KEF Q650c Review

Summary / TL;DR

Welcome to our detailed review of the KEF Q650c, a top-notch hifi speaker from the renowned British brand. The Q650c, part of KEF's Q series, features the innovative Uni-Q driver array technology, promising an immersive, three-dimensional soundscape. Its sleek design and sturdy build quality make it a standout in the market. The speaker excels in sound quality, with precise midrange accuracy, controlled bass response, and wide soundstage. While lacking wireless connectivity, its wired options enhance audio performance. Users praise its powerful sound output and easy integration. Comparing with competitors, the KEF Q650c offers superior sound quality at a competitive price point. With a focus on longevity and value, this speaker is an excellent choice for audiophiles seeking premium audio performance in a home theater setup.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the KEF LS50 META.

Introduction

Welcome to our in-depth review of the KEF Q650c, a highly-acclaimed hifi speaker from the renowned British audio brand, KEF. Known for their innovative approach to sound engineering, KEF has been a dominant player in the audio industry for over five decades. With the Q650c, they aim to elevate your cinematic experience with a speaker designed specifically for center channel duties.

The Q650c is part of the brand's Q series, a lineup characterized by stunning aesthetics and superior acoustic performance. It boasts the company's patented Uni-Q driver array technology, promising to deliver an immersive, three-dimensional soundscape that encapsulates listeners in a more natural and realistic sound environment.

In this review, we'll delve into the key features of the Q650c, discussing its design, build quality, sound reproduction abilities, connectivity options, and overall user experience. We'll also compare it to other competitors in the market to give you a thorough understanding of its standing in the current hifi landscape. Lastly, we'll explore what you receive in the box, its pricing, and the value it provides for its cost.

Whether you're a seasoned audiophile seeking to upgrade your existing home theater setup, or a novice venturing into the world of high-quality sound reproduction, our analysis of the KEF Q650c should serve as a comprehensive guide to this standout hifi speaker. Stay tuned as we unfold the sonic prowess of this remarkable piece of audio equipment.

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Design and Build Quality

Starting right off the bat, the KEF Q650c strikes you with its brilliantly engineered aesthetic, a testament to KEF's commitment towards delivering products that are as visually appealing as they are sonically robust. The speaker sports a sleek, modern look, with a vinyl-wrapped wooden enclosure that gives it a refined, elegant touch. Its clean lines and minimalist design allow it to blend seamlessly into any decor.

One of the unique traits of the Q650c is its Uni-Q driver array. This innovative design feature places the tweeter in the acoustic center of the midrange cone, resulting in a more detailed, accurate and integrated three-dimensional sound image. This dispersion characteristic ensures that you get the same incredible sound quality no matter where you're seated in the room.

Build quality is where the KEF Q650c truly shines. The speaker feels incredibly sturdy and well-built, with high-quality components used throughout. The closed box midrange cabinet is specifically designed to reduce internal resonances, providing cleaner, more focused sound.

Weighing in at 13.6 kg and measuring 21cm x 63cm x 30.5cm (WxHxD), the Q650c isn't a small speaker, but its size is well-justified by its powerful performance. Its large size and weight lend to its stability, ensuring it won't easily be knocked over. The speaker is available in two colors, black and white, providing options to suit different interior themes.

Another prominent aspect is the magnetic grilles that are designed with a honeycomb pattern. These not only protect the speaker components but contribute to its overall look and feel. They can be easily removed if you prefer the raw, exposed look of the speaker drivers.

In conclusion, the design and build quality of the KEF Q650c clearly reflect the meticulous attention to detail and the pursuit of perfection that KEF is known for. It boasts not just a stunning aesthetic design but also a solid construction that promises durability and longevity. For the next part of the review, we will delve into the sound quality this speaker offers. Just from the design and build quality, many would agree that it hints at a promising sonic performance.

Sound Quality

The KEF Q650c boasts an impressive sound quality that is sure to captivate both audiophiles and casual listeners. With a unique Uni-Q driver array, this center channel speaker produces a precise, accurate sound that remains consistent across all volume levels.

The speaker's audio performance is further enhanced by its cleverly engineered closed box midrange cabinet. This design feature ensures that midrange frequencies are clear and well-articulated, avoiding any coloration that could hinder the overall sound experience.

One notable characteristic of the KEF Q650c is its remarkable midrange accuracy. Voices and instruments are rendered with such clarity and precision, you'll feel as if you're in the midst of the performance. This has a lot to do with the speaker's 6.5" Uni-Q driver which is known for its ability to provide detailed stereo imaging.

The bass response, powered by the 6.5" auxiliary bass radiators (ABRs), is tight and controlled, adding depth to the overall sound without muddying the midrange. High frequencies, on the other hand, are sparkly and detailed without ever sounding harsh or piercing.

