Excellent analysis Kaz.
We also tested both the music and movie modes of the Kef. Although there was a minor difference between the 2 we couldn't decide what that actually was
The PDR10 definitely showed a lot more distortion, but what surprised me was that out of all of them it was the only model to actually move any air during the sonic gun scene in Minority Report. Although the others gave the sound, it was only the PDR10 that gave a "hit". Tons noted that in some ways the distortion actually
added to the sound as it provided a rolloff of sound rather than it being quite abrupt.
We were all surprised that the 909 didn't really add anything over the 309 - both had an enormous dropoff at the same point which seemed odd as the 909 has a much bigger cabinet and driver so has more potential for the lower notes. Perhaps there is a low-cut filter in the MS electronics? I suspect the added size will come into play in a larger room as the 909's amp was set to about 30% whilst the 309's was at about 45% showing there's far more in reserve for big brother. Enough to warrant a £200 price hike? We weren't sure.
Essentially, 309 is an excellent standard. Kef was slightly slower but looked nicer. BK was smaller but cost a bit more. PDR10 was surprisingly good with movies. 909 wasn't really an improvement on the 309 in the conditions we had.
An interesting and enjoyable afternoon too, can't wait to have the pictures added.
What HiFi eat your heart out
