Audiolab 9000A & KEF LS50 META Bookshelf Speakers
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Audiolab 9000A
As ever, the 9000A is the centre of the audiolab focus in being the beating heart of any high-performance audio system. It’s more powerful, capable and feature-packed than any of the preceding models – the most advanced audiolab integrated amplifier yet.
KEF LS50 META
The KEF LS50 Meta Standmount Speakers. Instantly recognisable as the successor of the LS50, the LS50 Meta is born of the same KEF desire for continual development and is therefore fittingly the first loudspeaker to employ Metamaterial Absorption Technology.
Bundle includes 5m of QED Silver Anniversary XT Speaker Cable
From £2,599.00 Regular Price £3,198.00
To £2,599.00 Regular Price £3,198.00
Related Products
Audiolab 9000A Integrated Amplifier
Integrated Amplifier
As ever, the 9000A is the centre of the audiolab focus in being the beating heart of any high-performance audio system. It’s more powerful, capable and feature-packed than any of the preceding models – the most advanced audiolab integrated amplifier yet. Versatility is key to audiolab’s integrated amplifier appeal, and the 9000A offers to cater for audiophiles of all creeds. Loaded with digital and analogue source connection, wireless connectivity for portable devices, an all-new phono stage to cater for vinyl playback and the usual, class-leading amplification for loudspeakers and headphones.
Digital Face
Matching the modern hi-fi enthusiast’s requirements, the 9000A features a full-colour IPS LCD screen, offering clear and informative playback, source and file information. Not to mention a host of menu options for optimum performance and user-defined settings. Various display options are provided, which also include two VU meter options, allowing the 9000A to be visually informative or, in the case of ‘display off’ settings, a discreet centrepiece of any audio system.
Flexible and capable
Differentiating itself from rivals within its category, the audiolab 9000A blends digital capability with an analogue pedigree. Premium level D/A conversion, as one would always expect from audiolab, allows a range of digital sources (over four digital inputs) to be connected directly to this high-power integrated unit. Yet, based on over 40 years of amplifier design pedigree, not to mention a recent history of multi-award-winning audio solutions, the 9000A also caters for analogue device integrations (via three AUX, balanced XLR and a dedicated phono input).
Flagship DAC
The 9000A features the latest ESS 9038PRO flagship 32-bit DAC chip. Using the critically acclaimed patented HyperStream® II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, the ES9038PRO delivers an unprecedented performance level that will satisfy the needs of the most demanding audio applications – fitting an amplifier of the 9000A’s calibre.
Years of experience and countless ESS-equipped models mean that audiolab is more than familiar with making the most of this technically excellent but challenging DAC technology. Great attention has been paid in developing a system that allows audiolab electronics and ESS DAC technology to offer the best in audiophile performance.
The amp’s four S/PDIF digital inputs – two coaxial and two optical – handle hi-res PCM data up to 24-bit/192kHz and benefit from a host of user-selectable digital filters that allow the user to optimise the response to suit the source file and bandwidth of the partnering equipment.
PCM audio is supported to 32-bit/768kHz, alongside DSD to 22.5MHz (DSD512). Every significant hi-res and lossless audio format is catered for, including FLAC, ALAC, AIFF and WAV, as well as compressed legacy formats.
MQA all the way
The 9000A also delivers full decoding of MQA, the hi-res streaming technology from a custom engineered MQA certified DAC solution. This means that the complete ‘three unfold’ decoding process is performed internally, as opposed to just the final unfold in the manner of an MQA ‘renderer’, which makes the 9000A an excellent system choice for subscribers to Tidal’s ‘HiFi Plus’ tier where Tidal Masters (MQA) content can be found.
As expected for modern audio playback convenience, Bluetooth connectivity is featured as standard with the 9000A stepping up to the aptX HD protocol for sonically superior and easy wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, laptops and more. Bluetooth-paired devices also benefit from the quality of the amp’s DAC section and filter options.
The 9000A’s discrete Class AB power amp stage delivers 100W per channel into 8 ohms (160w per channel into 4 ohms!). Unlike over-specified competitor models, the genuine 100W per channel will put the 9000A up against the best in its class. Referring to the standards set with the audiolab 6000A (rated at 50W per channel), the 9000A’s 100W per channel will undoubtedly satisfy the most demanding of loudspeakers and their power-hungry masters.
