The new KEF LSX 2 LT speakers share the same excellent acoustic formula as their larger sibling, the KEF LSX 2, with a Uni-Q coaxial driver and a 2 x 100W amplifier. These latest-generation models have been stripped of a few minor components to come in at under €1,000 (per pair). But are they the best way to enjoy KEF quality at a lower price?
Included accessories
The KEF LSX 2 LT wireless speakers are sold as a pair and are delivered together inside one box. They are supplied with a power cable for the main speaker, a quick start guide and an infrared remote control. Unlike the KEF LS50 Wireless, the KEF LSX 2 LT need to be connected to each other in stereo via a USB-C cable. A 3-meter cable is included, but it can be replaced by a longer model if needed. This practical USB-C cable now provides the power supply for the secondary speaker, which doesn’t need to be plugged into the mains anymore.
Presentation
Design
The KEF LSX 2 LT speakers have the same elegant design as the LSX 2s. The speakers maintain their curved shapes, with a slightly domed front panel and rounded corners, reinforcing their minimalist, compact appearance. At just 15cm wide, 24cm high and 18cm deep, they fit neatly into any space in the home: on a shelf, desk or TV cabinet. To show them off, the manufacturer offers several accessories, including the KEF P1 desk stand, the KEF S1 floor stand or the KEF B1 wall bracket.
While the attractive curves reminiscent of a fine sports car remain, the KEF LSX 2 LT is distinguished by its simpler finish. In an effort to reduce costs, the manufacturer has abandoned the fabric covering of the classic LSX 2 in favor of a chassis made entirely of thick, sturdy ABS. It comes in three colors: graphite gray, stone white and sage green. The color of the Uni-Q driver cone matches the finish of the speaker, creating a seamless look.
Similar connectors
Integrated into the rear panel, the KEF LSX 2 LT speaker’s connectors are all digital. They include an optical input, an HDMI ARC port and a USB-C input for the USB DAC mode. As a result, you can connect a CD player, a computer or a television, for example. Placed on either side of a TV, they can replace a soundbar to improve the dialogue precision and overall immersion. As they are only compatible with stereo, it is necessary to set the television’s HDMI output to PCM. For the bass, the SUB port is still available to connect a subwoofer.
However, it is no longer possible to connect analog sources, such as a preamplified turntable, with this version. If this is something you still want to do, you’ll have to opt for the LSX2 model. This is the main difference between the two versions. In addition, both speakers are now connected using a USB-C port, rather than an RJ45 connector. Not only is it more compact and universal, the USB-C port can also transmit the electrical current, as well as audio signals. This innovation means that only the main speaker has to be plugged into the mains, simplifying installation and placement in the room. Furthermore, the main speaker can be placed on the left or the right by inverting its position in the mobile app.
Streaming services
Apart from Roon compatibility, MQA file playback and Bluetooth aptX codec support, the wireless features offered by the KEF LSX II LT speakers are identical to the previous model. This includes native support for the majority of streaming services, notably Spotify (via Spotify Connect), Tidal, Amazon Music, Deezer and Qobuz. These platforms are accessed using the KEF Connect app for iOS and Android. Each service is well integrated, ensuring smooth, intuitive navigation through the albums, playlists and suggestions provided by each service. The interface is modern and well-thought-out, and lets you customize the homepage for quick access to the most frequently used features.
The KEF Connect app also allows you to enjoy web radios, podcasts and music shared over the local network via DLNA. The built-in DAC supports the majority of audio formats, including FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, AAC, WMA, MP3, M4A, LPCM and Ogg. It can play them up to a resolution of 24-bit/384kHz. DSD is also supported up to DSD256. What’s more, AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatibility make it easy to connect to a smartphone, computer or tablet. However, the Bluetooth controller no longer supports the aptX codec. It is therefore preferable to use WiFi transmissions to enjoy the highest possible audio quality.
Controls
Because there are no controls on the speaker itself, the KEF mobile app is the main means of control. In addition to managing music and sources, this application lets you adjust the speakers’ sound reproduction. In practice, each user can have their own profile and, therefore, their own settings, including the bass and treble levels, the balance, the cutoff frequency of the subwoofer output (between 40Hz and 250Hz), as well as the subwoofer gain. For greater simplicity, DSPs automatically modify the reproduction according to the speaker’s position in the room: desktop or wall mode. If you want to connect a separate subwoofer, there are presets for several of the brand’s models: KEF KC62, KEF KF92, KEF KUBE 8B, KEF KUBE 10B, KEF KUBE 12B and KEF T2. Naturally, you can still connect any other subwoofer model.
The KEF LSX II LT speakers can also be controlled using the infrared remote control. The latter lets you set the volume, change tracks, play and pause the music, select the source and put the speakers in standby mode. Despite being pleasant to hold, the design is fairly basic for a pair of speakers in this price range. It’s made entirely of plastic, and the buttons are relatively noisy. A more robust design, a more pleasant feel and backlighting would have been appreciated. Fortunately, this is not a major drawback, especially as it remains perfectly functional over a very wide range, meaning you don’t have to aim precisely at the speakers.
Coaxial driver
Much to the delight of music lovers, the tried-and-tested acoustic design of the LSX 2 speakers has been used in this more affordable version. They are equipped with the 11th generation Uni-Q driver, specifically designed to adapt to the performance of the LSX. This coaxial model features a 4.5” aluminum/magnesium alloy midbass cone with a 0.75” aluminum tweeter at its center. This configuration creates a point source of sound from which all the frequencies are diffused. The sound distribution is uniform throughout the room, so there is no single sweet spot. Moreover, a wave guide placed in front of the tweeter optimizes sound coverage and maximizes precision.
