KEF R3 Meta Review

KEF R3 Meta

 

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DALI – Rubikore 2

DALI’s Rubikore 2 is one of the latest models on the market. The Rubikore 2 is a two-way speaker selling for 3,000$ (vs. 2,200$).

On a sound perspective these two offer their own characters. Compared to the KEF, the Rubikore 2 is fuller and richer, especially in the midrange. The Rubikore features more warmth, but the R3 Meta delivers a more transparent and detailed sound. The KEF trades body and weight for a higher emotional vocal presence.

Bass on the R3 Meta goes a bit deeper into the sub-bass region, while the Rubikore 2 places upper-bass and lower mids slightly more forward to me. The KEF delivers a faster, more dynamic low-end response. It is more precise and has better texture, while the DALI appears more fluid and organic.

The Rubikore 2 has a softer and richer treble tuning, that is softer on the ears. While the KEF has wider extension and more shimmer and glare in its highs. I doubt people will have problems with the DALI’s top end, while some might find the KEF a touch too forward.

The R3 Meta creates a larger soundstage with better technicalities throughout. It has higher resolution, better imaging values and delivers details with better highlighting. The KEF stretches wider and deeper into the stage, but most notably it creates a taller room.

In comparison, the Rubikore 2 is a slightly darker and warmer sounding speaker, that puts a full sound forward. The R3 Meta delivers a more transparent, accurate and precise image in contrast to the DALI.

KEF R3 Meta

Conclusion

This review has been very special to me. I am a big fan of KEF’s house sound ever since I was able to hear them for the first time. The R3 Meta is everything. It is fun, detailed, holographic and so amazingly beautiful in tone.

The R3 Meta is a monitor with heaps of details and balance, that can also turn into a superbly fun listen, when needed. Since it has stepped into my apartment, I have been enjoying my music on a whole new level. Exploring music that I have not listened to in too long, while also giving me different ways to explore my current playlists.

KEF has created an impressive monitor that’s setting the bar very high for its competition. It is a master of every genre, but it sounds especially fun with IDM, Electronica, Rock and Synth 80’s. For my personal taste, it is perfect.

It truly deserves to be placed in our Recommended Speakers list. The R3 Meta will serve as my personal gatekeeper for the sub $2,500 USD range.

Summary

Pros:
Excellent detailing
Great Price/Performance Ratio
Deep and authoritative bass
Versatility

Cons:
Treble might be a touch bright for some

5/5 - (7 votes)
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Been into music and sound since he was a little brat, but spent his profession in a more binary field making things do what they were supposed to do. Ultimately just another dude on the internet with an opinion, into which you shouldn't put too much thought.

2 Comments

  • Reply October 14, 2024

    G Metcalfe

    “This plate absorbs 99% of unwanted frequencies from behind of the Uni-Q drivers, resulting in a clearer high frequency sound.”
    To be clear, the device absords back radiation from the tweeter only, not the uni-Q array as a whole.
    At any rate, I own two pairs of R3s, configured in a stereo line array, which are underpinned by a pair of Martin Logan powered subs and in my office rig I have one pair of LS50 Meta, all of which are quite excellent products.

    • Reply October 14, 2024

      Felix

      You are absolutely right, this was not 100% accurate on my part. Mea culpa!
      I edited the section. Thanks for pointing it out!
      Glad you enjoy the R3s and all your other audio gear. That’s what this is all about. 🙂

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