ReviewFinder Floorstanding Speakers

KEF Q500

TLDR: The KEF Q500 speakers offer high-quality sound with solid bass performance, wide frequency response, and compatibility with a range of amplifiers and receivers, making them ideal for home theaters, music studios, and other settings.
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  • Lowest price: $39.99
  • Median price: $499.99
  • Highest price: $16498
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Expert consensus

The KEF Q500 speakers offer high-quality sound with solid bass performance, wide frequency response, and compatibility with a range of amplifiers and receivers, making them ideal for home theaters, music studios, and other settings.

The KEF Q500 speakers are a high-quality and versatile option for those looking for a balanced and detailed sound with solid bass performance. They offer a wide frequency response and can accurately reproduce a range of frequencies, making them ideal for use in home theaters, music studios, and other settings where high-quality sound is important.

The speakers have a power handling capability of up to 130 watts, making them suitable for use in medium to large-sized rooms. They are highly compatible with a wide range of amplifiers and receivers, and offer high-quality wired connectivity options.

Sound quality

The KEF Q500 speakers offer a balanced and articulate sonic presentation with clear high frequencies, precise vocals, and solid bass performance, making them a great value for their price point.

The KEF Q500 speakers offer a balanced and articulate sonic presentation with clarity and detail that exceeds expectations. The high frequencies are clear and impactful, while the vocals are separated from the rest of the sounds with great precision. The bass is solid and well-defined, but may be a bit soft for some tastes.

The speakers perform well with different genres of music and have exceptional sound quality at most volume levels, with no audible distortion even at high volumes. The Q500 is a great value for its overall quality at its price point and is recommended for those who appreciate a very articulate sonic presentation.

The speakers provide deeper and more accurate bass than ever before, thanks to the 50mm voice coil and dedicated front-firing auxiliary bass radiators (ABRs). However, if more bass is desired, the Q700 or Q900 may be a better option.

What are the key features and specifications of the KEF Q500 speakers?

The KEF Q500 speakers are a two-and-a-half-way bass-reflex design that feature a high-quality, aluminum-coned driver complement, including the Uni-Q array, which consists of one 130mm (5.25in.) aluminum LF driver and two 130mm (5.25in.) aluminum ABRs for enhanced bass response, and one 25mm (1in.) vented aluminum dome for the high frequencies. The speakers have a frequency response of 40Hz – 40kHz, a maximum output of 110dB with 87dB sensitivity, and 8 Ohms impedance. They also have a simplified crossover design and a die-cast aluminum chassis that rigidly locates the high efficiency vented magnet assembly to prevent unwanted resonance while the enclosure features internal bracing to eliminate resonance and provide 30% more volume compared to their predecessors. The speakers measure 36.1 x 11.6 x 12.3 in. (917 x 295 x 312 mm) with the included plinth and weigh 33.1 lbs (15kg).
Based on 13 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the bass response of the KEF Q500?

According to a product review on Home Media Entertainment, the KEF Q500 speakers provide deeper and more accurate bass than ever before, thanks to the 50mm voice coil that provides better power handling and the dedicated front-firing auxiliary bass radiators (ABRs). However, another review on the same website mentioned that the bass was a bit soft for their tastes, and if you ask for more, you will probably have to go for the Q700 or Q900. Overall, the bass is solid and well-defined, but it may not be enough for some listeners.
Based on 4 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the overall balance of sound for the KEF Q500?

According to the product review on The Absolute Sound, the KEF Q500 offers a very articulate sonic presentation with clarity and presentation of detail that exceeds expectations. The high frequencies are clear and impactful, while the vocals are separated from the rest of the sounds with great precision. The bass is solid and well defined, but a bit soft for some tastes. Overall, the Q500 is a great value for its overall quality at its price point and those who appreciate a very articulate sonic presentation should give them a listen.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any notable differences when playing different genres of music with KEF Q500 speakers?

According to the product review on Home Media Entertainment, the KEF Q500 speakers offer great clarity and impact in the high frequencies, making it easy to distinguish each musical instrument throughout the stage while vocals separated from the rest of the sounds with great precision. The product review on Richer Sounds noted that the Q500 speakers achieved the frequency balance they were aiming for when playing music from the Gorillaz album, with the midrange not being overshadowed by the bass. Therefore, based on these reviews, it can be inferred that the KEF Q500 speakers offer a balanced sound that should perform well with different genres of music.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How is the sound quality of KEF Q500 affected by different volume levels?

