The KEF LSX is a compact, stylish, and wireless speaker system that promises big sound in a small package. These speakers, designed for both music and movies, are a great choice for those looking for high-quality audio in a space-saving form factor. With their sleek design and versatile connectivity options, the KEF LSX can seamlessly integrate into any home decor and audio setup.
Featuring the renowned Uni-Q driver technology, the LSX aims to deliver a truly immersive and detailed listening experience. This technology, developed by KEF, combines a tweeter and woofer into a single driver, creating a wide soundstage and accurate sound reproduction. The LSX also boasts a powerful amplifier built-in, allowing for a clear and dynamic sound that fills the room.
With its wireless capabilities, the LSX eliminates the need for messy cables and offers a convenient way to connect to your favorite audio sources. You can stream music directly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer via Bluetooth or connect to a wired source using the included optical input. Additionally, the LSX is compatible with the KEF Connect app, allowing you to fine-tune sound settings and access additional features.
This review will delve deeper into the features and performance of the KEF LSX, exploring its strengths and weaknesses. We’ll analyze its sound quality, connectivity options, design, and overall user experience to determine whether this compact speaker system lives up to its promises and delivers the audiophile experience you’re looking for.
| Name: | KEF LSX |
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| Price: | |
| Rating: | 4.4 out of 5 stars |
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Introduction
The KEF LSX is a compact, wireless speaker system that boasts impressive sound quality for its size. It’s designed to deliver a truly immersive listening experience, whether you’re enjoying your favorite music, podcasts, or movies. With its sleek and modern design, the LSX fits seamlessly into any home décor, and its versatile connectivity options make it easy to integrate into your existing audio setup. We’ll dive into the details of this speaker system, exploring its design, sound quality, features, and overall performance to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your audio needs.
Design and Build Quality
The KEF LSX is a stunning example of how good looks and impressive audio quality can go hand in hand. The speakers are crafted with a meticulous attention to detail, boasting a stylish and modern design that complements any home décor. The sleek, compact form factor makes them easy to place anywhere in your living space, while the high-quality materials used in their construction ensure a premium feel.
The LSX speakers come in a variety of finishes, including a vibrant olive green that adds a touch of personality to the design. The enclosures are made from a combination of MDF and ABS plastic, resulting in a solid and robust build. The front grilles are made of a woven fabric that adds a touch of sophistication, while also protecting the delicate drivers underneath.
The speakers are fitted with a single, large 4.5-inch Uni-Q driver that delivers a wide, even soundstage. The driver is also equipped with a dedicated tweeter, which sits in the center of the woofer cone, ensuring a seamless integration of high and low frequencies. The Uni-Q driver is a hallmark of KEF’s design philosophy, and it’s a testament to the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional audio fidelity.
One of the key design features of the LSX is their integrated amplifier. This means that there’s no need for an external amp or receiver, making them incredibly easy to set up and use. The amplifier is housed within the speakers, and it provides ample power to drive the drivers, delivering a powerful and dynamic listening experience. The small footprint makes them perfect for smaller spaces, and the premium materials and construction contribute to a high-end look and feel. The LSX might not be the largest or most imposing speakers on the market, but they certainly make a statement with their sophisticated design.
Sound Quality
The KEF LSX delivers a sound that is both detailed and impactful, exceeding expectations for a speaker of its size. The soundstage is remarkably wide and deep, placing you right in the middle of the action. Vocals are clear and well-defined, with a natural warmth that makes them both intimate and engaging. The highs are crisp and detailed, without ever being harsh or fatiguing. The bass is surprisingly powerful and punchy, considering the speaker’s compact size. It delivers a satisfyingly deep and full low-end without feeling muddy or bloated.
The LSX excels at reproducing a wide variety of genres. From acoustic music and classical to pop, rock, and even electronic music, these speakers handle everything with grace and precision. They manage to maintain clarity and detail even at high volumes, without sacrificing any of the warmth and richness that defines their sound signature.
One of the most notable aspects of the LSX’s sound is its ability to create a realistic sense of space. The imaging is exceptional, with instruments and vocals being precisely placed within the soundstage. This creates a truly immersive listening experience, drawing you further into the music.
