Short answer: the KEF R3. It ranks #15 of 222 bookshelf speakers by sound quality, rated 4.5/5, at $1,544.56; the ATC SCM19 ranks #209, rated 2.4/5, and costs $3,750, so there is not much of a tradeoff to weigh.
The KEF R3 is the more accurate pick. A three way bookshelf speaker with KEF’s coaxial driver for stable imaging across seats and very low distortion, easy to run with a modest amp. Its measured preference score, a predictor of how neutral it sounds, is 6.20 against 4.61 for the ATC SCM19. Watch for: The low-frequency alignment rolls gradually rather than delivering high-output sub-bass; KEF specifies 58Hz +/-3dB and Erin’s high-level data supports using an 80Hz subwoofer crossover.
Why pick the ATC SCM19: A heavy, sealed pro style ATC bookshelf speaker with a very dense cabinet and low distortion at high volume. The tradeoff: Some stored energy resonance around 500-700Hz, 4dB bump around 700Hz.
Buy the KEF R3. It is rated higher for sound quality than the ATC SCM19 and costs less, which makes it the one to get unless you need something the other one does better.
Want more options? Browse the full Passive Home rankings.
A three way bookshelf speaker with KEF’s coaxial driver for stable imaging across seats and very low distortion, easy to run with a modest amp.
A heavy, sealed pro style ATC bookshelf speaker with a very dense cabinet and low distortion at high volume.
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Specifications Side By Side
| KEF R3 | ATC SCM19 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,544.56 per pair | $3750 per pair |
| Ranked | #15 of 222 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers | #209 of 222 in Large Size Bookshelf Speakers |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | Approximately 58Hz (manufacturer specified; consistent with Erin’s measured roll-off) | 60Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 35.2Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | 34Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Sensitivity | Approximately 86-87dB/2.83V/1m (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) | 85dB (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Impedance | 8 ohms nominal; suitable for Erin’s 4/8-ohm-rated amplifier | 6 ohms |
| Drivers | 1” tweeter coaxial with 5” midrange; 6.5” woofer | 5.9” Super Linear Magnet cone woofer, 1” soft dome tweeter |
| Dimensions | 16.6”H x 7.9”W x 13.2”D | 17.2”H x 10.4”W x 11.8”D (436.9 x 264.2 x 299.7 mm) |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, rear Flexible Port | sealed |
| Weight | 29.9 lbs (13.55 kg) each | 39.2 lbs (17.8 kg) each |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 6.2 (spinorama.org) | 4.61 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 7.97 (spinorama.org) | 7.03 |
| DIY Kit | No | No |
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