Comparing the Cambridge Audio Aero 2 vs. KEF LS50: A Detailed Breakdown
With years of experience in HiFi and audio production, it’s always exciting to compare products that have left an imprint in their own right. Today, I’m diving into the comparison between two such well-regarded bookshelf speakers: the Cambridge Audio Aero 2 and the KEF LS50. This comparison aims to help you make an informed decision based on various aspects such as audio performance, build quality, design, and value for money.
Initial Impressions
When you first unbox the Cambridge Audio Aero 2, they’re pretty large for ‘bookshelf speakers’. The black finish gives them a commanding presence, although the larger-than-expected size can be off-putting for some buyers. Initially, I was underwhelmed by their performance, but a notable improvement was observed after a break-in period of 30-35 hours.
The KEF LS50, on the other hand, immediately captivates with its craftsmanship. Solidly built and visually appealing, these speakers manage to blend aesthetics with practicality. Those fond of elegant design will appreciate the UniQ driver design, although some may not be fans of the rose gold accents.
Sound Quality
Audio performance is a significant factor in this comparison. The Aero 2 speakers present a pleasant, smooth sound with solid bass performance. Out of the box, they weren’t overly impressive but gradually improved. They play louder and keep distortion low but perhaps lack the depth and imaging some might expect for the price.
Conversely, the KEF LS50s seem to exceed expectations right from the start. Their sound is agile, dynamic, and accurate, with a wide, precise soundstage. The transparency of these speakers is commendable—you hear everything the recording engineer intended, coupled with a layer of musicality that makes listening an engaging experience.
Bass Response and Treble Detail
In the world of bookshelf speakers, bass and treble are crucial. The Aero 2’s bass performance is acceptable but comes off a bit hollow to some listeners. Treble is another mixed bag—some find it clear and soft, while others think it could use more edge.
The KEF LS50, meanwhile, delivers a more refined bass experience. It is perhaps not designed for heavy bass enthusiasts but still delivers sufficient low frequencies for most genres. The treble is where the LS50 truly shines—sharp, clear, and full of detail.
Midrange Clarity
Both speakers excel in midrange clarity but in different ways. The Aero 2 provides smooth, clean midrange, but it may not be the electrostatic-like quality some audiophiles crave. The KEF LS50, however, presents an exceptional midrange with lifelike intimacy, making you feel almost as if you are in the same room as the performer.
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to design, the Aero 2’s black finish may look stylish to some, but the build quality disappoints. Issues like the rubber around the woofers coming loose are concerning. On the other hand, the KEF LS50 boasts a solid and sleek aesthetic. Although the color options are limited, the overall design is visually pleasing and blends well into any room décor.
Value For Money
In terms of value for money, opinions are divided. The Aero 2 offers decent performance for its price, although some users feel it doesn’t live up to the hype entirely. On the other hand, the KEF LS50, despite being more expensive, provides performance that rivals much pricier competitors. Given their sound quality and build, the KEF LS50s are a well-rounded, cost-effective option for serious music lovers.
Concluding Thoughts
Every product has its strengths and weaknesses, and this holds true for both the Cambridge Audio Aero 2 and the KEF LS50. The Aero 2 speakers stand out with their smooth, clear sound and impressive bass at higher volumes but fall short in build quality and initial performance. Meanwhile, the KEF LS50 speakers deliver a stellar combination of musicality, accuracy, and build quality at a reasonable price, although they may not satisfy the heavy bass aficionado.
Ultimately, the choice between these speakers will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for solid bass and excellent midrange at a somewhat lower price point, the Aero 2s could be your choice. But if precision, build quality, and an overall engaging audio experience are your priorities, the KEF LS50s are hard to beat.
Comparing Aspects
User-Based Scores & Our Experts Analysis
KEF LS50
Cambridge Audio Aero 2
When comparing the bass response between the Cambridge Audio Aero 2 and the KEF LS50, we find a clear distinction in performance. The Aero 2 delivers a bass response that is acceptable but may come across as hollow to some listeners and lacks depth. The bass is clean and doesn't distort at higher volumes, but it doesn’t quite deliver the low-frequency extension some audiophiles might crave.
The KEF LS50 offers a more refined and balanced bass experience. The bass is sufficient for most music genres, providing a sound character that leans more towards accuracy than sheer power. However, the LS50s may not be ideal for those who seek an earth-shaking bass experience and might require a subwoofer for certain uses like movie sessions.
Aspect Verdict:In our assessment, the KEF LS50 provides a more accurate and sufficient bass performance for a wider range of applications compared to the Cambridge Audio Aero 2. While not as powerful, the bass in the LS50 is more controlled and precise.
The treble detail is another area where these two models diverge significantly. The Cambridge Audio Aero 2's treble has received mixed reviews. Some users appreciate its clarity and non-harsh nature, whereas others feel it lacks the sharpness and metallic edge that some genres demand.
The KEF LS50, on the other hand, delivers impressive treble detail. The highs are incredibly sharp and clear, likely to captivate any listener. Tracks with high-frequency instruments shine particularly well, offering a vibrant listening experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Aspect Verdict:The KEF LS50 wins hands down in the treble detail department, providing a level of clarity and sharpness that the Aero 2 cannot match. The highs are not just present but exuberantly detailed, making them stand out prominently in any mix.
Midrange clarity is essential for delivering lifelike vocals and instruments, and both speakers perform well in this area. The Aero 2 offers a smooth and clear midrange but doesn't quite reach the level of electrostatic-like quality that some high-end speakers provide. Still, for its price range, it does a commendable job.
The KEF LS50, however, takes it a notch higher. The midrange is presented with exceptional depth and clarity, rendering singers and instrumentalists with lifelike intimacy. The performance here is so engaging that it feels as if the artist is performing right in front of you.