According to a product review on The Absolute Sound, the KEF Q500 speakers have exceptional sound quality at most volume levels, and the speaker's performance is compelling and distinctive. The speakers have a control to adjust the output levels of the Uni-Q driver to more closely match that of the woofer or the listener's preferences. Dynamic shifts were also excellent, and the cabinets were sturdy without any audible distortion, even at high volumes, according to a product review on Home Media Entertainment.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Size and design

The KEF Q500 speakers have a sleek design with die-cast aluminum chassis and natural wood cabinets, and feature a Uni-Q driver array, simplified crossover design, and bi-wireable binding posts, making them a great choice for those seeking high-quality sound and elegant home decor.

The KEF Q500 speakers have a physical dimension of 36.1 x 11.6 x 12.3 in. (917 x 295 x 312 mm) with the included plinth. They are constructed with die-cast aluminum chassis and natural wood cabinets, which not only improve the sound quality but also give the speakers an elegant and high-end look.

The design features of the KEF Q500 include a Uni-Q driver array, simplified crossover design, die-cast aluminum chassis, internal bracing, five-way binding posts, bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts, KEF link, natural wood cabinets, and gold-plated wires. The speakers are available in a variety of colors such as Black Ash, Rosewood, White, Wood, and American Walnut, making them suitable for different styles of home decor.

The KEF Q500 speakers are perfect for those who want high-quality sound and an elegant design that fits well with their home decor.

What are the physical dimensions of the KEF Q500?

The KEF Q500 speakers measure 36.1 x 11.6 x 12.3 in. (917 x 295 x 312 mm) with the included plinth, as stated in a product review on Home Media Entertainment.
Based on 5 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What materials are used in the construction of KEF Q500 speakers, and how do they affect the overall design and aesthetic?

The KEF Q500 speakers are constructed with die-cast aluminum chassis and natural wood cabinets. The aluminum chassis rigidly locates the high-efficiency vented magnet assembly to prevent unwanted resonance, while the internal bracing eliminates resonance and provides 30% more volume compared to the predecessors. The cabinets are made from wood pulp, which gives them a fine-furniture-quality appearance and also contributes to the protection of the environment. The aluminum plates supported by steel spikes on either end of the cabinets help to prevent rocking resonance. These materials not only improve the sound quality but also give the speakers an elegant and high-end look.
Based on 7 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the design features or elements of the KEF Q500 speaker?

The KEF Q500 speaker has several design features, including: - Uni-Q driver array consisting of one 130mm (5.25in) aluminum LF driver and two 130mm (5.25in) aluminum ABRs for enhanced bass response while on top of them is a 25mm (1in) vented aluminum dome for the high frequencies. - Simplified crossover design to ensure that the speakers achieve a perfect acoustic performance. - Die-cast aluminum chassis that rigidly locates the high-efficiency vented magnet assembly to prevent unwanted resonance. - Internal bracing to eliminate resonance and provide 30% more volume than its predecessors. - Five-way binding posts allowing for the use of almost any home-audio connector available. - Bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts to facilitate independent connection to the tweeters. - KEF link - a clever, internal shorting mechanism, which is done internally with an impedance-neutral short-run copper circuit. - Natural wood cabinets supported by four steel spikes on either end to keep them high above the ground. - Recycled wood construction for maximum power. - Gold-plated wires provide a clear signal transmission throughout the system.
Based on 12 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the design features and aesthetics of the KEF Q500 that make it suitable for different styles of home decor?

The KEF Q500 speakers are available in a variety of colors such as Black Ash, Rosewood, White, Wood, and American Walnut, which provides a wide range of options to suit different styles of home decor. The cabinets are made from wood pulp and have a fine-furniture-quality finish that looks great in any room. The speakers are also designed with steel spikes to keep them well elevated for perfect sound clarity, and they come with a plinth that makes them look purposeful and imperious. The design is relatively simple yet elegant, and the drive units look great when the grilles are off. So, whether you have a modern or traditional decor style, the KEF Q500 speakers should fit right in.
Based on 11 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Power handling

The KEF Q500 speakers have a maximum output of 110dB, a sensitivity rating of 87dB, and a power handling capability of up to 130 watts, making them ideal for use in medium to large-sized rooms for home theater systems, music listening, and gaming setups.

According to expert reviews on Home Media Entertainment, the KEF Q500 speakers have a maximum output of 110dB with a sensitivity rating of 87dB and 8 Ohms impedance. The speakers have a power handling capability of up to 130 watts, making them suitable for use in medium to large-sized rooms.

The maximum wattage of the speakers depends on the amplifier powering them, so it's important to choose an amplifier that is compatible with the speaker's impedance and sensitivity ratings. The KEF Q500 speakers are ideal for use in home theater systems, music listening, and gaming setups. They deliver clear and detailed sound with a wide soundstage, making them perfect for immersive audio experiences.

