The LSX II is, in the words of manufacturer KEF, “a high-quality high-fidelity audio system that meets all needs in home entertainment”.
KEF’s new LSX II is, according to the manufacturer, ‘much more than a simple upgrade to the award-winning original, combining class-leading sound with the all-encompassing W2 Wireless platform of the groundbreaking LS50 Wireless II. Connectivity has been improved with the addition of HDMI and USB-C, making this an ideal match for TV, laptop and computer setups alike. The LSX II’s technological improvements are incorporated into a minimalist and contemporary design, created by renowned designer Michael Young. Available in five stylish finishes, the LSX II effortlessly combines form and function to generate pure, natural and accurate sound’.
High-fidelity sound & performance
Comprising a two-speaker box, the LSX II ‘gives music room to breathe and develop, creating a three-dimensional sound. Each speaker uses KEF’s 11th generation Uni-Q driver array, designed specifically for this speaker. The signature technology acts as a point source, with the tweeter placed precisely at the acoustic center of the woofer, reproducing sound naturally. This design eliminates the traditional small ‘sweet spot’ and instead delivers accurate and pure sound for all audio enthusiasts,’ we read in the announcement regarding the newcomers.
200 Watts
The LSX II has a combined system output of 200 watts. The tweeter and woofer are powered by their own amplifier to deliver room-filling sound from the compact cabinets. KEF: ‘The Music Integrity Engine provides even better performance than the award-winning original. Optimized for the Uni-Q driver, the improved Music Integrity Engine enables the LSX II to deliver a perfectly timed performance for improved clarity and tighter sound’.
Play all the music in the world
The KEF Connect app allows you to stream Amazon Music, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, internet radio and podcasts. The native apps Spotify Connect, Tidal and QPlay can also be used directly for streaming. With Apple’s Airplay 2, Chromecast or Roon, it is possible to stream to multiple wireless speakers and sync music throughout the room. Audio lovers will be amazed by the sound quality after the introduction of extended file support up to 24bit/384kHz (PCM), DSD and full MQA rendering. And in case you need, there’s also Bluetooth onboard.
Next-generation plug & play
In addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the LSX II features extensive connectivity options. These include HDMI ARC for hassle-free control with a TV remote and a USB-C input, making the LSX II the perfect desktop audio system for the computer. There are further connections for a record player, CD player, game console and for extra bass there is a dedicated output for the KEF subwoofer.
Enhanced user experience
The KEF Connect app guides audio enthusiasts through initial set-up, controlling the system and playback navigation with intuitive sound settings, ensuring that the LSX II is tailored to the room as accurately as possible. Room EQ DSP allows the LSX II to be easily tuned to any room. The ‘Normal’ mode is designed to be guided through the process with simple questions. To facilitate the integration of a KEF subwoofer with LSX II, Room EQ includes subwoofer presets for the best possible system performance. The LSX II comes with a host of other user-friendly features, including volume settings, sensitivity adjustment and the ability to select a source to activate the system when the source turns on.
Michael Young
The aesthetic design of the LSX II is by Michael Young, one of the most renowned designers in the field of industrial design. Famed for his refined minimalist approach, Young’s design, according to KEF, has a smart and clean aesthetic that perfectly matches the LSX II’s requirement to deliver pristine and accurate sound. LSX II is available in five distinctive finishes: Mineral White and Lava Red models feature matte satin and high-gloss finishes. The Carbon Black and Cobalt Blue are covered in a specially designed fabric by Danish contemporary textile designer Kvadrat. The Soundwave by Terence Conran Edition was one of the last collaborations of the iconic British designer. In this version, the ‘soundwave’ pattern is woven into the unique Kvadrat fabric, complemented by Conran’s signature blue on the speaker port and driver for a real statement.
Thoughtful
Every aspect of the LSX II has been carefully thought out, an elegant rear control panel and subtle design touches such as color-matching trim on the Uni-Q driver and ports. According to KEF, the LSX II makes a statement in any room, whether it’s centered on the striking S1 floor stand or flexibly positioned with the P1 desk pad or B1 wall bracket.
LSX II key features
- 11th generation Uni-Q driver array for exceptionally accurate sound
- Music Integrity Engine for rich, full sound
- Wireless streaming including Airplay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc
- The speaker plays all major music services and supports all major audio formats
- DSD, MQA and PCM up to 24bit/384kHz
- Extensive connectivity for TV, laptop and other devices: USB-C, HDMI ARC, analog input, subwoofer output
- System power of LF 70W class D, HF 30W class D, Max. SPL:102dB
- Intuitive on-boarding with user-friendly features
- Personalized listening experience via KEF Connect App
- Design by renowned designer Michael Young
- Optimized cabinet design for best acoustic performance Mounting inserts for attachment to accessories including P1 desk pad, S1 floor stand and B1 wall bracket
- Available in 5 finishes: Carbon Black, Mineral White, Cobalt Blue, Lava Red and Soundwave by Terence Conran Edition
Price: €1499, available from this month.