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  1. #1
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    Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?




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  2. #2
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I have KEF Blade 2’s coming into my listening room next weekend (current schedule subject to change). I sold my Reference 3’s to move up the KEF line. I have listened to them pretty extensively and am pretty excited about finally owning a pair.

    Listening impressions - What I really enjoy about KEF in general is the ability to listen for hours without fatigue and the Blades definitely have that characteristic. I think you give up a bit of high frequency energy with these speakers, but you are really able to relax while listening. The Blades create space as well as just about any speaker out there. Soundstage width and depth, if setup well, are quite spacious. The off axis response is quite smooth and the dispersion of the Uni-Q driver allows for an enjoyable experience for those not in the sweet spot.

    Visually, they are somewhat controversial, but you have to be in the same room with them to really appreciate their presence. Very sculptural. I happen to love the look. Mine will be a custom color and I will post pics when the room is finished in a couple of weeks.
    Morgan

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  3. #3
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    Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Congrats, Morgan! I’m looking forward to hearing more from you when they arrive. Pics, too, please!


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  4. #4
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Wow! Congratulations Morgan. That’s great. Can’t wait for your thoughts. Thanks.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

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  5. #5
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Since I haven't heard them I don't know how they sound Joe, but they aren't as sexy as the Muon.

    Jim

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  6. #6
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Hopefully GREGINNH can chime in. He had them for awhile but switched to the Harbeth 40.2 cause the Blade2 was causing his Tinnitus condition to become more magnified. Too dynamic if I remember his posts.
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  7. #7
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I remember seeing a video years ago of someone pushing Blades quite hard with Mac amps to the point the Powerguard function was activated.


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  8. #8
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Thank you. I know some speakers, even certain Sonus Faber models can do that to some people.


    Quote Originally Posted by Billion$Baby View Post
    Hopefully GREGINNH can chime in. He had them for awhile but switched to the Harbeth 40.2 cause the Blade2 was causing his Tinnitus condition to become more magnified. Too dynamic if I remember his posts.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

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  9. #9
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by Billion$Baby View Post
    Hopefully GREGINNH can chime in. He had them for awhile but switched to the Harbeth 40.2 cause the Blade2 was causing his Tinnitus condition to become more magnified. Too dynamic if I remember his posts.
    I tried the NAD M22 (Hypex class D) on my Reference 3’s and both mine and my wife’s ears hurt after a listening session. The control those amps had over bass drivers was ridiculous to the point of pain! Thankfully, once we switched back to my Parasound JC 1’s the pain was over.
    Morgan

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  10. #10
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Stereophile (John Atkinson) was impressed with the Blade 2 (note cautions on room size):
    https://www.stereophile.com/content/...wo-loudspeaker
    Also their 2015 Joint Loudspeaker of the Year. Another strong review in SoundStage! Hi-Fi (Doug Schneider).

  11. #11
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I've only heard Blades at the show, they were always in a large room. They didn't do much to excite me but I don't consider so far hearing them at their best.

    If it helps, one demo by KEF went back and forth between the LS50 and Blades to show the similar voicing and how you can start small and move up while retaining the KEF sound. The mids were incredibly similar.
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  12. #12
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    https://youtu.be/38P8SYLNleQ


    Quote Originally Posted by Sean View Post
    I remember seeing a video years ago of someone pushing Blades quite hard with Mac amps to the point the Powerguard function was activated.


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    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Last edited by joeinid; January 20, 2020 at 07:29 PM.
    Sean

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  13. #13
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I listened to them several times when buying speakers. The Reference 5's had better midrange. The blades have more bass weight. Subs easily solve lack of deep bass performance of the reference.


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  14. #14
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Congratz on the Blades! A true dream speaker for me.
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  15. #15
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I have black Blades and couldn’t be happier.

  16. #16
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Welcome and thank you.

    Quote Originally Posted by Camissa View Post
    I have black Blades and couldn’t be happier.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  17. #17

    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I feel greatful to be the proud owner of a brand new pair of the Blade 2's in the special Anniversary Frost Blue finish. From an aesthetic perspective, I personally love the form factor and beautiful curves of this speaker. My understanding of the design is that it is a no compromise philosophy, all about optimizing the time domain so that the speaker acts as a single point source for the listener. I feel like pictures alone aren't enough to convey the bold look and beautiful curves, and state of the art materials/fit & finish of this speaker.

    As for the sound...all I can say is "Wow". These are truly full range speakers. The bottom octaves are dynamic, powerful, tight and deep, articulate with absolutely no blooming or boominess, despite being placed quite close to my side walls. As anyone already familiar with the Kef Uni-Q driver knows, the midrange is magical, with an open and very natural airiness on the top end. The clarity and transparency is absolutely stunning, almost shockingly so - and this is coming from someone who has lived with and loved electrostatics for years! Transients, leading edges, attack, and especially soundstage, imaging, and coherence have all been materially elevated in my system. The best way I can descibe it is that the sound is so open, dynamic, and effortless. My jaw drops on favourite music and albums that I know so well. It's been an incredible experience to rediscover them on the Blade 2's. I believe the Blade 2s are getting me that much closer to the artists true intent. The emotion just pours through on every recording.

