If you are searching for your first pair of speakers while designing music or home theatre setup, replacing a couple of old budget speakers, or spending every penny into purchasing a high-end speaker that matches your format, space, and finances, this is the right place. Today, I am going to inform you about two of the classic speakers of KEF and will compare them to help you decide which one is perfect for you to purchase: KEF R500 vs LS50.
Highly advanced technology and fully skilled engineers have contributed to the success and helped to bring into a respectable place for one of the audio manufacturing industry called KEF.
KEF was one of the founders of UK high-end speakers and has been a significant part of the very beginning in the field of loudspeaker design. The KEF contains many of the most prestigious advancements in premium hi-fi audio and home theatre equipment from the most recent and outstanding speaker manufacturer.
You’ll love the complete Hi-Fi audio experience with KEF R500 vs LS50.
KEF R500
The R500 is KEF’s beloved R-Series’ tiniest floor stander available in the market. The R500 fits with other products in the line of products to shape the last AV surround sound home theatre system with the new introduction of the specially designed Uni-Q drivers collection found with all KEF R series models. KEF R500 provides a sort of smooth detail and dynamic audio performance which has made it worldwide popular.
Features
- 3-way design.
- 1″ vented aluminum dome tweeter with waveguide.
- 5″ magnesium/aluminum midrange driver.
- Dual 5-1/4″ aluminum woofers.
- ‘Tangerine’ waveguide technology
- Damping panels
- Uni-Q technology
- Bass-reflex cabinet with CFD
- Nickel-plated binding posts accept pins, banana connectors, or bare wire.
- High-gloss piano black finish
- Detachable magnetic cloth grille
- Included “outrigger” plinth and carpet spikes provide added stability
KEF LS50
The superb LS50 wireless speaker provides clear, seamless sounds, all redefined form an integral system. It expresses with a rare degree of accuracy the subtle harmonic adjustments of song, which can make it seem so sophisticated.
You will get a lovely melody from the speaker which will drag you into every piece of songs. LS50W was planned for a lifestyle speaker that reveals that hi-fi loudspeakers are not a struggle. Click here to see another similar kind of speaker Sonos Play5.
Features
- Uni-Q driver array technology
- 5-1/4″ aluminum cone woofer
- 1″ vented aluminum dome tweeter
- Innovative Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)
- Driver Performance Optimisation
- High-performance power amp or integrated amp
- Curved baffle design
- Two-way bass-reflex cabinet
- 5-way binding post
- High gloss finish
KEF R500 vs KEF LS50: Side By Side Comparison
| KEF R500 | KEF LS50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Bass reflex | Bass reflex |
| Crossover Channel Qty | Three-way | Two-way |
| Amplification Type | passive | passive |
| Driver Technology | Uni-Q array | Uni-Q array |
| Driver Type | mid-range driver, tweeter driver, woofer driver | mid/woofer driver, tweeter driver |
| Driver Material | aluminum, magnesium-aluminum alloy | aluminum, magnesium-aluminum alloy |
| Driver Qty | 1, 2 | 1 |
| Driver Diameter | 0.98 m, 4.92 m, 5.12 m | 1 m, 5.25 m |
| Magnet Type | neodymium | ferrite, neodymium |
| Nominal Impedance (ohms) | 8 | 8 |
| Frequency Response | 39 - 45000 Hz | 47 - 45000 Hz |
| Maximum Output Level (SPL) | 111 dB | 106 dB |
| Recommended Amplifier Power | 25 Watt | 25 Watt |
| Sensitivity | 88 dB | 85 dB |
| Crossover Frequency | 46Hz - 28kHz | 79Hz – 22kHz |
| Connectivity Technology | wired | wired |
| Detachable Cables | Yes | No |
| Colors | Walnut, Rosewood, Piano Black, Piano White | Titanium Grey/ Red, Gloss Black/ Blue, and Gloss White |
| Dimension (H x W x D) | 40 x 7.1 x 12 in. | 11.9 x 7.9 x 10.9 in. |
| Weight | 48.06 lbs. | 15.87 lbs. |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Design: KEF R500 vs LS50
The KEF R500 is somewhat different from the KEF LS50, but both are winners.
