What we liked
- The elegant, minimalist design
- The all-aluminum finish
- The tonal balance
- The long battery life
We would have liked
- An app with more features
- For a carrying pouch to be included
Our expert’s opinion
I have to admit, I fell under the spell of the KEF Muo as soon as I picked it up as its finish and refined design exude quality. It is also a pleasure to note that the sound performance lives up to its premium aesthetics. The tonal balance reflects the British brand's hi-fi DNA. Both accurate and coherent, it manages to offer high-fidelity sound in a compact, transportable format. So, if you're looking for a compromise between portability and audio quality, the Muo is an undeniable success. Although the KEF Connect app is rather basic and lacks a personalized equalizer, it's easy to forgive in view of the overall quality. And who knows, perhaps a future update will extend the possibilities of this latest-generation portable speaker.
KEF, leader in the active speaker market with the reference models LSX 2 and LS50 Wireless 2, applies its acoustic expertise to a portable, battery-powered format. With this second generation of the KEF Muo portable speaker, the British manufacturer offers a welcome update, nine years after the release of the first edition. Notable improvements include an enhanced driver that promises better bass control, a longer battery life and support for the Auracast protocol with Bluetooth 5.4 compatibility. So, just how good is the new KEF Muo Bluetooth speaker, priced at €269?
Presentation
Included accessories
The KEF Muo portable Bluetooth speaker is presented in a cardboard box, designed like a case reserved for fine wines. Reflecting the brand’s reputation for attention to detail and elegance, it embodies the refinement that characterises all KEF equipment and the care taken with each component, from the speaker to its packaging. Inside, the portable speaker is accompanied by its USB-C charging cable and start-up guide. The removable carrying strap is pre-installed.
Lovegrove design
The new-generation KEF Muo portable speaker follows the lines of its predecessor, designed by Ross Lovegrove. The curves of the honeycombed front panel evoke the monumental (2m high) KEF Muon speaker, sold at €220,000 a pair, whose design was imagined by the famous Welshman. On the rear of the speaker, the designer’s signature appears discreetly in tone-on-tone lettering above the Bluetooth pairing control.
The elegant aluminum chassis has also been retained, ensuring robustness and effective absorption of unwanted vibrations. The top and base of the Muo speaker feature silicone reinforcements, while the left-hand side of the device has rubber feet. The advantage of this speaker is that it can be installed vertically or horizontally with the same sound performance. A removable carrying strap is also included. Both discreet and sturdy, it’s ideal for safely carrying the speaker around the house, or for hanging it outside while still making room on the table.
Audio design
The new KEF Muo adopts a two-way, two-driver design. A 0.75″ tweeter is combined with a 2.3″ × 4.6″ midbass driver. A bi-amplification system, with 10W for the tweeter and 30W for the main driver, animates the speaker.
The audio configuration benefits from Music Integrity Engine (MIE) technology, which analyzes the incoming signal in real time using an algorithm to optimize the performance of the drivers and amplification system. KEF presents MIE as a system that delivers better-defined bass, without sacrificing the clarity of other frequencies. This technology therefore ensures the speaker’s tonal balance, and enables it to provide deep bass depth despite a reduced load volume.
Expert's note
The KEF Muo portable speaker delivers mono sound. However, to easily enjoy stereo sound, two Muo speakers can be connected thanks to True Wireless Stereo technology. This is activated by pressing the "+" and "Bluetooth" buttons on both speakers for three seconds. The result is an ultra-compact desktop stereo system.
Battery life
This is the most striking improvement in this new iteration. The KEF Muo’s autonomy takes a real leap forward, increasing from 12 to 24 hours. Convenient fast charging offers 3 hours of autonomy after just 15 minutes. This gives you even more freedom to enjoy your music at home or on the patio. In addition to its long battery life, the new Muo boasts another essential asset for a portable model: sturdiness. Its aluminum chassis protects against damage, and its IP67 rating certifies its resistance to water and dust. So, while its natural elegance makes me want to keep it on my desk, I also appreciate being able to take it outside the house without apprehension, although a carrying case would have been nice.
Bluetooth aptX Adaptive and Auracast
The KEF Muo portable speaker features a Bluetooth 5.4 module compatible with SBC, AAC and high definition thanks to aptX Adaptive. The latter guarantees low latency, making it ideal for use with a computer for a desktop system when watching videos on YouTube, for example, and adapts the wireless transmission rate to provide an optimal signal even in difficult environments.
Another new feature of the latest generation KEF Muo is Auracast compatibility. This technology is set to become the new Bluetooth multi-room standard, facilitating interoperability. Industry giants such as JBL and Marshall are jumping on the bandwagon, and KEF appears to be following suit. In concrete terms, Auracast enables the association of several compatible speakers to broadcast synchronized sound. This technology makes it possible to go beyond True Wireless Stereo by pairing an infinite number of compatible speakers from several different brands. This can be very useful at a party, when several portable speakers can be combined to broadcast more powerful sound, without the need for a large party speaker.
USB-C audio and built-in microphone
The KEF Muo portable speaker doesn’t rely exclusively on its wireless connectivity. It features a USB-C port with a dual function. In addition to recharging the device, it can play high-definition audio files up to 24-bit/48kHz thanks to its integrated DAC. The speaker can therefore be plugged directly into a computer or DAP to enjoy music in the office.
