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Sometimes I see a new product (in this case speakers) that get lots of press and discussion only to see lots of them for sale a little later. 
Right now there are many pairs of Kef LS50s coming up for sale (both the regular and W versions).
Are these just a flash in the pan or just showing up on the market because so many have been sold?
In my mind there is nothing like a product that has stood the test of time. 
Am I just being a sceptic?
crwindy
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,320 posts
 

With the excellent word of mouth when they first came out, KEF probably sold a lot. Some of their buyers were caught up in the excitement of the moment. A couple of years later, they’re looking for the next big thing.

The number of used Martin Logan speakers (and to a lesser extent) Monitor Audio for sale, is more of a cause for concern.

seanheis1
630 posts
 
One challenge with the LS50 is that the Elac UB5 is very similar sounding for a fraction of the price...albeit without the cool factor or build quality.  

The LS50s are mostly a single point source and that is an improvement over the BBC type monitors, especially near field. 

LS50s are bass shy and are a little hot in the upper mids...which can cause fatigue and eventually a breakup. 
andrei_nz
192 posts
 
Right now there are many pairs of Kef LS50s coming up for sale (both the regular and W versions).

IMHO: They look good = Buy. Later ... They sound crap = sell. I’ve never liked Kef. I just don’t get those metal drivers and I think that is why they suck.
papafrgog
103 posts
 
Classic old school look with superb build quality and great sound: Tannoy.  I wish I could afford their top end speakers
smrex13
645 posts
 
I also think that the LS50s need high end gear to sound their best.  I bought them over to a friend's house, and we hooked them up to his his VPI>Pass Labs>ARC chain, and they sounded amazing.  It was hard to believe that they only cost $1000.  

However, many people bought the LS50s to replace their $500-$1000 speakers and then hooked them up to entry level amplification:  AV receivers, lower powered bargain integrateds, etc..  They didn't really get the full measure of what the KEFs can do.  Hence the many pairs that are up for sale.


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