KEF R3 Meta - Review & Measurements by Erin

[LeonidKogan]

Are these speakers suitable for nearfield listening? I'm currently using LS50M on IsoAcoustics stands on a desk with REL T/Zero in my 11m² room, thanks to REW I was finally able to achieve very clean bass output. I'm happy with that setup, but I just saw R3 Meta on discount for $1500/pr which is a fantastic price. I wonder if it makes any sense to change in my circumstances?

 

[muad]

Are these speakers suitable for nearfield listening? I'm currently using LS50M on IsoAcoustics stands on a desk with REL T/Zero in my 11m² room, thanks to REW I was finally able to achieve very clean bass output. I'm happy with that setup, but I just saw R3 Meta on discount for $1500/pr which is a fantastic price. I wonder if it makes any sense to change in my circumstances?

That is a great deal! But not worth switching at your listening distance. The ls50m has exceptional directivity and is near perfect (other than a small crossover dip) if you don't need high SPL.

 

[TheBatsEar]

Are these speakers suitable for nearfield listening?

I believe they are, had the KEF R3 and the LS50 as well as the LS50M.

I wonder if it makes any sense to change in my circumstances?

This is what you can expect, if you EQ both to smooth in room response:

You get lower distortion, higher max SPL and deeper bass with the R3M. I think i wouldn't do it, unless you get a good amount for your LS50M back.

 

[VikingMD]

Are these speakers suitable for nearfield listening? I'm currently using LS50M on IsoAcoustics stands on a desk with REL T/Zero in my 11m² room, thanks to REW I was finally able to achieve very clean bass output. I'm happy with that setup, but I just saw R3 Meta on discount for $1500/pr which is a fantastic price. I wonder if it makes any sense to change in my circumstances?

Where can you get that price? That's an excellent deal.

 

[LeonidKogan]

I believe they are, had the KEF R3 and the LS50 as well as the LS50M.

How would you compare them? Are there any differences if I have a sub? What was your listening distance?
@VikingMD I think it's a general sale in most stores in Poland. I don't think I really need them atm but I guess I might just order them and give them a try. I wonder how do they compare to Genelecs 8040+/Neumann KH120/150?
@VikingMD I thought it was a promo but now I can see this price has been in Poland since November 2023.

 

[TheBatsEar]

How would you compare them?

I only compared the LS50 and LS50M against each other, couldn't hear a difference after EQ.
The R3 was pretty much perfect, but i sold them in the hopes to get a white pair eventually. Nothing so far for the price i want.

Are there any differences if I have a sub?

Yes, you get more boom in both cases. However, you can get away without a sub in case of the R3, if you have to and your room gain is good.

What was your listening distance?

3m and maybe 1m.

 

[VikingMD]

How would you compare them? Are there any differences if I have a sub? What was your listening distance?
@VikingMD I think it's a general sale in most stores in Poland. I don't think I really need them atm but I guess I might just order them and give them a try. I wonder how do they compare to Genelecs 8040+/Neumann KH120/150?
@VikingMD I thought it was a promo but now I can see this price has been in Poland since November 2023.

Ahh still $2200 in the US.

 

[Fahzz]

Keep in mind that the R3's are bigger than the LS50's. FYI

 

[Mnyb]

The R3 are deeper so make sure they fit .

One advantage is the 3 way configuration no IMD from large cone movement of the midrange cone .

You migth not need the TZero ( or need a bigger sub ) The R3 themself s migth have more/better/deeper bass.
They are tuned quite deep with a bass shelf that migth be beneficial in your kind of placement .

Basreflex port in the backside .

I use. TZero III with my LSXII btw .