The Q650c is also notable for the wide soundstage it provides, creating an immersive, almost cinematic, audio experience. It's the kind of speaker that will make you truly appreciate the richness and complexity of well-recorded music or movie soundtracks.

However, like any high-end speaker, the Q650c needs to be paired with good-quality equipment in order to deliver its full potential. This is a topic we'll delve into more in the 'Connectivity Options' section of this review.

Overall, the KEF Q650c's sound quality is quite remarkable, offering a detailed, balanced sound that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning listener. The speaker's ability to deliver such high-quality sound is a testament to KEF's commitment to audio excellence.

Connectivity Options

Concerning the connectivity options of the KEF Q650c, the speaker's design remains faithful to traditional wired connections. This speaker is not equipped with wireless connectivity features like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which might be a bit disappointing for some modern audio enthusiasts. The focus on wired connections, however, ensures you achieve a seamless and stable audio performance.

The Q650c is equipped with two sets of gold-plated five-way binding posts, which allow for bi-wiring or bi-amping. This flexibility in connectivity options enhances the overall performance of the speaker. Bi-wiring separates the audio signal between the high and low frequencies, reducing the potential for distortion and interference. Bi-amping, meanwhile, allows the use of two separate amplifiers for the tweeter and the woofer respectively, providing more power and control over the output.

Worth a note is that the included link switches should be effectively utilized depending on your chosen connection method. For instance, if you opt for single wiring, the link switches must be tightened. Contrarily, for bi-wiring or bi-amping, the link switches should be loosened and removed.

While the absence of wireless connectivity may be seen as a drawback by some, the benefit is a less cluttered frequency range and a more reliable audio output. For those heavily into their music or home theater setups, the wired connectivity of the KEF Q650c ensures a superior sound quality that's consistent and dependable.

Remember, depending on your specific home theater setup, the lack of wireless connectivity might not be an issue at all. As discussed in the "User Experience" section, the KEF Q650c excels where it matters most - in delivering a fantastic listening experience.

User Experience

When it comes to real-life use, the KEF Q650c truly shines. The brand has effortlessly blended high-quality components with a user-friendly interface to produce an exceptional sound system. Once you've installed this compact center channel speaker, you'll find the user controls easy to navigate and the overall operation really straightforward.

The speaker’s sensitivity at 110dB means it can deliver a powerful punch in a variety of listening environments. Whether you're watching a movie, indulging in your favorite music, or tuning into a podcast, the KEF Q650c speaker’s performance remains consistently impressive. You'll instantly notice the wide soundstage, clear dialogues, and the detailed sound across the entire audio spectrum.

One thing that users of the KEF Q650c repeatedly praise is its ability to produce incredible volumes without distortion. This speaker maintains its composure even when pushed to its limits. Thus, it's ideal for extensive listening sessions without any signs of fatigue. You'll be able to immerse yourself in an all-engulfing sound experience for hours on end.

In terms of positioning, the speaker is quite versatile. It can be placed horizontally or vertically, depending on your space and preference. While the speaker's significant weight might be seen as a downside by some, it adds to the stability and ensures optimal sound output.

Users also appreciate the easy integration of this speaker into an existing sound system. The KEF Uni-Q driver array aids in producing a cohesive, harmonious sound that seamlessly blends with other speakers. It's worth pointing out, though, that these benefits truly shine when you pair the Q650c with other members of the KEF Q series, as I mentioned in the 'Comparison with Competitors' section.

A small drawback, however, is the lack of an accompanying remote control. However, this is a common trend among high-end Hifi speakers, where the focus is more on the sound quality than on added accessories.

Overall, using the KEF Q650c is a pure pleasure. It's a well-thought-out, efficient product that delivers a superior sound experience straight out of the box. It's no wonder that many users swear by this speaker as a game-changer in their home entertainment setup.

Comparison with Competitors

When you're shopping for a Hifi speaker like the KEF Q650c, it's essential to consider how it stacks up against its competitors in the market. Two noteworthy competitors are the Monitor Audio Silver C350 and the Klipsch RP-504C.

Firstly, the Monitor Audio Silver C350. This speaker has a similar physical construction and size to the KEF Q650c, but with a slightly less refined finish. The Silver C350 uses two 6-inch drivers and one 4-inch midrange driver, a bit different to the Uni-Q array we see in the Q650c. In terms of sound, the C350 offers deep bass and punchy mid-tones, but struggles to match the Q650c in terms of clarity and detail at higher frequencies.

The Klipsch RP-504C, on the other hand, uses a unique four-way speaker design that delivers a wide soundstage. However, some might argue that it doesn’t provide the same level of vocal clarity that the KEF Q650c does. The build quality of the RP-504C is excellent, but the design is somewhat bulkier. It's also a double edged sword in terms of aesthetics – some might appreciate its robust, old-school look, while others may lean towards the more modern and sleek design of the KEF Q650c.

