Bookshelf Speaker Reviews

Features: kit100DVD
Processing Modes: Dolby: Digital 5.1, Pro Logic II DTS: DTS 5.1 Other: Proprietary matrix (for mono sources)
Compatible Playback
Formats: DVD, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, CD, CD-R/-RW, MP3
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 2.3 x 12.8 x 10.3
Weight (pounds): 11.5
Price: $1,499 for system

Connections: KIT100DVD
Inputs:
Video: S-video (2), composite (2)
Audio: digital optical (1), digital coaxial (3), analog stereo (3)
Outputs:
Video: component (1), S-video (1), composite (1)
Audio: digital optical (1)
Additional:
DBA-25 (1), AM/FM antenna ins (1 of each)

Speaker: KIT100S
Type: Proprietary
Main Tweeter (size in inches, type): 0.6, Mylar dome
Main Woofer (size in inches, type): 4, aluma-skin (aluminum-coated paper)
Surround Driver
(size in inches, type): 8 x 5, NXT flat panel
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 8
Available Finishes: Stardust Silver
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 9.3 x 4.7 x 10.2
Weight (pounds): 6
Price: $1,499 for system

Subwoofer: KIT100PSW
Connections: DBA-25 (2), multiroom line out
Enclosure Type: Sealed
Woofer (size in inches, type): 10, polypropylene cone
Number of Amp Channels: 4.1
Rated Amp Power (watts): 45 x 4 (speakers), 65 x 1 (subwoofer)
Crossover Bypass: No
Available Finishes: Stardust Silver
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 15.6 x 6.9 x 20.3
Weight (pounds): 40
Price: $1,499 for system

Ratings

KEF KIT100 Instant Theatre

Build Quality: 91
The heavy, die-cast metal chassis gives the sats and DVD player a solid feel
The DVD unit and sub are mirror-finished to provide a uniform look

Value: 87
The Uni-Q and NXT drivers command a premium price
Even so, this system is a bit pricey by in-a-box standards

Features: 89
Daring use of NXT flat-panel drivers for the surrounds
No high-resolution DVD-Audio or SACD playback

Performance: 90
The front soundstage is tight, despite the absence of a center-channel speaker
The rear soundstage is a modest approximation at best

Ergonomics: 90
The simple hookup and one-remote operation are big pluses
The front-panel controls are exceedingly tiny

Overall Rating: 89
KEF's Instant Theatre deploys NXT flat-panel technology to provide genuine surround-channel coverage using only two speakers. It's a step up from two-speaker faux-surround systems that rely on psycho-acoustic processing.

General Information
KIT100 Instant Theatre, $1,499
KEF America
(800) 882-9296
www.kefinstanttheatre.com
Dealer Locator Code KEF