KEF Reference 1 Meta

£7,500.00

The KEF Reference 1 Meta is a masterful bookshelf speaker that combines advanced technology with luxurious design. Its Uni-Q driver array, MAT technology and powerful bass driver deliver exceptional sound quality with remarkable clarity and detail. The speaker’s elegant design and high-quality finishes make it a beautiful addition to any room, while its compact size and flexible port technology ensure that it can deliver outstanding performance in a variety of listening environments. Whether used in a high-end stereo system or as part of a home theater setup, the KEF Reference 1 Meta offers an unparalleled listening experience that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles. Its combination of innovative technology, meticulous craftsmanship and stunning design make it a standout product in the world of high-performance audio.

Technical Specifications

Frequency Response: 45Hz – 35kHz
Impedance: 4 ohms (nominal)
Sensitivity: 85dB (2.83V/1m)
Crossover Frequency: 450Hz, 2.1kHz
Amplifier Requirements: 50 - 200W
Drive Units: 1 x 165mm aluminum cone bass units, 1 x 125mm aluminum cone mid range driver and 1 x 25mm aluminum-dome with MAT
Dimensions (H x W x D) with grille and terminal: 440mm x 205mm x 422mm
Weight: 18.2 kg

Performance and Application

The KEF Reference 1 Meta is designed to deliver top-tier sound quality in a compact form factor. It is ideal for audiophiles who want the performance of a large floorstanding speaker in a smaller, more versatile package. The Reference 1 Meta excels in stereo setups, providing a wide soundstage, precise imaging, and deep, controlled bass. It is equally impressive in a home theater system, where it can be used as the main speakers or as part of a larger surround sound setup.

The speaker’s ability to reproduce sound with incredible detail and accuracy makes it well-suited for critical listening, whether you’re enjoying your favorite music or watching a movie. The Uni-Q driver array and MAT technology work together to ensure that every nuance of the sound is faithfully reproduced, creating an immersive and engaging listening experience.

Uni-Q Driver Array

At the core of the Reference 1 Meta is KEF’s signature Uni-Q driver array. This unique design places the tweeter in the acoustic center of the midrange cone, allowing sound to emanate from a single point. This results in superior imaging and a wide, even dispersion of sound. The 12th generation Uni-Q driver used in the Reference 1 Meta has been optimised for reduced distortion, ensuring a clean and accurate sound with remarkable detail.

Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)

KEF has incorporated its cutting-edge Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) into the Reference 1 Meta. MAT is designed to absorb 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver, drastically reducing distortion and enhancing the overall sound quality. This technology helps to deliver a purer and more natural sound, making the listening experience more immersive and true to the original recording.

Powerful Bass Driver

Despite its compact size, the Reference 1 Meta is equipped with a powerful 6.5-inch bass driver that delivers deep, controlled bass. The driver is made from a stiff yet lightweight aluminum diaphragm, ensuring accurate bass reproduction with minimal distortion. The large vented magnet assembly further enhances the driver’s performance, providing tight, impactful bass that complements the midrange and high frequencies.

Constrained Layer Damping (CLD) Cabinet Design

The cabinet of the Reference 1 Meta is meticulously crafted using Constrained Layer Damping (CLD) technology. This design reduces unwanted vibrations and resonance within the cabinet, allowing the drivers to operate at their full potential without coloration of the sound. The result is a cleaner, more precise audio output that stays true to the original recording.

Flexible Port Technology

The Reference 1 Meta features KEF’s flexible port technology, which allows for fine-tuning of the bass response. The ports are designed to minimise resonance and can be adjusted to suit the acoustics of the listening room. This flexibility ensures optimal bass performance, whether the speakers are placed in a small or large room.

Luxurious Design and Finishes

In addition to its technical excellence, the Reference 1 Meta is a visually stunning speaker. It is available in several luxurious finishes, including Satin Walnut, Piano Black, and High-Gloss White, allowing it to blend seamlessly into any room decor. The speaker’s design is elegant and timeless, with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. The precision-machined front baffle adds to the speaker’s sophisticated look while also enhancing its acoustic performance.

KEF Reference Series speakers

The KEF Reference Series represents the pinnacle of KEF's speaker design, combining advanced acoustic technologies with exquisite craftsmanship. These speakers are designed to deliver a superior listening experience, with natural sound reproduction, wide dispersion and minimal distortion. Whether used in a stereo setup or as part of a home theatre system, the Reference Series provides exceptional performance, making it a top choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike.

Hear every detail

Refined over multiple iterations, the Uni-Q driver array in The Reference series has reached its 12th generation, now enhanced with MAT. The Uni-Q acts as a single point source, dispersing sound evenly across the room. This design eliminates the narrow 'sweet spot,' ensuring that everyone, regardless of their seating position, experiences the same rich, detailed and natural sound.

Total attention to detail

Each speaker in the Reference range embodies the excellence that comes from being hand-crafted by KEF’s expert artisans in Kent. They are designed not only to deliver outstanding acoustic performance but also to be visually stunning. Every speaker is built with meticulous attention to detail, adhering to KEF's rigorous quality standards, ensuring both superior sound and refined aesthetics.

> Discover the KEF Reference Series range of speakers

Continuous innovation

Since the creation of the first Reference speaker, KEF engineers have consistently pushed the limits of what’s possible, constantly refining and advancing the range. Groundbreaking from its inception, each new version of The Reference has expanded the understanding of acoustic science, setting new standards in sound quality with every iteration.