Comparing Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 and KEF LS50: A Comprehensive Review
As someone who has spent years diving into the depths of HiFi audio equipment, I am no stranger to the countless decisions one must make when curating the perfect audio setup. In this article, I’ll be comparing two popular bookshelf speakers: the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 and the KEF LS50, both of which have carved out impressive reputations in the audiophile community.
The Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 represents a blend of aesthetics and high-fidelity sound. Designed for clarity and detail, these speakers are particularly noted for their outstanding midrange. On the other hand, the KEF LS50 enjoys high praise for its transparency and expansive soundstage, often compared to more expensive models. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision based on your specific audio needs.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you about the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 is its exceptional build quality. Its beautiful craftsmanship is evident, making it a stylish addition to any room. The speakers sport a classic, elegant look, and their robust construction ensures durability. They’re not just pleasing to the ear but also to the eye.
In contrast, the KEF LS50 features a sleek and modern design, with a unique UniQ driver at its center. This speaker exudes a refined aesthetic, although the limited color options, primarily black with rose gold accents, might not appeal to everyone. Despite this, the LS50’s compact size makes it a highly attractive option for those looking for space-efficient solutions. The build quality is top-notch, and the speakers feel like a premium product right out of the box.
Both models exhibit excellent craftsmanship, but if we had to pick a winner in terms of visual appeal and construction, it’s a close call. While the Aeromax 2 wins in elegance, the LS50 scores high on modern aesthetics and compactness.
Sound Quality and Performance
When it comes to sound quality, both speakers offer remarkable experiences albeit with different strengths. The Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 excels in midrange clarity. Vocals, guitars, and other midrange elements burst forth with detail, providing a rich sound that can make old albums feel alive and new.
Despite its commendable performance across genres, the Aeromax 2 does show minor weaknesses. The bass response is solid but can be a bit overwhelming or muddy with intricate genres like electronica or jazz. Treble detail, on the other hand, is remarkable but may not reach the levels of refinement found in higher-end models.
The KEF LS50, however, shines in its ability to reproduce a wide and precise soundstage. The transparency and accuracy make you feel as if you’re listening to a live performance. The treble is seamless and crystal clear, while the midrange offers an immersive level of detail. The bass is also respectable, but not overwhelming, making it a balanced choice for those who appreciate accuracy over sheer power.
While both speakers offer stellar sound quality, the KEF LS50 seems to have a slight edge due to its overall balanced performance and extraordinary transparency. Still, the Aeromax 2 provides a robust competitor, especially for genres where midrange clarity is crucial.
Setup and Compatibility
Setting up the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 is straightforward, but achieving its full potential requires a pairing with high-quality system components and cables. They are unforgiving of subpar equipment. Pairing them with a solid amplifier, like the Cambridge CAX81, brings out their best characteristics, making the setup process rewarding if done correctly.
In comparison, the KEF LS50 also demands careful setup and placement. Their performance varies significantly with different amplifiers, and experimenting with positioning and toe-in angles is key to unlocking their full potential. One notable downside is the lack of bi-wiring support, which may be a con for some audiophiles.
Both speakers require a bit of effort in setup to achieve their best performance, but ultimately, the KEF LS50 might be a bit more forgiving in terms of amplifier compatibility.
Value for Money
Given the quality they offer, both speakers are worth their respective prices. The Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 provides great value with its clarity and detailed sound, particularly impressive given its price point. However, its requirement for high-quality equipment could stretch your budget.
The KEF LS50, although slightly more expensive, punches well above its weight in terms of performance. Its sound quality can rival that of higher-end models, presenting a compelling case for those who want top-tier audio without an exorbitant price tag.
In terms of value for money, the KEF LS50 has the upper hand, offering an outstanding blend of price and performance that is hard to beat.
Conclusion
Both the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 and the KEF LS50 are exceptional speakers that cater to different preferences. If clarity, detail, and elegance are your priorities, the Aeromax 2 is a remarkable choice. However, for those who seek transparency, tonal accuracy, and a modern aesthetic, the KEF LS50 stands out.
Your ultimate choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the type of music you most frequently enjoy. Both speakers offer unique advantages, making them worthy contenders in the bookshelf speaker market.
