KEF Launches the NEW Q Series Meta

KEF Q series continues to be one of the most popular speakers in their line. First introduced in 1991, the Q series line has undergone 9 generations, with the last launching in 2017. The new KEF Q Series Meta features an 8-piece collection with tower, bookshelf, center, height, and on-wall LCR speakers. Plus the eagle-eyed amongst you will see some similarities to their higher-end R-Series speakers. They are priced from $600 to $2200 a pair, so they won’t break the bank. Let’s discuss.

The Looks

Let’s get. to the elephant in the room. The KEF Q Meta speakers share some significant DNA from their more expensive R-Series siblings. Aside from sharing the Meta material (designed to reduce resonance), the Uni-Q driver shares the same “Shadow Flare” from the R-Series. Like Meta, the Shadow Flare is designed to reduce resonance and distortion and create a more smooth and uniform sound.

The Q Meta also features the 12th-generation Uni-Q driver. For those unfamiliar with this design, it’s a midrange driver with the tweeter mounted in the center. While not a KEF-only configuration, it is closely linked to the KEF line and features heavily in almost all of its speaker designs.

Lastly, the bass drivers look suspiciously close to the R-Series. All speakers in the line come in Satin Black, Satin White, and Walnut finishes.

Key Features

• Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MATTM)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 aluminium 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

The Line Up

The lineup includes 8 different speakers to fit any space. The KEF Q1 Meta and Q3 Meta are the basic bookshelf speakers. They are priced at $600/pr and $800/pr and offer 5.25″ and 6.5″ Uni-Q drivers respectively. If you want to step up to their top-end bookshelf, the Q Concerta Meta, $1300/pr, you get a 4″ Uni-Q driver and a 6.5″ hybrid aluminum woofer.

The Q4 Meta, $500/each, features a side-ported, on-wall, LCR design. At 15.7″x9.8″x5.6″ (HxWxD), the Q4 Meta is the space-saving design of the group. At $500 each, they are not crazy expensive and are a viable alternative for those who have compact spaces.

Center Duty is handled by a single center, the Q6 Meta, $800/ea. Featuring the 4″ Uni-Q driver and a pair of 4″ aluminum hybrid drivers, it’s sure to provide clear dialogue.

Surround and height duty are covered by the angled Q8 Metas, $800/pr. Featuring the 5.25″ Uni-Q driver, and are triple duty as on-speaker (bounce) Atmos modules, on wall/ceiling height, or on-wall surround speakers. I am a fan of having a speaker this versatile as it can easily grow with your system.

Lastly, if you need some towers in your space, a pair of towers is offered in the Q Meta Series. The Q7 Meta, $1800/pr, features a single 4″ Uni-Q driver housed with the Shadow Flair surround. A pair of 6.5″ hybrid aluminum drivers provide the bass. If you want something a bit bigger, the Q11 Meta, $2200/pr, sports the 4″ Uni-Q driver and Shadow Flair surround, along with a trio of the 6.5″ hybrid aluminum drivers.

Our Take

The Q Series continues to be one of the most popular lines in the KEF lineup. The new look, coupled with Meta material will definitely excite the budget-minded consumer who is looking for a realistic upgrade and doesn’t have unlimited funds.

KEF typically follows a very neutral sound, and I doubt the new Q Meta Series will stray far from that path of success. While the Q-Series will have stiff competition in the market, their new looks are making them a standout.

The Q Concerto Meta is available from September 26, 2024, as part of myKEF’s member early
access exclusive, while the Q11 Meta, Q7 Meta, Q3 Meta, Q1 Meta, Q6 Meta, and Q8 Meta launch on October 10, 2024. The Q4 Meta won’t be available till winter 2024/25.