What is the maximum wattage of the KEF Q500 speakers?

Sorry, I can only provide information about KEF Q500. However, according to verified product experts in ReviewFinder database on Home Media Entertainment, the KEF Q500 speakers have a maximum output of 110dB with 87dB sensitivity and 8 Ohms impedance. The maximum wattage of speakers depends on the amplifier powering them, so it's important to choose an amplifier that is compatible with the speaker's impedance and sensitivity ratings.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the sensitivity rating of the KEF Q500?

According to a verified product review on Home Media Entertainment, the KEF Q500 has a sensitivity rating of 87dB.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the power handling capability of the KEF Q500 speaker?

The KEF Q500 speaker has a power handling capability of up to 130 watts according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Frequency response

The KEF Q500 speakers offer a wide frequency response and smart technology for accurate reproduction of high and low frequencies, but some users may find the bass a bit soft and may want to consider the Q700 or Q900 models for more explosive bass.

The KEF Q500 speakers have a wide frequency response of 40Hz-40kHz, which allows for accurate reproduction of both high and low frequencies. The speakers are designed with smart technology, including a special crossover network and multiple drivers, that enhances the frequency response and delivers outstanding highs, mids, and bass.

The Q500 also features dedicated front-firing auxiliary bass radiators that provide deeper and more accurate bass than ever before. However, some reviewers note that the bass may be a bit soft for some users, and those who want more explosive bass may want to consider the Q700 or Q900 models.

Overall, the KEF Q500 is a great choice for those looking for a speaker that can accurately reproduce a wide range of frequencies and deliver a detailed and articulate sound. It is ideal for use in home theaters, music studios, and other settings where high-quality sound is important.

What is the frequency range of the KEF Q500?

According to a product review on Home Media Entertainment, the KEF Q500 speakers have a frequency response of 40Hz – 40kHz.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

How accurate is the frequency response of the KEF Q500 speaker?

According to Home Media Entertainment, the KEF Q500 speaker has a frequency response of 40Hz-40kHz, which is a wide range and indicates that the speaker can accurately reproduce both high and low frequencies. The same source also mentions that the Q500 has a sensitivity of 87 dB and an impedance of 8 Ohms. Additionally, a review on tower-speakers.com states that the Q500 has a "perfect frequency response that delivers outstanding highs, mids, and bass."
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the KEF Q500 handle low frequencies, such as bass?

According to the product review on Home Media Entertainment, the Q500 manages to provide deeper and more accurate bass than ever before, thanks to the 50mm voice coil that provides better power handling and the dedicated front-firing auxiliary bass radiators (ABRs). However, the same review notes that the bass was a bit soft for their tastes, and those who want more bass may have to go for the Q700 or Q900 models. The review on tower-speakers.com also mentions that customers looking to enjoy explosive bass have turned to the Q700 and Q900 series.
Based on 6 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the KEF Q500 have any built-in technology or features that enhance its frequency response?

Yes, the KEF Q500 speakers are designed with smart technology that features one dome tweeter on each cabinet, a total of 6“ × 5.25” bass drivers, and a special crossover network that filters the input signal into the available bass, treble, and midrange drivers for a surround sound experience. According to product reviews on tower-speakers.com, the Q500 speakers are designed with perfect frequency response that delivers outstanding highs, mids, and bass. Additionally, the Q500 employs drivers that each measure 5¼”: one woofer, two auxiliary bass (passive) radiators, plus one Uni-Q midrange/treble array, which creates a very articulate and detailed sound.
Based on 11 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The KEF Q500 speakers are highly compatible with a wide range of amplifiers and receivers, and feature a simplified crossover design for a surround sound experience.

The KEF Q500 speakers are highly compatible with a wide range of amplifiers, including tube, solid-state, or hybrid, and can be easily driven with as little as a 15-watt amplifier. They are also compatible with receivers from different brands, such as Yamaha, Denon, and Onkyo, as long as the receiver has the appropriate power output for the speakers.

There are no known compatibility issues when using KEF Q500 speakers with other components such as DACs, preamps, or subwoofers. The Q500s are designed to be bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts to facilitate independent connection to the tweeters. The KEF Q500 also features a simplified crossover design using a special crossover network to filter the input signal into the available bass, treble, and midrange drivers for surround sound experience.

However, it does not have bi-amping or impedance matching features. Overall, the KEF Q500 speakers are a versatile and compatible option for a range of audio setups.