In terms of pricing, both the Monitor Audio Silver C350 and the Klipsch RP-504C are slightly more expensive than the KEF Q650c, which could make the latter a more appealing choice for budget-conscious audiophiles.

Ultimately, while both the Monitor Audio Silver C350 and the Klipsch RP-504C are formidable competitors, the KEF Q650c holds its own with its superior sound quality and balanced performance across all frequencies. Whether you're looking for cinematic immersion or an enriching music experience, the Q650c is a compelling option.

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing the KEF Q650c, you'll be greeted with an impressive sight. This speaker is well-packaged to ensure it arrives in pristine condition. The contents of the box will undoubtedly surprise you, due to its simplicity, yet attention to detail. Apart from the speaker, you'll find a few other essentials inside.

The primary component, of course, is the KEF Q650c speaker itself. It's securely placed in custom foam to prevent any damage during transport. You'll notice that the speaker's grilles are already attached, which is something not common with many other speakers. This adds to the speaker's premium feel.

Alongside the speaker, you'll discover a user manual, which includes comprehensive instructions for setup. The manual is quite detailed but remains user-friendly, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. It's a valuable tool if you're new to the Hifi speaker world.

Additionally, the box includes four rubber feet. These are to be stuck to the bottom of the speaker, helping to minimize vibrations and ensuring optimal sound quality. These might seem like minor components, but they play a significant role in enhancing your listening experience.

Finally, there's a registration card for warranty purposes. The KEF Q650c comes with a robust warranty, testifying the company's confidence in their product. Make sure to fill out and send this card back to activate the warranty.

In short, the box includes everything you need to get started with your new Hifi speaker. The packaging's simplicity highlights KEF’s focus on the speaker itself, rather than unnecessary extras. This will be further discussed in the 'User Experience' section of this review.

Pricing and Value

Let's delve into the monetary aspect of the KEF Q650c. It's no secret that higher-end audio gear can often be a significant investment, and the Q650c is no exception.

With a price tag hovering around the $650 mark, it's certainly not a budget-friendly option if you're dipping your toes into the world of hifi audio for the first time. That being said, for more seasoned audiophiles or for those willing to invest for the sake of their passion, the value proposition of the KEF Q650c becomes clear.

The brilliance of its build quality, the robustness of the speaker, coupled with the astounding sound clarity and depth it provides are things that are rare to find in this price range. As we've hinted before in the "Design and Build Quality" section, the Q650c is a testament to KEF's commitment to providing quality audio experience. It's a premium product and its price reflects that.

When examining the cost, it's important to also consider the longevity of the product. The KEF Q650c is a sturdy and reliable speaker that's built to last. For those dedicated to their audio experience, this speaker becomes a long-term investment, offering years of top-tier sound performance.

Also, bear in minde that the Q650c is a center channel speaker. This means it is a critical component of any home theater setup, often responsible for delivering clear and crisp dialogue. If you're an avid movie watcher or a serious gamer, investing in a high-quality center speaker like the Q650c could significantly enhance your overall experience.

Comparing the price point to other similar offerings in the market (a topic we delve into more in the "Comparison with Competitors" section), the KEF Q650c hifi speaker offers a good balance between cost and quality. It's not the cheapest, but the premium features and sound quality it delivers makes it well worth the price for those who value an immersive audio experience.

To sum up, the KEF Q650c may not be the most wallet-friendly option out there, but when you factor in the quality, performance, and longevity it offers, it presents a value proposition that's pretty hard to beat.

Video by: Dreamedia Home Theater

Conclusion

In conclusion, the KEF Q650c is an exceptional product that outperforms many high-end speakers at its price point. It's a statement piece, both in terms of audio performance and design aesthetic. The combination of KEF's innovative technology and commitment to quality is reflected in every detail of this center channel speaker.

The attention to detail in the design and build quality is truly impressive, providing a product that is not just a speaker, but a piece of furniture that would complement any home theater setup. However, it's the sound quality that truly sets the Q650c apart. The kind of clarity and precision in audio reproduction offered by the Q650c, as detailed in the 'Sound Quality' section, is something rarely seen in competing products.

The 'Connectivity Options' section of this review highlights the versatility of the Q650c, making it a suitable option for a range of different audio setups. Furthermore, this speaker provides an immersive and intuitive user experience, as discussed previously in the 'User Experience' section.

Although the Q650c may seem pricy compared to some competitors, the 'Pricing and Value' section delves into the value proposition of this speaker. Considering the exceptional sound quality, stunning design, and stellar user experience, it's clear that the KEF Q650c delivers value that surpasses its pricing.

Ultimately, if you're in the market for a top-tier center channel speaker that delivers premium audio performance, excellent build quality, and stylish design, the KEF Q650c should undeniably be on your shortlist.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications