Bookshelf Speaker Reviews

Subwoofer: HTB2
Connections: Line-level, mono inputs
Enclosure Type: Passive radiator
Woofer (size in inches, type): 10, active, paper/paper composite cone; 10, passive, paper/rubber composite cone
Power Rating (watts): 250, Class D
Crossover Bypass: Yes, fixed
Available Finishes: Gloss Black, Gloss Silver
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): Vertical: 15.4 x 17.3 x 7.7; Horizontal: 8.9 x 17.3 x 15.2
Weight (pounds): 24.9

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Speaker: HTS3001
Type: Two-way, satellite
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 0.75, aluminum dome
Midrange (size in inches, type): None
Woofer (size in inches, type): 4.5, polypropylene cone
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 8
Recommended Amp Power (watts): 10–100
Available Finishes: Gloss black, gloss silver
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 9.6 x 4.9 x 5.9
Weight (pounds): 4.5
Price: $1,500/5.1-channel set

Speaker: HTC3001
Type: Two-way, three-driver center
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 0.75, aluminum dome
Midrange (size in inches, type): 3, paper dome (2)
Woofer (size in inches, type): 4.5, polypropylene cone
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 8
Recommended Amp Power (watts): 10–100
Available Finishes: Gloss black, gloss silver
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 5.1 x 11.8 x 7.3
Weight (pounds): 5.8
Price: $1,500/5.1-channel set

Ratings: KEF KHT 3005 Speaker System:

Build Quality: 97
• Very solid all-metal enclosure and pedestal
• Has a gleaming high-gloss finish
• Uses custom binding posts

Value: 95
• A textbook example of why $1,500 is a sweet spot for high-end sub/sat systems
• Yes, it's worth the money

Features: 94
• Unique eggy shape
• Uses Uni-Q coaxial driver array
• Pedestals supplied, stands optional

Performance: 96
• Coaxial drivers provide pinpoint-accurate imaging
• Good dovetailing between satellites and subwoofer
• Not overly bright

Ergonomics: 90
• An asset to room décor, not an intrusion
• The custom binding posts can accept only bare wire

Overall Rating: 95
In speaker design, manufacturers have to earn a a good reputation over and over again, year in and year out. With the KHT 3005, KEF maintains their sonic street cred and reach a new high in visual sophistication. This sub/sat set provides true high-end performance.

General Information
3005 Speaker System, $1,500
KEF
(732) 683-2356
www.kef.com
Dealer Locator Code KEF