A bass reflex speaker includes a port which improves bass frequencies by channeling sound from the back of the speaker. The echo from the end and the waves coming from the front are correctly tuned to a well-designed bass reflex speaker.
The use of a bass-reflex port also serves to reduce the number of sensitive components in the circuit, thereby avoiding large-signal adjustments. The port works to discourage the driver from trying to enter relatively low frequency as a mechanical low-pass filter. Both of the items have a bass-reflex design.
The R500s are available in four finishes: high-gloss piano black, piano white, real-wood veneers of Walnut and Rosewood. KEF has incorporated some decent touches also. In comparison to the other products of KEF, the R500 is more traditional, but not in a bad way.
The most noticeable of these was the metal trim all over the drivers to mask unsightly twists and bolts with flexible carpet tips. As such, this is a beautifully proportioned build that uses a streamlined cabinet and driver configuration to appear sleek and symmetrical both as a pair and as a single unit.
Numerical techniques such as Finite Element Analysis (FeA), Boundary Element Analysis (BEA), and Computational Fluid Dynamics have been used considerably in LS50 design.
Unlike traditional speakers with two different drivers, dual-concentric drivers are placed in the middle of the woofer along with the tweeter. The LS50s usually are covered with a textured layer that involves vacuuming from time to time.
These speakers are stylish, sophisticated, and extremely flexible in Titanium Grey / Red, Gloss Black / Blue, and Gloss White.
Winner: Tie
Driver Technology: KEF R500 vs LS50
KEF R500 and LS50 both have same kind of driver technology.
Of the many landmark developments that KEF has championed, undoubtedly the most significant of all is the Uni-Q source driver array with its outstanding acoustic accuracy and off-axis dispersion.
Both LSX and LS50W come with KEF’s Uni-Q driver array invention. With the very last Uni-Q driver specially developed for these models, they can both deliver a tremendous, clean, and powerful performance.
They are also able to significantly increase stereo quality by placing the tweeter in the center of the midrange and bass cones. Not only does this make music quick, precise, and vibrant, it does this to a broader soundstage as well. Uni-Q technology is also found in KEF R300.
Winner: Tie
Nominal Impedance: KEF R500 vs LS50
The impedance of both speakers is precisely the same.
Since the music has a vast number of simultaneous frequencies, you will face a specification called nominal impedance. Nominal impedance means more or less the lowest level the speaker drops down to the load resistance added to any given frequency within its operating range.
Your speaker doesn’t have to be high or low, 6-8 ohms is best. The high impedance speaker needs more current, and the sound is drained where the right impedance is not detected. Low dynamics lead to overheating that can affect the amplifier.
Both products have a nominal 8 ohms impedance that is viewed in all categories as ideal and perfect.
Winner: Tie
Frequency Response: KEF R500 vs LS50
The R500 has a better frequency response than the KEF LS50, allowing for greater sound quality.
Frequency response tests whether and how well a single audio feature reproduces all detectable frequencies and whether it shifts a signal during transmission. A good frequency response sound is capable of playing both low, mid, and high tones correctly and to an appropriate degree, and that is what assures our ears that this is a high-end, rich, colorful sound system.
Bass sounds are louder and more descriptive as the number is smaller. Any show above or below 50Hz is considered reasonable.
As you can see, R500 can clearly go down to 39Hz when LS50 can get only to 45Hz. No doubt, R500 has a better overall response in terms of frequency that allows it to achieve a precise and thorough sound level.
Winner: KEF R500
Driver Size: KEF R500 vs LS50
As the KEF R500’s driver is smaller than the LS50’s, and that’s why the LS50’s sound quality is superior.
