Three-way bass reflex
Crossover frequencies: 350Hz, 2.8kHz
Harmonic distortion: 2nd & 3rd harmonics (90dB, 1m)
<0.5% 40Hz – 100kHz
<0.2% 200Hz – 10kHz
Maximum output: 113.5 dB (peak sound pressure level at 1m with pink noise)
The Reference is the physical embodiment of KEF's Total System Design philosophy. Every component is optimized both within itself and as part of the whole, while every drive unit is given the chance to perform to the best of its considerable ability. The result is a loudspeaker that performs far beyond the sum of its parts.
Reference 3 has the uncanny ability to generate an intricate, emotionally compelling three-dimensional soundstage that places you right at the heart of the original performance.
Two 165mm (6.5 inch) bass drivers positioned above and below KEF's latest 125mm (5 inch) MF/HF Uni-Q driver array means that fidelity across the midrange and treble is outstanding. Everyone in the room can enjoy the same rich, spatially precise imagery and it puts them right at the heart of the original performance.
At the heart of The Reference is the Uni-Q™ point source driver array. A state-of-the-art vented aluminum dome tweeter at the exact acoustic center of a highly sophisticated midrange driver that delivers flawless natural sound across a wider listening area.
Shadow Flare drastically reduces harmful cabinet diffraction, allowing the Uni-Q to work at its highest level. A precision-designed surface extends the waveguide effect of Uni-Q for improved clarity, particularly when it comes to the subtle nuances of plucked strings and other percussive sounds.
KEF's engineers use advanced software to model the ideal crossover. But every component is auditioned by the ultimate measure: the human ear. Perfection takes time, but the results are plain to hear. Reference crossovers are even decoupled from the cabinet to minimize vibration and crosstalk.
Flexible port technology is used to reduce port resonance. Each port is adjustable to allow users to modify the sound to suit their room. The flare and profile of each port is calculated by computational fluid dynamics to avoid turbulent air noise that might color the sound.