The amplification stage is also the same, with two modules per speaker: one 70-watt module for the midbass driver and one 30-watt module for the tweeter. The latter are high efficiency class D models, ensuring a dynamic and high amplitude. These amplifiers are developed entirely in-house by KEF engineers to ensure that they fully comply with the capabilities of the Uni-Q driver. Thanks to this design, each KEF LSX II LT speaker is powered by 100 watts, for a total power output of 200 watts per pair.
The integration of dedicated amplification in each speaker eliminates passive filtering and allows for direct wiring of the drivers. This approach significantly reduces the risk of signal deterioration. What’s more, each amplifier module is finely tuned to match the characteristics of the driver it powers, maximizing its performance. As with the classic LSX 2, the amplifier modules benefit from the brand’s exclusive “Music Integrity Engine” DSP processor. Its algorithms are inspired by those developed for the premium KEF LS50W II and KEF LS60W speakers. The result is improved sonic clarity and enhanced dynamics, with better temporal alignment compared to the algorithms of first-generation KEF LSXs. This ensures optimal transparency and precision.
KEF LSX 2 LX: key specifications
- Wireless hi-fi speakers
- Speakers connected via cable
- 4.5” Uni-Q coaxial driver
- 100W per speaker
- 24-bit/384kHz and DSD256 compatible
- Streaming services
- AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Bluetooth
- Optical input, USB-C and HDMI ARC
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 155 x 240 x 180mm
Installing the KEF LSX 2 LX speakers
Unlike the KEF LS50 Wireless II, which are entirely wireless, the KEF LSX 2 LX speakers need to be connected to one another using a USB-C cable to work. The supplied 3m cable is sufficient for most installations and supports 24-bit/96kHz transmission. If necessary, you can replace it with a longer cable. As a result, the secondary cable doesn’t need to be connected to the mains.
Once the main speaker is connected to the mains, the setup is done using the KEF Connect app. If the speakers use an Ethernet connection, they are automatically detected and work instantly. For a WiFi connection, you need to add the speakers to your network by following the instructions in the app. You’ll then be able to add your streaming services and access the various settings.
Music listening impressions
More affordable but just as impressive when it comes to music reproduction, the KEF LSX 2 LX speakers provided the same sound quality as the standard version. We enjoyed the same dynamic character, for a lively, energetic listening experience. With the track Fragile by Sting, the guitar was reproduced with impressive clarity, allowing us to hear each strum on the strings. We discovered countless details and nuances. The attacks were remarkably vigorous and powerful, without ever becoming aggressive. The resonance and reverberations were accurately reproduced, giving the impression of attending a private concert.
The KEF LSX 2 LT speakers emphasized the lows and low-mids very slightly, adding a subtle warm and pleasant coloration. The lows had a lot of impact for such small speakers, with a power and articulation that many larger models would envy. The bass, robust and well-defined, was characterized by its strength and firmness. Although they weren’t excessively deep because of the speakers’ size and small driver, these KEFs avoided any excess resonance, preserving remarkable clarity. They provided a solid foundation for the music, particularly at high volume. For ambient listening, it is recommended to activate the Extra Bass DSP to improve balance.
These small KEF wireless speakers are suitable for a wide variety of music genres, from classical music to rock and electronic. On the track Birds by Dominique Fils-Aimé, the Canadian singer’s voice was effectively highlighted at the center of the soundstage, giving the impression that there was a phantom center speaker. The subtlest nuances, breaths and even slight changes in tone were reproduced with authenticity and transparency. The instruments accompanying the vocals offered a naturalness and presence that transcended the physical limits of the LSX.
Home theater listening impressions
When used in a home theater installation and connected to an OLED television via HDMI ARC, the KEF LSX 2 LT used their extensive soundstage to diffuse the sound far beyond the limits of the screen. Although they don’t feature a virtual surround sound feature, they provided a much more realistic and immersive experience. Soundtracks were reproduced with dynamism and transparency. We could clearly hear every sound effect, even when the soundtrack was at its loudest. The meticulous placement of the voices in the center of the soundstage gave the impression that the dialogue was coming out of the screen. Action scenes had more energy and presence. However, adding a subwoofer is particularly beneficial if you want to enjoy truly physical bass.
KEF LSX 2 LT vs KEF LS50 Wireless 2
The larger KEF LS50 Wireless 2 speakers (€2,249) offer the same wireless features and connectors. More imposing and equipped with a 5” 12th generation Uni-Q driver, they are more generous in the lows, with slightly deeper and more impactful bass. Also more powerful, the KEF LS50 Wireless 2 speaker is more suitable for larger living spaces, whereas the KEF LSX 2 LT are limited to 25m²/30m² when they aren’t accompanied by a subwoofer.
Conclusion
With the KEF LSX 2 LT, the British manufacturer offers an excellent alternative to their iconic KEF LSX 2. These speakers are a more interesting option for those who find the fabric finish superfluous and don’t need analog connectors, MQA and Roon compatibility, or aptX Bluetooth. For €400 less, they deliver the same musical performance, with a dynamic, powerful, balanced and minutely detailed reproduction. An amount that can be reinvested in a small subwoofer to further enhance the listening experience, for both music and movies. A combination that could make this the most competitive all-in-one system in its category.
We liked:
- The compact format
- The impressive dynamism
- The transparent and clear soundstage
- The well-designed mobile app
We would have liked:
- Even deeper bass
- A higher quality remote control
- An analog input
