Avanti come on man your statements are just over the top
The REF 1 come off as metallic and un-natural. If the REF 5s are voiced similarly I can understand your hesitation.
The REF 1s were hugely over priced even at a substantial discount from original MSRP.
Strongly consider exchanging them for something more natural sounding.
The Ref Ones have won many awards for their sound quality and the LS 50 are similar sounding without the superior resolution and holographic sound of the Ref 1s, so if you like the LS 50 you should love the Ref 1.
As per being overpriced again man compared to what a $9k pair of Focal Sopras, or an $8k pair of Vivids or any of the zillion $7-10k monitors that are on the market. The build quality of the Ref 1 is off the charts.
The Ref 1 are hardly unnatural sounding they sound like what you use them with which means they are truthful and accurate. Let me guess what is natural to you could it be an overly colored loudspeaker?
Fast you need to evaluate everything you are using with the Ref 5, we have sold them with Naim gear and the sound is stunning.
The Ref 5 are amazing loudspeakers but must be used with the right gear which is the same issue you are going to have with any suitable high resolution low coloration design.
Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ Kef REF and Blade dealers
The REF 1 come off as metallic and un-natural. If the REF 5s are voiced similarly I can understand your hesitation.
The REF 1s were hugely over priced even at a substantial discount from original MSRP.
Strongly consider exchanging them for something more natural sounding.
The Ref Ones have won many awards for their sound quality and the LS 50 are similar sounding without the superior resolution and holographic sound of the Ref 1s, so if you like the LS 50 you should love the Ref 1.
As per being overpriced again man compared to what a $9k pair of Focal Sopras, or an $8k pair of Vivids or any of the zillion $7-10k monitors that are on the market. The build quality of the Ref 1 is off the charts.
The Ref 1 are hardly unnatural sounding they sound like what you use them with which means they are truthful and accurate. Let me guess what is natural to you could it be an overly colored loudspeaker?
Fast you need to evaluate everything you are using with the Ref 5, we have sold them with Naim gear and the sound is stunning.
The Ref 5 are amazing loudspeakers but must be used with the right gear which is the same issue you are going to have with any suitable high resolution low coloration design.
Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ Kef REF and Blade dealers