It was in 1961 that the KEF brand was born thanks to its creator Raymond Cooke. His goal? To do everything possible to offer acoustic excellence with innovative hi-fi equipment. Sixty-one years later, the brand unveils the KEF LSX II wireless hi-fi system. This pair of connected speakers combines numerous connectivity options, intuitive use, a contemporary look, and of course, high-fidelity sound.
These new speakers follow the launch of the KEF LS60 Wireless floorstanding speaker a few weeks ago. The KEF LS60 Wireless: KEF’s first wireless floorstanding speaker article on the Son-Vidéo.com blog details all the manufacturer’s innovations concerning this system, including a 12th generation Uni-Q driver and the Uni-Core woofer.
The KEF LS speaker series also includes the KEF LS50 Wireless 2 bookshelf speakers. The speakers in the range are equipped with the KEF UniQ coaxial driver and demonstrate excellent musicality. Their performance has also earned them numerous awards from the specialized press.
KEF LSX II: more than a simple update
Successors of the remarkable KEF LSX Wireless (see the KEF LSX Wireless review on the Son-Vidéo.com blog) which arrived on the market in 2018, the KEF LSX II offer much more than a simple update. The British manufacturer’s Research & Development department has added many technologies to the LSX II to offer high-fidelity sound. Regarding acoustics, the driver and cabinet have not changed. This second edition still uses the 11th generation of this Uni-Q driver, designed specifically to match the performance of the KEF LSX Wireless 2. It therefore allows a uniform distribution of sound in the room.
In addition, the presence of the “Music Integrity Engine” digital processor allows for increased clarity and a more dynamic sound. A part of this DSP draws inspiration from the higher-end KEF LS50W II and KEF LS60W, making it the all-in-one system with the best value for money.
“To be honest, it surprised us how much we were able to improve things by applying our latest DSP techniques,” said Jack Oclee-Brown, vice president of technology at KEF.
The KEF LSX 2 stereo system comes, like its previous version, with two speakers to create an immersive three-dimensional soundstage. These compact speakers include amplification as well as network sources. Each driver benefits from its own amplification for a total output power of 200 watts.
KEF LSX II: extended connectivity and W2 streaming platform
Another improvement, the KEF LSX II bookshelf speakers benefit from extended connectivity. In addition to the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules as well as its compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, the LSX 2 features various wired ports. In particular, there is an HDMI ARC input and a USB-C input allowing them to be connected to a television or a laptop. In addition, the CEC function of the HDMI connector allows you to control the volume of the speakers using the remote control of the TV. Handy! In addition, other inputs are added to connect a turntable, a CD player or a games console, for example.
The LSX II adopts the British manufacturer’s latest W2 streaming platform. The KEF Connect app (iOS and Android) allows simple and intuitive configuration. The sound settings can be adjusted according to the size of the room and your preferences. This application also provides access to various streaming services, including Amazon Music, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer and Spotify. To enjoy the best possible sound quality, the KEF LSX 2 speakers feature Spotify Connect, Tidal, QPlay, and are “Roon Ready”.
Good news! The KEF LSX 2 stereo system supports DSD and PCM files up to 24-bit/384kHz, and is compatible with the MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) codec.
KEF LSX II: key specifications
- Wireless streaming compatible via AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 2.⅘ GHz
- DSD, MQA and PCM up to 24-bit/384kHz
- Connectors: USB-C, HDMI ARC, analog stereo input, active subwoofer output
- 11th generation Uni-Q drivers
- Amplification (class D) per driver:
- Lows 70W – Highs 30W
- Maximum output level: 102 dB SPL
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 155 x 240 x 180mm
British elegance
The English brand has once again called on designer Michael Young for the design of these compact speakers. The second generation LSX benefit from an elegant contemporary design available in five finishes: Carbon Black, Mineral White, Cobalt Blue, Lava Red and Soundwave in collaboration with Terence Conran (special edition beige-taupe color). The white and red colorways feature matte satin and high-gloss spray finishes respectively, and the black and blue models are clad in an elegant Kvadrat fabric.
Finally, mounting inserts allow the speakers to be mounted using the optional KEF S1 and KEF P1 stands, or the KEF B1 wall bracket.
The KEF LSX II bookshelf speakers will be available from June 23rd at a price of €1,499.
