KEF Q Series Hi-Fi Speakers Owner’s Manual

: September 27, 2024
: KEF

Table of Contents

KEF Q Series Hi-Fi Speakers
Revolutionary sound absorption with MAT™
Superior KEF sound
Summary of features
Deep and clean bass
Specifications
References
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KEF Q Series Hi-Fi Speakers

The successors to our renowned, award-winning HiFi speaker range, the Q Series has evolved once more in its 9th iteration since 1991. Now incorporating the revolutionary Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) and a suite of innovative acoustic technology derived from our flagship HiFi speakers, high- fidelity sound is more accessible than ever.

Leveraging the latest 12th-generation Uni-Q driver array and cutting-edge analysis techniques, the Q Series has been carefully fine-tuned. This includes a crossover redesign that refines the signal path response for a more natural, detailed sound. The result is a comprehensive line-up of eight speakers that can be easily tailored to your space and desired setup. Whether for stereo music or multi-channel home cinema, the Q Series offers a solution for everyone.

Revolutionary sound absorption with MAT™

The crucial new advancement in the Q Series is the integration of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)1, a revolutionary innovation that takes the performance of the latest 12th-generation Uni-Q driver array to another level in terms of accuracy and clarity.
MAT is a highly complex maze-like structure, in which each of the intricate channels efficiently absorbs a specific frequency. When combined, the channels act as an acoustic black hole, absorbing 99% of the unwanted sound that comes from the rear of the tweeter. This eliminates the resulting distortion for a purer, more natural acoustic performance.

Superior KEF sound

The latest 12th-generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT is found in all eight models of the Q Series and delivers an incredibly detailed performance. It’s the result of decades of accumulated in-house knowledge and the application of state-of-the-art simulation and analysis tools. The developments are many and all play a part in the Q Series’ impressive performance.

The Uni-Q driver array has been redesigned to maximize the performance improvements that MAT delivers The conical waveguide that couples the tweeter dome to the metamaterial absorber has been specially designed for the driver based on its depth. The re-engineered tweeter gap damper strategically places two rings of porous material to tame the resonances and imperfections effectively, greatly improving detail and clarity.

The tweeter motor system has been redesigned to maximize the transmission of energy from the rear of the tweeter to the MAT absorber. The area of the tweeter rear chamber vent is increased by 250%, allowing more sound to reach the metamaterial absorber and therefore its effectiveness. This also significantly reduces the acoustic pressure behind the dome, allowing the tweeter to operate more linearly leading to lower distortion still2.

The Flexible Decoupling Chassis was first used on the flagship Blade and The Reference loudspeakers are employed on the Uni-Q driver array to dramatically reduce the coloration of the sound caused by midrange vibration transmission to the cabinet, while also mitigating the potential of additional sound created by the driver basket that occurs with traditional decoupling methods. It works by decoupling the massive midrange motor from the Uni-Q chassis, dissipating its vibration before it can travel to the cabinet and be radiated as unwanted sound3. These innovations combine to ensure the Q Series sounds more transparent and lifelike than ever.

Summary of features

Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) eliminates 99% of high-frequency distortion for pure, natural sound
12th generation Uni-Q with MAT driver array for exceptional acoustic accuracy
Enhanced crossover design fine-tuned the signal path for pristine, clean sound
Three-way design for enhanced clarity and detail (Q11 Meta, Q7 Meta, Q Concerto Meta, Q6 Meta)
Hybrid aluminum cone LF driver for deep and powerful bass (Q11 Meta, Q7 Meta, Q Concert Meta, Q6 Meta)
Eight models: Q11 Meta, Q7 Meta, Q Concerto Meta, Q3 Meta, Q1 Meta, Q6 Meta, Q8 Meta, Q4 Meta
Available in Satin Black, Satin White, and Walnut finishes
Magnetic grilles offer the perfect balance between driver protection and aesthetics
Optional B2 Wall Bracket provides a wall-mounting solution for Q3 Meta and Q1 Meta
SQ1 Floor Stand for Q Concerto Meta, Q3 Meta, and Q1 Meta is available as a separate item
Optional PQ1 Plinth Spike Kit for Q11 Meta and Q7 Meta is available

Metamaterial Absorption Technology is a joint development with Acoustic Metamaterials Group.
Applicable to Q8 Meta, Q4 Meta, Q3 Meta and Q1 Meta.
Flexible Decoupling Chass is available on Q11 Meta, Q7 Meta, Q Concerto Meta, and Q6 Meta.