    As some background, my system consists of a Lumin U1 source, streaming mostly Tidal Hifi to an MSB Reference Dac, utilizing the MSB proprietary Pro ISL connection. The Dac is hooked up directly to a pair of McIntosh 1.2k monoblocs. Kef and the McIntosh amps pair very well together in my opinion.
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    Last edited by joeinid; March 20, 2020 at 10:06 PM.

  18. #18
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Beautiful!


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  19. #19
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    love the matt finish blue colour!!
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  20. #20
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Awesome!

    Thank you so much for posting!


    Quote Originally Posted by Audioguru1 View Post
    I feel greatful to be the proud owner of a brand new pair of the Blade 2's in the special Anniversary Frost Blue finish. From an aesthetic perspective, I personally love the form factor and beautiful curves of this speaker. My understanding of the design is that it is a no compromise philosophy, all about optimizing the time domain so that the speaker acts as a single point source for the listener. I feel like pictures alone aren't enough to convey the bold look and beautiful curves, and state of the art materials/fit & finish of this speaker.

    As for the sound...all I can say is "Wow". These are truly full range speakers. The bottom octaves are dynamic, powerful, tight and deep, articulate with absolutely no blooming or boominess, despite being placed quite close to my side walls. As anyone already familiar with the Kef Uni-Q driver knows, the midrange is magical, with an open and very natural airiness on the top end. The clarity and transparency is absolutely stunning, almost shockingly so - and this is coming from someone who has lived with and loved electrostatics for years! Transients, leading edges, attack, and especially soundstage, imaging, and coherence have all been materially elevated in my system. The best way I can descibe it is that the sound is so open, dynamic, and effortless. My jaw drops on favourite music and albums that I know so well. It's been an incredible experience to rediscover them on the Blade 2's. I believe the Blade 2s are getting me that much closer to the artists true intent. The emotion just pours through on every recording.

    As some background, my system consists of a Lumin U1 source, streaming mostly Tidal Hifi to an MSB Reference Dac, utilizing the MSB proprietary Pro ISL connection. The Dac is hooked up directly to a pair of McIntosh 1.2k monoblocs. Kef and the McIntosh amps pair very well together in my opinion.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  21. #21
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Beautiful!

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  22. #22
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I love the frosted blue color! That is the color I would have purchased had I not had the unique opportunity to acquire a one of a kind Porsche blue pair. The Blade 2 is an outstanding loudspeaker. I absolutely love mine and am glad to hear you are enjoying yours.

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  23. #23
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Are there any advances in the Blade 2 or is the only difference size of woofers and cabinet?
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  24. #24
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by steve59 View Post
    Are there any advances in the Blade 2 or is the only difference size of woofers and cabinet?
    Nope. Blade 2 has 6.5” vs 9” Bass drivers for original Blade. Cabinet is sized accordingly.
    Morgan

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  25. #25
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Simply awesome. Definitely a destination speaker for me. Congratulations to all you Blade (2) owners!!! I also love the blue, but I think Piano Black would be my choice to fit with my system .
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  26. #26
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    The Frosted Blue and Porsche Blue are outstanding colors, congrats. My favorite speaker is the Blade, just love the way it places everything on the stage.

    I have a question for the Blade owners. I finally have a medium sized room that I can now share with my toddler (living room + play room). It has the following dimensions,

    Length: 21’ + opens up to a family room with a huge cutout in the wall between the 2 rooms.
    Width: 12’
    Ceiling: 25’

    I can only place the speaker on the short wall (12'). Can the Blades work in such a confined space with the side walls so close? I spoke to Vivid Audio about their speakers and the side firing woofers (similar concept as the Blades). They said that it did not matter so much as to what the distance to the side walls and speaker was, it was the material the walls were made of that mattered. So if it was drywall, the low frequency waves would just go through the drywall and not cause booming sound inside the room. Anyone with Blades have the placement close to the walls? I am extrapolating this logic to the Blades.

  27. #27
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I think I’m going to try a pair in my 17x27x7’ room, if it works I’ll post.
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  28. #28
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I can’t remember the last time music gave me goosebumps, several years and multiple pairs of speakers I figured I’d just grown out of it. Today I brought home a pair of Blades and the emotion that comes with the music is back, woohoo. What more is there to say the goosebumps are back.
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  29. #29

    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Big congratulations on getting your Blades. I can't say I'm surprised by your results so far, as I also get those same goosebumps with my Blade 2s. There is no better indicator of success when it comes to the emotional impact of your system. Very nice and and always thankful to be able to experience our music at this level. Post a picture if you can?

