During our recent visit to Maidstone we had a unique opportunity to look behind the scenes of one of the most respected companies in the field of manufacturing audio device – KEF companyKnown for its groundbreaking innovations and superior sound quality, this company has been at the forefront of high-end for decades. audio technology. Our day was filled with inspiration and learning as we visited the factory, development center, and museum, gaining a first-hand look at the manufacturing processes and history behind the company's success.
As soon as you enter the building, you will be greeted at the reception by one of the TOP models (hanging from the ceiling), which is stripped down so that you can admire all the details that the speaker hides. This seeming little bit of transparency immediately shows the friendliness and openness of the entire KEF team.
Presentation room
Our first stop was a smaller room where KEF displays almost all of their current models, including a few from past series. It was a unique opportunity to see so many models together, both current and recent production.
The speakers are arranged around the perimeter of the room, starting with the most affordable and often praised Q series, then through the R series, which offers a ticket to high-end waters, up to the top REFERENCE models. Here you can also see one "cut out" piece that reveals the complex internal structure. This transparency once again underlines the precise work of KEF engineers. From the REFERENCE series, we were particularly interested in the REFERENCE 4 central speaker, which resembles a classic column speaker in size.
The room also features models from recent history, such as the E-series satellites (no longer available) and the hugely popular, ever-expanding LS series – active speakers that KEF considers a key product in its portfolio.
Of course, there are also built-in speakers of all sizes and types, which are playing an increasingly important role in modern homes. KEF offers these models up to the REFERENCE series, which will satisfy even the most demanding lovers of clean design and top-notch sound.
The highlight of the room are the Blade and ultra-high-end Muon speaker. This pair is complemented by the active KEF LS60 model.
Profactory patrol
An essential part of our visit was a tour of the KEF manufacturing facility, where we had the opportunity to see how their top-of-the-line speakers are made. From crossover assembly and driver checks to final assembly – every step is done by hand with maxWe were very impressed with the advanced measurement techniques that ensure that each speaker delivers uncompromised sound, such as KEF known. Speakers do not leave the factory until they are perfect and without the slightest defect.
Among the most interesting moments from the factory tour were:
- A detailed look at the assembly of KEF's flagship speaker models, specifically the REFERENCE series and the Blade models.
- Strict quality control processes guarantee flawlessness and high performance of each product.
- Manual labor employedancwho have worked at the company for many years and described their work with enthusiasm.
Gallery
Development Center
Our next stop was the KEF Development Centre, the heart of innovation and technical excellence. Here we met the engineers who are constantly pushing the boundaries of the field. audio design. It was fascinating to see the use of modern technologies such as 3D modelling and 3D printing, which reduced the development time for a new model from 1,5 years to 6 months. KEF was the first loudspeaker manufacturer to start using software to simulate and manufacture its products, and they still maintain this lead.
Memorable moments in the development center included:
- Demonstration of acoustic test chambers where prototypes are thoroughly tested for sonic accuracy.
- An exclusive look at the development of new technologies.
- Interviews with talented engineers who share their passion for sound innovation.
Gallery
KEF Museum
One of the stops was also a visit to the KEF museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the company's history. ProA walk through the exhibition took us through decades of technological advances that have shaped KEF's legacy.
Among the most interesting exhibits were:
- Historic KEF speaker models that revolutionized the way they were in their time audio industry.
- A timeline of KEF's key milestones, from its founding in 1961 to the present.
- Great guide commentary on individual models showing technological developments up to the present day.
Gallery
Test rooms
A pleasant surprise was a visit to the presentation room, equipped with built-in speakers in a multi-channel configuration. This room is used by engineers to test various sound improvements. The sound was tuned to a top level, which we verified when watching the movie "Top Gun: Maverick" in Dolby Atmos – the scenes with the fighter jets were absolutely spectacular.
Another room, working but perfectly acoustically tuned, is used for testing new speaker prototypes, mainly in stereo connection. Here we had the opportunity to see and hear the absolute novelty of the Q series.
záver
Visit to KEF in Maidstoneone was an unforgettable experience that gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the innovation and passion behind each of their products.
The trip was organized by an importer to the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
