KEF Model 102 Reference Series

 Since the earliest days of high quality sound reproduction, there has existed, in professional and domestic fields, the need for compact speaker systems capable of very high quality sound. Many such speakers exist but, until now, these have generally invoived unacceptable restrictions either of sensitivity, bass extension or maximum loudness capability. The new KEF Model 102, with KUBE active low-level equaliser has changed all that. For Model 102 is an ultra compact speaker system that is efficient, easy to drive, and has bass extension to 40 Hz (-6 dB, Q=0.5) with a maximum spl of 107 dB. It is the ideal model for locations where space is at a premium. Physically very compact it may be, but KEF's advanced "hybrid" dividing network technique comos into its own, creating the character of a full size design, with little compromise in power handlong, sensitivity or loudness capabililty. Model 102 is the smallest of the new Reference Series loudspeakers.

Model 102 uses a newly developed 6" (160 mm) bass/midrange driver with a polypropylene cone. Even when operated with KUBE in "bass Extend" mode, this unit has more than enough power handling capability allied to the traditional KEF virtue of low coloruation, to give life-like reproduction on all types of programme.

High frequencies are handled by the refined, ferro-fluid cooled T33 high-frequency unit, also high in sensitivity and power handling, which features in most of the reference Series models, including the new top-of-the-line Model 107.

 Model 102 is supplied complete with its own dedicated version of the KEF KUBE low-level equalisation system. This provides unusually extended low-frequency reproduction without the ususl reduction in sensitivity normally associated wwith passive systems of this size. KUBE offers the user an additional, important benefit. It gives him the freedom to site the loudspeaker wherever it is most convenient using KUBE's Contour control to achieve a natural balance, compensating for room boundary reinforcement effects by adjusting the level of bass output reletive midrange and high-frequency.

 As in alll KEF's hybrid crossover designs, KUBE provides active system response shaping theraby maximising the system's sensitivity and dynamic range. The passive network, within the loudspeaker enclosure, divides the incoming signal between the two drive units; "conjugate" load matching ensures that the impedance seen by the amplifier is entirely resistive and easy to drive at all frequencies, so extending the usable power output of even the most modestly specified amplifier. All components used in the dividing network have very high power handling capability ensuring linearity even at high levels, with low distortion throughout.

 Cabinet coloration is a major problem with all loudspeakers. Advanced computer modal analysis techniques have been used to develop an enclosure which minimises unwanted panel vibrations.

The Reference Series Model 102 has unusually wide bandwidth for its size allied to good sensitivity.

Cabinet veneers are in real wood; drive units,components and finished networks are all carefully matched in pairs prior to assembly, all drive unit and system data being stored on computer. This database enables future service replacements which precisely match the original performance, to be selected if required. Model 102's ability to go loud and sound "big" must be hear to be appreciated.

Model 102 is an impressive, near universal, all-rounder; it also just happens to be usefully small.

Specifications Model 102

Frequency Response:  65 - 20,000 Hz, ±2 dB at 2 m ref axis (-6 dB at 40 Hz, Q=0.5)

Directional Characteristics:  Within 2 dB of response on axis up to 15 kHz for ± 10° vertically, up to 10 kHz ±30° horizontally.

Maximum Output:  107 dB spl on programme peeks under typical listening conditions.

Enclosure Volume:  10,5 litres

Amplifier Requirements:  Suitable for use with amplifiers capable of providing between 50 and 200 W into 4 Ω resistive load.

Nominal Impedance: 4 Ω, resistive 200 Hz - 20 kHz

Characteristic Sensitivity Level:  92 dB spl at 1m on reference axis for pink noise input of 2,83 Vrms band limited 50 Hz - 20 kHz (anechoic conditions)

Angle of Reference:  0° from horizontal

Height of Origin of Reference Axis:  200 mm (7.9") above base of cabinet (not including feet)

Dimensions (h x W x d):  330 x 208 x 263 mm (13" x 8,2" x 10,3")

Weight:  6,8 kg (15 lbs)

Specifications KUBE

Type:  Active equaliser

Controls: 

Contour : Continuously variable shelf control allows boost or attenuation below c. 200 Hz

Extension : Push button control allows -6 dB point to be set to 40 Hz or 60 Hz. Q factor = 0.5

Tape Monitor : push button controls tape input/output via rear sockets

Rear Panel Connections:  Signal Input/Output and Tape Input/Output via gold plated phono (RCA) sockets

Input Impedance:  51 k Ω

Source Impedance:  100 Ω

Signal-to-Noise Ratio:  95 dB ref 1V rms

Power Supply: Factory set nominal 110 or 220 V 50/60 Hz

Dimensions (h x w x d):  52 x 100 x 140 mm (2" x 3,9" x 5,5")

Weight:  0,5 kg (1,1 lbs)