It’s not just about volume or bass intensity: large speakers merely sound fantastic. The bigger the driver, the lower the frequencies it was used for. You want a speaker to produce as many frequencies in your ears as possible.
Smaller speakers will benefit from size and prices (because then you’re not looking for a new high-end model), large speakers are typically expensive than smaller speakers. And the audio output generally is something in a speaker that we all like most.
In this case, R500 is somewhat smaller than LS50. LS50 is much louder and much heavier than the R500 and is thus much more suited to broader space. LS50 also can create a larger soundstage for the audience to enjoy a better sound performance.
Winner: LS50
Maximum Output (SPL): KEF R500 vs LS50
The SPL of the LS50 is lower than that of the R500, which is a plus point for LS50.
SPL is the Sound Pressure Level. It is the principal target measuring unit in decibels (dB) for acoustic performance. Two tests are used to quantify the degree of reaction of the speaker and the cumulative amount of power.
You will calculate the amounts for your brain more accurately as you hear something of the same SPL. You will figure out more clearly that anything is not well balanced will allow you to interpret the audio content reliably.
LS50’s SPL value is lower than R500, which refers that your LS50 requires more power to create accurate and natural vibrant sound.
Winner: LS50
Crossover Frequency: KEF R500 vs LS50
When the lower range of the LS50 speaker isn’t ideal, R500 has an impressive crossover frequency range.
A speaker crossover frequency is used to maximize power efficiency and lower speakers and bass costs. A crossover separates a speaker from unwanted frequencies into a buffer.
This specification is hugely beneficial, as it increases the effectiveness and performance of all speakers directly to the frequency category. The suggested crossover frequency for the main speakers is 56-60 Hz (high pass).
R500 has an imposing range of crossover frequency when LS50’s speaker’s lower range isn’t ideal. LS50’s crossover frequency won’t be able to filter out low-end bass, which can cause distortion.
Winner: R500
Sensitivity: KEF R500 vs LS50
The sensitivity rating of both speakers is the same.
You can see how much pressure you get from a particular volume of sound system noise through a sensitivity level. Both drivers and useful system modules you use will be impacted.
The average frequency of the sound system is 88dB. The 84dB sensitivity is the lowest, and this will affect the sound quality in particular cases.
Although the rating of R500 is a little high both speakers are basically the same sensitivity rate. Moreover, this slight variation makes no significant difference.
Winner: Tie
Audio Quality: KEF R500 vs LS50
Both the KEF R500 and LS50 speakers have a unique approach to audio quality, and both have performed admirably.
The visual difference between the R500 and more striking speakers like the LS50 makes it impossible to believe that the two models’ performance will be similar.
KEF’s vast experience with metal drivers here reveals how precise and almost transparent the R500 is in tonal smoothness through mids and highs. The entire midrange area at all volume levels had exceptional clarity and perfect transparency.
R500’s top most frequencies are so tidy, structured, elegant, and incredibly realistic that for audiophiles it was pretty surprising. R500’s tweeter can shift from its midrange tone, very smoothly.
The double bass, hanging to one side, has weight and texture, which make it sound natural all the time. For a small loudspeaker, the R500’s bass depth, fullness, and stability were fantastic.
The low-end performance of LS50 is compelling and well-formed, definitely bass-heavy than most of the bookshelf speakers in the same price range. For certain kinds of music, it may not be enough if you intend to use the speakers as a home theatre setup though the low-end response on the LS50 is more than adequate as a reference speaker.
The LS50 really shines when it comes to high-frequency and mid-range responses! With blowing details and clearness, the sound stage is unreal. For every tune and sound effect replicated for remarkable precision, the distinction of voices and instruments is unique.
It can create a stunning multi-dimensional soundstage for more expansive rooms. Nevertheless, both of the speakers might be needed a subwoofer for better audio performance. You can also take a peak KEF Q350 if you want better sound performance.
Winner: Tie
Cost: KEF R500 vs LS50
The KEF LS50 is significantly more cost-effective than the R500.
