Audiolab 6000A MkII + KEF Q Concerto META + Cables

Since the inception of the 6000A in 2016, Audiolab’s brand has undergone rapid evolution. The introduction of award-winning models in both digital music playback and integrated amplifier domains has cemented the company’s position at the forefront of audio technology. The 9000CDT, 9000N, 7000CDT, 7000N Play, 9000A, and 7000A models have exemplified Audiolab’s commitment to pushing performance boundaries across a range of price points. With the launch of the 9000A – Audiolab’s most advanced integrated amplifier – and the 7000A, positioned between the high-end 9000A and more affordable 6000A, the brand's engineers have introduced numerous technical advancements, culminating in the 6000A MKII.

A Step-Up 

The Audiolab 6000A MKII maintains the original 6000A's role as an accessible yet impressive "step-up" amplifier, ideal for entry-level audiophiles, but now with significant upgrades in both sound and features. Visually, the MKII remains almost identical to its predecessor, ensuring seamless integration with existing components from the 6000, 7000, and 9000 series. This consistency in design allows for an enhanced listening experience while maintaining compatibility across the Audiolab range.

Power Supply

One of the key upgrades in the 6000A MKII is the enhanced transformer and power supply implementation. The design offers increased voltage from the secondary windings of the transformer, with reduced impedance for better control over the power supply voltage. This leads to the signature Audiolab sound – exceptional consistency, dynamic range, crisp definition, and rhythmic timing. The inclusion of a robust 200VA toroidal transformer, paired with four 15,000uF reservoir capacitors, ensures superior control over the music and impressive dynamic performance.

Advanced DAC and Expanded Connectivity 

Audiolab has significantly improved the DAC performance in the MKII, now featuring the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M chipset, an upgrade from the previous ES9018. This flagship DAC supports 32-bit/768kHz PCM and incorporates HyperStream® II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, offering ultra-low noise and a remarkable dynamic range. The MKII also boasts expanded connectivity options, including four S/PDIF inputs and a HDMI ARC input for AV system integration. Bluetooth 5.1 aptX HD support further enhances streaming performance with superior range, speed, and quality.

Multi-Functional Operation

The 6000A MKII continues Audiolab’s minimalist philosophy to ensure maximum signal purity, with a precision analogue volume control and independent low-noise power supplies. The amplifier also includes an advanced phono stage with a high-quality, low-noise, JFET-based circuit. Additionally, the dedicated headphone amplifier provides a dynamic and detailed listening experience across a range of headphones. Audiolab has introduced multiple operational modes, including ‘Integrated,’ ‘Pre,’ and ‘Pre-Power,’ offering flexible functionality for various setups, such as connecting the unit to an AV processor for home cinema systems.

A Benchmark in Integrated Amplifiers

The 6000A MKII builds on the reputation of its predecessor by offering outstanding value and high-quality sound in a more refined, versatile, and future-proof package. Audiolab’s continued dedication to improving performance through incremental advancements has resulted in an integrated amplifier that offers even greater performance, ensuring its place as an essential component for audiophiles and enthusiasts alike.

KEF Q Concerto META

The KEF Q Concertos META combines advanced technology and innovative design to deliver excellent sound quality with smoother sound, enhanced clarity, and less distortion. The Concertos are an ideal choice for those wanting an excellent pair of stereo speakers that are well suited for a wide range of music choices. 

For home theatre or music, the Concerto META will deliver an immersive audio experience for those looking for bookshelf speakers for most medium to smaller room sizes.  These will act as a great stereo pair or excellent fronts for home theatre.

The META Factor

The Q Series has continued to evolve, now in its 9th iteration since its debut in 1991. Building on its award-winning heritage, this latest version incorporates cutting-edge Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) and advanced acoustic features derived from KEF’s flagship speakers. With the inclusion of the latest 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, this series offers a highly refined sound profile. These advancements make high-fidelity audio more accessible, catering to both stereo music lovers and multi-channel home cinema enthusiasts.

Enhanced 3-Way Speaker Design

One of the most significant upgrades in this iteration is the transition from a 2.5-way to a 3-way speaker design. This updated configuration separates the frequency ranges, with the Uni-Q driver handling the high and midrange frequencies while a newly designed bass driver is dedicated to managing low frequencies. This design enhances clarity by allowing the tweeter to transmit high-frequency sound over a smoother surface, reducing distortion in the lower midrange frequencies for an improved listening experience.

Uni-Q® Technology

With Uni-Q technology, every seat becomes the best in the room. By positioning the tweeter at the precise acoustic centre of the bass/midrange cone, sound is evenly dispersed, removing the need for a single 'sweet spot'. This ensures that everyone enjoys the same immersive, high-fidelity audio as intended. The latest 12th-generation Uni-Q, featured across all models in the Q Series, delivers remarkably natural sound for a truly captivating experience. Additionally, the Uni-Q benefits from the Flexible Decoupling Chassis, derived from our flagship Hi-Fi speakers, which significantly reduces unwanted vibrations, resulting in even greater clarity.

Revolutionary Sound Absorption with MAT™

The integration of Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) marks a breakthrough in audio performance for the Q Series. MAT™ features a complex, maze-like structure that absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the tweeter, significantly reducing distortion. This advanced design results in a purer, more natural sound, enhancing both accuracy and clarity. Paired with the 12th generation Uni-Q driver array, MAT™ ensures that the Q Series delivers a highly transparent and lifelike audio experience.

Refined Crossover for Superior Sound

The Q Series features a refined crossover design, the result of over 1,000 precise measurements for each speaker model. This meticulous engineering ensures that all components work harmoniously, delivering a smooth and coherent sound. KEF’s in-house team used advanced simulation tools and prototyping techniques to optimise the signal path, ensuring that each speaker in the Q Series performs at its absolute best.

Shadow Flare Technology

To further enhance sound quality, the concerto incorporates Shadow Flare technology. This innovation reduces cabinet diffraction, which can otherwise interfere with sound clarity. By minimising these acoustic disturbances, Shadow Flare allows the Uni-Q driver array to function at its highest potential, resulting in a cleaner, more precise reproduction of fine details such as delicate cymbal work or the subtle harmonics of a piano.

Features

• Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) removes 99% of high-frequency distortion for clear, natural sound.
• 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT for accurate acoustics.
• Improved crossover design for cleaner sound.
• Three-way design for better clarity and detail
• Hybrid aluminium bass driver for deep, powerful sound
• Available in Satin Black, Satin White, and Walnut finishes.
• Magnetic grilles combine protection and style.
• KEF SQ1 Floor stands available

6000A MkII Integrated Amplifier Specifications

Q Concerto META Specifications