A key to the audiolab performance is the world-famous CFB (Complementary Feedback) topology, which ensures superior linearity and excellent thermal stability, as the idle current is kept independent of the temperature of the output transistors. An all-new and custom specified 320VA toroidal transformer, followed by 4 x 15,000uF reservoir capacity (60,000uF in total), helps the amp to maintain firm control of the music whilst enabling excellent dynamic range.
High-performance Phono stage
With every iteration of integrated amplifier design, audiolab works to improve on the bench-mark, built-in phono stage section. The 9000A is no different; pushing the boundaries of performance of an onboard phono pre-amp section. The all-new phono pre-amp for 9000A offers compatibility for moving magnet – a JFET-based circuit with precise RIAA equalisation offers the best of both worlds for the turntable using audiolab fans.
Similarly, for the headphone output stage employing current-feedback circuitry with wide bandwidth and high slew rate; the 9000A ensures a dynamic, detailed and engaging performance with all manner of headphone types, with that extra added audiolab sparkle from the consistent signal integrity from all inputs.
The audiolab 9000A continues with the theme of flexibility in audio system integration. As is a staple to the audiolab integrated amplifier design, the 9000A offers three variations of operating mode, making it a versatile and essential component in any system.
Power to the people
The primary mode is ‘Integrated’ – this combines the pre and power amp stages, for the connection of digital and analogue sources to the amp’s inputs and a pair of speakers to its binding posts.
‘Pre-Power Mode’ disconnects the pre and power amp stages. The allows the 9000A to be used solely as a power amp – for example, connected to an AV processor in a home cinema system. It also enables additional signal processing to be added, by connecting the 9000A’s ‘preamp out’ socket to an external processor, then returning the processor’s output to the amp’s ‘power amp in’ socket, making the most of its gargantuan 100W per channel performance and critical performance characteristic of the 9000A’s pre-section, regardless of what magic the users wants to implement in between!
Innovative Design
The 9000A is the brainchild of lead designer, Jan Ertner. Famed for a plethora of class-leading and award-winning audio electronic models, Jan has pushed the 9000A to the highest levels of performance by evolving and redeveloping the principles that created the 8300A and uber-successful 6000A, to deliver the most exceptional performance ever seen in an audiolab integrated amplifier.
KEF LS50 META Bookshelf Speakers
LS50 Meta - The World's First Speakers with Metamaterial
Standmount Loudspeakers
Since 1961, KEF‘s mission has been to preserve the integrity of original sound with as little intervention as possible. The goal of every KEF product is to do one thing: provide you with a revealing listening experience that is as true to the original recording as is possible within the confines of your room.
The iconic LS50 was the physical embodiment of this singular approach. A loudspeaker that took its cues from the classic LS3/5A but was quickly recognised as a modern icon in its own right. The LS50 was born out of KEF’s willingness to think outside the box, to constantly search for new materials, techniques and technologies such as the use of computer aided design and continuous enhancement of the KEF’s signature Uni-Q driver array.
That was 2011, and time and technology have moved on. Since then our engineers have been upholding KEF’s driving philosophy and searching out new technological breakthroughs. The result is an icon in waiting : the KEF LS50 Meta Standmount Speakers. Instantly recognisable as the successor of the LS50, the LS50 Meta is born of the same KEF desire for continual development and is therefore fittingly the first loudspeaker to employ Metamaterial Absorption Technology1.
PERFORMANCE
Revolutionary sound absorption with MAT
A result of joint development with the Acoustic Metamaterials Group, using Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) breaks completely new ground in loudspeaker design, and once again demonstrates KEF’s unrelenting passion for developing new technologies to improve your listening experience. Metamaterials are specially developed structures that use existing materials in such a way that they exhibit new, desirable properties that are simply not found in naturally occurring substances.
A truly revolutionary tool in the KEF acoustic armoury, MAT is a highly complex maze-like structure, where each of the intricate channels efficiently absorbs a specific frequency. When combined, the channels act as an acoustic black hole, absorbing 99% of the unwanted sound that comes from the rear of the tweeter, eliminating the resulting distortion and providing a purer, more natural acoustic performance.
KEF always pushes the technological boundaries in its mission to create the best possible sound; MAT is the physical manifestation of that drive. The result of a joint development project with the Acoustic Metamaterials Group, MAT breaks completely new ground in loudspeaker design.
