KEF for Near-field?

Matrix 

We have the new R series and the Reference and although they are similar the R series is still far superior in every way.

The take away from the design is how much smoother and better integrated the new R series is over the older R series.

We have in one sound room the R11 and the Reference 5, there is a strong familarity the R 11's sound fantastic for a $5k set of speakers but their is no mistaking the magic of the Reference 5 which go lower with greater authority, have a cleaner midrange, increased dynamics and btter overall clarity. 

The tale of the tape is the R 11 weighs about 70 lbs the Ref 5 130 the difference in bafle construction, damping, driver construcion and crossover are clearly evident in the Ref 5.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ

Matrix we are a long time Kef dealer with all the models you are considering on display.

You have a few options if money is the driving considering run to get the R300 for $1,200.00 they are more musical then the LS 50 and have more bass. They are not quite as detailed but overall they are the better speaker

The new R is way better than any of the other monitors you are looking at and are more refined with a more precise soundstage, they have a similar level of detail as the LS 50 but the top end is a bit sweater overall.

Factor in deeper bass and a bigger sounstage makes them clearly the winner  although they are the most expensive of all the speakers you are looking at and should sound fantastic with the Peachtree.

Good luck

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ

Mr. Feil,

The OP is asking about KEF loudspeakers we are replying about KEF loudspeakers and consideing we have all the models on discussion means we are experts at addressing this question.

Wether the poster wants to purchase anything from us is his business.

We have many years of experience with KEF and are one of the few dealers that actually sell almost every KEF Model including the Blades.

Good day to you sir.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ KEF Dealers

Schubert you can absolutely listen to Kef's nearfield the fact that the tweeter is directly in the center of the midrange means that all frequencies arrive from the same point in space, also the quasi horn load of the shallow midrange's flair creates a very wide soundstage that helps create a very credible impression of muscians playing in space even if you listen to them close up.

Dave and Troy
Audio Doctor NJ KEF Dealers