KEF intros new Q Series speakers with MAT technology

Hi-Fi specialist KEF has unveiled its new Q Series loudspeakers, for stereo and home cinema applications. With prices starting from £349 and going up to £1,999 per pair, the lineup promises a high-performance audio solution for every budget and space.

Available in Satin Black, Satin White, and Walnut finishes, these speakers are undoubtedly a design statement, but there’s also some seriously intriguing audio tech onboard too.

All eight models incorporate KEF’s pioneering Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), which the brand says sets a new standard for clarity and audio accuracy.

MAT is designed to eliminate up to 99 per cent of unwanted high-frequency distortions, for a more naturalistic sound experience that’s both transparent and distortion-free.

MAT functions through a complex, maze-like structure that absorbs specific frequencies within intricate channels. These channels act as an ‘acoustic black hole,’ says KEF, allowing only the cleanest of sounds to reach the listener. Combined with the brand’s highly regarded Uni-Q driver, which positions the tweeter in the centre of the midrange and bass cone, the result is an impressively detailed and immersive soundstage.

The Q Series employ the latest 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, which have been redesigned to maximize the benefits offered by MAT. Improvements include a conical waveguide that couples the tweeter dome to the metamaterial absorber, and a re-engineered tweeter gap damper made of porous material, said to improve clarity and detail.

Several models in this Q Series lineup have also transitioned from a 2.5-way to a 3-way speaker design. This updated configuration separates the frequency ranges for better performance: the Uni-Q driver handles high and midrange frequencies, while a newly designed bass driver manages the lows. This setup is featured in the flagship Q11 Meta, the Q7 Meta, the Q Concerto Meta, and the Q6 Meta.
The new Q Series includes a diverse range of models, from floor-standing speakers to compact bookshelf and on-wall options.

Here’s a detailed look at the lineup:

* Q11 Meta: The flagship 3-way floor-standing speaker, designed for powerful bass and refined detail. (£1,999 per pair)
* Q7 Meta: Another 3-way floor-standing speaker, offering deep bass and dynamic sound. (£1,399 per pair)
* Q Concerto Meta: The first 3-way bookshelf speaker in the Q Series, bringing high-fidelity sound in a compact form. (£1,099 per pair)
* Q3 Meta: A 2-way bookshelf speaker designed for versatile placement. (£649 per pair)
* Q1 Meta: A compact 2-way bookshelf speaker ideal for smaller spaces. (£499 per pair)
* Q4 Meta: A 2-way on-wall speaker that doubles as an LCR (left, center, right) or surround speaker for immersive home theater setups. (£349 per piece)
* Q6 Meta: A 3-way center channel speaker, perfect for creating a seamless soundstage in home cinema systems. (£699 per piece)
* Q8 Meta: A Dolby Atmos surround speaker designed for placement atop main speakers to deliver 3D audio by reflecting sound off the ceiling. (£599 per pair)

To enhance flexibility and installation, KEF has also introduced a range of accessories These include the PQ1 Plinth Spike Kit for the Q11 Meta and Q7 Meta speakers(£69 per set); SQ1 Floor Stands for the Q Concerto Meta, Q3 Meta, and Q1 Meta bookshelf speakers (£275 per pair) and the B2 Wall Bracket for the Q3 Meta and Q1 Meta speakers (£35 per pair).

The Q Concerto Meta will be available from today (September 26) as part of an early access exclusive for myKEF members and selected retailers. The remaining models - Q11 Meta, Q7 Meta, Q3 Meta, Q1 Meta, Q6 Meta, and Q8 Meta - will be available starting October 10. The Q4 Meta speaker and the optional stands and plinth kits will be released later in the year.