KEF SP1696 Driver LS50W

( Brand: Kef ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: SP1696 ), ( Compatible Brand: For Kef ), ( Type: Mf/lf Tweeter Driver ), ( Unit Type: Unit ), ( Size: 5.25 ), ( Compatible Model: Ls50, Uni-q Mf ), ( Unit Quantity: One ), ( Country Of Origin: United Kingdom )

Review KEF Driver Ls50 Blue Parts

The **KEF LS50 and LS50W** are premium, high-performance loudspeaker drivers designed to deliver exceptional audio clarity, power handling, and dynamic range, making them ideal for both professional studio monitoring and high-end consumer applications. At the heart of these drivers lies the **KEF SP1696**, a cutting-edge **16.5-inch (420mm) long-throw woofer** engineered with KEF s signature **Uni-Q ** dome tweeter technology, ensuring a seamless, wide dispersion pattern that minimizes coloration and maximizes soundstage immersion. The LS50 and LS50W share a robust **aluminum cone** with a **butyl rubber surround**, providing unmatched rigidity and durability to handle deep bass with precision while resisting fatigue even under prolonged high-power conditions. The **LS50W** variant further enhances performance with a **waterproof design**, making it suitable for outdoor or marine applications where environmental resistance is critical.

Both models feature **KEF s proprietary SPL (Sound Pressure Level) control technology**, which optimizes the driver s efficiency and frequency response, ensuring a balanced output across the midrange and bass without excessive distortion. The **LS50** is optimized for indoor use, delivering a rich, detailed sound profile with a natural extension into the sub-20Hz range, ideal for home theaters, control rooms, or professional audio setups where accuracy is paramount. In contrast, the **LS50W** builds upon this foundation with **enhanced weatherproofing**, including a **corrosion-resistant coating** and **IP55-rated enclosure**, allowing it to withstand moisture, dust, and temperature fluctuations without compromising performance making it a versatile choice for live sound, outdoor events, or marine installations.

The **Uni-Q tweeter**, a hallmark of KEF s design philosophy, ensures a **consistent polar response** across the entire frequency spectrum, eliminating the "sweet spot" limitations common in traditional multi-driver systems. This technology, combined with the **SP1696 s deep excursion capability**, allows for a **smooth, extended low-end response** that blends effortlessly with the tweeter s crisp highs, resulting in a soundstage that feels expansive and three-dimensional. Whether used as a standalone subwoofer in a home audio system or integrated into a larger PA setup, the LS50 and LS50W drivers deliver **unmatched power handling (up to 1,000W RMS continuous)** and **exceptional transient response**, ensuring every note, bass drop, or vocal delivery is reproduced with surgical precision and emotional impact.

For audiophiles and sound engineers demanding the best, these drivers represent a fusion of **innovative engineering and acoustic excellence**, offering a **future-proof solution** that adapts to a wide range of applications from high-end home theaters to professional sound reinforcement. Whether paired with a **KEF LSX or LSX-W series enclosure** or integrated into a custom system, the **LS50 and LS50W** drivers redefine what s possible in loudspeaker technology, proving that great sound is not just about volume, but about **depth, clarity, and emotional resonance**.

### Pros and Cons of buying a Kef LS50 and LS50W with the SP1696 Driver

#### **Kef LS50 (Passive Speaker)**

The Kef LS50 is a high-end bookshelf speaker known for its refined sound and premium build quality.

1. **Superior Sound Quality** The LS50 features Kef s signature **SP1696** driver, a large-diameter, planar magnetic unit that delivers exceptional clarity, extended frequency response, and a natural soundstage. The driver s design minimizes distortion and provides a smooth, detailed audio experience across all frequencies.

2. **Premium Build** Constructed with high-quality materials, including a **mahogany cabinet** with a **butterfly bracing** system for structural integrity and reduced resonance. The **black vinyl grille** adds a sleek aesthetic while protecting the driver.

3. **Wide Frequency Response** The LS50 handles both low and high frequencies with precision, making it suitable for a wide range of music genres, from classical to modern electronic.

4. **Balanced Sound Signature** The speaker excels in **midrange clarity** and **tweeter articulation**, offering a well-rounded listening experience without excessive bass or harshness.

5. **Versatility** While not a subwoofer, its deep bass extension (down to 50Hz) is impressive for a bookshelf speaker, making it a strong choice for stereo setups.

6. **Long-Term Value** As a well-established model, the LS50 retains its value and continues to receive praise from audiophiles, indicating reliability and enduring performance.

7. **Compatibility** Works seamlessly with most high-end amplifiers and AV receivers, making it a flexible addition to any system.

1. **Passive Design (No Amplification)** Since the LS50 is passive, you ll need an external amplifier, which adds to the overall cost and complexity of the setup.

2. **Limited Bass Output** While the bass is decent for a bookshelf speaker, it lacks the deep, powerful sub-bass response of a dedicated subwoofer or powered speaker.

3. **Price Point** The LS50 is not a budget-friendly option; its cost is justified by its performance but may be prohibitive for casual listeners.

4. **Size and Space Requirements** The speakers are relatively large (18.5" tall, 10.5" wide), so they require dedicated shelf space and may not fit in smaller rooms or compact setups.

5. **No Built-in Connectivity** Unlike powered speakers (e.g., LS50W), you ll need to manage wiring and connections separately, which can be less convenient.

---

#### **Kef LS50W (Powered Speaker)**

The LS50W is the powered version of the LS50, featuring the same driver but with an integrated amplifier and digital signal processing.

1. **Convenience of a Powered Speaker** The built-in **amplifier (100W per channel)** eliminates the need for an external amp, simplifying setup and reducing clutter. The inclusion of **digital signal processing (DSP)** allows for room correction and optimized sound tuning.

2. **Same Exceptional Driver** Retains the **SP1696 driver**, ensuring the same high-quality sound as the passive LS50, with clear mids, accurate highs, and a smooth bass response.

3. **Digital Features** The LS50W includes **Bluetooth, USB, and optical inputs**, making it easy to connect to modern devices like smartphones, tablets, and streaming services.

4. **Room Correction** The DSP adjusts the speaker s performance based on the room s acoustics, improving sound consistency across different environments.

5. **Portability (Relative to Passive Speakers)** While still not portable in the traditional sense, the powered design means you can move the speakers more easily without worrying about amplifier compatibility.

6. **Modern Connectivity** The inclusion of wireless and digital inputs caters to contemporary listening habits, making it a more versatile option for home audio setups.

7. **Balanced Sound Signature** Like the passive version, the LS50W delivers a **natural, detailed, and accurate** sound with minimal distortion.

1. **Potential Amplifier Limitations** While the 100W per channel is sufficient for most home listening, high-power amplifiers or very large rooms may require additional amplification for optimal performance.

2. **Digital Processing Overhead** Some audiophiles prefer the "pure" sound of passive speakers without DSP, arguing that room correction can sometimes introduce artifacts or alter the natural sound.

3. **Higher Price Than Passive Alternatives** The LS50W is more expensive than the passive LS50, primarily due to the integrated amplifier and digital features. If you already own an amplifier, the passive version may be more cost-effective.

4. **Battery Dependency (Bluetooth)** While Bluetooth is convenient, relying on battery life for wireless connections can be inconvenient for long listening sessions.

5. **Less Flexibility for AV Use** The LS50W is optimized for stereo audio and may not be as versatile for surround sound or AV receiver setups compared to passive speakers.

