KEF LSX II Review
The KEF LSX II is a highly regarded compact wireless speaker system, known for its blend of design, versatility, and impressive sound performance. This successor to the original LSX maintains the same aesthetic appeal while introducing several enhancements, particularly in connectivity and audio processing.
KEF LSX II Design and Build
Featuring a sleek, modern design, it’s available in multiple finishes including Mineral White, Lava Red, Carbon Black, and Cobalt Blue, with a special edition designed by Terence Conran. Each speaker is compact, measuring 24 × 15.5 × 18 cm, and weighs around 3.6 kg.
The build quality is excellent, with a sturdy plastic casing and a well-designed internal structure that minimizes resonance. This makes the LSX II not only a stylish addition to any room but also a durable one.
Technical Specifications
The LSX II is powered by KEF’s signature Uni-Q driver array, consisting of a 19mm aluminium tweeter nestled in the centre of an 11.5cm aluminium mid/bass driver. This setup allows for a broad soundstage and precise imaging. Each speaker is equipped with separate Class D amplifiers for the tweeter (30W) and mid/bass driver (70W), delivering a total of 100W per channel.
The system supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD256, and MQA, ensuring audiophile-grade sound quality. Connectivity options include HDMI ARC, optical, USB-C, Ethernet, and 3.5mm AUX inputs, alongside wireless options like AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Bluetooth 5.0, and Roon Ready.
Performance
The KEF LSX II impresses with its balanced sound profile, offering clear mids and highs, along with a punchy bass that remains controlled even at higher volumes. The Uni-Q driver array ensures a wide soundstage, making the speakers suitable for both near-field listening on a desktop and filling a small to medium-sized room.
The system handles various genres well, from the subtle dynamics of classical music to the deep basslines of hip-hop. While it may lack the deep bass extension of larger speakers, it performs admirably within its size constraints. For those who require more bass, the option to connect a subwoofer is available.
User Experience
The LSX II’s user experience is enhanced by the KEF Control app, which allows for extensive customisation of the sound profile, including EQ adjustments based on room acoustics and speaker placement. The app is intuitive, though some users might find the physical remote less satisfying due to its small size and basic functionality.
The system is designed to be easy to set up, and its robust wireless performance ensures a reliable connection whether streaming music or connecting to a TV.
Value for Money
Priced around $1,400, the KEF LSX II offers a high level of performance and connectivity features that justify its cost. It’s particularly compelling for those seeking a high-quality, all-in-one wireless speaker system without the need for additional components.
Comparison with Other Products
When compared to similar wireless speakers like the Sonos Five or the Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duo, the KEF LSX II stands out for its superior imaging and high-resolution audio support. However, the Sonos system may appeal to those who prefer a more user-friendly ecosystem and multi-room capabilities, while the Bowers & Wilkins offers slightly better bass performance but at a higher price point. The Naim Mu-so Qb 2 also provides excellent sound quality in a compact form but lacks the stereo imaging that the LSX II’s separate speakers offer.
Conclusion
The KEF LSX II is a testament to audio engineering excellence, offering a high-fidelity listening experience in a sleek, compact design. Perfectly suited for modern living spaces, these active wireless speakers combine cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality, making them an ideal choice for both audiophiles and casual listeners.
At its heart is KEF’s Uni-Q driver array, a hallmark of the brand’s design that disperses sound more evenly throughout the room. This advanced driver is complemented by KEF’s Music Integrity Engine, which fine-tunes the audio signal for unparalleled clarity and precision. The result is a rich, immersive soundstage that brings your music, movies, and games to life.
Connectivity is where the LSX II truly shines. With options including HDMI ARC, USB-C, and optical inputs, these speakers easily connect to your TV, laptop, or gaming console. Wireless options are equally robust, supporting Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Bluetooth 5.0, and compatibility with Roon, ensuring you can stream your favourite music from virtually any source.
For those who demand more bass, it includes a dedicated output for a subwoofer, allowing you to enhance the low-end response. The speakers also support high-resolution audio streaming up to 24bit/384kHz, making them a perfect fit for high-definition audio enthusiasts.
The design of the LSX II is as impressive as it sounds. Available in several stylish colourways, these speakers are compact enough to fit seamlessly into any room, yet powerful enough to fill even larger spaces with pristine sound. Their minimalist aesthetic is enhanced by the option to use KEF’s S1 floor stands, P1 desk pads, or B1 wall brackets, allowing for flexible placement and integration into your home decor.
Whether you’re watching a movie, streaming music, or playing games, the KEF LSX II delivers an extraordinary audio experience that’s easy to set up and a joy to use.
It’s a top-tier wireless speaker system that delivers excellent sound quality, versatile connectivity, and a sleek design. It is ideal for audiophiles and casual listeners alike who value detailed sound and a comprehensive feature set in a compact package. Its main strengths lie in its clarity, imaging, and build quality, making it a worthy investment for those seeking a premium audio experience. While the price may be steep for some, the combination of design, performance, and convenience makes it a standout choice in its category.
Our Rating
Considering the strong performance, exceptional build quality, and versatile features of the KEF LSX II, while also factoring in its higher price point and limited bass depth compared to larger speakers, I would rate it 4.5 out of 5 stars. This rating reflects its superior soundstage, clarity, and the robust suite of connectivity options that make it a standout choice in the compact wireless speaker category.
For more info and different perspectives, check out KEF US, KEF Europe, whathifi, StereoNET International, Sound & Vision or The Absolute Sound.