Monitor Audio Platinum or KEF Reference

[admin_exported]

Hi,

I am considering getting a 5.1 system. I have been interested in the Platinums for a while but I have recently researched the KEF Reference and now I am interested in these too. I haven't listened to either yet but I would like some advice. I am looking at the pl300 AV for platinums. If I bought the KEFs I would buy the 207/2's for the fronts with 205/2 and 206/2ds as back and surrounds.

Thanks.

 

[Anonymous]

Hi MA , I can't comment on the KEF speakers as I have never heard them ,but I have heard the Monitor Audio PL 300 in action in both stereo mode with music and in a 5.1 set up ,the Platnums sounded totaly awesome In both ,Crystal clear sound and very scary lound if u want them to be >) ,the finish on them are also totaly amazing to as you probably know . The only bad point that I can think of is the PL300 s need a very big room to work and sound there best also placement is critical ,u can not put them to close to any side or back walls ,hence I went for the PL200 instead with the matching PLC 150 center ,and the PLW 15 sub. Going to treat my self for matching rears for Christmas ,but not sure if I should go for the PL 100s or another set of PL 200s rears Only think I am going to upgrade is the PLC 150 for the monster PLC 350. Hope this can be of some help to you MA and if you are in the south Wales area and fancy a listen just let me know From bamz

 

[CnoEvil]

Hi MA Since I have Kef Refs, I'm delighted to offer any help.

I have 205/2 (front); 204/2c (centre); 206ds (surround) so my advice will be just a little biased.

Regarding the Kefs:

You haven't mentioned an amp, but they sound magic with Arcam AVR 600 (or even better with the pre/power).

If your ceiling is high enough, the 206ds (older model) are available on ebay new at £849 from ssavswindon.....quite a saving and they do the job as surrounds every bit as well.

I've heard the 207/2 which are quite a speaker, but a big room is needed so they don't overpower it.

IMO The 205/2 give 85% of the sound for 60% of the cost. With boundry compension all Ref models can go nearer the walls, and the tweeter arrangement allows for a much bigger sweetspot.

IMO the 205/2 would be overkill for surrounds and the 201/2 would be sufficient.

With the amount of money at stake, a long demo is needed. I have only heard the Platinums briefly, but much prefer the Kefs. David from Frank Harvey is a better person to give a more in depth comparison.

All I can say is that the Kefs make a great choice if music and movies are on the cards. If I can be of further use, just shout.

Cno

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks. Great replies. Whatever system I eventually get I will be using them for 90% films if not higher. I have Yamaha DSP Z11 at home so I plan on using that for the time being.

Again thanks for the replies. Much appreciated.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks. Very considerate. Unfortunately I live in London. But the offer is much appreciated all the same. Yes, I agree they are stunning. My room size is 12m long and 8m wide.

Many thanks.

 

[CnoEvil]

Since most of your use is for movies, I think that you should get the best centre speaker (either range) as 65-70% of the info comes out of here. As 2 channel is far less important to you, the next model down will be fine in either make, and the money saved can go towards an outstanding sub (eg. Kef Ref 209), which will have a dramatic effect.

 

[MUSICRAFT]

Hi,

I am considering getting a 5.1 system. I have been interested in the Platinums for a while but I have recently researched the KEF Reference and now I am interested in these too. I haven't listened to either yet but I would like some advice. I am looking at the pl300 AV for platinums. If I bought the KEFs I would buy the 207/2's for the fronts with 205/2 and 206/2ds as back and surrounds.

Thanks.

Hi MA

What source component/s and speakers are you currently/will be using?

Will you also be looking at the respective matching subs from KEF and Monitor Audio or another make? Any plans to use two subs?

What kind of presentation are you looking for the system to reproduce with movie or music soundtracks?

All the best

Rick @ Musicraft

 

[CnoEvil]

I've just spotted that you have not listed a centre, but 4 rear speakers. If you want 5.1, thats 3 front, 2 rear and a sub. Whether the rears are regular or wall mounted dipole comes down to logistics, and personal preference regarding the presentation. 3 front with 4 rear is 7.1

 

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I definitely going to use the best centre in either range. I am considering 7.2 at the moment due to the space I have behind the main seating area. But I might stick to 5.1 at the moment as this is my current setup and try 7.2 later on. This is not because of budget restraints but because I don't want to buy anything I don't need. I've never tried back speakers before so I don't know if the effect would be worth it? I know it's all subjective. Saying that my living room could definitely do with two subs. Those 209's seem like monsters in size and output In your opinion do you think they are worth the outlay compared to other brands of subs at this price point?