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#### **Comparison: LS50 vs. LS50W**

**Factor** **LS50 (Passive)** **LS50W (Powered)**

-------------------------- -------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------

**Amplification** Requires external amp Built-in 100W per channel

**Connectivity** Analog inputs only Bluetooth, USB, optical, analog

**Room Correction** Not available Yes (DSP-based)

**Setup Complexity** More complex (needs amp, wiring) Plug-and-play

**Cost** Lower (if you already have an amp) Higher (due to integrated amp)

**Best For** Audiophiles who prioritize pure sound Convenience-focused users with modern needs

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### **Conclusion and Recommendation**

The choice between the **Kef LS50** and **LS50W** depends on your priorities, budget, and listening environment.

- You already own a high-quality amplifier and want to avoid the potential compromises of built-in DSP.

- You prioritize **pure, unprocessed sound** and are willing to invest in a dedicated amplifier.

- You plan to use the speakers in a **stereo or AV setup** where flexibility and room correction are less critical.

- You prefer a **simpler, more traditional audio setup** and don t mind managing wiring.

The LS50 is ideal for audiophiles who value **accuracy, detail, and the natural sound** of Kef s planar magnetic driver. It s a timeless choice that continues to impress with its refined audio performance.

- You want **convenience and modern connectivity** (Bluetooth, USB, optical) without dealing with external amplifiers.

- You re new to high-end audio or prefer a **plug-and-play solution**.

- You appreciate **room correction** and want the speaker to adapt to your listening environment automatically.

- You don t have a dedicated amplifier or want to avoid the hassle of managing one.

- You primarily listen to **music on smartphones, tablets, or streaming devices** and want seamless wireless connectivity.

The LS50W is a fantastic option for those who want **high-quality sound with minimal setup effort**. The inclusion of DSP and modern inputs makes it a practical choice for contemporary listening habits.

- **For audiophiles or those with existing amplifiers:** The **LS50** is the superior choice. Its **unprocessed sound, premium build, and exceptional driver** make it one of the best bookshelf speakers available. If you re serious about audio quality and don t mind the extra step of connecting an amplifier, the LS50 will deliver a **superior listening experience** that few speakers can match.

- **For convenience and modern features:** The **LS50W** is an excellent alternative. It retains the **same driver and sound quality** as the LS50 while adding **built-in amplification, wireless connectivity, and room correction**. If you want a **hassle-free, high-performance speaker** that works seamlessly with modern devices, the LS50W is a strong recommendation.

- **LS50** Best for **purists and audiophiles** who want the best possible sound with minimal compromises.

- **LS50W** Best for **convenience, modern connectivity, and ease of use** without sacrificing much in terms of sound quality.

Both speakers are outstanding, but the right choice depends on whether you value **sound purity** (LS50) or **convenience and modern features** (LS50W). For most home audio setups, the LS50W strikes a great balance between performance and practicality. However, if you re committed to the highest possible audio quality and have the right amplifier, the LS50 remains the gold standard.

Details:

Has some dents in the copper cone as pictured. Tested and works great!, Used KEF LS50 Wireless Original Driver.

part #: sp1696 prices

• $99.00-$199.95

specifications speakerpartgo:

• brand: Kef
• mpn: Sp1696
• compatible brand: For Kef
• type: Mf/lf Tweeter Driver
• unit type: Unit
• size: 5.25
• compatible model: Ls50, Uni-q Mf
• unit quantity: One
• country of origin: United Kingdom

seller speakerpartgo:

• rating: 100.0%
• city: Mount Prospect, Illinois
• # reviews: 27132

returns speakerpartgo:

• policy: Returns Accepted
• time: 30 Days
• paid by: Seller
• method: Money back

offer speakerpartgo:

• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• started: May 13, 2026
• sold: 0
• quantity: 1

payments speakerpartgo:

• other
• wallet: Apple-pay
• credit card: Mastercard

shipping speakerpartgo:

• service: USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelope
• carrier: USPS
• class: Expedited
• cost: $9.62
• transit: 2-6 Days
• type: Calculated

general speakerpartgo:

• TV, Video Audio Parts > Speaker Parts Components > Other Speaker Parts Comp
• condition: For parts or not working

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