What’s more, the KEF Muo Bluetooth speaker is equipped with a microphone that enables hands-free calls in ideal conditions, thanks to a technology that eliminates echo and ambient noise. This function is particularly useful for remote workers to enhance the computer’s audio system during a video call, for example. This feature reinforces the modern character of this speaker, designed above all for close-up musical listening sessions in all circumstances.
Key specifications
- 40W amplification
- 2.3 × 4.6″ midbass driver + 0.75″ tweeter
- Up to 24 hours of autonomy
- Bluetooth aptX Adaptive
- Robust and waterproof: IP67 rating
- Wireless stereo and Auracast
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 82 x 216 x 59mm
- Weight: 740g
My listening impressions
True to the brand’s signature sound, the KEF Muo speaker delivered a balanced reproduction. Each frequency range unfolded naturally, without encroaching on the others. On folk and jazz tracks, the speaker demonstrated impeccable clarity. Acoustic instruments were naturally rendered, and the bass is powerful.
Reflecting its refined design, this KEF 2025 portable speaker delivered sound with finesse and precision. This approach runs counter to the most popular models of the moment, which favor a more punchy sound, often with excessive bass. This demonstrates the boldness of the British brand, which seeks to export hi-fi sound in a compact, portable format. A bet that has paid off, even if the precision and detail of the Muo can’t match that of larger speakers.
Loudness fans will find their salvation via the KEF Connect app by activating the “Extra bass” preset, which will further enhance the low frequencies. However, this is the only asset of this rather limited app, where the lack of a custom equalizer stands out as a shortcoming compared to the competition.
As the KEF Muo speaker is the ideal partner for remote workers, I also decided to listen to several podcasts. The midrange was defined and voices were clear, allowing us to fully enjoy the discussions despite the surrounding noise. A DSP mode available in the app is also available for those who want to adjust the sound. This brings voices to the fore for impeccable clarity.
Comparison
KEF Muo vs Marshall Middleton II
Direct competitors, these two speakers offer totally different signatures. The KEF focuses on balance, while the Marshall stands out for its punchier sound. With four drivers, the Middleton II ensures a 360° sound reproduction and can rely on a more comprehensive app. However, the Muo has a USB-C audio input, making it easy to connect to a wired computer or smartphone, particularly for professional use (video calls). The KEF speaker also benefits from a more powerful aptX Adaptive-compatible Bluetooth 5.4 module and Auracast compatibility.
KEF Muo vs Dali Katch G2
In this duel at the pinnacle of elegance, the Dali speaker comes out on top in terms of battery life, with 30 hours of listening time versus 24 hours for the British model, as well as amplification power (50W vs. 40W) to drive its four drivers. However, the KEF is more portable, thanks in particular to its resistance to water and dust. Support for the aptX Adaptive codec makes for an even more powerful solution than the Katch G2, which goes as far as the aptX HD codec. The Muo’s USB-C audio port also surpasses the 3.5mm mini-jack input of its Danish competitor. While the DALI Katch G2 remains a benchmark among portable speakers, it is priced at €399, compared with €269 for the Muo.
Who is this speaker for?
The KEF Muo portable Bluetooth speaker is aimed at discerning music lovers looking for an elegant, hi-fi-focused device. It’s designed for lovers of balanced sound, looking for a portable speaker that isn’t too bass-forward, but instead gives pride of place to each frequency range. It’s a harmonious combination of portable practicality, refined looks and undeniable sonic finesse. Its minimalist design and high-quality finish make it ideal for the office: a compact speaker that’s always close at hand, without compromising on sound quality. The integrated microphone is also an important asset for clear video calls.
Your opinion
I had the first KEF Muo, and this one beats it in every way: power, emotion, bass. In short: quality and simplicity with an IP67 rating and over 20 hours of battery life. Connected to my Samsung Ultra, it really delivers the kind of sound I love. Even at full volume, there’s no distortion whatsoever. Go for it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Review by Ktsud, November 14, 2025
Frequently asked questions – FAQ KEF Muo
What are the differences between the first and this new 2025 generation of the KEF Muo?
The new generation features a higher-performance Bluetooth chip and drivers. It also boasts a longer battery life and Auracast compatibility, enabling wireless daisy-chaining with other compatible speakers.
What is the battery life of the KEF Muo?
The KEF Muo portable speaker provides up to 24 hours of autonomy on a single charge.
How long does it take to fully recharge the KEF Muo speaker?
A full recharge takes about 2 hours.
Does the KEF Muo have a fast-charge function?
Yes, a 15-minute charge can provide up to 3 hours of playback.
Can the KEF Muo recharge a smartphone?
No, the USB-C port can’t charge a smartphone.
Is the USB-C port on the KEF Muo speaker just for charging?
The KEF Muo’s USB-C port also lets you listen to wired music from an audio source such as a computer or DAP, for example. The integrated DAC supports streams up to 24-bit/48kHz.
Which Bluetooth audio codecs are supported by the KEF Muo speaker?
It is Bluetooth 5.4 compatible with SBC, AAC and aptX Adaptive codecs. Support for the aptX Adaptive codec also guarantees backward compatibility with aptX and aptX HD codecs.
