KEF LS50 Meta

A Audio Connection MrDoc55 · owner · Oct 2021

The Metas had no upper range listening fatigue and just sounded richer. To top it off, I was using a very "mid-level" Rotel A12 (60wpc) integrated amp. So I bought the LS50 Meta's and the Rotel and still had enough $$ leftover to take the wife out for a fine steak dinner. The Rotel has a very good DAC and all the digital and analog connectors of the LS50 Wireless. The reviewer is correct.

J Jiles McCoy Jiles McCoy · 116K subscribers · Feb 2021

The KEF LS50 Meta is a game changer in the stand mounted speaker world. This bookshelf speaker is guaranteed to make you rethink audio at this price point. 100% Audiophile

I iiWi Reviews gordthor5351 · owner · Apr 2020

The LS50s just keep playing up to the gear you give them. I must have fed them at least 150 watts and they stayed super tight and the bass was unbelievable for such small speakers (in a large room). The LS50s dip down into the low 3 ohms and have 85 dB sensitivity, so to shine their best they need a very capable amp and smooth DAC (source), because they are so detailed and transparent.

A Audio Arkitekts Audio Arkitekts · 57.1K subscribers · Jan 2021

The KEF LS50 Meta is one of the most talked about stand mount speakers in high end audio, and for good reason. In this review, I break down its Uni Q driver design, Metamaterial technology, and real world performance to see if the clarity and imaging justify the 1499 dollar price tag.

T Thomas & Stereo 777galamian · owner · Apr 2018

I own the LS50 and purchased them because I needed audiophile sound in a small space. I’ve paired them with a REL t7x and am completely satisfied with the sound, especially given the limitations of my environment. I used to have floorstanders that sounded excellent in a large room, but sounded terrible in the small space. The Kefs give me great sound and have a tiny footprint.

A Analogholic Analogholic · 21.2K subscribers · Oct 2021

The KEF LS50 META are petite but throw this killer soundstage. Watch to find out what it takes to make them sing.

L LATE KNIGHT TALKS TheOneInYellow · owner · Apr 2026

In my nearfield setup that I rehauled since the end of Feb '26, to last week where I took delivery of the KEF LS50 Meta Carbon Black speakers, it sounds incredible! I find it bonkers that I can position the speakers on-axis and gain massive soundstage, but not lose phase-coherence nor time-domain performance too.

M Mark Kwak Mark Kwak · 13.4K subscribers · Aug 2024

Beautiful, compact, but with amazing sound and quality.

D Darko Audio thomasnewsom6084 · owner · Oct 2021

I have the KEF LS50 Meta's in 2 installations in the house both with KEF KC62 subs. I am not one who particularly likes modern design but I think you have to look beyond that with the LS50 Meta design. The rounded back edges actually are more than an aesthetic touch. It actually helps with off axis performance.

G Geezer Into Tech Geezer Into Tech · 10.9K subscribers · Aug 2021

The LS50 Meta by Kef was launched in Autumn 2020 - they are surely very successful speakers and perhaps one of the most innovative speakers coming out of the industry at this price point.

E Expressive Audio John Nelson · reviewer

Quite simply one of the best HiFi speakers of all time. KEF's Metamaterial Absorption Technology eliminates unwanted resonance with remarkable precision, making the LS50 Meta a reference-class HiFi bookshelf speaker and one of the most consistently praised top-rated HiFi speakers across every major publication.

S Small Room Audio Small Room Audio · 10K subscribers · Nov 2020

Our short review of the new Kef LS50 Meta - a very nice improvement over the legendary original LS50.

G Gearpatrol Article

The KEF LS50 Meta are one of the best bookshelf speakers you can buy. They’re essentially passive versions of the company’s lauded LS50 Wireless II — they’re identical and feature the same Uni-Q driver array, which places a 1-inch tweeter inside a 5.25-inch woofer. They are available in three color options.

