At a glance
KEF LS50 in 5 facts
- Type: Bookshelf speaker, passive
- Frequency response: 79 Hz to 28 kHz
- Sensitivity: 85 dB
- Impedance: 8 Ω
- HiFi Specs score: 9.2/10, the average of 6 rated aspects
Verdict
The short version
In this review, I take a detailed look at the KEF LS50 speakers, which initially grabbed my attention with their 'A' rating from Stereophile for outstanding bass extension - a rating often reserved for higher-end products. I found the speakers to be solidly built with a pleasing aesthetics, although some may not favor the rose gold accents. Limitations like lack of support for bi-wiring might be unappealing to some audiophiles. I found the speakers' sonic performance to be agile, dynamic, and accurate with a wide, precise soundstage, capable of revealing every detail in the audio chain. Contrary to some known discussions, I didn't find the speakers power-hungry. They deliver a commendable bass extension, although I occasionally use a sub. The speakers are partly particular about replicating sound as it was intended in the studio, exposing any lackluster links in your audio chain. They do exceedingly well with well-recorded material, their transparency echoing through the audio chain's individual components, bringing about rich tonality. Their performance remained consistent at various volume levels and room sizes. I close, analyzing their strengths and weak points, with a hint on their affordability compared to similar quality speakers. HiFi Specs score from 6 rated aspects · compared across 162 speakers
Datasheet
The numbers
- Power type
- Passive
- Configuration
- 2-way
- Drivers
- 1x 1" Tweeter + 1x 5.25" Mid-woofer
- Frequency response
- 79 Hz to 28 kHz 47 Hz to 45 kHz extended
- Crossover frequency
- 2.2 kHz
- Sensitivity
- 85 dB
- Impedance
- 8 Ω
- Recommended amp power
- 25 to 100 W
Cabinet
Cabinet & connections
- Enclosure type
- Ported (Bass Reflex)
- Bi-wire capable
- No
- Connectivity
- Wired
Physical
Dimensions, weight, placement
- Recommended placement
- Shelf, Stand
- Height
- 11.9 in 302 mm
- Width
- 10.9 in 277 mm
- Depth
- 7.9 in 201 mm
- Colors
- High gloss piano black High gloss piano white
From our review
What we found
Compared across 162 speakers
How it scored
Availability
Where to buy
The KEF LS50 isn't sold new any more. The closest current model is the KEF LS50 Meta.
Why this one: Same LS50 line, same bookshelf size and specs, the direct successor to the original LS50
We don't show live prices. This is our editorial price tier, last checked Jan 11, 2024. As an Amazon Associate, HiFi Specs earns from qualifying purchases. Our scores and reviews are never influenced by affiliate partners.