Comparing Aspects
User-Based Scores & Our Experts Analysis
KEF LS50
Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2
When we discuss bass response, the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 and KEF LS50 offer distinct characteristics tailored to different audience preferences.
The Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 demonstrates a rich, deep bass that fits exceptionally well with genres like rock and punk. Its authoritative bass delivery can add an engaging layer to your listening experience. However, it's important to note that this strength can also be a weakness. For more intricate genres like electronica or jazz, the bass can sometimes come across as muddy or overwhelming.
On the other hand, the KEF LS50 offers a more measured approach to bass. It's more accurate, emphasizing precision over sheer power. While this makes it suitable for a wide variety of musical genres, those looking for that earth-shaking low-end might find it lacking. For typical music genres, though, the LS50's bass capabilities are more than sufficient, often benefiting from the addition of a subwoofer in more demanding scenarios.
Aspect Verdict:In summary, if you prefer a more powerful but potentially overwhelming bass, the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 is the better choice. For those who value accuracy and clean low-end performance, the KEF LS50 pulls ahead.
The treble detail of both the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 and the KEF LS50 is exceptional but distinct in their delivery.
The Aeromax 2 offers impressive high-frequency performance. The treble is clear and articulate, without becoming piercing or overly sharp. This characteristic adds a layer of clarity and excitement to the listening experience, especially when dealing with high-pitched instruments or vocals.
The KEF LS50, however, takes treble detail to another level. The highs are incredibly precise, almost surgical in their sharpness. This allows for an extraordinarily detailed listening experience, revealing elements of a track you might have never noticed before. This meticulous attention to high-frequency detail is particularly beneficial for genres rich in high-end content.
Aspect Verdict:Considering treble detail alone, the KEF LS50 takes the crown. Its ability to reproduce high frequencies with exceptional detail surpasses that of the Aeromax 2, making it a better option for audiophiles with a keen ear for the upper spectrum.
Midrange clarity is one of the most critical aspects of any speaker, as it covers the frequency range where most of the musical content resides, including vocals and primary instruments.
The Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 excels in this area. The midrange reproduction is one of its standout features, offering remarkable clarity that brings vocals and guitars to life. This clarity adds a significant depth to the listening experience, making it ideal for vocal-heavy and instrument-rich genres.
KEF LS50 matches this prowess and arguably goes slightly further. The midrange here is rendered with exceptional depth and intimacy, giving a lifelike presence to singers and instrumentalists. The UniQ driver ensures that the midrange is both clear and cohesive, preserving the integrity of the music.
Aspect Verdict:Between these two, the KEF LS50 slightly edges out the Aeromax 2 in midrange clarity, but only marginally. Both are top performers in this category, and either one would be an excellent choice for those who prioritize midrange detail in their listening experience.
Design is not merely about aesthetics but also how a speaker fits into your living space and complements your décor.
The Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 is beautifully crafted with a classic, elegant look that can easily blend into any home environment. Its robust construction ensures longevity, making it a solid investment. If there is a downside, it might be that the design is relatively traditional, which may not fit everyone's taste.
In contrast, the KEF LS50 offers a modern, sleek design characterized by its distinctive UniQ driver and compact size. While the rose gold accents may not appeal to everyone, the LS50's design stands out as both unique and contemporary. The smaller form factor is a bonus for those with limited space.
Aspect Verdict:Both speakers excel in design and build quality, but the choice boils down to personal preference. If you lean towards a modern, space-efficient look, the KEF LS50 is your go-to. If traditional elegance is more your style, the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 will not disappoint.
Sound quality is the ultimate measure of any speaker, and both the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 and KEF LS50 deliver superb performance with distinct characteristics.
The Aeromax 2 offers a rich, detailed sound with excellent midrange and crisp treble. It provides an engaging listening experience across various music genres. However, its bass response can be slightly overwhelming in some cases, which might not suit more intricate musical styles.
Conversely, the KEF LS50 offers a balanced sound signature with precise treble, rich midrange, and accurate bass. Its transparency and ability to reveal minute details make it a favorite among audiophiles. The wide and precise soundstage adds to its immersive listening experience.