L Living Entertainment Living Entertainment · 9.1K subscribers · Jan 2021

The result is an icon in waiting: the KEF LS50 Meta Standmount Speakers. Instantly recognisable as the successor of the LS50, the LS50 Meta is born of the same KEF desire for continual development and is therefore fittingly the first loudspeaker to employ Metamaterial Absorption Technology.

R Russian Neuro Audiophile andrewgorenc9160 · owner · Mar 2025

I’m a huge fan of the LS50 Metas. When they have a proper amp and positioning they will image like crazy. For the current Meta owners reading this, do yourself a favor (just once) and pull them four or five feet out from the front wall. It will blow your mind. Thanks again for the great review!

L LATE KNIGHT TALKS LATE KNIGHT TALKS · 6.7K subscribers · Apr 2026

The LS50, I feel like is here to stay, and I'm not getting rid of it anytime soon. I can You know, we we can talk about numbers all day. What this thing can do, what it can't do. It does more than what it can't

J Jay's iyagi MadMaxx_V8 · owner · Feb 2021

About the only difference I notice between the three sets is the Metas are less bright on the high end after 50-ish hours. That's a good thing! I'm sticking with these for a few years. Make sure you drive them with a powerful amp (I use an Avantone Pro CLA-200) and you'll like what you hear.

I Infinite Baffle Infinite Baffle · 5.9K subscribers · Jun 2024

The LS50 Metas are currently on the market for around the £1,200 mark, and they're a very, very tough speaker to beat at that, especially in the realm of bookshelves

H Headphonesty Article

OP found that the LS50 Meta with a well-integrated sub delivers standout value, which approaches the coherence and imaging of the Reference 1 at normal to moderately high listening levels. This combo shines in small to midsize rooms but demands careful sub setup.

A AVStore AVStore · 3.8K subscribers · Apr 2023

KEF LS50 Meta Review: The Perfect Bookshelf Speaker!

Y Yuri Brus leecourtney1225 · owner · Jan 2021

You are correct that even though not cheap they are great value and you would be looking at least double for separates that can touch this system. Also don't overlook their little brothers, the LSX as again they are cracking little speakers for the smaller room.

However, if you're looking for plug-and-play convenience, wireless features, or booming bass without a sub, the LS50 Meta might not be for you. That said, for those who appreciate purest design and uncompromised audio, these are arguably the best passive bookshelf speakers under $2,000. KEF has nailed it again, and the Meta upgrade is more than just marketing. It's real and it sounds fantastic

A Analogholic mrp5169 · owner · Oct 2021

Nice review, I love watching reviews that recommend music of artists I’ve never been aware of. During lockdown last year I spent my holiday money on: a pair of LS50 Meta’s, Cyrus one cast integrated amp and a SVS SB1000 sub…loving every minute of my purchases.

G Garso Namai Garso Namai · 700 subscribers · Jun 2021

If you are looking for compact, but very live and agile bookshelf speakers, LS50 Meta should be on your list!

A Andrew Robinson RayPaganJr · owner · Dec 2020

My Metas arrived a day early. Yay. UPS delivered and five minutes later I was into some deep blues. Enjoyed them my first two hours of listening. Tomorrow I plan on doing absolutely nothing but listen to a lot of music and BD concerts. Yes, I’m a happy man.

S StereoLand Bloomington, MN StereoLand Bloomington, MN · 547 subscribers · Aug 2021

The LS50 Meta represents an incredible level of quality for someone who already has a nice amplifier. The LS50 Wireless II is what really caught our eye, as a pair of wireless speakers that truly match the level of quality of a hifi 2-channel system.

A Audio Endgame Matt · reviewer · Jun 2026

I have lived with the KEF LS50 Meta long enough to be honest about them, past the honeymoon and the review-week enthusiasm. Here is what that time taught me: what they do brilliantly, the one thing they demand in return, and whether I would buy them again.

I iTech Group itechgroups.co.uk · reviewer · Apr 2026

The LS50 Meta uses a revolutionary Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT). It eliminates 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. In a smaller UK lounge, this means less “muddy” reflection off your walls.