  30. #30
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Goosebumps is a great indicator of ME.

    Musical Engagement - the ultimate desired outcome for most listeners - IMO...
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  31. #31
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Congrats, I've heard Hegel & KEF have good synergy.

    Blades I've heard a few times but one of those models I've yet to hear at their best.
    Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
    Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
    Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
    Clarus Concerto & their Crimson cables

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    SVS PC13 Ultra
    Transparent, Analysis Plus & Tributaries. PS Audio filtering
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    Parasound P6, MBL 8006b, Artisan speakers/subwoofer

  32. #32
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Congratulations on your new speakers.
    Flemming

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  33. #33
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Smith View Post
    Goosebumps is a great indicator of ME.

    Musical Engagement - the ultimate desired outcome for most listeners - IMO...
    Hi Jim
    Yes, totally agree about the goosebump (ME) factor. I used Avantgarde Unos for 17 years before deciding it was time for an upgrade. I had Blades on my shortlist (I used to have KEF Reference 107s before the Unos separated by disappointing ATC 50 Actives) and also Martin Logan Masterpiece 13As. I bought the MLs after reading favourable reviews and showroom tests, but this turned out a mistake in my room. No goosebump (ME) factor because of their central placement in my difficult room. I then went for used 2006 Duos, then recently new Duo XDs. I wonder if I should have gone for the big Blades? They’re a similar price to XDs and I’m sure far more placement tolerant than the MLs, that need a wall 3-6 ft behind them. Peter
    Sources - NAD M50.2 (streamer, CD player, CD ripper, hard drive music store)
    Amplification - NAD M33 all-in-one, NAD M12 preamp (in reserve), Atma-Sphere Class D monos
    Speakers - Avantgarde Duo XD, Avantgarde Duo (2006) - both aesthetically modified

  34. #34
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by Mr Peabody View Post
    Congrats, I've heard Hegel & KEF have good synergy.
    Such good synergy that KEF has chosen to partner with Hegel for several audio shows, and they don't share a common distribution channel which is often how partners are chosen.

  35. #35
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    I have a newer pair of dsp 8000’s I upgraded to se and bought the Blades to hold me over til the main speaker has the display replaced, but man, while I don’t want to say the kef/hegel combo is better I’m really glad I bought them and holy $hit can these things soundstage
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  36. #36
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Well, no one I know cares even in the slightest, so I thought I would tell you wonderful people. I have a new pair of Blades in frosted black on the way! I can’t believe it. I’m boxing up the Magnepans and putting them in storage. I’ve never seen or heard a pair of Blades in person, but you know what? I can’t wait to get them set up. I tried to buy a pair of used Wilson Yvette, but that deal did not work out, so hello Blades. I’ll keep you posted!

  37. #37
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by HifiHandyman View Post
    Well, no one I know cares even in the slightest, so I thought I would tell you wonderful people. I have a new pair of Blades in frosted black on the way! I can’t believe it. I’m boxing up the Magnepans and putting them in storage. I’ve never seen or heard a pair of Blades in person, but you know what? I can’t wait to get them set up. I tried to buy a pair of used Wilson Yvette, but that deal did not work out, so hello Blades. I’ll keep you posted!
    Congrats! Has the Blades changed at all since original launch?


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  38. #38
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Congratz on your new Blades. Love KEF but never have had a chance to listen to the Blades.
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  39. #39
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Congrats on the purchase, Mine have been in place since the 4th of july weekend. I bought them of a gent that had them stuffed into the corners of a narrow room. his loss was my gain. Give them room to breathe and play with tie in. mine ate 8' apart about 10' from the chair and well into a 17x27x7' room.

    According to kef dealer AT the blades are unchanged and the blade 2 differs only in woofer and cabinet size.
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  40. #40

    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Congrats on the Blades (either version )

    They are probably a great deal as my guess is in 2022 will see the Blade and Blade 2 Meta.

    Of course, probably an increase in MSRP or perhaps not as the Meta LS50s launched at the same price as the original LS50s and have only increased 100 bucks since then.

    Apples to Oranges but, at least KEF has economies of scale on their side.

  41. #41
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Correct me if I’m wrong, but at some point didn’t they go from a 3-1/2” Uni-Q driver to a 5”? There may have been that change along the way. I am a very dedicated Magnepan fan, so this is a big step for me to try something different. At this point the Magnepans sound insanely good driven with the Dirac digital preamp. I spent about three full days doing the calibrations and ended up with four presets to adjust how much subs are added into the mix. The Blades are on the truck and heading my way.

  42. #42
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    A review had them as 3" mids, but it was a mistake as it was always a 5" mid with a 3" voice coil, at least in production. The only thing I remember about the concept blade is 10" woofers.
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  43. #43
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Also, the Blade 2's and Blade's have the same Uni-Q driver.

