Comparing JBL Studio 290 vs KEF Q950 Floorstanding Speakers
Throughout my years in the HiFi and audio production world, I’ve had the pleasure to review and experience many floorstanding speakers. Today, I’ll be comparing two popular models: the JBL Studio 290 and KEF Q950. Both have garnered attention for their capabilities, and I’ll be providing an in-depth comparison to guide you through the main aspects, helping you make an educated decision.
Design & Build Quality
Starting with the aesthetics, the JBL Studio 290 has a traditional yet elegant look. It’s a substantial piece with a weight of around 55 pounds per speaker, emphasizing its solid construction. The design is fairly refined, but the glossy black tops are prone to scratches, a minor downside given its sturdy construction. On the other hand, the KEF Q950 sports an elegant yet practical design and boasts a more modern aesthetic with various finish options, such as walnut. However, it lacks some authenticity with its vinyl wood finish, and there are some cosmetic inconsistencies like the plastic rings around the speakers that don’t fit flush.
Sound Quality: Bass, Midrange, and Treble
When we dive into sound performance, both speakers exhibit distinct characteristics. The JBL Studio 290’s bass is known for its punch and depth, especially appealing for genres like rock and pop, and it maintains this robust sound without requiring an external subwoofer. However, it can be slightly lacking at lower volumes. On the other hand, the KEF Q950 excels with a more consistent bass output, though it benefits significantly from adequate power, and listeners who demand earth-shaking low-end might still feel an additional subwoofer is necessary.
The treble on the JBL Studio 290 is quite vibrant and occasionally ventures into the brighter side. Some users appreciate this liveliness, while others find it slightly overpowering without a suitable amplifier. The KEF Q950, however, manages to deliver clean and full high frequencies without ever becoming harsh or piercing, adding noteworthy dynamism to the listening experience.
In terms of midrange clarity, the KEF Q950 stands out with its remarkable performance. Vocals and instruments are delivered with lucidity and detail, providing a crisp listening experience. The JBL Studio 290, while competent in the midrange, tends to slightly under-emphasize certain genres and vocals, although this improves significantly after a break-in period.
Technical Capabilities & Amplification
Both models have their unique technical aspects that cater to different listening preferences. The JBL Studio 290 features bi-amp wiring, which enhances sound imaging and clarity, although it requires more complex wiring and might limit flexibility. It performs admirably with more powerful amplification, showing significant improvement in voice precision and bass control.
The KEF Q950 also shines with its forgiving nature when it comes to room placement and acoustics, performing well in varied environments. Despite its 91 dB sensitivity, it greatly benefits from a powerful amplifier to reveal its full potential, making it less suitable for those with modest amplification setups.
Value for Money
Considering the price points, the JBL Studio 290 is remarkably attractive, delivering exceptional sound quality and solid construction for its cost. It presents a high-value investment with a price-to-quality ratio that impresses many users.
The KEF Q950, while performing admirably, comes at a higher price point. Despite its higher cost, it offers exceptional sound quality and performance, justifying the investment for those seeking a premium audio experience. However, some users feel the build quality elements, like the vinyl finish and plastic rings, fall short of expectations at this price level.
Conclusion
In summary, both JBL Studio 290 and KEF Q950 offer distinct advantages that cater to different audiences. The JBL Studio 290 is an excellent choice for those on a budget who prioritize solid bass and classic sound quality, making it ideal for home theatre setups. The KEF Q950, though more expensive, provides an exceptional listening experience with detailed midrange and flexible room placement, suiting audiophiles willing to invest more in their audio setup. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget, and both speakers can deliver an enjoyable listening experience in their own right.
Comparing Aspects
User-Based Scores & Our Experts Analysis
KEF Q950
JBL Studio 290
8.4
Bass Response
7.8
When it comes to bass response, both speakers present differences worth noting. The JBL Studio 290 has a robust bass output that many users find satisfactory for genres like rock and pop. It boasts a deep, punchy bass, but some listeners recommend pairing it with a powered subwoofer for a fuller experience at lower volumes. The KEF Q950 also offers impressive bass, especially when provided with ample power. Its bass response is more consistent, avoiding any droning or distortion, but bass enthusiasts might still feel the need for an external subwoofer to reach deeper frequencies.
Despite the JBL's punchy bass, the KEF Q950 excels with a clear and consistent low-end response, doing a slightly better job overall, especially when complemented by further amplification.Aspect Verdict:Overall, while the JBL Studio 290 provides punchy bass with room for improvement at lower volumes, the KEF Q950 offers a more consistent and controlled low-end, better satisfying bass enthusiasts.
9.0
Treble Detail
8.1
Treble detail is another important aspect to consider. The JBL Studio 290 offers vibrant treble that can veer into brightness. Some listeners appreciate this lively top-end, while others may find it slightly overpowering without a suitable amplifier. This liveliness can be appealing, especially for high-energy genres, but it does need balancing to avoid treble fatigue. The KEF Q950, however, excels in providing detailed and clear treble that isn't harsh or piercing. The highs are dynamic and contribute significantly to the overall sound clarity and quality, making it a preferable option for those who are sensitive to bright treble.
Thanks to the KEF Q950's ability to deliver non-harsh, dynamic highs, it holds a definite edge over the JBL Studio 290 in this area.Aspect Verdict:In conclusion, while the JBL Studio 290's treble is lively and engaging, the KEF Q950's treble is more refined and balanced, making it the superior choice for most listeners.
9.5
Midrange Clarity
7.9
Midrange clarity is a make-or-break element for any serious listener. The JBL Studio 290 offers clear midrange, yet some genres and vocals feel slightly under-emphasized. This is improved after a break-in period, suggesting the speakers need some time to reach their full potential. The KEF Q950, on the other hand, excels in midrange clarity. Vocals and instruments come through with remarkable detail and lucidity, resulting in a crisp and enjoyable listening experience.
The KEF Q950's midrange clarity significantly surpasses that of the JBL Studio 290, making it the preferred choice if midrange performance is a priority for you.Aspect Verdict:Ultimately, the KEF Q950 provides exceptional midrange clarity compared to the solid but slightly lacking midrange of the JBL Studio 290.
8.3
Design
8.5
Design-wise, the JBL Studio 290 sticks to a conventional yet elegant aesthetic. Its solid build and substantial weight emphasize durability. However, its glossy black tops, prone to scratching, can be a downside. The KEF Q950, while stylish with various finish options, has some cosmetic inconsistencies. The vinyl wood finish does not appear authentic, and the plastic rings around the speakers could fit better, giving it a slightly less luxurious feel.
Although both speakers have their design merits, users often find themselves torn between the robustness of the JBL and the modern elegance of the KEF.Aspect Verdict:In conclusion, while the JBL Studio 290 offers solid construction and a classic look, the KEF Q950 provides a more modern aesthetic despite minor cosmetic flaws.
8.9
Sound Quality
8.7
Sound quality remains a crucial criterion. The JBL Studio 290 is widely praised for its solid sound quality, offering deep bass and lively treble. Its classic JBL soundmark ensures a satisfying listening experience. However, it can benefit significantly from more powerful amplification. The KEF Q950, on the other hand, shines with its transparency and absolute zero distortion at higher volumes. Its detailed midrange and controlled treble make for an impressive overall sound experience. The soundstage is also notably wide and immersive.
Both speakers perform admirably, but the KEF Q950 just edges out with a more balanced and detailed sound, especially when given proper amplification.Aspect Verdict:Overall, both speakers offer commendable sound quality, but the KEF Q950 excels with its balanced sound, broad soundstage, and minimal distortion.
8.0
Value for Money
9.3
Value for money is often the deciding factor for many buyers. The JBL Studio 290 is well-regarded for its exceptional value, delivering high-quality sound and solid construction at a reasonable price. It offers a significant return on investment, especially if paired with suitable amplification. The KEF Q950, though more expensive, justifies its price with superior sound quality and performance. However, some users feel the build quality aspects like the vinyl finish and plastic rings fall short of expectations, making it a less appealing option for those expecting premium build quality for the price.
While the KEF Q950 offers outstanding sound quality, the JBL Studio 290 presents a more balanced proposition in terms of value for money.Aspect Verdict:In summary, although the KEF Q950 offers high performance, the JBL Studio 290 provides superior value for money, especially for those on a budget.
Final Verdict
In the world of floorstanding speakers, the JBL Studio 290 and KEF Q950 each have their strengths and weaknesses. The JBL Studio 290 provides punchy bass, vibrant treble, and great value for money, but it necessitates powerful amplification and may need additional components, like a subwoofer, to reach its full potential. Its classic design and robust build make it a solid choice for many. On the other hand, the KEF Q950 excels in midrange clarity and overall sound quality, with its flexibility in room placement being a significant advantage. Though more expensive and with some build quality concerns, it offers superior sound performance when adequately powered. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your specific needs, room environment, budget, and personal preferences.
Tweeter: 25mm (1″) CMMD® Lite high frequency dome Mid/Bass Drivers: Dual 200mm (8″) PolyPlas low-frequency transducers, Single 100mm (4″) PolyPlas midrange transducer
Tweeter: 200mm (8in.) aluminium Uni-Q
38mm (1.5in.)vented aluminium dome HF Mid/Bass Drivers: 200mm (8in.) aluminium LF
2 x 200mm (8in.)aluminium ABR
Connectivity
Wired
Wired
Inputs
Single Wire
Single Wire
Outputs
-
-
Magnetic Shielding
No
No
Placements and Distances
Where and how to put them.
Form Factor
Floor
Floor
Distance from Wall [cm]
15
15
Dimensions and Weight
Physical characteristics of the speakers (without stands).
Length
~10.74 in ~272.8 mm ~27.28 cm
~9.60 in ~243.84 mm ~24.38 cm
Width
~12.99 in ~329.95 mm ~32.99 cm
~12.91 in ~327.91 mm ~32.79 cm
Height
~47.12 in ~1196.85 mm ~119.68 cm
~41.81 in ~1061.97 mm ~106.2 cm
Weight (Single Speaker)
~55.2 lb ~25038.3 g ~25.04 kg
~45.4 lb ~20593.09 g ~20.59 kg
Shipping Weight
~62 lb ~28122.73 g ~28.12 kg
~57 lb ~25854.77 g ~25.85 kg
Colors and Accessories
List of available colors and optional accessories.
Colors
Black
Satin white
Satin black
Walnut
Accessories
Carpet Spikes x 4
JBL® Studio 290 3-way Dual 8″ Floorstanding Loudspeaker
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