What is the compatibility of KEF Q500 with different types of amplifiers, such as tube, solid-state, or hybrid?

According to a product review by The Absolute Sound, the KEF Q500 is easy to drive with as little as a 15-watt amplifier. This means that it can be paired with a wide variety of amplifiers, including tube, solid-state, or hybrid. So, the KEF Q500 should be compatible with most types of amplifiers available on the market.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the KEF Q500 work well with receivers from different brands, such as Yamaha, Denon, or Onkyo?

Yes, the KEF Q500 speakers are compatible with receivers from different brands, including Yamaha, Denon, and Onkyo, as long as the receiver has the appropriate power output for the speakers. According to a product review on Home Media Entertainment, the reviewer connected a pair of Q500 speakers to an Onkyo AV receiver and was able to manually calibrate them to be in balance with the rest of the system. The Q500 is also easy to drive with as little as a 15-watt amplifier, according to a product review on The Absolute Sound.
Based on 6 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any known compatibility issues with other components, such as DACs, preamps, or subwoofers, when using KEF Q500 speakers?

There are no known compatibility issues when using KEF Q500 speakers with other components such as DACs, preamps, or subwoofers. As per the product review on The Absolute Sound, the Q500s are equipped with high-quality five-way binding posts, allowing for the use of almost any home-audio connector available. Additionally, the Q500s are designed to be bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts to facilitate independent connection to the tweeters.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What specific features or technologies does the KEF Q500 speaker have, such as bi-wiring, bi-amping, or impedance matching?

The KEF Q500 speaker is designed to be bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts to facilitate independent connection to the tweeters. The Q series speakers utilize the KEF link, an internal shorting mechanism, instead of being fitted with external shorting straps or bars. The KEF Q500 also features a simplified crossover design using a special crossover network to filter the input signal into the available bass, treble, and midrange drivers for surround sound experience. However, it does not have bi-amping or impedance matching features.
Based on 8 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Connectivity

The KEF Q500 speakers offer high-quality wired connectivity options and require an amplifier to power them, making them ideal for serious home theater fans who prioritize wired connectivity and high-quality sound performance.

The KEF Q500 speakers offer high-quality wired connectivity options with gold-plated bi-wire terminals and an additional pair of binding posts for independent connection to the tweeters. The speakers do not have built-in wireless connectivity options or Bluetooth connectivity and require an amplifier to power them.

However, they can be connected to a home theater system and are great performers for serious home theater fans. The KEF link, an internal shorting mechanism, is utilized when not bi-wired. Overall, the KEF Q500 speakers are ideal for those who prioritize wired connectivity and high-quality sound performance in their home theater setup.

What wired connectivity options are available on the KEF Q500?

The KEF Q500 speakers come equipped with high-quality five-way binding posts, allowing for the use of almost any home-audio connector available. In addition, the Q500s are designed to be bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts to facilitate independent connection to the tweeters. When not bi-wired, the Q series speakers utilize the KEF link, an internal shorting mechanism.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What wireless connectivity options are available on the KEF Q500?

Sorry, I can only provide information about KEF Q500. However, according to the KEF website, the Q500 speakers do not have wireless connectivity options built-in. They can be connected to a compatible amplifier or receiver via speaker wire.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the KEF Q500 speaker have Bluetooth connectivity?

Sorry, the KEF Q500 speaker does not have Bluetooth connectivity. It is a passive floorstanding speaker that requires an amplifier to power it.

What types of inputs and outputs are available on the KEF Q500?

The KEF Q500 speakers come with gold-plated bi-wire terminals, which means you can connect them to your amplifier using almost any home-audio connector available. The speakers are also designed to be bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts to facilitate independent connection to the tweeters. When not bi-wired, the Q series speakers utilize the KEF link, which is a clever, internal shorting mechanism.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the KEF Q500 be connected to a home theater system?

Yes, the KEF Q500 can be connected to a home theater system. According to the product review on Home Media Entertainment, these speakers are great performers and should be considered for any serious home theater fan. The Q500s are designed to be bi-wireable with an additional pair of binding posts to facilitate independent connection to the tweeters. When not bi-wired, the Q series speakers utilize an internal shorting mechanism called the KEF link, which is done internally with an impedance-neutral short-run copper circuit.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Expert Reviews

There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

ReviewFinder database has 6 expert reviews of KEF Q500.

Expert reviews [6]

92
Total expert reviews: 6
  • with a score: 1
  • without a score: 5

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20

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Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all floorstanding speakers.

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1
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5
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KEF Q500 did not receive any endorsements this month.

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ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. floorstanding speakers below are at the top of our ranking this March.

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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.