KEF R100 Loudspeakers

The new KEF R100 is the entry level bookshelf speaker in the latest iteration of the R series from KEF, however, it's sonic performance is anything but basic. Featuring the same drive unit technology and cabinet design as it's larger siblings, the R100 is a very high-performance mini-monitor ideal for smaller rooms where audio quality is paramount.

The Uni-Q driver combines a 130mm bass midrange unit together with a 25mm dome tweeter in its centre, enabling the R100 to image spectacularly well, thanks to the virtual point source geometry of the drive units. Rear porting via a 60mm diameter vent allows this small loudspeaker to dig deep at bass frequencies so that the listening experience is never less than satisfying. Ideally, these speakers should be mounted on tall open speaker stands, a fixed to the top plate with three small balls of blu-tack for good stability. A distance from the rear port to the back wall of the room should be not less than 40mm for the optimum bass performance.

The knuckle test applied to each face of the solidly constructed cabinet produces a dead knock with zero ringing, which enables the R100 to produce music with very little colouration and great transparency. Bass is extended, tight and rhythmic, whilst vocals are delivered with warmth and clarity necessary for maximum enjoyment of music.

Measuring just 280mm in height, 100mm deep and 180mm wide, the R100's never dominated physically, and are very flexible in terms of matching amplification - amplifier output powers in the range of 25W to 100W are entirely suitable, whilst its efficiency of 86dB per watt means you may have to use the volume control in a more advanced position than with rival designs. This is not an issue, however, as the trade off and gain for this is the stunning sound quality on offer with all styles of music.

A choice of two real wood veneers and two high gloss lacquer finishes are available to suit traditional or contemporary interiors, and magnetically attached drive unit grilles are included to protect the delicate Uni-Q drive unit.

Bi-wiring or single wiring options are available on the rear panel terminal plate - we would recommend Chord Rumour 2 speaker cable as a good sonic match, preferably terminated with 4mm banana plugs for a solid, reliable amplifier connection. Atacama Nexus 5 speaker stands compliment the R100's perfectly.

KEF is a highly renowned, multi-award winning loudspeaker manufacturer, whose high-quality products can be found all over the world. They were founded in Maidstone, Kent in 1961 by electrical engineer Raymond Cooke, who was awarded an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II in 1979. The KEF name comes from Kent Engineering & Foundry, who were previous occupants of the KEF site. The company have designed loudspeakers for the BBC, and have a vast range of products at many different price points.