Audio Pro Addon T20 vs KEF LS50: A Comprehensive Comparison
The world of HiFi enthusiasts is a dynamic arena where every detail counts. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of reviewing numerous audio products, and today I’m excited to delve into a comparison between the Audio Pro Addon T20 and the KEF LS50 speakers. Both products have garnered attention in the HiFi community, but each serves a distinct purpose and audience.
First Impressions and Setup
When unboxing the Audio Pro Addon T20, the attention to detail was immediate. Each speaker was carefully packaged, with soft cloth wraps and organized cables. Setting them up was straightforward, thanks to the comprehensive instructions and included accessories. In contrast, the KEF LS50 also showcased impeccable craftsmanship. Though smaller in size, they exuded a premium build quality right out of the box. This compactness is perfect for those with limited space, without compromising on performance.
Aesthetic Appeal and Design
The aesthetic design of speakers often reflects their intended use environment. The Audio Pro Addon T20 sports a minimalist, modern design that blends seamlessly with contemporary decor. Its white finish is particularly striking when paired with similarly colored furniture. However, the KEF LS50 takes a different approach with its unique Uni-Q driver design. The rose gold accents may not be to everyone’s taste, but they add a distinctive flair. Both speakers are visually appealing, though the KEF LS50’s design is more polarizing.
Sound Quality
If there’s one thing that truly sets these speakers apart, it’s their sound quality. The Audio Pro Addon T20 offers vibrant, clean sound that’s impressive for its size. The balanced sound profile delivers defined mids, clear highs, and ample bass—albeit the bass isn’t as punchy as one might expect from larger systems. On the other hand, the KEF LS50 excels in delivering agile, dynamic, and accurate sound. The soundstage is wide and precise, making every listening experience captivating. What stands out is the LS50’s ability to reveal every detail in the audio chain, offering exceptional transparency and clarity.
Connectivity and Versatility
Versatility in connectivity is another critical aspect to consider. The Audio Pro Addon T20 wins points here with its multiple connectivity options, including digital optical input, RCA, and Bluetooth 4.0. This flexibility makes it easy to switch between devices, catering to various user needs, whether for a home theater setup or casual listening. The KEF LS50, primarily designed for a more focused audiophile audience, doesn’t boast the same level of connectivity. Its primary strength lies in its sound reproduction capability, making it less versatile but highly specialized.
Performance in Different Settings
Both speakers perform admirably across various settings, but there are nuances. The Audio Pro Addon T20’s sound profile adapts well to different room environments. Whether placed in an office, bedroom, or living room, it manages to deliver a consistent auditory experience. However, they truly shine when given ample distance from the listening position. In comparison, the KEF LS50 requires more thoughtful placement to unlock its potential fully. Proper toe-in and positioning are essential to achieve the best soundstage and imaging.
Durability and Manufacturing Quality
In terms of build quality, both products are stellar. The Audio Pro Addon T20 feels solid and well-constructed, though there have been isolated reports of issues with second-hand units. The KEF LS50’s build is equally impressive, with a robust design that inspires confidence. These speakers are built to last, catering to those who value longevity in their audio equipment.
Price and Value for Money
Price is always a significant factor in purchasing decisions. The Audio Pro Addon T20 offers exceptional value, especially when considering its built-in amplification and Bluetooth connectivity. Priced around 450 Euros, it competes well with other speakers in its range. On the other hand, the KEF LS50, though more expensive, offers performance that punches above its price category. At approximately $1500, it’s not exactly a budget option but offers a quality that often rivals more expensive setups.
Conclusion
Both the Audio Pro Addon T20 and the KEF LS50 bring unique strengths to the table. The T20 is a versatile, cost-effective solution with built-in amplification and excellent connectivity options. It’s perfect for users seeking a straightforward, reliable system without needing additional components. The KEF LS50, meanwhile, is for the discerning audiophile who values sound precision and clarity. Despite its higher price, it offers stellar performance that justifies the investment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on what you prioritize—versatility and cost-effectiveness or superior sound quality and precision.