Aspect Verdict:While both speakers are outstanding in their respective ways, the KEF LS50 has a slight edge in overall sound quality due to its balance, transparency, and detail. The Aeromax 2, however, remains a formidable contender, particularly for those who enjoy a richer midrange.
Value for money is a critical aspect, especially in the competitive world of HiFi audio equipment.
The Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 offers impressive value given its sound quality and build. While it requires high-quality components to truly shine, the investment is justified by its performance. However, it might stretch some budgets depending on the components required for optimal performance.
The KEF LS50, although slightly more expensive, is often considered a bargain given its high-end performance. Its ability to deliver sound quality comparable to more expensive models makes it an excellent value proposition for audiophiles. The LS50’s impressive performance and build quality justify its higher price tag.
Aspect Verdict:In terms of value for money, the KEF LS50 ranks higher due to its extraordinary performance relative to its price. It's an investment that offers returns in the form of exceptional audio quality, making it a highly compelling choice.
Final Verdict
To summarize the aspect comparisons, both the Cambridge Audio Aeromax 2 and the KEF LS50 are exceptional in their own right. The Aeromax 2 stands out for its rich midrange clarity and classic design, offering great value for those who can pair it with high-quality components. It excels in genres that capitalize on its midrange strength, although its bass performance might not suit all tastes.
The KEF LS50, on the other hand, delivers a balanced, transparent sound with exceptional treble detail and a wide soundstage. Its modern design and compact size add to its appeal, making it a versatile choice for various settings. The LS50 offers a superior overall performance and value, positioning it slightly ahead in this comparison.
In conclusion, your choice should depend on your specific audio needs, musical preferences, and budget. Both speakers offer unique advantages that make them highly desirable in the bookshelf speaker category.
Comparison and Difference Between
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Brand and Model Specifications
Information about the brand, model release date.
| Manufacturer | Cambridge Audio | KEF |
| Model | Aeromax 2 | LS50 |
| Photo |  |
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| Release Date | 2014 | 2013 |
| HifiSpecs Rating | ||
| Amazon Rating | ||
| Price |
Technical Specs
Technical characteristics of the speakers.
| Amplification Type | Passive | Passive |
| Crossover Type | 2-Way | 2-Way |
| Enclosure type | Bass Reflex | Bass Reflex |
| Frequency Range (+/-3 dB)[Hz] | 40 - 22000 | 79 - 28000 |
| Frequency Range (-6dB)[Hz] | - | 47 - 45000 |
| Maximum SPL [dB] | - | - |
| Sensitivity (2,83 V/1 m)[dB] | 90 | 85 |
| Nominal Impedance (Ohms) | 8 | 8 |
| THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) | - | - |
| Recommended Amplifier Power [W] | 25-120 | 25-100 |
| Crossover Frequency [Hz] | - | 2200 |
| Bass Reflex Tuning Frequency [Hz] | - | - |
| Driver Units | Tweeter: 1 x 46mm (2”) BMR |
Tweeter: Uni-Q driver array with 1″ (25mm) vented aluminum-dome tweeter |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wired |
| Inputs | Single Wire | Single Wire |
| Outputs | - | - |
| Magnetic Shielding | No | No |
Placements and Distances
Where and how to put them.
| Form Factor | Shelf, Stand | Shelf, Stand |
| Distance from Wall [cm] | 15 | 15 |
Dimensions and Weight
Physical characteristics of the speakers (without stands).
| Length | ~8.0 in ~203.2 mm ~20.32 cm |
~7.9 in ~200.66 mm ~20.07 cm |
| Width | ~16.2 in ~411.48 mm ~41.15 cm |
~10.9 in ~276.86 mm ~27.69 cm |
| Height | ~14.6 in ~370.84 mm ~37.08 cm |
~11.9 in ~302.26 mm ~30.23 cm |
| Weight (Single Speaker) | ~15.96 lb ~7239.33 g ~7.24 kg |
~15.8 lb ~7166.76 g ~7.17 kg |
| Shipping Weight | ~ lb ~0 g ~0 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 | – |
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| Detachable Grilles | No | No |
Price and Warranty
Satisfaction is (not) guaranteed.
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Amazon Price |
Review Comparison
Hifispecs' professional customer-reviews can help make up your mind.
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