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Monitor Audio Pl 300ii vs. KEF Reference 5

I own the KEF Reference 5s.  I borrowed the Monitor Audio Pl300 ii speakers for comparison, which is still under way.  Thoughts so far:  Both are good speakers.  The KEFs provide a lot of detail.  Listening to classical music, you can hear orchestral instruments and sections pretty clearly.  Background and counter melodies can be identified. Piano music is very realistic.  The MAs do not provide as much instrumental detail but they do have a more mellow, deeper, broader sound.  Which is better is really a matter of personal choice.  As I said, I’m still listening so these are some quick preliminary reactions.  More later.  
fast
fast OP
92 posts
 
Erik, in response to your question:
Audio Research VT130SE amp
Audio Research LS22 preamp
Audio Research PH3 phono stage
Naim Unitiserve
Aurilac Vega DAC
Rega Planar 6 with Dynavector cartridge 
Audioquest interconnects and speaker cable
The room is 16’ x 24’ with a high ceiling.  Not ideal for sound.  Very limited on acoustic treatments (waf)—meaning it won’t fly unless virtually invisible. 

I am still listening to the speakers. 
erik_squires
16,353 posts
 
Consider Art Panels from GIK Acoustics, I think they are on sale, along with ceiling mounted panels. 

Also, carpets and plush accessories, along with light blocking curtains.
yyzsantabarbara
4,937 posts
 
@fast Interested in your results. I am looking at the KEF Reference 3 vs the MA PL200 II for a smallish office.
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
fast, you don't mention the orientation of your speakers in the room. Are they situated in front of the short wall, or the other way? My listening room is somewhat similar, 16' X 34' with cathedral ceilings. There are no room treatments used, nor are they necessary.


Other than a room such as Mike Lavigne's, it is the most perfect room I have heard anywhere. It is fully carpeted, with two large couches. I would hazard a guess that your large room has similar potential.

Regards,
Dan
fast OP
92 posts
 
The speakers are in front of the short wall.  The room has a large area rug and two large upholstered sofas which are parallel to each of the long walls plus two upholstered chairs which face the speakers .  Behind one of the speakers are two doors with large glass panes. The doors have widow coverings (accordion shades) but the glass probably doesn’t help.  
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