The LSX’s versatility is further enhanced by its built-in digital signal processing (DSP) which allows you to tailor the sound to your preferences. The accompanying KEF Connect app provides a range of EQ presets that allow you to fine-tune the sound for specific genres, listening environments, or your personal tastes. You can even create custom EQ profiles for specific music sources or rooms.
While the LSX excels in most aspects of sound quality, it is worth noting that the bass response might not be as impactful or deep as some larger, dedicated subwoofer systems. However, for the vast majority of listeners, the LSX’s bass performance will be more than adequate and even impressive for its size. Overall, the KEF LSX offers an exceptionally balanced and nuanced listening experience that is both engaging and enjoyable. It’s a sound that is both powerful and detailed, while still remaining remarkably smooth and natural. It’s a sound that you’ll want to keep coming back to, no matter what kind of music you enjoy.
Features and Connectivity
The KEF LSX is a feature-packed speaker system that offers a wide range of connectivity options to suit your listening needs.
Firstly, you’ll be pleased to know that the LSX is a wireless speaker system, meaning you can enjoy your music without the hassle of tangled wires. The speakers connect to each other wirelessly, and you can connect them to your devices using Bluetooth 5.0 or the included 2.4GHz Wi-Fi adapter. This setup offers a stable and reliable connection for streaming your music wirelessly from any compatible device.
You can also connect the LSX to your home network through a dedicated app. This app allows you to control the speakers’ settings, including volume, EQ, and source selection. The KEF Connect app allows you to create multi-room audio setups and control your LSX speakers from multiple devices, giving you the flexibility to tailor your listening experience.
The LSX also supports a variety of audio formats, including AAC, aptX, and high-resolution audio formats like FLAC and ALAC. You can enjoy your music in high fidelity, no matter what source you are using. This means that you can truly appreciate the quality of your music recordings, regardless of whether you’re streaming from Spotify or Tidal, or playing back a high-resolution FLAC file stored on your computer.
If you prefer a wired connection, you can also connect the LSX to your devices through its optical input or 3.5mm jack. This gives you the option to connect devices that don’t have wireless capabilities, such as a CD player or a TV. The inclusion of both wired and wireless connectivity options gives you the flexibility to use the LSX in a variety of scenarios.
In addition to its connectivity features, the KEF LSX also offers a number of other features that enhance your listening experience. The LSX offers a unique “Uni-Q” driver configuration, a patented technology developed by KEF that aims to deliver a more natural and immersive soundstage. You also get built-in digital signal processing (DSP) to optimize the sound quality for different listening environments. This ensures that you can enjoy the best possible sound, regardless of where you place your speakers.
Setup and Use
Setting up the LSX is a breeze. You’ll need to download the KEF Connect app for iOS or Android, which acts as your control center for everything from initial pairing to adjusting EQ settings. The app guides you through the process, making it intuitive even for tech novices.
Simply connect your smartphone to the LSX’s built-in Wi-Fi network, then follow the on-screen prompts. The speakers will automatically connect to your home Wi-Fi network, and you’re ready to start streaming.
You can also connect devices directly to the LSX via Bluetooth, but the wireless connection offers superior audio quality and stability. If you prefer a wired connection, there’s a 3.5mm auxiliary input on the back of one speaker.
The KEF Connect app is well-designed and easy to navigate. You can use it to control volume, select your audio source, adjust the EQ, and manage multiple LSX units if you have a multi-room setup.
For music lovers who appreciate the convenience of streaming services, the LSX integrates seamlessly with Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and AirPlay 2. You can also connect the LSX to your existing multi-room audio system via the KEF Connect app.
Overall, the LSX offers a user-friendly experience. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or a casual listener, setting up and using this compact speaker system is a straightforward and enjoyable process.
