KEF Q4 speaker system test

Model Q4 is one of the latest additions in the famous “Q” line.

TEST RESULTS

CONSTRUCTION FEATURES: The speaker system is in a slim, miniature Slim design with an uncommonly slender front panel measuring just 18 cm wide. Naturally it would be difficult to squeeze the old Uni-Q coaxial driver used for example in the classic Q5 into such a cabinet. That’s why a new coaxial module was developed, with a diameter of only 130 mm. At the same time the family traits of the Q-series speakers are preserved in their original form: the same smooth cabinet shape with the convex plastic cap on the top, the same reflex port combined with the Uni-Q driver into one system. In general, the new KEF headphones haven’t lost their recognisable style.

Q4 in-ceiling speakers with 3-way speaker configuration. Here the miniaturized Uni-Q module with a 19 mm tweeter is supplemented by a full-fledged 130 mm woofer. Seemingly light and fragile body is not really so, inside it is fastened by two solid bulkheads, so the bass works in a closed compartment. For stability, the models are equipped with plastic back supports that compensate for the extremely small width of the back panel. Speakers can be mounted on spikes. Like the other models of the Q-series, the “fours” support Bi-Wiring/Bi-Amping dual-cable connection. The crossovers use second and third order filters, built with high quality elements, such as electrolytic capacitors and inductors with an air core. All Q4 speakers are magnetically shielded, which is especially useful in DT sets, as the speakers can be placed in close proximity to the TV set. The set includes plugs for the reflex ports. The cabinets are veneered in black ash, maple, dark apple or painted silver.

AUDIO QUALITY: Q4s are stable in full-range performance. Due to the peculiarities of the speaker design the sound is somewhat

light in the sense of lack of dynamic bass. But without claiming the depth of the lower register of sound, Q4 very confidently hold the general line of the upper bass. In the tradition of Q-series acoustics, the midrange is characterized by rare accuracy and is devoid of unwanted accents. Sound details, as if by inheritance, pass from middle to upper frequencies, where all events occur in orderly and noble way, without any harshness. KEF loudspeakers know how to build volumetric and transparent scene with good localization of images. Deserves special praise for its azimuthal stage reproduction – all the benefits of Uni-Q technology in action.

Tonal balance of sound Q4 remains even up to a high volume, and only there may appear slight hum of the middle bass. The Q4s aren’t designed to be very loud, though. Speakers are best in small, comfortable rooms. They are not inherently over-aggressive and the speakers smooth out macro-dynamic sound contrasts. That’s why the Q4s excel in chamber music forms, jazz, acoustic ballads – in general, those genres that do not require a special sound energy.

PRICE: $699.

SUMMARY

VALUES: smooth sound, full and wide scene, accurate localization of images.

Disadvantages: softened sound dynamics, lack of deep bass.

CONCLUSIONS: Q4 is the optimal speakers for quiet, thoughtful listening to music. Suitable for small sound environments, their compact size gives the user almost complete freedom of placement. Q4 should be considered by fans of jazz and other acoustic music.