Comparing Aspects
User-Based Scores & Our Experts Analysis
KEF LS50
Audio Pro Addon T20
The bass response from the Audio Pro Addon T20 is generally commendable for its size. It does well to extend down to around 30 Hz, which is impressive for a compact speaker. The bass is adequate for most music genres but lacks the punch that bass enthusiasts might crave. On the other hand, the KEF LS50, while delivering decent bass, focuses more on accuracy than power. Its bass performance is sufficient for an accurate listening experience but may fall short for those seeking deeper, more impactful bass. Both speakers could benefit from an additional subwoofer to enhance low-frequency output.
Aspect Verdict:While both speakers manage to deliver satisfactory bass response for their categories, the Audio Pro Addon T20 edges out slightly due to its more extended bass reach. However, neither speaker will satisfy if you’re seeking extremely punchy low frequencies without a supplemental subwoofer.
The treble detail on the Audio Pro Addon T20 is clear and articulate, albeit with occasional harshness depending on the music. This clarity provides a good upper-frequency response that adds to its overall sound quality. Meanwhile, the KEF LS50 excels in treble detail, offering a sharp and nuanced upper register that feels almost surgical in its precision. This makes high-frequency instruments shine, providing an enveloping experience that is both detailed and immersive.
Aspect Verdict:In the realm of treble detail, the KEF LS50 outclasses the Audio Pro Addon T20. The LS50's treble is not just clear but beautifully rendered, making it the better choice for those who value high-frequency detail.
The midrange is where the Audio Pro Addon T20 stumbles slightly. While it offers a decent midrange, it feels somewhat recessed, particularly noticeable in complex musical compositions. This can be a letdown for listeners who prioritize mid-frequency clarity. On the other hand, the KEF LS50 excels in this area, producing an exceptionally clear and engaging midrange. Vocal performances and mid-frequency instruments are rendered with lifelike accuracy, giving a sense of presence that the T20 misses.
Aspect Verdict:In terms of midrange clarity, the KEF LS50 clearly holds the advantage. Its ability to deliver a lifelike and intimate midrange sets it apart from many competitors, making it a superior choice for vocal and instrumental music.
Design aesthetics are always subjective, but both of these speakers are appealing in their own right. The Audio Pro Addon T20 features a minimalist and sleek design that integrates well into modern decor. Its build quality is robust, and the unit feels premium. The KEF LS50, with its unique Uni-Q driver and compact form, offers a different kind of appeal. Although its rose gold accents might not be to everyone's taste, the design is bold and technologically impressive. However, it does lack in color choices compared to the T20.
Aspect Verdict:Both speakers have strong design aspects, but they cater to slightly different aesthetic sensibilities. The Audio Pro Addon T20 is versatile and modern, while the KEF LS50 is compact with a distinctive look. Overall, the LS50 edges out by a fraction due to its advanced driver design.
The overall sound quality of the Audio Pro Addon T20 is impressive for its size and price, delivering a balanced sound profile that suits various music genres. However, its recessed midrange and less punchy bass are some of the downsides. The KEF LS50, on the other hand, offers a stellar sound quality that combines playful musicality with razor-sharp precision. This makes it ideal for audiophiles looking for a comprehensive and revealing listening experience.
Aspect Verdict:When it comes to sound quality, the KEF LS50 takes the crown. Its ability to reveal every intricate detail of the audio track, combined with its balanced sound profile, makes it a superior choice for serious listeners.
The Audio Pro Addon T20 offers exceptional value for money, especially given its built-in amplification and Bluetooth connectivity. Priced around 450 Euros, it brings a lot to the table. The KEF LS50, although more expensive at around $1500, delivers sound quality that rivals much pricier setups. For what it offers in terms of performance, the LS50 is also a great value, just not in the same budget-friendly realm as the T20.
