Any LSIM703 vs KEF LS50/R300 comparisons?
Hi,
I am in the process of upgrading my audio system - current system consists of Perreaux separates, Squeezebox (for flac/MOG access), Sony 555ES CD player + some large (prototype) custom speakers. Currently looking at replacing the speakers as they are a bit dated and waf is not so good.
A long time ago I owned some KEF 104ab's and when I bought them they were highly regarded (similar to old Rodgers/Spendor designs). However I realize that speaker design has come a long way in 30 years and am looking at current alternatives. The new KEF LS50 (and R300 series) have been getting good reviews so that's something I'd want to consider - especially as I remember liking the 104's
FWIW I've always had a high regard for Polk as a company and the LSIM703 seems to be popular (and is priced about the same as the LS50). I know there is no substitute for a real listening test, but it's not easy to compare various speakers in different rooms/setups etc.
Can anyone here who has owned the 703's for a while add any insights here - I'd also be curious re what other speakers you considered prior to purchase of the Polk 703s.
TIA,
Brencam
I am in the process of upgrading my audio system - current system consists of Perreaux separates, Squeezebox (for flac/MOG access), Sony 555ES CD player + some large (prototype) custom speakers. Currently looking at replacing the speakers as they are a bit dated and waf is not so good.
A long time ago I owned some KEF 104ab's and when I bought them they were highly regarded (similar to old Rodgers/Spendor designs). However I realize that speaker design has come a long way in 30 years and am looking at current alternatives. The new KEF LS50 (and R300 series) have been getting good reviews so that's something I'd want to consider - especially as I remember liking the 104's
FWIW I've always had a high regard for Polk as a company and the LSIM703 seems to be popular (and is priced about the same as the LS50). I know there is no substitute for a real listening test, but it's not easy to compare various speakers in different rooms/setups etc.
Can anyone here who has owned the 703's for a while add any insights here - I'd also be curious re what other speakers you considered prior to purchase of the Polk 703s.
TIA,
Brencam
Post edited by brencam on
Comments
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Hello,
I just asked about the same comparison between KEF ls50 and polk lsim703 a week ago. Unfortunately nobody replied to my thread.
I can get these speakers at a really good price. The LS50 is about 200.00 more though. However, it gets better reviews.KEF Q50 mains, M&K center, Boston Acoustics surround, Marantz SR6007 pre, Emotiva UPA-700, Pioneer DV-46AV, Samsung BD-j7500, Sunfire HRS12 subwoofer -
I am also looking at the Definitive Tech SM65's. They are about 200.00 less than the Lsim703's. I keep telling myself to upgrade my
polk m5jr+ but that would cost about half of what the new Def-Tech would be. Good Luck. Hope you get some feedback for yours
and my sake.KEF Q50 mains, M&K center, Boston Acoustics surround, Marantz SR6007 pre, Emotiva UPA-700, Pioneer DV-46AV, Samsung BD-j7500, Sunfire HRS12 subwoofer -
I've heard them both & for a pure music listening speaker the KEF LS50's everyday of the week & twice on Sunday's. If it's for a combo HT/2 channel then the 703's only due to the bass response. Now I'm not just saying this because I own KEF's, it's just that the LS50's are that damn good. Of course everyone's listening & hearing tastes are different but you did ask for an opinion from someone who has heard them both."2 Channel & 11.2 HT "Two Channel:Magnepan LRSSchiit Audio Freya S - SS preConsonance Ref 50 - Tube preParasound HALO A21+ 2 channel ampBluesound NODE 2i streameriFi NEO iDSD DAC Oppo BDP-93KEF KC62 sub Home Theater:Full blown 11.2 set up.
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OP here - thx for your comments and feedback. Can't say I'm surprised as KEF has a long and well respected history with speaker development. Unfortunately I can't find anwhere near hear to audition the Polk 703's. I will try and hear the LS50's and R300's at a local KEF dealer. (I have a preference for classical wood cabinets, but I understand that cabinet shape/design also impacts the sound significantly)
FWIW I also want to hear the Totem and Harbeth speakers although these cost a bit more - I plan to keep an eye on Audiogon for deals on some used Totems - heard some Totem Staffs recently and they looked and sounded pretty good - a bit out of my price range if buying new however).
Thx again,
Brencam