C cheapaudioman normanham6142 · owner · Dec 2020

They do sound bigger than they are. I had a pair isolated on top of a pair of Klipsch floor standing speakers. I would play them and guests would think they were hearing the big Klipsch. I do run them w/a sub.

G Garso Namai dontrockthejukebox · owner · Jun 2021

I have these also, very very good, owned the older ls50, are these better? Yes, but on the low end their virtually the same on bass output ability, but the midbass/midrange and vocals are certainly better.

E Erin's Audio Corner BORAAKSÜYEK · owner · Dec 2023

The detail I get at low volumes is like a transition to another universe. I think it is necessary to feed them well with pure power. It is not possible for me to give up now. Best regards to everyone.

S Son-Vidéo.com: blog Victor · reviewer

These exceptional models, true bestsellers for the British brand, are now available in beige and green finishes. A choice that underlines the elegance and refinement that KEF values so highly.

A Audio Review Blog Nari Spektral · reviewer

LS50 Meta is a masterpiece fusing monitor-like accuracy with musical emotion at a high level. If physical bass constraints are acceptable, this can be the “End Game” for many.

C crinacle Memento_HiFi · owner · Mar 2024

For the money I honestly prefer the LS50 Metas. You can also get a pretty good discount on them during the holiday season which makes them even more appealing.

Z Z Reviews patton1977 · owner · Nov 2017

I've had these speakers for years, and before I got them I used to change speakers every year but I stopped when I purchased these, they are THAT good!

That’s awesome to hear, I just pulled the trigger on the LS50 Metas! The deal seemed too good to pass on after seeing you guys’ positive comments.

K Kpaceguy JuanLega · owner · Dec 2021

Those speakers are truly amazing. Top notch. The bass it is actually way more than one expects from speakers that size. The imaging is crazy too.

T The Apartment Audiophile Charles . · reviewer

Compact, clean, and legendary. The KEF LS50 Meta gets a lot of hype. But is it still the audiophile sweet spot in 2025? Let's find out.

N New Record Day kendavis3604 · owner · Jan 2021

I have a friend that had the original LS50’s, and now has the Meta’s. He’s pretty smitten with the Meta’s. Excellent review!

J Jay's iyagi flashhog01 · owner · Feb 2021

Wow, that sounds like a great product! Glad to hear it wasn't just outlandish specs put on paper. Thanks for the review!

T Thomas & Stereo bennychen7433 · owner · Sept 2018

I use the LS50 speakers as part of Home Theatre system. On my two channel hifi system better speakers. Great review!

I Inner Magazines Vaughan Warren · reviewer

KEF LS50 starts to be an iconic loudspeaker but even its full potential is not immediately revealed.

S Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac fwalters4045 · owner · Sept 2020

Steve is correct. A phenomenal speaker. As a former LS50 owner, these are a must buy.

Z Zero Fidelity jimmyg15 · owner · Feb 2021

I got the LS50 Metas and think they are amazing the sound quality is fantastic.

A Audio Video Reviews robcox6509 · owner · Aug 2021

KEF definitely the best sound stage and clarity of any speaker I ever owned.

T The Apartment Audiophile MariusSnd · owner · Sept 2025

Cyrus + Kefs = Love , and for small room LS50 Meta and a KC62 is ideal

M Mark Kwak stevegrimm9068 · owner · Aug 2024

These are truly great speakers that deserve great sounding equipment.

Whatever the case, the LS50meta is a good speaker. I really enjoy it.

S Small Room Audio feverSoundcom · owner · Nov 2020

KEF did a very good job this time, meta do matter

N Nemo Audio Project Michael-xz1nk · owner · Jul 2021

I love my 2019 LS50's without the Meta material.

L Living Entertainment janulik9535 · owner · Jan 2021

I have a small disagreement here, I just hooked metas borrove from local distributor, to my naim XS2 which I bought second hand recently and I do love it but with metas I came to bed result. It is mostly pronaunced in female vocals which became very thin. So that is how is the sound overall, bass is very good but the rest up from there is not.