I was going to use:

Fronts - 207/2's (definitely considering what you said about 205/2's)

Centre - 204/c

Sides - 206/2ds (I like the idea of dedicated surrounds)

(Possibly 206/2ds or KEF reference floorstanders for backs in 7.1)

Sub - 209s

My current system is Monitor Audio GS 5.1.

Thanks.

 

[CnoEvil]

Please keep us updated as it'll be interesting to follow your progress.

With the budget that you have behind you, a good knowledgeable dealer is a must. You need proper guidence as to where you will get the biggest benefit from your money (a mistake at this level is very costly) eg. A Sim projector and decent size projector screen to go with the incredible sound that you are heading towards. You can even get an anamorphic lens for full cinematic widescreen.

 

[Anonymous]

Hi CnoEvil,

Thanks for your replies. They have been very helpful. I have taken onboard what you have said. Can I ask for you to give me a quick run-down of your impressions of the KEFs and why you preferred them over the Platinums. How are the KEFs in full movie mode for example I would be interested about your impressions of them in terms of music as well.

Thanks.

 

[Clare Newsome]

It's great to gauge opinions, but nothing will beat listening to both set-ups in your own house with your own system. If you're planning to make this level of investment in your speakers you must ask (and at this money expect) a full home trial.

 

[CnoEvil]

Hi,

I definitely going to use the best centre in either range. I am considering 7.2 at the moment due to the space I have behind the main seating area. But I might stick to 5.1 at the moment as this is my current setup and try 7.2 later on. This is not because of budget restraints but because I don't want to buy anything I don't need. I've never tried back speakers before so I don't know if the effect would be worth it? I know it's all subjective. Saying that my living room could definitely do with two subs. Those 209's seem like monsters in size and output In your opinion do you think they are worth the outlay compared to other brands of subs at this price point?

I was going to use:

Fronts - 207/2's (definitely considering what you said about 205/2's)

Centre - 204/c

Sides - 206/2ds (I like the idea of dedicated surrounds)

(Possibly 206/2ds or KEF reference floorstanders for backs in 7.1)

Sub - 209s

My current system is Monitor Audio GS 5.1.

Thanks.

Here is my advice for what its worth.

With a very highend sub, the 207/2 would be expensive overkill for AV. Even if 2 channel was a priority it would be doubtful value, though more justified.

206/2ds - Going this route gives a more diffused, less pin point surround effect. As I said before, seriously look at the ones on ebay (I bought some) for a huge saving over current range (provided it's the right colour). They are as long as a big centre speaker, and actually go lower than the current range.

The value you place on a sub is very subjective. I bought this sub as it was being sold at a ridiculously low price.....you should only need one! IMO it is the best sub this side of a Velodyne 1812. I would rather see money spent on a really good sub than on 207/2s or 7.2. If you want to spend less look at something like Velodyne DD-18. Saying that I wouldn't part with mine......effortless controlled/undistorted bass right down to 12 Hz (-6db) and an elaborate EQ system for room integration and pandering to personal taste.

If you insist on floorstanders for the rears, you don't really need better than 203/2, as the standmount 201/2 would be sufficient.

Please take my comments as a guide and check this out for yourself. Its just that I feel that the extra could be spent more effectivey in other areas (eg. Processor + power amps)

Cno

 

[CnoEvil]

It's great to gauge opinions, but nothing will beat listening to both set-ups in your own house with your own system. If you're planning to make this level of investment in your speakers you must ask (and at this money expect) a full home trial.

I'm in total agreement with this. You need to go into a demo totaly unbiased. It should be clear to you which plays more to your taste. IMO Both of these makes are as good as it gets for the price. Bring a variety of films and listen long enough to make sure that what starts out as exciting, doesn't become fatigueing. Also bring some music to guage accuracy of presentation (piano, violin, human voice).

Bear in mind that room acoustics and the quality of the amplification have a huge bearing on how well the speakers can sound. The Kefs can be tri-amped (not sure about the MA) which also gives an area for improvement.

Cno

 

[Anonymous]

Thank you everyone for your replies.

 

[Frank Harvey]

Hi,

I am considering getting a 5.1 system. I have been interested in the Platinums for a while but I have recently researched the KEF Reference and now I am interested in these too. I haven't listened to either yet but I would like some advice. I am looking at the pl300 AV for platinums. If I bought the KEFs I would buy the 207/2's for the fronts with 205/2 and 206/2ds as back and surrounds.

