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Kef Kube equalizer

Audio junkies: Can anyone explain the function of the Kef Kube equalizer, and tell me whether there is a viable substitute? I just bought a used pair of Kef Reference 103/4 speakers. I need to repair the dual-woofer surrounds, so I haven't heard them yet. I have read glowing reviews,however, but most recommend using the Kef Kube 200 active equalizer to bring out the bass response (without colouration, I'm told). I have submitted an Audiogon want-ad for a Kube 200, but I'm wondering if there is a substitute in the event I can't find one. Are these things simply graphic equalizers? Also, on the diagrams I've seen, the unit appears to just have RCA jacks. If that is true, can you even use one with a mid/high-end A/V receiver? Thanks. -KlipschKing
klipschking

Showing 2 responses by dbphd

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dbphd
1,058 posts
 
I have a pair of KEF 104.2s, four 102.2s, and four 102s. I don't use my KUBEs with any of them. Instead, I use two Velodyne HGS-15s with the 104.2s and 102s (2.1 & 5.1) and an HGS-10 with the stacked 102.2s (2.1). Cross over to the sub at 80 Hz and don't worry about the roll-off frequency. Crossing over at a higher frequency relieves your amp and speakers of LF duty, leaving it to the sub. I think you'll find that your mains sound better without LF duty, more open with a greater sense of air and transparency.

db
Ag insider logo xs@2x
dbphd
1,058 posts
 
Unsound & Klipschking,

The KEF museum claims the 103/4 has useful LF to 50 Hz, so setting the crossover to a sub at 60 Hz might seem prudent, although I doubt 80 Hz is too high for most high quality subs. I've tried both with my 104/2s, and notice little if any difference, so I use 80 Hz in deference to the smaller 102s I use for center and side channels. Unless you're a pipe organ fan as I am, the 104/2s track the fretting of a jazz bass very nicely, but they won't give you that felt more than heard experience when a big pipe is invoked.

db
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