KEF has been a renowned brand in the world of high-quality audio equipment, known for its commitment to delivering exceptional sound reproduction. Among its popular offerings, the KEF LSX and LSX II stand out as wireless active speakers that combine style, convenience, and audio performance. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive comparison of the KEF LSX and LSX II, exploring their features, sound quality, connectivity options, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
Both the KEF LSX and LSX II exemplify KEF’s dedication to sleek and modern design aesthetics. They feature a compact and elegant form factor that easily blends into any home environment. The speakers are crafted with precision and attention to detail, utilizing premium materials to ensure a high-quality build.The original KEF LSX showcases a curved cabinet design with a fabric grille, giving it a contemporary and minimalist appearance. In contrast, the LSX II features a more refined design with a matte finish and a choice of multiple color options, allowing users to match their speakers to their personal style and home décor.When it comes to build quality, both models maintain KEF’s reputation for excellence. The cabinets are constructed from robust materials to minimize resonance and vibrations, resulting in clean and accurate sound reproduction. The LSX II, in particular, benefits from refinements in the internal components and construction, further enhancing its overall performance.
Audio Performance
The audio performance of any speaker is a critical aspect that determines its appeal to audiophiles. Let’s compare the KEF LSX and LSX II in terms of sound quality, power, and technological advancements.The KEF LSX incorporates a Uni-Q driver array, featuring a 4.5-inch magnesium/aluminum alloy mid-bass driver and a 0.75-inch vented aluminum dome tweeter. This driver configuration enables the LSX to deliver a wide and detailed soundstage, with precise imaging and excellent clarity. The LSX offers a frequency response of 49Hz to 47kHz, ensuring a balanced representation of different musical genres.On the other hand, the LSX II retains the Uni-Q driver array but introduces advancements to the internal components. It utilizes a 4.5-inch magnesium/aluminum alloy mid-bass driver and a 0.75-inch vented aluminum dome tweeter. The LSX II also benefits from KEF’s Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), which reduces distortion and enhances soundstage performance. With a frequency response of 45Hz to 47kHz, the LSX II presents a refined and immersive audio experience.In terms of power, the LSX offers a total of 100 watts of amplification (50 watts per speaker), providing ample headroom for room-filling sound. The LSX II, however, ups the ante with 200 watts of total amplification (100 watts per speaker), allowing for more dynamic and impactful audio reproduction.
Connectivity and Features
Both the KEF LSX and LSX II offer a range of connectivity options and convenient features that enhance their usability.The LSX and LSX II support wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless audio streaming from various sources. They also feature Bluetooth connectivity, enabling direct pairing with smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.Additionally, the LSX and LSX II offer network streaming capabilities, allowing access to popular streaming services such as Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz. The speakers can be controlled via dedicated mobile apps, providing intuitive control over playback and audio settings.The LSX II introduces additional connectivity options compared to the original LSX. It includes an HDMI input with Audio Return Channel (ARC), enabling easy integration with televisions and home theater systems. The LSX II also features an optical input, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and a subwoofer output, offering greater flexibility in connecting to external devices.Both models support KEF’s innovative wireless synchronization technology, which ensures precise timing between the left and right speakers, resulting in accurate stereo imaging and an immersive listening experience.
User Experience and Convenience
When it comes to user experience and convenience, both the KEF LSX and LSX II excel.The LSX and LSX II feature a user-friendly setup process, allowing for quick and hassle-free installation. The speakers can be easily connected to the network and controlled via the dedicated mobile app or the included remote control.The LSX II incorporates updated firmware, addressing minor performance improvements and adding new features. KEF frequently releases firmware updates, ensuring that users can enjoy the latest enhancements and advancements for their speakers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the KEF LSX and LSX II are exceptional wireless active speakers that deliver impressive audio performance, stylish design, and convenient features. The choice between the two ultimately depends on specific requirements and preferences.The original LSX provides a superb audio experience with its Uni-Q driver array, offering a balanced soundstage and precise imaging. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact and stylish wireless speaker system.On the other hand, the LSX II builds upon the strengths of the LSX and introduces refinements in audio performance, connectivity options, and technological advancements. With its improved internal components, increased amplification power, and additional connectivity options like HDMI-ARC, the LSX II offers a more immersive and versatile audio experience.Regardless of the model chosen, both the KEF LSX and LSX II showcase KEF’s commitment to delivering high-quality audio solutions for discerning listeners. Whether you prioritize audio performance, design, or convenience, either of these speakers will undoubtedly elevate your home audio setup to new heights.