Infinity Renaissance vs. KEF Reference

[Da He Hua]

Has anyone heard both Infinity Renaissance 80 and KEF Reference Series Model One and has compared both? Is one considered better than the other? I own the former but am curious about the latter. I listen to classical music. Thank you.

 

[Brunt]

I haven't heard quite the exact two speakers you mentioned but I have heard Ren 90s and KEF R11s and the Rens sounded like a clear winner to me in all aspects.

Next to the Rens the KEFs sounded dark and dull in addition to having much less bass extension.

Not sure how the R11 compares to the reference series but that's the only floorstander I've heard from KEF so unfortunately that's all I can give.

 

[Da He Hua]

I will have a chance to buy a pair of KEF Model One in excellent condition at a very cheap price (less than $70). But I guess it might not be worth it if Infinity Renaissance is better.

 

[Ross6860]

I've read nothing but good things about the Ren 80

The KEF Model One is only rated down to 55 Hz

https://us.kef.com/explore-kef/kef-museum/1990s/reference-series-models-one-two-three-four

I own the KEF 104/2 and several Infinity towers, and the KEF is amazing.

KEF 104/2 (Reference)

vs

RS-II, RS-IIIa, Kappa 7.1 Series II

Only the RS-II is in the same league as the KEF 104/2 (my ears, my gear, my room).

Interestingly, the 104/2 is also only rated down to 55 Hz. I have no complaints about the lack of bass. I listen to all kinds of music.

 

[Brunt]

For less than $70 I'd just get them anyway and give them a listen. Even if you like the Rens more you could resell or gift them to a friend or use in a second system.

Having said all that I'm probably not the best person to listen to with regards to buying cheap speakers, I've got a couple rooms full of spares that I bough just to restore for fun or experience even when I knew they wouldnt hold a candle to my main system.

 

[Da He Hua]

I got my Rens 80 also for $70, in great used working condition. But I hoping someone may have direct experiences comparing the two specific pairs of speakers.

 

[Lou G]

The KEF Reference Model One is an excellent speaker. I have the Model One and the KEF 104/2. The sonic signature of these two speakers is very similar with the 104/2 producing deeper bass and a bigger soundstage. Both speakers have a rich full midrange and smooth extended highs with enough bass to satisfy most people. Both speakers have a buttery smooth presentation and can be listened to all day without fatigue.

If you can get the Model One for $70, just get them. For a speaker in excellent condition, that is a steal. If you don’t like them, you can easily sell them for more. They typically go for $300 to $500.