Tannoy Kensington GR Speakers

Description

Tannoy Kensington GR Speakers: A Benchmark of British Sound Engineering

The Tannoy Kensington GR speakers epitomize the pinnacle of British loudspeaker design, blending more than 90 years of audio engineering expertise with modern advancements in technology and craftsmanship. Known for their wide-range, dynamic, and richly detailed sound, the Kensington GR speakers offer a listening experience that appeals to audiophiles and music lovers who demand both performance and aesthetics. These speakers are part of Tannoy’s prestigious “Gold Reference” (GR) series, an evolution of the classic Tannoy sound with significant improvements in both acoustic and build design.

Design and Build Quality

The Tannoy Kensington GR speakers boast a timeless design that is as much a work of art as it is a feat of engineering. The cabinets are crafted from high-quality, resonance-controlled wood, finished in luxurious veneers that can suit a range of interior decors, while the classic “dual concentric” driver configuration is a hallmark of Tannoy’s engineering. This driver layout uses a coaxial setup, where the tweeter is positioned in the center of the bass driver, resulting in superior coherence, phase alignment, and time accuracy.

The Kensington GR is a large floor-standing speaker, designed to fill larger listening rooms with ease. The speakers feature Tannoy’s patented GR (Gold Reference) drivers, which incorporate advanced materials for the diaphragm and surround, ensuring maximum rigidity and low coloration. The speakers also utilize a unique crossover network designed to maintain an ultra-wide bandwidth, preserving the integrity of every musical note.

The GR’s build quality and attention to detail are evident in the carefully crafted enclosure and internal bracing. The design minimizes unwanted vibrations, ensuring that every sound is delivered cleanly and precisely. This attention to engineering results in a speaker that sounds as good as it looks, with an elegant and refined finish.

Sound Quality

The Tannoy Kensington GR speakers are widely regarded for their breathtaking sound performance. Thanks to the dual-concentric driver technology, the speakers deliver exceptional coherence, with both the bass and treble frequencies merging into a seamless whole. The bass is deep and taut, with an impressive level of control and impact. Whether playing orchestral music with low-frequency content or punchy rock basslines, the Kensington GR ensures that the low end is tight and full-bodied, without becoming bloated or overwhelming.

The midrange is where the Tannoy Kensington GR truly excels. The dual-concentric driver offers a natural, transparent midrange that allows vocals and instruments to sound lifelike and realistic. Instruments have a tangible presence, and the tonality is wonderfully smooth, allowing for the full expression of an artist’s intent. The high frequencies, handled by the tweeter at the center of the driver, are airy and refined, with superb extension that never sounds harsh or piercing.

Reviewers consistently praise the speakers for their wide soundstage, presenting an expansive, three-dimensional listening experience. The Kensington GR excels in creating a sense of space and depth, making it feel like the performers are right in front of you. The speakers’ imaging is precise, and their ability to maintain clarity and detail even at lower volumes is remarkable.

Quotes from Reviews:

• “The Tannoy Kensington GRs are as refined as they are dynamic. Their coherence is extraordinary, with the bass, midrange, and treble blending seamlessly, creating an immersive listening experience that is both detailed and emotionally engaging.” — The Absolute Sound

• “From the moment the music starts, the Kensington GR speakers reveal their extraordinary soundstage. The depth, width, and air around the instruments are stunning. These are speakers that make you want to keep listening for hours.” — Hi-Fi News

• “Tannoy’s dual-concentric driver technology really shines with the Kensington GR. The midrange is so clear and natural that it brings new life to every recording. Coupled with deep bass and smooth highs, the sound is nothing short of remarkable.” — Stereophile

Features and Specifications

The Tannoy Kensington GR speakers come equipped with advanced technologies that make them a must-have for audiophiles looking for a speaker that delivers across all aspects of performance:

• Driver Type: 10” (250mm) dual-concentric driver with a high-frequency compression driver at the center of the bass driver

• Frequency Response: 28 Hz – 40 kHz (±3 dB)

• Sensitivity: 92 dB (2.83V @ 1m)

• Impedance: 8 ohms nominal

• Power Handling: 150 watts (recommended amplifier power)

• Crossover Frequency: 1.2 kHz (high and low-pass filters)

• Enclosure Type: Reflex-loaded (rear-firing port)

• Cabinet Finish: Real wood veneers (multiple finishes available)

• Dimensions: 44.6” H x 15.4” W x 15.0” D (1134mm H x 391mm W x 381mm D)

• Weight: 77 lbs (35 kg) each

• Finishes Available: Light Oak, Dark Walnut, or Black Ash

• Available in Pairs

With their refined design, exceptional build quality, and superb performance, the Tannoy Kensington GR speakers offer a world-class listening experience. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or a newcomer to high-end audio, these speakers will elevate your music listening to an entirely new level, delivering clarity, precision, and an emotional depth that is rare to find. If you’re looking for a speaker that blends tradition with modern innovation, the Kensington GR is undoubtedly one to consider.