The KEF C80 is a three-way floor-standing loudspeaker system, produced between 1985 and 1988, renowned for its high-fidelity sound reproduction and innovative design. Technical Specifications:
System Type: Three-way, floor-standing, closed-box enclosure
Drivers:
Woofer: 1 x KEF B139 bass unit (SP1212)
Midrange: 1 x KEF B160 midrange driver (SP1203)
Tweeter: 1 x 25mm (1 inch) soft dome tweeter (KEF T33, SP1210)
Frequency Response: 50Hz to 20kHz ±3dB
Sensitivity: 89dB for a pink noise input of 2.83V
Impedance: 4 ohms resistive
Recommended Amplifier Power: 20W to 300W
Maximum Output: 112dB on program peaks under typical listening conditions
Enclosure Volume: 47 liters
Dimensions (H x W x D): 850 x 265 x 315 mm (33.5 x 10.4 x 12.4 inches)
Weight: 19.8 kg (43.7 lbs) each
Finish Options: Walnut, rosewood, or black ash veneer
Notable Features:
Conjugate Load Crossover Network: The C80 incorporates KEF's 'conjugate load' crossover design, initially developed for the Reference Model 104/2. This design presents a consistent 4-ohm resistive load to the amplifier, enhancing power utilization and overall performance.
Driver Configuration: The inclusion of the renowned B139 bass driver ensures exceptional bass quality and extension, while the polypropylene-coned B160 midrange driver offers high sensitivity, robust power handling, and low coloration through the mid-band frequencies.
Enclosure Design: The 47-liter closed-box design contributes to controlled bass response and minimizes coloration, resulting in accurate sound reproduction.
Customer Reviews:
Users have praised the C80 for its impressive bass extension and imaging capabilities. One reviewer noted, "They are truly amazing speakers which can produce useful bass down to 30 Hz and can image magnificently."
Another user highlighted the benefits of restoring vintage C80 speakers, stating that after replacing the tweeters, "The C80s now sound more balanced and smoother. It is just the fix I was hoping for. Highly recommended."