Features

Uni-Q Driver Array: KEF's 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT is found in the Q3 Meta bookshelf loudspeaker. Uni-Q technology places the tweeter precisely at the acoustic center of the mid/bass cone, so both act together as a single point source to disperse sound more evenly throughout the room. The result is the elimination of the limited "sweet-spot", therefore allowing everybody sitting at different spots in the room to experience and enjoy the same natural, detailed sound. With Uni-Q's single point source design all frequencies reach your ear at the same time. The sound is therefore more accurate and realistic than with conventional loudspeakers, where the output from each separate driver arrives at slightly different times, causing the sound to be smeared and less natural sounding. The Uni-Q driver array is made up of a 1" aluminum dome tweeter and a 6.5" aluminum mid/bass woofer.

• 1" Aluminum Dome Tweeter: At the center of the Uni-Q driver array is a 1" aluminum dome tweeter that utilizes a conical waveguide which couples the tweeter dome to the metamaterial absorber for ultra-wide dispersion and greater depth. The re-engineered tweeter gap damper strategically places two rings of porous material to tame the resonances and imperfections effectively, greatly improving detail and clarity. The tweeter motor system has also been redesigned to maximize the transmission of energy from the rear of the tweeter to the MAT absorber. The area of the tweeter rear chamber vent is increased by 250%, allowing more sound to reach the metamaterial absorber and therefore its effectiveness. This also significantly reduces the acoustic pressure behind the dome, allowing the tweeter to operate more linearly leading to lower distortion still.
• 6.5" Aluminum Mid/Bass Woofer: The 6.5" mid/bass woofer features an aluminum cone structure that has been engineered to reduce cone breakup and improve midrange performance. The Flexible Decoupling Chassis of the Uni-Q's woofer dramatically reduces coloration of the sound caused by midrange vibration transmission to the cabinet, while also mitigating the potential of additional sound created by the driver basket that occurs with traditional decoupling methods. It works by decoupling the massive mid/bass motor from the Uni-Q chassis, dissipating its vibration before it can travel to the cabinet and be radiated as unwanted sound. The aluminum cone woofer also employs KEF's ingenious Z-flex surround which guides the sound from the tweeter across the surround without any disturbance or secondary radiation.

Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT): The crucial advancement of KEF's Uni-Q driver array is the integration of their Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT). MAT is a highly complex "maze-like" structure that absorbs unwanted noise from the rear of the driver, eliminating the resulting distortion and providing a purer, more natural sound. Metamaterials are specially developed structures that use existing materials in such a way that they exhibit new properties. MAT’s tuned channels absorb 99% of the unwanted sound from the rear of driver, compared to around 60% absorption from loudspeakers using different approach.

Refined Crossover: To achieve a smooth and natural sound between drivers, KEF engineers take more than 1,000 specific measurements for each speaker model using a custom-built reference microphone array in their anechoic chamber in Maidstone, UK. These extensive on and off-axis measurements allow KEF's team to thoroughly understand each model's acoustic interactions, enabling precise crossover design through advanced simulation and prototyping. This meticulous process guarantees precise signal path optimization and the best possible audio performance.

Bass Reflex Cabinet: The KEF Q3 Meta bookshelf speaker employs a bass reflex cabinet with a rear-firing port for bigger bass response and greater efficiency. The flared port, modeled with computational fluid dynamics, minimizes turbulence and reduces "chuffing" noise. This enables the ported speaker to produce bass that is cleaner and more controlled. The speaker cabinet feature a contemporary minimalist design that is available in Satin Black, Satin White, or Walnut finish - designed to blend effortlessly into practically any room's decor.

• Shadow Flare: Shadow Flare reduces unwanted cabinet diffraction , allowing the speaker's 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, minimizing the acoustic impact to negligible levels. The exceptional clarity and reproduction of fine details make for an improved listening experience.
• Magnetic Grilles: Color-matched grilles are included with the Q3 Meta bookshelf speaker. The magnetic fixing provides a secure and precise fit, in keeping with the clean and seamless styling of the Q Series.

Binding Post Terminals: On  the rear of the speaker cabinet is a pair of gold-plated binding post terminals that will accept bare wire (up to 10AWG), pin-connectors, spade-lugs, and banana plugs (single only). Plastic inserts must be removed from the binding posts to use banana plugs. The gold-plated binding post terminals provide excellent audio signal transmission and resistance to corrosion.

Mounting & Placement Options: The bookshelf speaker can simply be placed on a stand, table-top, shelf, or other flat-surface. The included self-adhesive rubber feet protect your furniture and add approximately 0.1875" to the overall height of the speaker. A pair of speakers should be positioned 5' to 10' apart and placed between 18" to 24" off the floor. They should be positioned at least 9" from the back wall due to their rear-firing port and 20" from side walls. The speakers should form an equilateral triangle with the main listening position and can be angled inward ("toed-in") toward the main listening area to improve stereo imaging and soundstage.

Q Meta Series: The Q Meta Series is quipped with innovative technology from KEF, including  their Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and KEF's 12th generation Uni-Q driver array to ensure exceptional sound quality - making it an ideal choice for both stereo and home theatre setups. The Q Meta Series' comprehensive line-up caters to almost any room size or application with models including two floorstanding speakers (Q7 Meta / Q11 Meta), three bookshelf speakers (Q1 Meta / Q3 Meta / Q Concerto Meta), a center-channel speaker (Q6 Meta), a Dolby Atmos surround speaker (Q8 Meta), and an on-wall speaker (Q4 Meta). With the versatility to seamlessly mix and match, the Q Series can adapt to evolving audio needs. Color-matched grilles are included with the speakers. With the versatility to seamlessly mix and match, the Q Meta Series can adapt to your evolving audio needs.

Optional Powered Subwoofer: A KEF Kube series powered subwoofer (sold separately) is the perfect addition to the Q Meta Series loudspeakers for bigger, more impactful bass.