An extra halfway
The evolved Q Series has been upgraded from a 2.5-way to a 3-way speaker design. This updated configuration separates the frequency ranges, with the Uni-Q driver handling the high and midrange frequencies, and a newly designed bass driver dedicated to low-frequency management. The optimization of the drivers for their respective frequency bands allows the 12th Uni-Q driver to perform even better. By minimizing the motion of the mid-frequency cone, the tweeter can transmit high-frequency sound over a smoother and more stable surface. This reduction in movement leads to a diminished distortion in the lower midrange frequencies, resulting in a significant improvement in detail and clarity.

Deep and clean bass

The Q Series features a new bass driver design– a hybrid structure with a shallow, concave, aluminum skin atop a paper cone – gives stiffness to achieve a piston-like movement for better bass punch and speed. Combined with a 3D FEA-optimised surround geometry, this significantly improves linearity at higher excursions. This results in precise and agile bass management even at high output. Additionally, the flared port, modeled with computational fluid dynamics, minimizes turbulence and reduces chuffing noise. This enables the ported speakers to produce bass that is cleaner and more controlled

Refined crossover from 1000 measurements
A critical component of the Q Series is the refined crossover, which ensures seamless integration of all speaker parts. To achieve this, our engineers take more than 1,000 specific measurements for each speaker model using a custom- built reference microphone array in our anechoic chamber in Maidstone, UK. These extensive on and off-axis measurements allow our team to thoroughly understand each model’s acoustic interactions, enabling precise crossover design through advanced simulation and prototyping.
This meticulous process draws from the development of the LS50 Meta and has been further enhanced through the creation of the latest Blade, The Reference, and R Series, allowing each speaker model for precise signal path optimization and the best possible performance.

Shadow Flare for improved clarity

Derived from the flagship models, Shadow Flare4 is a further upgrade for the evolved Q Series. It reduces unwanted cabinet diffraction, allowing the 12th- generation Uni-Q with MAT to work at its highest potential. Shadow Flare is a precision-designed surface that extends the waveguide effect of the Uni-Q driver array. This means the tweeter no longer has a line of sight to the cabinet edges, creating a ‘shadow region’ where the potential for diffraction is highest, minimizing the acoustic impact to negligible levels. The
improved clarity and reproduction of fine details make listening a thrilling experience. Subtle nuances, such as the delicate brushwork on cymbals or the intricate overtones of a piano, are clearer on the Q Series.

Perfected for your enjoyment
The Q Series comprises eight distinct models. The range extends from compact bookshelf speakers to powerful floor standers, as well as a slender on-wall speaker and high-performance home cinema models. Whether installed in a spacious living room or a cozy corner, the diversity of form factors and capabilities within the Q Series allows you to curate your desired HiFi setup to suit your space and listening preferences, from music to movies and gaming.

Multi-dimensional music
Lose yourself in a symphony, rock out to your favorite band, or curate a mood- boosting playlist – the Q Series speakers are primed to deliver a captivating audio experience. There are two 3-way floor standing models – Q11 Meta and Q7 Meta – which provide refined detail and powerful bass to bring your music to life. If you want to place the speakers on a cabinet or shelf, the Q Series provides a selection of bookshelf speakers including the 3-way Q Concerto Meta, as well as the more compact Q3 Meta and Q1 Meta. Designed for
Q Series bookshelf speakers, the SQ1 floor stand creates a sturdy platform for them to perform. For those with constraints on the floor or shelf space, the Q3 Meta and Q1 Meta can be easily wall-mounted using the optional B2 Wall Bracket. Additionally, the slender Q4 Meta is specifically designed as an on- wall speaker solution. It can also be used as an LCR (left, center, right) speaker for a more expansive soundscape without taking up any floor space.

