What Hi-Fi?
rates the KEF Reference 1 Meta as one of the most well-rounded options in its price range. The speakers deliver a rich and layered sound, with impressive scale and authority often associated with larger floor-standing models. They deliver dynamic shifts with conviction and maintain clarity without strain, while preserving a high degree of transparency and tonal balance. The addition of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) has significantly improved performance compared to previous models.
7Review
highlights the accuracy and vividness of the KEF Reference 1 Meta. The speakers deliver a detailed and three-dimensional sound reproduction without exaggeration. The use of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) behind the tweeter contributes to a clean and extended high-frequency response. The compact design, combined with deep bass reproduction, makes these speakers suitable for a variety of music genres and listening environments.
Soundnews
highlights the impressive build quality and minimalist design of the KEF Reference 1 Meta. The speakers are handcrafted in the UK and feature the 12th-generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT, resulting in an expansive, high-quality sound that transcends their compact size. They deliver a detailed and dynamic sound reproduction, suitable for a variety of music genres.
Testberichte.de
highlights the detailed and vivid sound reproduction of the KEF Reference 1 Meta. The speakers offer excellent dynamics and impressive deep bass. The use of high-quality materials and innovative technologies, such as Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), contributes to the exceptional sound quality. The elegant design and high-quality finish make these speakers an audiophile masterpiece.
HiFiReport
highlights the versatility of the KEF Reference 1 Meta in handling different music genres. The speakers deliver a clear, three-dimensional reproduction of instruments, with impressive bass response that is surprising given their compact size. They are well-suited for small living rooms or home offices and can handle a variety of musical styles with ease.
Audiophilepure
highlights the transparency and tonal balance of the KEF Reference 1 Meta. The speakers deliver detailed and dynamic sound reproduction, with impressive bass response and clear midrange. They are suitable for a variety of music genres and can handle both subtle nuances and powerful dynamic shifts with ease.
SpeakerRanking
rates the KEF Reference 1 Meta as one of the most neutral bookshelf speakers, with excellent horizontal and vertical response. The speakers deliver deep bass for their size and can be configured with short or long ports, depending on the desired bass roll-off. They are suitable for a variety of music genres and listening environments.
CommentChoisir.fr
gives the KEF Reference 1 Meta a perfect score of 5/5, indicating exceptional performance and customer satisfaction. The speakers are praised for their detailed and dynamic sound reproduction, as well as their high-quality construction and innovative technologies.
What Hi-Fi?
names the KEF Reference 1 Meta as the best premium passive speaker in their 2026 roundup of the best KEF speakers. They highlight the addition of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and the significant improvements in sound quality compared to previous models. The speakers deliver a rich and layered soundstage, with impressive scale and authority often associated with larger floor-standing models.
