Floorstanding loudspeakers — KEF Reference 3 Meta

KEF's Reference line, in production since 1973, includes the Reference 3 Meta as a three-way floorstanding model. It uses the 12th-generation Uni-Q driver array with Metamaterial Absorption Technology. Before shipping, every pair is matched within 0.5dB to a reference standard at KEF's factory in Maidstone, Kent.

Key specs that matter

The Uni-Q array places a 25mm aluminium dome tweeter, backed by MAT, inside a 125mm aluminium cone midrange, and two 165mm (6.5-inch) aluminium cone woofers sit below them. The crossovers are 450Hz and 2.1kHz. Frequency response is 43Hz to 35kHz (+/-3dB), and typical in-room bass extends to 28Hz. Sensitivity is 86dB, nominal impedance is 4 ohms, and KEF lists an amplifier power range from 50 to 300W. The cabinet measures 1,207 x 323 x 467mm.

Engineering and use context

With the 25mm dome mounted in the throat of the 125mm cone, treble and midrange share one radiating point and one dispersion pattern. Metamaterial Absorption Technology behind the tweeter absorbs about 99% of the unwanted rear wave, so it cannot reflect back through the dome. The Shadow Flare surround reduces diffraction from the cabinet edges and extends the waveguide effect of the Uni-Q. The midrange cone handles only its own band from 450Hz to 2.1kHz, while the pair of woofers covers everything lower, so each driver stays within its most linear range. Finite element analysis was used to optimise the bracing geometry of the cabinet, and Constrained Layer Damping turns residual panel vibration into heat. Flexible Port Technology lets the owner change the port configuration to suit the room, for example when the speaker has to stand nearer a wall than ideal, which is why KEF quotes a range of -6dB figures for different port lengths.

Pairing

A partnering amplifier needs strong current capability, given the modest sensitivity and the dip to 3.2 ohms. In medium to large rooms the Reference 3 Meta delivers full-range bass without a subwoofer, and the port options help where placement is limited. It also works as the front pair of a Reference-series home cinema system.

Alternatives

The KEF Reference 5 Meta is the larger floorstander in the same series, with four bass drivers in place of two for greater output and extension.