KEF Q700 Speakers

Description

The KEF Q700 is a three-driver, 2½-way floorstanding loudspeaker that occupied the sweet spot in KEF’s acclaimed Q Series lineup. Introduced in 2010, the Q700 combined many of the technologies developed for the company’s premium Reference and R Series speakers into a more affordable package, making it one of the most popular models in the range. Its blend of refined engineering, contemporary styling, and outstanding sonic performance earned praise from reviewers and consumers alike, establishing it as a benchmark in the mid-priced floorstanding speaker category.

At the heart of the Q700 is KEF’s signature Uni-Q driver array, which places a 1-inch vented aluminum dome tweeter concentrically within a 6.5-inch aluminum midrange driver. This coincident design allows both drivers to behave as a single acoustic source, resulting in exceptionally coherent imaging, a wide listening sweet spot, and excellent off-axis performance. The Uni-Q array is complemented by a dedicated 6.5-inch bass driver and two matching 6.5-inch auxiliary bass radiators (ABRs), providing deeper and more controlled low-frequency extension than would normally be expected from a cabinet of this size.

The Q700’s sound character strikes an excellent balance between accuracy and musical enjoyment. Its midrange is open and highly detailed, allowing vocals and acoustic instruments to emerge with remarkable clarity. High frequencies are crisp and extended without becoming overly aggressive, while the bass is tight, articulate, and capable of surprising depth. The speaker excels at producing a broad, three-dimensional soundstage with precise instrument placement, making it equally at home with two-channel music systems and multichannel home theater installations.

Another strength is its versatility. With a sensitivity of 89 dB and recommended amplifier power ranging from 15 to 150 watts, the Q700 is compatible with a wide variety of integrated amplifiers and A/V receivers. Although its nominal impedance is rated at 8 ohms, it benefits from amplification with good current capability, rewarding listeners with greater bass authority and improved dynamics.

The cabinet itself reflects KEF’s understated industrial design. Finished in attractive wood-effect veneers or black, the slim enclosure occupies relatively little floor space while minimizing diffraction. A sturdy plinth improves stability, and the removable magnetic grilles allow owners to choose between a discreet appearance or showcasing the distinctive Uni-Q driver.

Professional reviews were consistently enthusiastic. Hi-Fi Test praised the speaker’s “excellent workmanship” and balanced engineering, while Germany’s AUDIO magazine awarded the Q700 an “Outstanding” value rating, commending its ability to reproduce a convincing studio atmosphere with “body, drive and fullness.” Likewise, Stereoplay described the Q700 as “the golden middle of the series,” noting its refined sound and broad appeal.

More than a decade after its introduction, the KEF Q700 continues to enjoy an excellent reputation on the used market. Its combination of advanced Uni-Q technology, engaging musicality, outstanding imaging, and solid construction enables it to compete favorably with many newer loudspeakers. Whether reproducing intimate jazz recordings, large orchestral works, rock concerts, or blockbuster movie soundtracks, the Q700 remains a compelling example of KEF’s commitment to innovative loudspeaker engineering.

Review Quotes

• “The golden middle of the series.” — Stereoplay
• “Outstanding” (Value for Money rating). — AUDIO
• Praised for reproducing a studio atmosphere with “body, drive and fullness.” — AUDIO
• “Class leading sound.” — AVForums (Q700 AV package review)

Specifications

• Type: 2½-way bass reflex floorstanding loudspeaker
• Tweeter: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminum dome (Uni-Q)
• Midrange: 165 mm (6.5 in.) aluminum Uni-Q cone
• Bass Driver: 165 mm (6.5 in.) aluminum woofer
• Auxiliary Bass Radiators: Dual 165 mm (6.5 in.) aluminum ABRs
• Frequency Response: 36 Hz – 40 kHz (±3 dB)
• Crossover Frequency: 2.5 kHz
• Sensitivity: 89 dB (2.83V/1m)
• Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
• Maximum Output: 112 dB SPL
• Recommended Amplifier Power: 15–150 watts
• Dimensions (H × W × D): 920 × 210 × 302 mm (36.2 × 8.3 × 11.9 in.)
• Dimensions with Plinth: 967 × 325 × 312 mm (38.1 × 12.8 × 12.3 in.)
• Weight: 17.2 kg (37.9 lb.) each