Movie moment, maximised
The Q6 Meta 3-way center speaker features the same Uni-Q driver as the main speakers, providing a perfect tonal match and a seamless soundstage. This ensures voices are crisp and clear, delivering excellent dialogue clarity. This versatile closed-box speaker is also designed to be used as an LCR (left, center, right) speaker that can be positioned in cabinets and alcoves.

Everything from every direction with the addition of surround sound creates an immersive and atmospheric experience. The flexible Q4 Meta on-wall speaker is ideal for use as a surround speaker. The Q8 Meta can serve as a surround or rear speaker with the integrated wall mount feature. Alternatively, it can be placed upon another main speaker for Dolby Atmos height to bounce sound off the ceiling, bringing Dolby Atmos to the room without the need for custom installation. Pair the Q Series with KEFsubwoofers for an even more extraordinary impact. Whether it’s the subtle rustle of leaves in a forest scene or the dynamic swell of a suspenseful scene, the Q Series will ensure you don’t miss any important moments.

Detail by design
The Q Series speakers feature a contemporary minimalist design with a satin finish that offers a premium, subtle glow. Available in Satin Black, Satin White, and Walnut finish with carefully selected color driver units, they are designed to blend effortlessly into any interior. Dedicated grilles are included with the speakers, providing the option to protect the drivers if needed. These color-matched grilles maintain the cohesive aesthetic, while the magnetic fixing provides a secure and precise fit, in keeping with the clean and seamless styling of the Q Series.

Specifications

Model	Q11 Meta	Q7 Meta
Design	Three-way bass reflex	Three-way bass reflex
Drive units	Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 19 mm (0.75 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT

MF: 100 mm (4 in.) aluminium cone

| Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 19 mm (0.75 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT

MF: 100 mm (4 in.) aluminium cone

<1% 31 Hz – 20 kHz

| <2% 35 Hz and above

<1% 38 Hz – 20 kHz

(41.8 x 8.3 x 15.0 in.)

| 950 x 210 x 315 mm

(37.4 x 8.3 x 12.4 in.)

Dimensions (H x W x D) with terminal & plinth| 1112 x 317 x 380 mm

(43.8 x 12.5 x 15.0 in.)

| 1001 x 317 x 315 mm

(39.4 x 12.5 x 12.4 in.)

Finishes| Satin Black / Satin White / Walnut| Satin Black / Satin White / Walnut

Model	Q Concerto Meta	Q3 Meta	Q1 Meta
Design	Three-way bass reflex	Two-way bass reflex	Two-way bass reflex
Drive units	Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 19 mm (0.75 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT

MF: 100 mm (4 in.) aluminium cone

| Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT

LF/MF: 165 mm (6.5 in.) aluminium cone

| Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT

LF/MF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone

<1% 91 Hz – 20 kHz

| <2% 110 Hz and above

<1% 135 Hz – 20 kHz

| <2% 140 Hz and above

<1% 170 Hz – 20 kHz

(16.3 x 8.3 x 12.4 in.)

| 357 x 210 x 305 mm

(14.1 x 8.3 x 12.0 in.)

| 302 x 180 x 277 mm

(11.9 x 7.1 x 10.9 in.)

Model	Q6 Meta	Q8 Meta	Q4 Meta
Design	Three-way closed box	Two-way closed box	Two-way bass reflex
Drive units	Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 19 mm (0.75 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT

MF: 100 mm (4 in.) aluminium cone

| Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT MF/LF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone

| Uni-Q Driver Array:

HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with MAT

MF/LF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone

<1% 68 Hz – 20 kHz

| <2% 145 Hz and above

<1% 170 Hz – 20 kHz

| <2% 145 Hz and above

<1% 170 Hz – 20 kHz

(8.3 x 24.8 x 11.9 in.)

| 176 x 180 x 259 mm

(6.9 x 7.1 x 10.2 in.)

| 400 x 250 x 142 mm

(15.7 x 9.8 x 5.6 in.)

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KEF reserves the right, in line with continuing research and development, to amend or change specifications. E&OE.