
of loudspeaker design: how to optimise the
trade-off between the large cabinet size required
for maximum bass extension and popular
demand for smaller, less obtrusive loudspeakers
in modern living rooms.
ACE largely succeeded in overcoming these
conflicting constraints by adding granules of
activated carbon inside the driver enclosures.
By a molecular process known as adsorption,
the presence of the granules makes each
enclosure sound twice as big as it actually is.
Now as in ‘61, it’s all about greatness by design.
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GP Acoustics (UK) Ltd., Eccleston Road, Tovil, Maidstone, Kent, ME15 6QP U.K. Telephone: + 44 (0)1622 672261 Fax: + 44 (0)1622 750653
GP Acoustics (US), Inc., 10 Timber Lane, Marlboro, New Jersey 07746 U.S.A. Telephone: +(1) 732 683 2356 Fax: +(1) 732 683 2358
GP Acoustics GmbH, Heinrichstraße 51, D-44536 Lünen, Deutschland. Telephone: +49 (0) 231 9860-320. Fax: +49 (0) 231 9860-330
GP Acoustics (France) SAS, 39 Rue des Granges Galand - BP414, 37554 Saint Avertin CEDEX, France. Tel : +33(0)2 47 80 49 01 Fax : +33(0)2 47 27 89 64
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