12th Generation Uni-Q with MAT delivers
The tweeter in question sits at the heart of our 12th generation Uni-Q with MAT driver array. The Uni-Q point source configuration delivers a more detailed, accurate and integrated three-dimensional sound image, which is dispersed so evenly throughout the room that the ‘sweet spot’ is wherever you are in the room. Using simulation and analysis tools and decades of accumulated in-house knowledge, our engineers have developed a new iteration of KEF’s signature driver array, with a new cone neck decoupler and motor system that is precisely shaped to reduce high-frequency distortion in the mid-frequency driver. The result is reduced coloration, less distortion and a sound that is more transparent and life-like than previously possible. The same can also be said of bass performance, where LS50 Meta completely exceeds the expectation of a modestly proportioned standmount speaker to deliver room-filling sound with deep, articulate bass.
Enhancement from LS50 lineage
Much of the engaging performance is thanks to the clarity of the driver array, but the port design is also crucial. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), the flare and profile of the LS50 Meta’s patented off-set flexible port is calculated to delay the onset of turbulence and the flexible port walls prevent resonances from colouring the midrange. This leads to improved clarity, with exceptional levels of depth and detail.
The LS50 Meta’s extremely rigid cabinet is optimised for the best performance, with smooth curved surfaces that help radiate sound out across the baffle without any interference. The baffle itself is engineered from an injection-moulded Dough Moulding Compound (DMC) usually found in the automotive industry. Inside the cabinet, cross bracing and Constrained Layer Damping (CLD) combine to deaden internal vibrations. The result of such meticulous attention to detail is that LS50 Meta produces the lowest coloration of any speaker in its class.
DESIGN
Attention to every detail
The LS50 Meta has inherited its distinctive good looks from the original LS50, with its low-diffraction, curved baffle precision modelled around the Uni-Q driver array. The curved front is subtly mirrored by the gently radiused rear panel, while both the port exit and speaker terminals have been elegantly recessed and softened visually.
On the LS50 Meta’s underside, each corner has a threaded inset allowing the speaker to lock onto the top of the new KEF S2 Floor Stand, which also boasts integrated cable management and a mass-loadable column. LS50 Meta is available at launch in four colours, all of which benefit from a modern silky matte finish, while the S2 Floor Stands are colour matched to the models.
The LS50 Meta Standmount Loudspeakers deliver on every aspect of the KEF promise. A genuine industry first, LS50 Meta utilises innovative, ground-breaking technology to provide you with an immersive, completely believable sound from a compact, stylish loudspeaker that is destined to open up whole new vistas of enjoyment in your life.
** Metamaterial Absorption Technology is a joint development with Acoustic Metamaterials Group.
Summary of features
PERFORMANCE – most accurate, immersive sound
• Metamaterial Absorption Technology eliminates 99% of high-frequency distortion for pure, natural sound
• 12th generation Uni-Q with MAT driver array for exceptional acoustic accuracy
• Driver Performance Optimisation for enhanced sonic performance, less distortion and reduced coloration
• Patented off-set flexible port for reduced midrange coloration with exceptional levels of depth and detail
DESIGN – attention to every detail
• Optimised cabinet design for best acoustic performance
• Available in 4 finishes
• With mounting inserts to secure on KEF S2 Floor Stand (available as separate item)
| Features | Audiolab 9000A Integrated AmplifierSPECIFICATIONS
KEF LS50 META Bookshelf SpeakersModel - LS50 Meta Design - Two-way bass reflex Drive units - Uni-Q Driver Array: HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with Metamaterial Absorption Technology MF/LF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone Crossover frequency - 2.1 kHz Frequency range (-6dB) - 47 Hz - 45 kHz Typical in-room bass response (-6dB) - 26 Hz Frequency response (±3dB) - 79 Hz - 28 kHz Harmonic distortion (90dB, 1m) - <0.4% 175 Hz - 20 kHz <0.1% 300 Hz - 10 kHz Maximum output - 106 dB Amplifier power (recommended) - 40-100 W Nominal impedance - 8 Ω (min. 3.5 Ω) Sensitivity (2.83V/1m) - 85 dB Weight* - 7.8 kg (17.2 lbs.) Dimension (H x W x D) with terminal* - 302 x 200 x 280.5 mm (11.9 x 7.9 x 11.0 in.) |
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How will you send my item?
We ship to addresses within the UK using Royal Mail and DPD couriers.
How much does delivery cost?
