About The KEF Q8 Meta Dolby Atmos Speakers
Q8 Meta is KEF's take on cost effective Dolby Atmos speakers for use in situations where you are unwilling or unable to put downward facing speakers in the ceiling.
Using the integrated wall mounts, Q8 Meta can be hung as high-fidelity surround or rear speakers. Alternatively they can be placed upon other speakers to bring Dolby Atmos sound into the room with no need for custom installation. The 5.25" 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT™ brings immersive sound to any home theatre.
Revolutionary Sound Absorption with MAT: The crucial new advancement in the Q Series is the integration of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), a revolutionary innovation that takes the performance of the latest 12th generation Uni-Q driver array to another level in terms of accuracy and clarity.
MAT is a highly complex maze-like structure, in which each of the intricate channels efficiently absorbs a specific frequency. When combined, the channels act as an acoustic black hole, absorbing 99% of the unwanted sound that comes from the rear of the tweeter. This eliminates the resulting distortion for a purer, more natural acoustic performance.
Refined Crossover from 1000 Measurements: A critical component of the Q Series is the refined crossover, which ensures seamless integration of all speaker parts. To achieve this, KEF's engineers take more than 1,000 specific measurements for each speaker model using a custom-built reference microphone array in KEF's anechoic chamber in Maidstone, UK. These extensive on and off-axis measurements allow the team to thoroughly understand each model's acoustic interactions, enabling precise crossover design through advanced simulation and prototyping.
This meticulous process draws from the development of the LS50 Meta and has been further enhanced through the creation of the latest Blade, The Reference and R Series, allowing each speaker model precise signal path optimisation and the best possible performance.
Shadow Flare for Improved Clarity: Derived from the flagship models, Shadow Flare is a further upgrade for the evolved Q Series. It reduces unwanted cabinet diffraction, allowing the 12th generation Uni-Q with MAT to work at its highest potential. Shadow Flare is a precision-designed surface that extends the waveguide effect of the Uni-Q driver array. This means the tweeter no longer has a line of sight to the cabinet edges, creating a 'shadow region' where the potential for diffraction is highest, minimising the acoustic impact to negligible levels. The improved clarity and reproduction of fine details make listening a thrilling experience. Subtle nuances, such as the delicate brushwork on cymbals or the intricate overtones of a piano, are clearer on the Q Series.
Detail by Design: The Q Series speakers feature a contemporary minimalist design with a satin finish that offers a premium, subtle glow. Available in Satin Black, Satin White, and Walnut finishes with carefully selected colour driver units, they are designed to blend effortlessly into any interior.
Dedicated grilles are included with the speakers, providing the option to protect the drivers if needed. These colour-matched grilles maintain the cohesive aesthetic, while the magnetic fixing provides a secure and precise fit, in keeping with the clean and seamless styling of the Q Series.
Home Theatre Made Versatile: Mix and match with other Q Series speakers and KEF subwoofers for a versatile home theatre experience that transports you to the heart of the action.
Perfected For Your Enjoyment: The Q Series comprises eight distinct models. The range extends from compact bookshelf speakers to powerful floorstanders, as well as a slender on-wall speaker and high-performance home cinema models. Whether installed in a spacious living room or a cosy corner, the diversity of form factors and capabilities within the Q Series allows you to curate your desired system set up to suit your space and listening preferences, from music to movies and gaming.
Our Take
The KEF Q8 Meta Dolby Atmos speakers offer a cost-effective solution for those seeking immersive sound without the need for ceiling-mounted speakers. Designed with versatility in mind, they can be mounted on walls or placed on top of other speakers, bringing high-fidelity audio into any space. The 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, enhanced by Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), ensures accurate and distortion-free sound, absorbing 99% of unwanted noise. The refined crossover, developed through over 1,000 acoustic measurements, ensures seamless integration, while the Shadow Flare design further improves clarity by minimising cabinet diffraction. Perfect for home theatre setups, the Q8 Meta delivers exceptional performance in a sleek, minimalist design.
Main Features & Specifications
- Design: Two-Way Infinite Baffle (Closed Box) Dolby Atmos/Surround Speakers – Sold as a Pair
- Wall Mountable with Integrated Keyhole Wall Mounts
- Drive Units
- Uni-Q Driver Array
- High Frequencies: 25 mm (1") Vented Aluminium Dome with MAT
- Midrange & Low Frequencies: 133 mm (5.25") Aluminium Cone
- Frequency Range (-6dB): 96 Hz - 20 kHz
- Typical In-Room Bass Response (-6dB): 90 Hz
- Frequency Response (±3dB): 105 Hz - 20 kHz
- Crossover Frequency: 2.7 kHz
- Amplifier Requirements: 10 - 150 W
- Sensitivity (2.83V/1m): 86 dB
- Harmonic Distortion (90dB, 1m)
- <2% 145 Hz and above
- <1% 170 Hz - 20 kHz
- Maximum Output: 109 dB
- Impedance: 4 Ω (min. 3.2 Ω)
- Included Accessories: Magnetic Grilles, Rubber Feet, Wall Mounting Template, User Manual & Warranty Information
- Available Finishes: Satin Black, Satin White, Walnut
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 180 x 176 x 259 mm (with terminals)
- Weight: 4.5 kg each
- Manufacturer's Warranty: 5 Years + 1 Extended Year when Registered at KEF.com
Note: Features & Specifications Subject To Change Without Notice. E&OE.