KEF Q10 (1993–1996)
A compact bookshelf speaker from KEF’s Q series, featuring a coaxial Uni-Q driver and magnetic shielding for CRT compatibility
Overview
The KEF Q10 is a bookshelf loudspeaker produced from 1993 to 1996 as part of KEF’s Q series. It’s a compact two-way system built around KEF’s Uni-Q coaxial driver technology, which integrates a 16 cm polypropylene cone woofer and a 1.9 cm soft dome tweeter into a single point-source array. This design aligns the acoustic centers of both drivers in depth, improving phase coherence and delivering a more focused soundstage. The speaker uses a bass-reflex enclosure with a 9-liter internal volume and features magnetic shielding to prevent interference with CRT displays—making it suitable for use near older televisions or monitors. Priced at ¥26,000 per unit around 1994, the Q10 was positioned as a space-efficient speaker without sacrificing KEF’s engineering principles.
Specifications
| Model Rating Method | 2-way, 1-speaker, bass reflex system, bookshelf type, magnetic protection design |
| Units Used For All Bands | 16 cm Coaxial Type (16 cm cone + 1.9 cm dome) |
| Frequency characteristic | 60 Hz to 20 kHz ± 3 dB |
| Impedance | 6 Ω |
| Output sound pressure level | 88dB |
| Compatible amplifier output | 10W ~ 100W |
| Enclosure volume | 9 liters |
| External dimensions | Width 190x Height 317x Depth 260 mm |
| Weight | 4.5kg |
Design
The KEF Q10 features a Uni-Q coaxial driver combining a 16 cm polypropylene cone woofer and a 1.9 cm soft dome tweeter, mounted so their diaphragms are aligned in depth for improved phase coherence. The tweeter’s magnetic circuit uses neodymium iron boron, a material with ten times the energy of ferrite, allowing for a more compact tweeter design. The crossover network is mounted on the rear terminal panel and constructed with independent wiring to balance frequency response. The enclosure employs a bass-reflex design and is finished in ash black.
Context
The KEF Q10 is part of the Q series, a line of small speaker systems from KEF designed for compact installations and high-fidelity playback.
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