J Jay's iyagi Jay's iyagi · 130K subscribers · May 2023

KEF LS50 Meta Speakers is one of the BEST home audiophile speaker world but there is another speaker that I found as an upgrade with similar advantages.

Z Zero Fidelity bebbop · owner · Apr 2025

I had the regular version for a few years, I combined them with several amplifiers such as Audiolab 6000A, Cambridge Audio CXA 60, Hegel H80, H160, but I got the best results in combination with the Willsenton R8 tube amplifier. In a medium-sized room, holography filling the entire room. If you listen to better speakers, e.g.

T The Apartment Audiophile The Apartment Audiophile · 6.1K subscribers · Sept 2025

These KEF LS50 Metal bookshelf speakers have been called the holy grail of small-room hi-fi — but the competition is fierce.

T Tharbamar 67spankadelik · owner · Oct 2020

A 10%improvement that's audible is pretty good. Actually a lot. A few hours of current running through them should smooth them out. Don't know if the pair you audition was broken in. I don't own either pair but if I had to buy I would go with the new model being that the price did not change.

H Hunter-Gray-LUV-Music robertwang7825 · owner · Jun 2024

I had the LS50 Metas but I replaced them with Golden Ear BRXs , paired with class A tube amp it sounds wonderful and way better tbh , in every region , bass , voice , treble , tempo, imaging , transparency, more musical. I’m very glad I made the switch. Ofc the Kefs are no slouch at all.

T Tharbamar loubano · owner · Dec 2020

Since month I am hesitating by picking up evo 4.2 and recently LS50 old model (since there are actually in discount at 600e) I just ordered evo 4.2 based on this last video because I see more of my taste will be filled by Evo. Thanks a lot for your great review and help !

G Geezer Into Tech Freedom89984 · owner · Aug 2021

I find the Meta’s very good for the money. The cabinet is the best available in the small monitor range. Like concrete. The crossover is of a good quality with good quality components. The uni q design is with the 12th version unbelievable good for near field listening.

C cheapaudioman alanvanderhaegen4936 · owner · Mar 2024

Had the LS50 Metas, loved them, sold them and now I bought them again because I frankly can not find better at the price or even higher. Tried ATC SCM 11, Dynaudio Evoke 20, Acoustic Energy AE 500, Wharfedale EVO 4.2 etc. The Kefs work the best in my room.

T Tharbamar turntableman100 · owner · Nov 2020

I have to take my hat off for Kef ls50 meta its way far approved from the Q series. My favourite is B&W 705 s2 am a big fan boy of B&W speakers is alot cleaner and more refined and details of the speakers. But Kef ls50 meta is fun sounding speakers.

S SoundStage! Network BeatStrandh · owner · Jun 2021

Really good video. I have owned this speaker and it will always have a special place in my heart but to me it was to just a little bit too bright and harsh. It might have been my room but I upgraded to R500 and it sounded smoother in the same room.

G GR-Research randolfwerner2117 · owner · Mar 2022

I recently shortly listened to the LS50 Meta and was not 100% satisfied, especially cabinet vibrations where a little bit disappointing to me, maybe it is because the front baffle seems not be screwed instead of glued to the cabinet.

A Audio Arkitekts anthonywunderlich3681 · owner · Jan 2021

I have owned the LS50 Meta's for about 6 weeks now, and would like to say that these speakers have the ability to create a beautiful musical experience, and also a terrible sounding musical experience and everything in between.

M Maverick Hifi Article

Horses for courses, basically. Nothing divides opinion like loudspeakers, because one person's 'overly bright' is another person's 'dull and lifeless'.

N New Record Day littleAZN248 · owner · Jan 2021

With this information and review in mind, I chose the older LS50.

T Tech Journey whitecrowuk575 · owner · Jan 2021

I love the look of r7s but meta just sounds better.