KEF Q550 vs KEF Q950: A Comprehensive Comparison
As someone deeply rooted in the HiFi and audio production world, I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing numerous audio products, including the highly acclaimed KEF Q550 and KEF Q950 floorstanding speakers. Both models have garnered attention for their unique features, sound quality, and design. Let’s break down the differences, similarities, and advantages of each, to help you determine which suits your needs best.
Design and Aesthetics
The KEF Q550 and Q950 both boast sleek, contemporary designs that effortlessly complement any interior decor. The Q550, with its compact and minimalist look, features a matte black finish and the distinctive UniQ driver array. This gives it a space-aged appearance that stands out yet blends seamlessly into any living space. The Q950, on the other hand, is a bit more imposing, offering a larger vinyl wood finish that, while elegant, may not be as authentic-looking compared to real wood. Both models have had complaints regarding the separate purchase of speaker grills. However, the Q950 faces minor cosmetic criticisms, such as the loosely fitting plastic rings around the speakers.
Build Quality and Durability
Both the Q550 and Q950 are built to last, showing no signs of compromise in terms of durability. The Q550 is sturdy and heavy, with high-quality spade/banana plug terminals that ensure a long-lasting life. It arrives well-packaged, eliminating concerns about damage during shipping. The Q950, though also durable, has faced some criticism related to minor cosmetic inconsistencies and potential shipping damages. Nevertheless, both models are robust and reliable, making them sensible investments.
Sound Performance
Sound performance is where these two models diverge significantly. The Q550 offers a crisp and clear sound with impressive stereo separation. It makes midrange frequencies pop and excels in vocal clarity. However, its low-end bass performance is somewhat lacking, making it a better fit for smaller rooms or those who don’t prioritize earth-shaking bass.
In contrast, the Q950 truly shines in its audio performance. It delivers excellent sound reproduction with remarkable midrange clarity and a beautiful, wide soundstage. The treble detail in the Q950 is both dynamic and clear, though they require ample power to reach their full potential. While the inbuilt bass is good, it might leave bass enthusiasts longing for more, necessitating an additional subwoofer.
Value for Money
Both speakers offer good value for their price points, but there are nuances worth considering. The Q550 generally provides excellent sound quality and build at a competitive price, which often becomes more appealing when on sale. However, remember that the advertised price is for one speaker and not a pair. The Q950, while offering outstanding sound quality, faces some scrutiny regarding its build quality and the higher price tag. Even with these concerns, they remain a worthwhile investment for audiophiles looking for a more immersive experience.
Soundstage and Imaging
The KEF Q550 and Q950 both create an impressive soundstage, thanks to their UniQ drivers. The Q550 offers a spacious and immersive experience with excellent placement of instruments and vocals. However, the Q950 takes this a step further, ensuring a more cinematic and engulfing soundstage that can transform your living room into a concert hall.
The Verdict
Choosing between the KEF Q550 and the KEF Q950 boils down to your specific needs and preferences. If you’re in a smaller space and value clear midrange and treble without needing a subwoofer for added bass, the Q550 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more robust sound with an expansive soundstage and don’t mind investing in additional power or a subwoofer, the Q950 is the way to go.
Either way, KEF’s dedication to quality shines through in both models, ensuring you get a premium listening experience.
Comparing Aspects
User-Based Scores & Our Experts Analysis
KEF Q950
KEF Q550
When it comes to bass response, the KEF Q950 emerges as the stronger contender, providing a more comprehensive low-end experience. The Q950’s bass is commendable, delivering a rich and punchy performance. However, it still needs an additional subwoofer to hit the deeper lows that some audiophiles crave.
The Q550, while offering decent bass for smaller spaces, falls short in delivering the same kind of impactful low-end frequencies. Users have noted that for more bass-heavy genres or larger rooms, an additional subwoofer is almost essential.
Aspect Verdict:If you prioritize a more robust low-end response, the KEF Q950 is the better choice. It offers a richer and fuller performance in the bass department, but keep in mind that it still might require a subwoofer for the deepest frequencies.
Both the KEF Q550 and Q950 exhibit remarkable treble detail, though the Q950 holds a slight edge. The Q950 delivers a clear, dynamic treble that isn't harsh, making high frequencies more enjoyable and less tiring over long listening sessions. The Q550 also performs admirably in this regard, offering detailed highs that complement its overall sound profile well.
However, the Q950 manages to present these highs with more sophistication and smoothness, likely due to its larger driver array and better crossover design possibilities within the larger cabinet. Both models do benefit from a break-in period, where the treble becomes more refined over time.
Aspect Verdict:While both speakers deliver impressive treble detail, the KEF Q950 offers a slightly superior experience, with more dynamic and refined highs, making it the better option for those who focus on high-frequency performance.
The midrange clarity is where both the KEF Q550 and Q950 excel. The Q550's midrange clarity makes vocals and instruments distinct and natural, which is particularly beneficial for enjoying vocal-heavy music or complex instrumental pieces. The Q950, however, takes this a notch higher by offering even more detail and lucidity in the midrange frequencies.
The Q950's exceptional midrange clarity ensures that every nuance in the music is heard, adding to the overall immersive experience. The voices, guitars, and other midrange instruments are rendered with incredible precision, making the Q950 a superior choice in this aspect.
Aspect Verdict:While both models deliver excellent midrange clarity, the KEF Q950's ability to provide an even more refined and detailed midrange makes it the clear winner in this category.
Design-wise, the KEF Q550 and Q950 both offer modern aesthetics that can fit into various room decors. The Q550, with its sleek, compact design and matte black finish, appeals to those who prefer a minimalistic yet stylish look. The UniQ driver array gives it a unique, futuristic touch as well. The Q950, although larger, maintains an elegant appearance with its vinyl wood finish. However, some users have noted issues with the Q950's plastic rings around the speakers and the authenticity of the vinyl wood finish.
Both models share the downside of requiring an additional purchase for speaker grills, which is a consideration for potential buyers. Overall, both speakers are well-designed, but the KEF Q950 faces minor criticisms regarding build quality.
Aspect Verdict:The design of the KEF Q550 is slightly more adaptable and less prone to criticisms compared to the Q950. While both are visually appealing, the minor build quality issues some users have noted with the Q950 give the Q550 a small edge in the design category.
The overall sound quality of both the KEF Q550 and Q950 is impressive, but they cater to different needs. The Q550 shines in its clear and detailed sound performance, making it an excellent choice for smaller spaces or users who enjoy crystal-clear midrange and treble. It creates an immersive soundstage that is satisfying for music, movies, and games. However, its bass performance might not be sufficient for larger rooms or those who crave a more profound low-end.
Meanwhile, the Q950 offers an even more dynamic and transparent sound profile. It excels in delivering a wide soundstage and exceptional clarity across all frequencies. The need for ample power to unlock its full potential and an additional subwoofer for deep bass might be drawbacks, but the Q950 ultimately provides a more comprehensive and engaging listening experience.
Aspect Verdict:Both speakers perform admirably, but the KEF Q950's ability to deliver a more dynamic and expansive soundstage gives it the upper hand in overall sound quality. Its capacity to handle various musical genres and room configurations makes it the superior choice for audiophiles seeking top-tier performance.
When evaluating value for money, both the KEF Q550 and Q950 offer excellent sound quality and build for their respective price points. The Q550, priced more competitively, becomes particularly attractive during sales. It provides a well-rounded performance and a sleek design that many users find appealing. However, the need to purchase speaker grills separately can be seen as a downside.
The Q950, while more expensive, justifies its price tag with superior sound quality, enhanced midrange clarity, and a more immersive soundstage. Despite minor criticisms about build quality and the need for additional power and a subwoofer, the Q950 remains a worthwhile investment for serious audio enthusiasts.
Aspect Verdict:Considering the higher price point and advanced features of the Q950, the KEF Q550 might offer better value for those on a budget or with smaller spaces. However, for those willing to invest more for top-notch sound quality, the Q950 represents excellent value.
Final Verdict
In our comprehensive comparison of the KEF Q550 and Q950 floorstanding speakers, we found that each model excels in specific areas, making them suitable for different user needs. The Q550 offers a sleek design, good value for money, and excellent midrange clarity, making it an ideal choice for smaller spaces or listeners who prioritize clear vocals and instruments. However, it falls short in delivering a robust bass response without an additional subwoofer.
The Q950 shines with its outstanding sound performance, including remarkable midrange clarity, dynamic treble detail, and an immersive soundstage. Its placement flexibility and ability to maintain sound quality in challenging acoustic environments are notable advantages. While it requires more power and may benefit from an additional subwoofer for deep bass, its overall audio experience is superior. Both models are built to last, though the Q950 faces minor cosmetic criticisms.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences and needs. The Q550 is a great option for budget-conscious buyers or those in smaller rooms, while the Q950 caters to serious audiophiles seeking top-tier sound quality and a more dynamic listening experience.
Comparison and Difference Between
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Brand and Model Specifications
Information about the brand, model release date.
| Manufacturer | KEF | KEF |
| Model | Q550 | Q950 |
| Photo |  |
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| Release Date | 2017 | 2017 |
| HifiSpecs Rating | ||
| Amazon Rating | ||
| Price |
Technical Specs
Technical characteristics of the speakers.
| Amplification Type | Passive | Passive |
| Crossover Type | 2½-way | 2½-way |
| Enclosure type | Bass Reflex | Bass Reflex |
| Frequency Range (+/-3 dB)[Hz] | 58 - 28000 | 44 - 28000 |
| Frequency Range (-6dB)[Hz] | - | - |
| Maximum SPL [dB] | - | - |
| Sensitivity (2,83 V/1 m)[dB] | 87 | 91 |
| Nominal Impedance (Ohms) | 8 | 8 |
| THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) | - | - |
| Recommended Amplifier Power [W] | 15-130 | 15-200 |
| Crossover Frequency [Hz] | 2500 | 2200 |
| Bass Reflex Tuning Frequency [Hz] | - | - |
| Driver Units | Tweeter: 130mm (5.25in.) aluminum Uni-Q |
Tweeter: 200mm (8in.) aluminium Uni-Q |
| 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 | ~7.08 in ~179.83 mm ~17.98 cm |
~9.60 in ~243.84 mm ~24.38 cm |
| Width | ~10.94 in ~277.88 mm ~27.79 cm |
~12.91 in ~327.91 mm ~32.79 cm |
| Height | ~34.37 in ~873 mm ~87.3 cm |
~41.81 in ~1061.97 mm ~106.2 cm |
| Weight (Single Speaker) | ~32 lb ~14514.96 g ~14.51 kg |
~45.4 lb ~20593.09 g ~20.59 kg |
| Shipping Weight | ~41.2 lb ~18688.01 g ~18.69 kg |
~57 lb ~25854.77 g ~25.85 kg |
Colors and Accessories
List of available colors and optional accessories.
| Colors |
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| Accessories | – |
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| Detachable Grilles | Yes | Yes |
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.
| Available Reviews |
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Small print and stuff...
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