The KEF R8a ranks #10 out of 14 total Surround and Height Speakers for sound quality. See all Passive Home rankings for every top pick.
Brand: KEF
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#10 KEF R8a Discontinued eBay
Pros: A Dolby Atmos height module that sits on top of a speaker or mounts on a wall, with KEF’s Uni-Q coaxial driver keeping the sound consistent off-axis (3.16dB variation in the directivity index in Erin’s Audio Corner measurements). With an ideal subwoofer it scores 6.60, well above the JBL SCS 8. Measured bass extension of 134Hz (-3dB).
Cons: Discontinued and replaced by the R8 Meta. Bass stops at 134Hz (-3dB) and about 83Hz (-10dB), so it relies on the main speakers and subwoofer, and the on-axis response is uneven (1.04dB average deviation), giving a standalone score of only 2.76. Low 86dB sensitivity.
| Released | 2018 (8 years ago) |
|---|---|
| Amplifier Power | 25-150W recommended |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | about 83Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 134Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Dimensions | 10.2”H x 6.9”W x 6.9”D (259 x 174 x 175 mm) |
| Drivers | 5.25” (130mm) Uni-Q driver with 1” (25mm) aluminum dome tweeter |
| Frequency Response | 105Hz - 18.5kHz (±3dB, manufacturer specified) |
| Impedance | 8 ohms (4.2 ohms minimum) |
| Sensitivity | 86dB |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 2.76 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 6.60 |
| Weight | 9.8 lbs (4.45 kg) |
| Woofer Cabinet | sealed |
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