kef 104 / 2. Speakers questions

I've had both 104.2s and 107.2s.  I don't recall what the 104.2 manual may have said about using the grills, but the 107.2 manual specifically recommends removing the grills for careful listening.  I used my 104.2 with a much more powerful amp, and when I changed that amp for Parasound JC 1 monoblocks the 107.2s really came to life.

Excellent score. I just got some minty 104/2s myself. They have been recapped, refoamed, donuts replaced and tweeter fluid changed. I’d have that all looked at too if I were you. Mine sound excellent, just like I remember back in the day and I have always wanted a pair. Took me 30+ years to get them...lol. The manual is available on KEFs site and they do say to use the grills if you can:
https://us.kef.com/explore-kef/kef-museum/1980s/reference-series-model-1042-1984-96

I’m using a Parasound A23 (125w) with them and again, they sound excellent. With that being said, if I spot a deal on a more worthy amp, I’ll probably upgrade. I have the KUBE with mine too but haven’t set that up yet. I remember the ones I listened to long ago with the KUBE did sound great/better but I’ve since read in some places to skip the KUBE. They do have enough bass for me sans the KUBE so I dunno what I’ll do yet.

Hope this helps.

I'd use the KUBE; it was designed as an integral part of the speaker.

A Parasound A 21 would be a good choice.

In my opinion, the 104/2 does not need the KUBE. They put out plenty of bass without the KUBE.  In fact on some tracks they can rattle the windows. When I heard the KUBE with them it seemed to muddle the sound.

My favorite amp with them is the Acurus A200 (200 wpc). 

Other amps that I found to perform well with them are McCormack DNA 125, Belles 150A and Onix A-120.