KEF Reference 1 Meta

The Reference 1 Meta is a 3-way bass-reflex bookshelf speaker from KEF, designed to deliver a precise sound image in a compact format. It can be placed on a shelf or installed on dedicated stands, and is equally suited to stereo listening or use as a surround channel within a home cinema system.

The heart of this speaker is KEF's Uni-Q system, which combines a 125 mm aluminium midrange driver and a 25 mm vented aluminium dome tweeter at a single point of radiation. This coaxial configuration aims for wide, uniform sound dispersion, useful for widening the optimal listening area or for effectively covering the space when used as a rear speaker. A 165 mm aluminium woofer completes the set at the lower end of the frequency range.

In terms of performance, the Reference 1 Meta offers a frequency response of 45 Hz to 35 kHz (±3 dB), a sensitivity of 85 dB (2.83V/1m) and a maximum sound pressure level of 111 dB. Impedance is 8 ohms, with a minimum of 3.2 ohms, which means checking that the associated amplifier can deliver current through impedance dips. Total harmonic distortion remains below 0.2% between 200 Hz and 10 kHz at 90 dB and 1 metre. Crossover frequencies between the drivers are 350 Hz and 2.8 kHz. KEF recommends an amplifier with power between 50 and 200 W.

This model is suited to a listener wanting a compact speaker capable of delivering a coherent soundstage, whether in a stereo setup in a small or medium-sized room, or alongside a centre speaker and two front speakers in a home cinema system. The option of pairing it with dedicated floor stands also makes it a choice for those wanting to position it at standard listening height rather than on a shelf.