The R11s provides a textbook-accurate frequency response, with punchy, extended, fast bass. Its midrange transparency and reproduction of detail are beyond reproach -- always smooth, never edgy, yet not recessed. Nor was the R11’s treble response ever etched or overaccentuated or sibilant, but always clear and extended. And their imaging abilities were outstanding for large floorstanders, equaling what my reference two-way minimonitors can do.

KEF's R11 loudspeakers sing when played loudly, rather than softly. They enjoy bigger, more powerful amplifiers and deliver raw energy without raising a sweat.

KEF R3 is a big standmounter by today’s standards, and it has dynamic and authoritative sound to show for it. It’s also mostly neutral and should let your’s system sound signature shine through. Just beware that less powerful amps won’t do it complete justice. Pair it with something potent instead and you’re in for a lot of fun.

We cannot really say anything bad about such magnificent speakers. The low end could have a bit more punch and vigor and their musicality may slightly lack compared to other similarly priced models but these are minor nuances and in no way affect the enjoyment we had in every part of our review. Also the speakers do look so good that the grilles leave something to be desired. They are not bad in any way but the look of the cabinet far exceeds the design of the grilles themselves.

The KEF R5 speakers are a great option for those in the market for a new pair of speakers due to their high-quality sound, modern aesthetic, and adaptability. They have a rear-firing port that helps t? expand the bass response and provide a more natural and dynamic sound, and its Uni-Q driver array ensures a consistent and accurate soundstage.

With a sweet balance on music and potent, but not aggressive, manner with movies, KEF’s R-series system delivers all-around outstanding performance.

I'd only a faint memory of the 'new KEF R-series' press release from last autumn, so had forgotten the R11s were just under £4k. They certainly sound a whole lot more, delivering a sound combining maturity and ease of listening with massive low-end punch when required, great imaging and fine detail. Choose one of the striking finishes to match your room, and just enjoy: this is high-end audio made easy.

There is no denying the powers of the economies of scale from a multi-national-level manufacturer. If similar technologies, construction, overall finish and, most importantly, sonic performance, were all offered from a ‘boutique’ or ‘cottage’ company, the R11s would be priced at a significantly higher bracket. Having said that, in terms of technologies, only a powerful company with significant R&D resources would be capable of engineering and developing the high quality drivers that are employed in varying versions across the entire range of KEF’s speaker products.

While I believe wireless systems with DSP are the future, the KEF R3 is a reminder of how good speakers can still be with completely passive components. The R3 is pretty, sounds great no matter where you’re listening from, and is not finicky about placement. If you’re looking for new speakers and have $2,000 to blow, the R3 merit serious consideration.

I listened to a ton of music with the R3, not just because I was reviewing them, but because these speakers are so damn fun to listen to. Whether it was glossy pop from Billie Eillish, pared down acoustic signer songwriter fare from Jack Johnson or Leonard Cohen, soulful jazz from Lou Donaldson, Beethoven's 9 symphonies via Leonard Bernstein, or blues drenched rock from Marcus King, it all sounded terrific piped through the R3. Here are a few of the notes from my listening sessions:

The R11 is not suitable for every living room due to its size and low performance. You should give this giant the space – or opt for a more compact floorstander like the R5 or R7. Or the R3s. We have also tested it for a long time, and for a relatively compact speaker, the R3 performs very well. With all R models you discover the strengths of the R family: a clear, natural display that is very coherent. Low-mid-high, it forms a harmonious, perfectly timed whole.

This system does a wonderful job with all genres of music and is forgiving when it comes to recordings that are not of the greatest quality. This is to be expected coming from one of the largest audiophile loudspeaker manufacturers who must cater to a larger consumer base with varying tastes. My time spent with this system will influence my next loudspeaker purchase.

Compelling as it was, this naturalness meant fatigue was never an issue. Setup is simpler compared to many other speakers, and the R series flagship R11s don’t require a palatial room to work their magic. Pleasing presence—sonically and aesthetically—remarkable realism and inter-driver coherence, high value in the cost-to-performance arena…there’s a lot to love about the R11s. With good reason, they’re popular and selling like the proverbial hotcakes. Get ’em while they’re hot!

The R5s are capable performers, but they're up against some excellent rivals as well as a hugely capable sibling in the R3

Arguably the most complete standmounters available at this price, the KEF R3s are exceptional performers