    Blade 2's:
    MF: 125mm (5in.) Li-Mg-Al/ LCP hybrid cone
    HF: 25mm (1in.) vented aluminium dome

    Blade's:
    MF: 125mm (5in.) Li-Mg-Al /LCP hybrid cone
    HF: 25mm (1in.) Al dome

    Their other flagship model has a different Uni-Q.

    LS50 Meta's:
    HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with Metamaterial Absorption Technology
    MF/LF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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  44. #44
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Also, the Blade 2's and Blade's have the same Uni-Q driver.

    Blade 2's:
    MF: 125mm (5in.) Li-Mg-Al/ LCP hybrid cone
    HF: 25mm (1in.) vented aluminium dome

    Blade's:
    MF: 125mm (5in.) Li-Mg-Al /LCP hybrid cone
    HF: 25mm (1in.) Al dome

    Their other flagship model has a different Uni-Q.

    LS50 Meta's:
    HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with Metamaterial Absorption Technology
    MF/LF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone
    I know when kef introduced the activated carbon it went into the affordable models as it mimicked larger cabinet volume. As meta is for absorbing backwave energy I wonder if igt will make it into the blade series since those specific speakers are designed with vented magnets to let the backwave escape into the cabinet, like sprinkles on a frosted donut?
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  45. #45
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Not sure, but I thought that I read they are planning on trickling up the Meta tech to the Reference and Blade models.

    I do know that the Meta is a very nice improvement over the original LS50 model!
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

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    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
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  46. #46

    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by Randy Myers View Post
    Not sure, but I thought that I read they are planning on trickling up the Meta tech to the Reference and Blade models.

    I do know that the Meta is a very nice improvement over the original LS50 model!
    Where did you read that? I heard the exact opposite, no plans for Meta Blades

  47. #47

    Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    KEF teases 60th-anniversary products – will more MAT technology emerge? | What Hi-Fi?

    Quote: [ The company's latest press reads: "In this anniversary year, KEF will launch the most advanced products it has ever created – to be announced in the coming months – which will again push the boundaries of the listening experience, both at home and on the move." ]

    Hard to say what will be introduced. 2021 - the 60th anniversary - has come and gone with no further new products announced.

    The Blades were introduced before the LS50 yet the LS50 has been updated first.

    It may be challenging to extract more performance from the Blades but hopefully the next version will be even more advanced. Will Metamaterial or Uni-Core be relevant or useful at the Blade level - perhaps ? Or even active Blades ?

    Who knows what tricks the boffins at KEF HQ - with their engineering skills & level of resources - may have up their collective sleeves ?

  48. #48
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    The uni-core appears to be kef's way to make subwoofers smaller with no sacrifice to output, it will be interesting if that tech has the bandwidth to make it into the 3 way designs.
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

  49. #49
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Quote Originally Posted by dznutz View Post
    Where did you read that? I heard the exact opposite, no plans for Meta Blades
    I cannot give you a specific quote, but I can say I have seen it mentioned in several places. I do recall seeing a video from a KEF rep and it was mentioned that the plan was to trickle up the Meta technology... and it has been "discussed" in more than one review, almost always stating something like, Meta Reference, Meta Blades???? All were impressed that they show cased their latest tech in an affordable model and would expect to see, and believe it is planned to trickle up the tech.

    I do believe most recently the Meta in the LS50's has been a great proof of tech followed up by the uni-core tech is showing that KEF remains on the cutting edge. Both work fantastic and allow to have floor standing speaker performance in small packages, which to me is exactly what the doctor ordered, so to speak .
    McIntosh C49, MC152, MR85, R778 | T+A DAC 8 DSD | KEF LS50 Meta w/S2, KC62 (x2) | Rega RP8, Ania Pro, NEO PSU | Technics SL-1500C | Audio Technica VM750ML | Hexmat Eclipse, Yellow Bird, Molekula, Molekula Mini | Pro-Ject VC-E | Falcon NW PC Server (Roon Core & HQPlayer) | Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Roon Controller) | Abyss Diana Phi | Schiit Jotunheim 2 | Astell&Kern SE200 | Oppo BDP105

    “One of the great challenges in life is knowing enough to think you're right but not enough to know you're wrong”
    "You can't use reason to convince anyone out of an argument that they didn't use reason to get into"
    ― Neil deGrasse Tyson

  50. #50
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    Re: Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

    Just pulled up a 30 year old Lindsey buckingham, out of the cradle and what a well done recording.
    KEF Blade, Mc-611's, C49 rega jupiter, roon nucleus, revox tuner. Meridian dsp8000 se upgrade, meridian 218 zone controller VA Beethoven's, Hegel h360.

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Anyone own KEF Blades - either version? Thoughts?

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