Standard 2-3 working day delivery is FREE on all orders to mainland UK. Next working day courier service is available on all orders for a small fee of £4.99. On some items this is provided for FREE.
For orders to UK Non-mainland and International destinations, there will be an additional charge at checkout. Please see below for more information.
How long does delivery take?
Depending on the delivery service you choose, delivery usually takes between 1-3 working days to mainland UK from the moment we despatch your order. Orders to UK non-mainland and international destinations can take longer.
When will you despatch my order?
Orders placed before 3pm are processed and despatched the same day (excluding bank holidays and weekends). Orders placed on weekends will be processed and despatched the following working day.
*Please note that international orders may require extra checks before we are able to despatch your order so timescales may vary.
Can I track my delivery?
Yes - Order tracking is offered as standard on all items, whether they are shipped via DPD or Royal Mail. You will receive your tracking information via email once we have despatched your order.
UK Non-mainland and International destinations.
Due to the UK leaving the EU, some of our delivery partners have changed the way we ship to international and offshore destinations. This means that for the time being we are unable to ship items to these locations.
We are still accepting orders to these destinations however delivery times and prices are not final. We will confirm via email once we know more from our delivery partner.
Shipping for all items to UK Non-Mainland and International destinations will incur a charge at checkout. This charge is not final and we may need to charge for additional postage if required.
Shipping to international destinations may require further security checks and I.D. may need to be provided by the cardholder. We reserve the right to cancel any orders where you are do not pass our security checks or do not pay for appropriate postage.
Please note that we are unable to ship some items outside the UK. To avoid any disapointment please contact us before making your order.
What do you class as UK Non-mainland?
Rep. Ireland, N. Ireland, Channel Islands, Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Wight, Isle of Man and Scottish Highlands. If you are unsure whether your address is classed as UK Non-mainland please feel free to contact us and an advisor will be happy to help.
For any further enquiries with regards to your delivery please contact us on 020 8813 7666 and one of our adviser's will be happy to help.
If you're not happy with your item or you've changed your mind.
Even though we're sure you'll be happy with your purchase, it's important that you are aware of how we deal with returns in the event that you need to send something back.
We understand how inconvenient it can be when you buy a product and aren't 100% satisfied with it. For this reason we have designed our returns policy to prevent any further inconvenience to you in these instances.
Under 30 days
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You can return your goods for a full refund or exchange as long as you inform us of your intention to return the goods within 30 days of receipt, starting from the day after you receive your goods (Exclusions apply, see below.)
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All return costs are down to the buyer and it is recommended that you return your items using a trackable method with appropriate insurance (if required).
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Once we have confirmed your return, please ensure that you return the item within 14 days.
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If a returns number is provided then please ensure that the parcel has this clearly marked.
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Items need to be returned in "as new" condition in their original packaging. We don't mind if you open the product to check it, however any used or damaged products will be subject to a 25% handling fee so please take care when opening your items.
After 30 days
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We will not offer a refund after 30 days of you receiving your delivery unless your product is faulty.
Exclusions from our returns policy
As we're sure you'll understand, there are some products that we can't offer returns on due to their nature. These include:
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Special order items and cables cut from a reel (priced per metre). These items will be clearly identifiable.
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In-Ear headphones due to health and hygiene reasons.
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Products that include software which require activation.
Please note that these exclusions do not apply to items that become faulty.
If your product becomes faulty
We endeavour to get your items to you in fully working order, however in the event that your items do become faulty, please read below on what you should do next.
In a lot of cases with some products, faults can be fixed by performing some basic troubleshooting, so to prevent any further inconvenience to you we advise that you contact our Customer Service team who can guide you through some basic troubleshooting before sending items back.
Under 30 days
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If your items become faulty within 30 days of delivery you are entitled to a full refund or exchange. Please contact our customer service centre who will provide necessary returns details.
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Please send the items back with a cover note including a description of the fault and your original order number.
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Once we have fully tested the item and confirmed the fault, we will process the refund or exchange including cost of carriage back to us (within reason).
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If during our testing we cannot find a fault, no refund will be given and you will be charged for delivery of the item back to you.
After 30 days
- After 30 days you will still be able to get your faulty items repaired or replaced within the manufacturers warranty and we will be happy to assist you with this. Please contact our customer service team to find out the best way to get your items repaired or replaced. Please be aware that after 30 days we will not cover you for any carriage costs.