U.K.-based high-end speaker manufacturer KEF today announced that a range of new subwoofers is joining its roster of speakers. New models include the 1,000-watt KC92 and a range of four new subs in its Kube MIE series that offer oomph in varying sizes and prices.
All of KEF’s new subwoofers feature the company’s Music Integrity Engine (MIE) digital signal processing algorithm, a proprietary tech that it says makes sure that all the components in each subwoofer work together “in perfect harmony.” MIE can be found in several of KEFs speakers and subwoofers, but in its subs, the technology powers something KEF calls the iBX (Intelligent Bass Extension), which analyzes the input signal so it can play louder and “deliver deeper bass and greater dynamics,” the company says.
The KC92 features dual 9-inch drivers that are positioned back-to-back in what KEF calls a “force-canceling configuration” that reduces cabinet vibration to improve precision and detail. It also features KEF’s patent-pending P-Flex Surround, a pleated material inspired by Japanese origami that surrounds the driver and allows it to resist the air pressure in the cabinet so it can move precisely with the sound signal.
As far as power is concerned, the KEF KC92 is a beast, delivering 1,000 watts of Class D amplification (500 watts per amplifier for each driver) and frequencies as low as 11Hz. The KC92 features both line-level and speaker-level inputs for easy connection to a wide range of amplifiers. And as we all know how finicky it can be setting up and placing a subwoofer, the KC92 has five options for room placement that include free space, next to the wall, in a corner, within a cabinet, or using its dedicated apartment mode.
The KC92 will come in White Gloss and Black Gloss finishes and retail for $2,000.
KEF’s new Kube MIE lineup, on the other hand, offers a variety of choices for consumers based on their needs, room size and budget, including the Kube 8 MIE, Kube 10 MIE, Kube 12 MIE, and Kube 15 MIE models, with each aptly named for the size of each speaker’s driver in inches. The cabinet sizes of the Kube line range from 11.5 inches by 11.5 inches by 12.2 inches for the Kube 8 to 20.4 inches by 19.7 inches by 20.3 inches for the Kube 15.
Each Kube MIE subwoofer features a 300-watt Class D power plant driving all that low-end through a front-firing long-throw driver that KEF says “produces an impression of direct force within the space, resulting in a tactile, compressed, and potent bass experience” that is dynamic enough to handle everything from movies and TV shows to gaming and music.
Again, thanks to KEF’s Music Integrity Engine, each of the Kube subwoofers can be EQ’d based on their placement , and include three option switches — up against a wall, in a corner, or inside a cabinet. Kube MIE subwoofers are only available in black.
The Kube lineup offers line-level and speaker-level connectivity, but users can also get the option to connect wirelessly with the addition of KEF’s KW1 wireless subwoofer adapter.
Kube MIE pricing is as follows: Kube 15 MIE, $1400; Kube 12 MIE, $1,000; Kube 10 MIE, $800, Kube 8 MIE, $600.
Both the KC92 and the Kube range will be made available for myKEF members to preorder on February 20, with orders opening to the public on February 27.
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