Aspect Verdict:While both speakers excel in midrange clarity, the KEF LS50 outshines the Aero 2 with its exceptional depth and lifelike portrayal of vocals and instruments. It's a clear winner in this category.
The design aspects of both speakers offer distinct experiences. The Cambridge Audio Aero 2 has a simple black finish that provides a commanding presence, though it may be somewhat bulky for a bookshelf speaker. Build quality issues, such as the rubber around the woofers coming loose, also mar its appeal.
The KEF LS50, however, boasts a more solid and sleek design with unique UniQ driver aesthetics. The rose gold accents may not be everyone's cup of tea, but the overall look is visually pleasing and space-efficient. The build quality is robust, making them more durable and appealing over time.
Aspect Verdict:In terms of design and build quality, the KEF LS50 takes the lead. Its robustness, unique aesthetics, and efficient use of space make it a more attractive choice compared to the bulkier and less durable Aero 2.
When evaluating overall sound quality, both speakers have their strengths but cater to slightly different tastes. The Aero 2 speakers offer good, rich, and detailed sound but require a break-in period to perform optimally. Even then, some users feel they don’t deliver significant enhancements over cheaper models.
The KEF LS50, on the other hand, delivers stellar sound quality right from the start. Their sound is agile, dynamic, and accurate, revealing every nuance of the audio track. Whether it's trebles, midranges, or even bass to some extent, the LS50s excel in providing an engaging and detailed sound experience.
Aspect Verdict:In terms of sound quality, the KEF LS50 stands out more prominently. Its ability to deliver an accurate yet musical sound experience makes it a more compelling choice over the Cambridge Audio Aero 2.
The value-for-money analysis is crucial, particularly considering the price range of both speakers. The Cambridge Audio Aero 2 offers a level of performance that some users feel aligns well with its pricing. However, there are others who think it doesn’t live up to the hype, particularly given its bass depth, treble detail, and build quality constraints.
The KEF LS50, though more expensive, provides performance that rivals much pricier options on the market. The value here is in its exceptional audio quality, build, and overall performance, making it a worthwhile investment for serious audiophiles.
Aspect Verdict:Although the KEF LS50 has a higher price tag, its superior performance across various parameters makes it a much better value for money compared to the Aero 2. The initial investment pays off in terms of quality and longevity.
Final Verdict
Assessing all aspects, both Cambridge Audio Aero 2 and KEF LS50 speakers hold their own, but in different ways. The Aero 2 is a decent performer with good sound quality, but it lags in design and build quality. The KEF LS50, despite being pricier, offers a remarkable blend of build quality, design, and stellar sound performance. Its exceptional midrange clarity, impressive treble detail, and robust design make it a compelling option for audiophiles.
In terms of bass response and value for money, the KEF LS50 outshines the Aero 2. While the Aero 2 provides acceptable bass and is reasonably priced, it can't match the LS50's overall performance and long-term value.
Overall, the KEF LS50 appears to be the more well-rounded and reliable choice, depending on your needs and budget. It's a clear winner in this comparison, offering superior audio performance and build quality.
Comparison and Difference Between
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Brand and Model Specifications
Information about the brand, model release date.
| Manufacturer | Cambridge Audio | KEF |
| Model | Aero 2 | LS50 |
| Photo |  |
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| Release Date | 2013 | 2013 |
| HifiSpecs Rating | ||
| Amazon Rating | ||
| Price |
Technical Specs
Technical characteristics of the speakers.
| Amplification Type | Passive | Passive |
| Crossover Type | 2-Way | 2-Way |
| Enclosure type | Bass Reflex | Bass Reflex |
| Frequency Range (+/-3 dB)[Hz] | 40 - 22000 | 79 - 28000 |
| Frequency Range (-6dB)[Hz] | - | 47 - 45000 |
| Maximum SPL [dB] | - | - |
| Sensitivity (2,83 V/1 m)[dB] | 90 | 85 |
| Nominal Impedance (Ohms) | 8 | 8 |
| THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) | - | - |
| Recommended Amplifier Power [W] | 25-120 | 25-100 |
| Crossover Frequency [Hz] | - | 2200 |
| Bass Reflex Tuning Frequency [Hz] | - | - |
| Driver Units | Tweeter: 1 x 46mm (2”) BMR |
Tweeter: Uni-Q driver array with 1″ (25mm) vented aluminum-dome tweeter |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wired |
| Inputs | Single Wire | Single Wire |
| Outputs | - | - |
| Magnetic Shielding | No | No |
Placements and Distances
Where and how to put them.
| Form Factor | Shelf, Stand | Shelf, Stand |
| Distance from Wall [cm] | 15 | 15 |
Dimensions and Weight
Physical characteristics of the speakers (without stands).
| Length | ~8.0 in ~203.2 mm ~20.32 cm |
~7.9 in ~200.66 mm ~20.07 cm |
| Width | ~12.2 in ~309.88 mm ~30.99 cm |
~10.9 in ~276.86 mm ~27.69 cm |
| Height | ~14.6 in ~370.84 mm ~37.08 cm |
~11.9 in ~302.26 mm ~30.23 cm |
| Weight (Single Speaker) | ~15 lb ~6803.89 g ~6.8 kg |
~15.8 lb ~7166.76 g ~7.17 kg |
| Shipping Weight | ~ lb ~0 g ~0 kg |
~40.4 lb ~18325.13 g ~18.33 kg |
Colors and Accessories
List of available colors and optional accessories.
| Colors |
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| Accessories | – |
– |
| Detachable Grilles | No | No |
Price and Warranty
Satisfaction is (not) guaranteed.
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Amazon Price |
Review Comparison
Hifispecs' professional customer-reviews can help make up your mind.
| Available Reviews |
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Small print and stuff...
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