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New KEF Reference Series 201/2 or 203/2

Hello Everyone,

I was at a mcintosh dealer in NC a couple of weeks ago and had a chance to listen to the new XQ line from KEF with mcintosh equipment and was very impressed. They did not have any of the new Reference Series speakers hooked up at the time. The only thing I have read was in Stereophile about the 207/2 which received very high marks. Does anyone have any experience with the new Reference line in particular the 201/2 bookshelf/standmount or the 203/2 which is the smaller floorstander? My system is a Mcintosh C2300 and MC402. Currently the only KEF speaker I demoed was the XQ40 floorstander. Any comments on the new Reference line would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
ltecyclist
unclejeff
1,313 posts
 
I have a pair of 205 speakers and I really like them.
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commandav
53 posts
 
Hi,

I just signed up to be a dealer (Command Performance AV in the Washington, DC area) of the reference line. I don't just go on reviews, so I asked the local rep drop by a pair of 201/2s for an extended audition. Well, based on what I heard, I am bringing in the line. We already have a great bookshelf (Usher Tiny Dancer), but I thought the 201/2 was another outstanding speaker. The two speakers are both great in their own ways...just a matter of if you like chocolate or vanilla. If you can find a local dealer, the speakers are worth an audition.

-- Jeff
ltecyclist OP
10 posts
 
Jeff,

Thanks for your input. I definelty want to get back in for a listen. What type of amplification were you using with the 201's? I will be using a McIntosh MC402. I really liked the sound of the XQ40 tower speaker, which you probably know is a step down from the reference line. How did the 201's fair in the mid and bass range? I am in the process of buying a new home so I dont know what room size I will be dealing with, so once that is decieded that will aid in speaker selection. Thanks.

Lucas
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commandav
53 posts
 
Lucas,

The KEFs like power. I liked the 201/2 best with Plinius gear. The only knock I have on those speakers is that with some music, the highs get just a bit much (for me anyway). The Plinius keeps the speakers smooth at all times.

In the mids and bass are superlative. As you note, the how much bass you need will depend on your room. Our demo room is 19x26. If you are mostly listening to jazz / vocal / acoustics...no more bass is needed. If your tastes go the other way, the 203 will serve you better in a large room. If you prefer the bookshelf - sub route, then please be sure to get a quality sub that can keep up with the KEFs. Feel free to email me directly if you like.

-- Jeff
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