Comparisons
The KEF LSX is a strong contender in the world of premium wireless speakers. It faces stiff competition, especially from other high-end brands like Sonos and B&W. When comparing the LSX to its rivals, several key factors stand out:
Sonos Roam SL: The Sonos Roam SL is a portable smart speaker known for its convenience and versatility. While it’s more portable than the LSX, the LSX offers superior sound quality, particularly in the bass frequencies. The LSX also has a more sophisticated design, but it’s not as portable. The Roam SL integrates seamlessly with the Sonos ecosystem, making it a great choice for multi-room setups.
B&W Formation Flex: The B&W Formation Flex is another excellent compact speaker, renowned for its crisp, detailed sound. While both the LSX and Formation Flex offer exceptional sound quality, the LSX might edge out the Formation Flex with its slightly fuller sound and deeper bass. The Formation Flex is more compact, making it a better choice for smaller spaces, while the LSX’s larger footprint might better suit larger rooms. However, the Formation Flex boasts superior portability and integrates seamlessly with B&W’s Formation ecosystem.
Audioengine HD6: The Audioengine HD6 is a wired speaker system known for its high-fidelity sound and minimalist design. While the HD6 delivers outstanding audio quality, the LSX’s wireless capabilities make it a more convenient option for everyday use. The HD6’s wired nature restricts its placement, whereas the LSX’s wireless connectivity allows for flexible placement throughout a room. However, the HD6 is a more affordable option for audiophiles seeking a wired system.
Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen: The Naim Mu-so 2nd Gen is a high-end wireless speaker system known for its powerful sound and elegant design. While both the LSX and Mu-so 2nd Gen deliver exceptional sound quality, the Mu-so 2nd Gen stands out with its more expansive soundstage and deeper bass. The Mu-so 2nd Gen also comes with a more sophisticated feature set, including a built-in radio and a larger display. However, the Mu-so 2nd Gen is significantly more expensive than the LSX, making it a premium choice for discerning audiophiles.
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Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a premium wireless speaker with exceptional sound quality, a sleek design, and convenient features, the KEF LSX is an excellent option. However, if you prioritize portability, smart features, or a more affordable price point, other speakers might be a better fit.
Verdict
The KEF LSX is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a stylish and high-performing wireless speaker system. Its compact size belies its powerful sound, delivering a detailed and immersive audio experience. The LSX excels in clarity, providing crisp highs, rich mids, and punchy bass. It seamlessly integrates with various devices thanks to its versatile connectivity options. While its price tag is on the higher end, the LSX justifies its cost with its exceptional audio quality, sophisticated design, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re an audiophile or simply looking to elevate your listening experience, the KEF LSX is a compelling choice.
Conclusion
The KEF LSX is a compelling choice for those seeking a compact, stylish, and high-performing wireless speaker system. It excels in delivering a rich, detailed, and immersive soundstage, thanks to its advanced acoustic technology and carefully engineered drivers. The minimalist design seamlessly blends into any environment, and the intuitive setup and user-friendly app make it easy to enjoy your music. While the price tag may seem steep for some, the LSX justifies its cost with its exceptional sound quality, versatility, and premium build. If you’re looking for a wireless speaker system that delivers on both audio excellence and visual elegance, the KEF LSX is well worth considering.
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In conclusion, the KEF LSX is an impressive wireless speaker system that delivers exceptional sound quality, stylish design, and user-friendly features. Its compact size and versatile connectivity make it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications, from desktop listening to filling a small room with rich audio. While the price point might seem steep for some, the LSX justifies its cost with its sonic prowess and overall performance.
The LSX excels in delivering clear, detailed audio with a wide soundstage, making it a joy to listen to a variety of genres. Its built-in DAC ensures that music sounds its best, regardless of the source. The intuitive app allows for easy control and customization, while the wireless connectivity provides seamless streaming from multiple devices.
Whether you’re an audiophile or simply looking for a high-quality speaker system to enhance your listening experience, the KEF LSX is a compelling option. Its combination of performance, design, and convenience makes it a standout choice in the crowded world of wireless speakers.
Overall, the KEF LSX is a highly recommended speaker system that delivers on its promises. Its exceptional sound quality, elegant design, and user-friendly features make it a standout choice for anyone looking for a premium audio experience in a compact package.
Karim 
Bilal