Thanks.

Hi MA

As mentioned, which you go for comes down to your own personal preference. You're already used to MA, so makes for an easy transition. My preference is well known, but I'll keep that out of it as much as I can. Well, I'll try

Anybody who heard the 7.2 KEF Reference system at Bristol a few years ago (based on 207/2's), will attest to it's quality, which for me, was one of the best AV systems I've ever heard there. The soundfield the package produced was immense, as was the effortlessness way in which it delivered the excellent soundtrack of Ratatouille. I think long term, this is the sort of package I'll be aiming for if I ever get a room big enough (although my front pair will be slightly different >) ). The UniQ driver of the Reference series is a very dynamic performer, giving midrange and treble impact, somehing which I've very rarely heard in a hi-fi speaker. Of course, amplification plays a large part in the end result as well.

The Platinum package is also going to be an excellent performer, but I have to say that the PL300 isn't quite going to stand up to the 207/2's capabilities. Other than price, the Platinum series does have another thing on it's side - they'll match up with your DSPZ11 better as they're an easier load than the 4ohm KEF's. The DSPZ11 will run the KEF's, but not to their optimum.

Basically, you need to sit down and work out whether large or small speakers are wanted/needed, and get yourself a listen to both of the packages so that you can gauge quality and value for money, and to see which route you want to take.

I'm not sure what your reasons are for wanting the 207's, but (and no disrespect to Cno here!) they are noticably better than the 205's. Many that have heard them and state they're not worth the extra, may not have heard the 207's with sufficient amplification, and therefore haven't heard them at their best. Also, they may not have heard them in a large enough room - I think you have to be looking at a 5m square room minimum. For me, the biggest difference between the 205 and 207 is the midrange and treble, which is more solid and three dimensional than the 205's. The 205's remain, for me, the bargain of the range though, offering the most for the money. The 203's don't seem to get a look in - many have tried them, but end up with 205's.

As far as the subs are concerned, the 209 is phenomenal. As usual, some might argue that two 208's will seem faster and more even, but the extra depth and effortlessness of the 209 can't be matched - it's a beast. having used both in our main demo room, I'd rather have the 209, which gives the option of adding another at a later date, should it ever be needed.

So to sum up - if you're sticking with your DSPZ11, or more up to date equivalent (should they ever appear!), the Platinums would be a better bet, but if you're going to add a power amp, or move to a pre/power to get the most fom whichever speaker package you go for, the KEF will take you further.

 

[MUSICRAFT]

Thank you everyone for your replies.

Hi MA

Your welcome.

You won't go wrong with the DSZ-Z11 and the superb Platinum Series as they are an excellent tonal match

There is also another route which you may also want to consider - the Professional one. The DSP-Z11 has excellent processing and a very good pre amp. Use the DSP-Z11 as a processor and pair the amp with ATC Active Professional monitors (or their domestic versions). ATC active monitors to consider are -

SCM50A SL/SCM100A SL (front)

C3A/C6A (centre)

SCM20A SL/SCM50A SL/SCM100A SL (rears)

C4/C6/SCM0.1/2 or SCM0.1/15 (sub)

I have used/heard the DSP-Z11 as a processor with ATC active multi channel systems and the performance is stunning. Have a look and listen to ATC's Professional state of the art drive units being optimally powered by their ampification and i truly feel you'll also (to put it mildly) be impressed.

All the best

Rick @ Musicraft

 

[TheHomeCinemaCentre]

You really need to hear these for yourself but by picking the 207's and the 209 there is a major price difference between these set up's. With the 209 in the system you have little competion from the MA sub presuming you wish the sub to match with the speakers.

If you are looking for the best then the 7.2 KEF Reference system is hard to beat but as David has mentioned you will need more then the Z11 to get the most out of it. I would add in consideration of the Anthem D2V processor and their P5 power amp as a good starting point. With the room size you have the end result could be superb.

My first recommendation would be to talk to a dealer then set up a demonstration or two.

 

[CnoEvil]

Hi,

Of course, amplification plays a large part in the end result as well.

The Platinum package is also going to be an excellent performer, but I have to say that the PL300 isn't quite going to stand up to the 207/2's capabilities. Other than price, the Platinum series does have another thing on it's side - they'll match up with your DSPZ11 better as they're an easier load than the 4ohm KEF's. The DSPZ11 will run the KEF's, but not to their optimum.

Basically, you need to sit down and work out whether large or small speakers are wanted/needed, and get yourself a listen to both of the packages so that you can gauge quality and value for money, and to see which route you want to take.

