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)