Aspect Verdict:In terms of value for money, the Audio Pro Addon T20 offers an excellent price-to-performance ratio. However, for those willing to spend more, the KEF LS50 offers exceptional sound quality that justifies its higher cost, thus making both speakers valuable in their respective price ranges.
Final Verdict
In our thorough comparison of the Audio Pro Addon T20 and the KEF LS50, several points became clear. The Audio Pro Addon T20 is a solid all-around performer, offering excellent value for its price, a sleek design, and good sound quality with versatile connectivity options. However, it falls short when it comes to midrange clarity and punchy bass. The KEF LS50, although more expensive, delivers superior sound quality marked by exceptional treble detail, and midrange clarity, and a well-rounded soundstage. Its design is unique and its build quality is solid, though it lacks some of the connectivity versatility of the T20. For those who are focused on budget and versatility, the T20 is a great choice, but for serious audiophiles seeking top-notch sound clarity and detail, the LS50 reigns supreme.
Comparison and Difference Between
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Brand and Model Specifications
Information about the brand, model release date.
| Manufacturer | Audio Pro | KEF |
| Model | Addon T20 | LS50 |
| Photo |  |
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| Release Date | 2018 | 2013 |
| HifiSpecs Rating | ||
| Amazon Rating | ||
| Price |
Technical Specs
Technical characteristics of the speakers.
| Amplification Type | Active | Passive |
| Crossover Type | 2-Way | 2-Way |
| Enclosure type | Bass Reflex | Bass Reflex |
| Frequency Range (+/-3 dB)[Hz] | 32 – 25.000 | 79 - 28000 |
| Frequency Range (-6dB)[Hz] | - | 47 - 45000 |
| Maximum SPL [dB] | - | - |
| Sensitivity (2,83 V/1 m)[dB] | - | 85 |
| Nominal Impedance (Ohms) | - | 8 |
| THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) | - | - |
| Recommended Amplifier Power [W] | 120 | 25-100 |
| Crossover Frequency [Hz] | 2900 | 2200 |
| Bass Reflex Tuning Frequency [Hz] | - | - |
| Driver Units | Tweeter: ¾” textile dome tweeter |
Tweeter: Uni-Q driver array with 1″ (25mm) vented aluminum-dome tweeter |
| Connectivity | Wireless | Wired |
| Inputs | Bluetooth standard V4.0 with aptX-codec RCA in aux 2 x TOSLink optical | Single Wire |
| Outputs | USB for charging devices (DC OUT/max 5V 1000mA). RCA Sub Out | - |
| Magnetic Shielding | No | No |
Placements and Distances
Where and how to put them.
| Form Factor | Floor | Shelf, Stand |
| Distance from Wall [cm] | 15 | 15 |
Dimensions and Weight
Physical characteristics of the speakers (without stands).
| Length | ~7.48 in ~189.99 mm ~19 cm |
~7.9 in ~200.66 mm ~20.07 cm |
| Width | ~8.26 in ~209.8 mm ~20.98 cm |
~10.9 in ~276.86 mm ~27.69 cm |
| Height | ~32.75 in ~831.85 mm ~83.19 cm |
~11.9 in ~302.26 mm ~30.23 cm |
| Weight (Single Speaker) | ~17.63 lb ~7996.83 g ~8 kg |
~15.8 lb ~7166.76 g ~7.17 kg |
| Shipping Weight | ~36.1 lb ~16374.68 g ~16.37 kg |
~40.4 lb ~18325.13 g ~18.33 kg |
Colors and Accessories
List of available colors and optional accessories.
| Colors |
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| Accessories | – |
– |
| Detachable Grilles | No | No |
Price and Warranty
Satisfaction is (not) guaranteed.
| Warranty | 3 Years | 5 Years |
| Amazon Price |
Review Comparison
Hifispecs' professional customer-reviews can help make up your mind.
| Available Reviews |
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Small print and stuff...
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