The fact that the price of LS50 is less costly than R500 and makes it all that much better. On the other hand, R500 is a little bit expensive for a tiny floor-stander, and you can find it on Amazon now. Both speakers are undoubtedly costly.
But suppose you’re an audio enthusiast and don’t hesitate to spend any of your money on speakers. In that case, the devices bring you the richest and fulfilling listening experience you’re not going to find elsewhere. Here are some 2 KEF Bookshelf Speakers if you want to spend less than LS50 and R500.
Winner: LS50
What I liked about KEF LS50
- Outstanding and extremely high-performance electro-acoustics.
- A brilliant blend of tone neutrality, transparency, and continuity.
- The flexibility of input.
- Outstanding building
- Incredible dynamics and bass.
- Comparatively cheaper.
Places to improve for LS50
- Voices look a little bland
- Annoying concerns of usability
Why you should love KEF R500
- Superbly refined and appealing tone
- Beautiful appearance
- Excellent building
- Fantastic mids and strong efficiency
- Completely transparent vocal
- Splendid setup directions
- Impressive stereo imaging
What I didn’t like about R500
- Premium pricing
- Bass can be sometimes overblown
Alternative Speakers
KEF R5
The sleek R5 floorstanders from KEF are refined and trendy, but they’re up against some tough opposition.
PROS
- Modern design
- Excellent quality
- Uni-Q array
- Many technologies from the Reference series
CONS
- Lacking Bass
- Not so good grill design
Bowers and Wilkins 606
The Bowers and Wilkins 606 bookshelf speakers are incredible, with greater dynamics and bass than other speakers in this size range.
PROS
- Well made and finished;
- Dynamic, spacious and detailed sound
- Outstanding mid-range and bass
CONS
Lively treble can be provoked
Positioning
Before I get to the decision, let me remind you how to put these speakers in a spot. The location of your speaker will play a vital role in the sound you like.
- It’s always safer to keep the floor speakers away from walls.
- Place them on the front wall some three meters apart.
- Try to position the speaker in such a manner that the distance between the speaker and the closest sidewall is 1.6 times that of the front wall. If you have a larger space than this, adopt the opposite law.
- Making your speech and speakers a complete triangle, and the distance between the speaker and you should be the same.
Click Here To know more about speaker placement guidelines.
Verdict: KEF R500 vs LS50
These are both outstanding and convenient to have in their respective fields. But I’m just going for KEF LS50 in this case. KEF R500 is a gorgeous and willing speaker who can fit well in a range of fields.
It is important to remember, however, that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to boost the efficiency of any audio device. The stereo imaging is surprisingly neat, and the bass is precise over LS50, but because of its size and price, LS50 is a bit above than R500 in sound performance.
The LS50 is the leading edge of electric-acoustic technology and one of the best active portable speakers, either in the technical field or in the market. These speakers are fun to listen to what KEF’s items have not always done. Therefore I highly suggest you invest in KEF LS50, whether you have a wide area to fill in or wish to purchase loud, high-quality speakers at a somewhat lower price. Check out this KEF ls50w speaker also, which is the updated version of LS50.
FAQ
Do I need a powerful amplifier and a sub-woofer?
Answer: You can either have a portable amplifier or add a power amplifier to get the full sound stage. It would be best if you had a subwoofer to produce quality audio efficiency for a more comprehensive bass.
What sort of termination is better for the LS50 if I buy the cable?
Answer: Bare wire, spade lugs Vampire Wire makes a broad spectrum or banana plugs make a decent massive duty pair for $20. You also can get oxygen-free copper multi-strand cable. Mogami is making a major 11/12 gauge multi-strand cable. In general, 10-16 gauge oxygen-free multi-strand copper speaker wire will be enough to do the task.
Is it possible to buy only one of the KEF R500 speakers and not to buy two of them?
Answer: One-half of a stereo recording can only be heard, in these terms. Hooking to a speaker both the left channel and the right channel cables will destroy the amplifier as well as the speaker.
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