For those who’ve ever gazed longingly at KEF’s lovely LSX lineup of compact wi-fi bookshelf audio system, however maybe much less longingly at their $1,400 sticker value, then get able to swoon over the corporate’s new LSX II LT Wi-fi Hello-Fi Audio system, which can be found right now for a extra manageable $1,000.
The most recent member of KEF’s powered LS Wi-fi Assortment that features the mid-sized LS50 Wi-fi II bookshelf audio system and the highly effective LS60 Wi-fi floor-standers, KEF introduced right now the LSX II LT (we assume LT stands for “mild”?) that it’s calling a “streamlined model of KEF’s LSX II audio system.”
Geared in the direction of hi-fi fanatics searching for the pristine sound and numerous wi-fi connectivity that KEF’s LSX II audio system are recognized for, the LSX II LTs are virtually similar, save for a number of key variations, apart from the $400 financial savings.
With the identical modern and space-saving 9.5- by 6.1- by 7.1-inch cupboards and modern 11th-generation Uni-Q 4.5-inch driver adorning its entrance face, the LSX II LTs additionally match the LST II’s energy output (a mixed 100 watts per channel), EQ Digital Sign Processing for simple tuning to your room, and correct sound signature that performs properly irrespective of the place you place them. In addition they have multi-room connectivity do you have to pair them with different KEF Wi-fi audio system all through the home.
KEF’s W2 wi-fi streaming platform is, in fact, right here too, bringing with it a smorgasbord of wi-fi connectivity choices, together with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2. Then there’s the entry to streaming providers that run the gamut from Spotify, Tidal, and Apple Music, to Deezer, Qobuz, and Amazon Music. You possibly can even entry any digital music information you might have on a NAS, and the audio system additionally assist Roon Prepared. Every part is definitely managed with the KEF Join app.
The LSX II LTs additionally hold on to the LSX II’s plethora of wired connectivity choices that permit it play properly with every kind of dwelling leisure methods. Inputs embrace HDMI ARC for connecting TVs for for giant sound whereas watching films, in addition to optical and USB-C inputs for computer systems, recreation consoles, and different sources. There’s additionally an RCA out you possibly can join a subwoofer to for additional low finish.
The one enter lacking from the LSX II LTs is the LSX II’s 3.5mm AUX port for connecting analog sources like turntables. Which means vinyl-heads could also be out of luck until they need to undergo the fuss of routing via an analog-to-digial converter (ADC) or, like Sonos does, KEF provides a line-in adapter. We’ve requested KEF about this and can replace accordingly.
That stated, the KEF LSX LTs appear to cater extra to the digital-loving crowd. An ethernet port permits direct connection to your router for the quickest doable web and the supply of PCM music information as much as 24-bit/384kHz. The LSX II LTs additionally assist DSD and MQA decoding and as much as 24-bit/96kHz decision via the optical and USB-C inputs.
The KEF LSX II LT audio system can speak to one another certainly one of two methods — wirelessly, via its personal proprietary low-latency connection or by connecting them with a brand new “specifically designed C-Hyperlink USB-C PD” interspeaker connection cable. This new C-Hyperlink cable is a change from the LSX II’s ethernet cable that used to attach the audio system. Moreover, the LSX II LT makes use of a single energy wire related to only one speaker (the LSX IIs required two), and its the C-Hyperlink cable that as an alternative powers the second speaker.
Obtainable in new Graphite Gray, Stone White, and Sage Inexperienced colours, the KEF LSX II LT wi-fi audio system retail for $999.99. However till January 25th you’ll must login to a myKEF account to purchase them at kef.com. In any other case, they’re accessible from KEF sellers and retailers right now.
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