I'm not sure what your reasons are for wanting the 207's, but (and no disrespect to Cno here!) they are noticably better than the 205's. Many that have heard them and state they're not worth the extra, may not have heard the 207's with sufficient amplification, and therefore haven't heard them at their best. Also, they may not have heard them in a large enough room - I think you have to be looking at a 5m square room minimum. For me, the biggest difference between the 205 and 207 is the midrange and treble, which is more solid and three dimensional than the 205's. The 205's remain, for me, the bargain of the range though, offering the most for the money. The 203's don't seem to get a look in - many have tried them, but end up with 205's.

So to sum up - if you're sticking with your DSPZ11, or more up to date equivalent (should they ever appear!), the Platinums would be a better bet, but if you're going to add a power amp, or move to a pre/power to get the most fom whichever speaker package you go for, the KEF will take you further.

I was hoping you were going to respond, as you are probably the best qualified to do so.....and I'm not in the least disrespected.

I'm happy to admit that I probably haven't heard the 207 at their best but I didn't feel they were worth the extra (heavily influenced by the fact that I couldn't afford them or fit them in). In the case in question, I was concerned that if mostly used for front L&R it would be money that could be better spent in other areas (pre/power and sub).

I agree about your comment on the 203. I was one of those people who wouldn't have been happy with them having heard the 205. Though saying that, as a rear effects speaker they would be more than enough.

I also agree with your comment on the amplification (another reason for my 207 concern), which is why I also suggested that money spent here instead (especially with the Kefs), would give more benefit.

 

[Frank Harvey]

Your points are valid mate

 

[CnoEvil]

I do see what you're saying about the 207's - ideally they need Bryston 7B mono's, which will add to the cost considerably. Sticking with the 205's, and sufficient amplification will keep the cost down, and free up funds for the subwoofer or amplification. I think the OP needs to hear a system or two and work out exactly what he's looking for - I'm sure many people would be happy with 201/2's all round, but that day at Bristol will always stick in my mind - awesome system.

There's certainly two different approaches:

The footballer salary approach - want the best, no matter the cost.

The shrewd approach: spend in the areas that give the most benefit, given the emphasis on AV. If 2 channel was a priorty then the parameters change.

I've never had the luxury of pursuing the former. The latter gets most of the way there; in fact 205s tri-amped with supurb amplification, would sound better than 207s with a mediocre one.

Anyway, it's all academic until the OP gets into the demo room.

 

[CnoEvil]

You really need to hear these for yourself but by picking the 207's and the 209 there is a major price difference between these set up's. With the 209 in the system you have little competion from the MA sub presuming you wish the sub to match with the speakers.

If you are looking for the best then the 7.2 KEF Reference system is hard to beat but as David has mentioned you will need more then the Z11 to get the most out of it. I would add in consideration of the Anthem D2V processor and their P5 power amp as a good starting point. With the room size you have the end result could be superb.

My first recommendation would be to talk to a dealer then set up a demonstration or two.

The Anthem D2v processor is a truely awesome bit of kit. The best I've heard by some margin, including the Arcam AV888. The P5 is also excellent but (IMO) Bryston is better and the Arcam P777 is better VFM. All very subjective and all should be listened to. I think you will be truely stunned when you get into this level of quality.

 

[Anonymous]

Hi everyone,

I always dreamed of buying the Platinums but of course at this price point I wanted to consider all the possible alternatives. But when I first became aware of the KEFs I have been divided ever since. I know it’s all theoretical at this point because I am yet to listen to them. My initial reason for wanting the 207/2 is because if I do buy the KEFs I want to have the best the range can offer. This is a once in a life time project for me and I want my money to go in the right places. I don’t want the ‘what ifs’ to creep in at this price point. But I completely appreciate that there is a lot to consider but as you all know this is part of fun. I do like the idea of dedicated surrounds that the KEFs offer with the options that entails. I don’t know if this truly offers any key advantages over the PL100s in this respect. I hope someone can advise in this respect.

Again thank you greatly for your replies. I know the choice will completely come down to me but I appreciate others opinions and the different perspectives this offers. So if anyone has even the smallest thing to say on the matter I will be very grateful.

(I apologise if I don’t explain myself too well as sometimes my Aspergers cause me problems in this area – it’s the constant tweaking I do whenever I try and write something, amongst other things that cause me problems.)

Thanks.

 

[Frank Harvey]

Haha! I changed my reply to keep it simple!

 

[Anonymous]

Keeping it simple then. Platinum or KEF?