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Kef X300A

active speaker USB DAC 24/96 KEF

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#1 petetherock

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Posted 11 May 2013 - 06:02 PM

Just added this to replace a Denon MCD 38 to play music from my iMac..

Posted Image

Superb sound, more in a detailed review later on...


The specs:

http://www.kef.com/h...X300A/overview/

KEF X300A

Introducing the KEF X300A digital hi-fi speaker system, an active design conceived to partner a PC or Mac, desktop or laptop computer. Simply connect the speakers via a ‘distortion free’ USB all-digital link to provide high resolution 96kHz/24 bit quality digital input and inter-speaker connection to ensure high definition sound from source to output.  Each speaker features twin class AB audiophile grade amplifiers inside, one for HF and one for LF/MF. Featuring high performance toroidal transformers and high quality DACs, with the X300A you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy audiophile sound quality. System type Two-way bass reflex Drive units Uni-Q driver array:
HF: 25mm (1in.) vented aluminium dome
LF/MF: 130mm (5.25in.) magnesium/
aluminium alloy Frequency response
(+/- 3dB) 58Hz - 28kHz Frequency range
(- 6dB) 49Hz - 45kHz Max peak SPL 104dB Amplifier type Twin Class AB Amplifier power LF: 50W
HF: 20W AC power input US/JP versions: 100-120 VAC, 50/60 Hz
EU/UK/China versions: 220-240 VAC, 50Hz Analogue input AUX: 3.5mm stereo jack Digital input
Resolution
Sampling rate USB 2.0: mini USB type B connector
Up to 24-bit
Up to 96kHz, depending on source resolution Controls Balance control
System volume control Internal volume 4.7 l Finish Gunmetal Dimensions
(H x W x D) Without heatsink:
280 x 180 x 215mm (11.0 x 7.1 x 8.5 in.)
With heatsink:
280 x 180 x 243mm (11.0 x 7.1 x 9.6 in.) Weight 7.5kg (16.5lbs) per speaker It is recommended that the X300A be used with Windows 7 and Mac OS 10.6 & above operating systems.

Edited by petetherock, 11 May 2013 - 06:03 PM.


#2 petetherock

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Posted 11 May 2013 - 06:04 PM

Links to some reviews:
http://www.expertrev...98731/kef-x300a

http://www.pcpro.co....80788/kef-x300a

http://www.tonepubli...wered-speakers/

#3 petetherock

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Posted 11 May 2013 - 06:07 PM

What I like:
  • auto shut-off
  • built in USB DAC
  • volume control with Mac keyboard
  • clear but not harsh or bright
  • decent bass
  • separate amps for tweeter and bass drivers

Not so good bits:
  • bass not that deep, and no option for a subwoofer
  • no headphone output
  • sound much better from USB DAC than 3.5mm input
  • gets a bit warm as the amps are Class AB
  • supplied USB cables are short


#4 petetherock

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Posted 14 May 2013 - 12:52 AM

My review of the KEF X300A:

http://peteswrite.bl...00a-review.html

#5 GaryCook

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Posted 15 May 2013 - 02:52 PM

What's the cable configuration Pete?  One power lead and one USB cable with an interconnect between the two speakers?

Cheers
Gary

#6 petetherock

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Posted 15 May 2013 - 04:14 PM

One USB from PC to speaker 1, USB 2 to speaker 2.

#7 GaryCook

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Posted 16 May 2013 - 02:05 PM

View Postpetetherock, on 15 May 2013 - 04:14 PM, said:

One USB from PC to speaker 1, USB 2 to speaker 2.
Power cable?

Cheers
Gary