KEF is responsible for many high end speakers with incredibly detailed treble performance. Their new product, LS50, just hit the market, but a lot of you may be tentative to take the plunge because of its staggering price tag.
To help you make the right decision, our expert team has conducted a thorough KEF LS50 Wireless II review.
Pros
- Amazing audio quality
- Timed performance for better results
- LS50 Wireless II is available in carbon black, titanium grey and in mineral white as well
- Connects to app with Spotify connect
- Airplay 2, Google Chromecast built in among others
- Advanced digital signal processing
- Uni Q Driver Array
- Easy setup
- KEF Connect app
- Multiple connection options
- Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT)
- Smooth, incredibly detailed treble
- Roon ready
- Perfectly timed performance
- Both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled
Cons
- High price tag
- Stand sold separately
KEF LS50 Wireless II Design
Perhaps one of the most advanced bookshelf speakers, the KEF LS50 Wireless II has a very unique build. They are small bookshelf speakers but can be converted into tower speakers with a stand.
There are multiple matte finishes you can choose from to mix and match with your interior decor as well as a crimson red special edition version that will give your living room a pop of color.
The Uni Q Driver Array is also visible from the surface. The 12th generation Uni Q Driver Array embodies the tweeter and the midrange cone. The mid and bass drivers are powered by dedicated 280w class D amplifiers and the LS50 also has a 100w class a b amplifier for the highs.
There is also a touch control panel, which is a unique feature of the LS50 Wireless II. It lights up to indicate your settings and the panel takes control of basic functions such as turning the speakers on and off, volume control, wireless connectivity and mute.
To give you more flexibility, the KEF LS50 Wireless II also includes an infrared remote control for the more in-depth features. All the connections can be found on the back.
The new LS50 Wireless II supports wired and wireless connectivity. The wired connections come with a choice of coaxial, auxiliary or optical selections.
The proprietary metamaterial absorption technology will dampen the undesired sound from rear drivers to make sure the LS50 WIreless II KEF speaker will only bring distortion-free sound.
Features of the KEF LS50 Wireless II
If you are an audiophile, then you know KEF has never disappointed consumers with its hi-fi speakers, and the LS50 Wireless II speakers are no exception.
Other than the amazing sound quality, what else can the bookshelf speakers offer you? Our team is going to address all the features you get in this part of the KEF LS50 Wireless II review.
Sound Quality
Our experts will start by saying the Wireless II KEF LS50 creates a wide soundstage with dynamic audio clarity and detail. KEF doesn’t disappoint with these wireless hi-fi speakers that can deliver a perfectly timed audio performance every single time.
This speaker system can offer support for streaming 384kHz as well as MQA and DSD256, depending on the connection. It’s also worth it for our experts to mention the supported sound formats which include: MP3, M4A, AAC, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, WMA, LPCM and Ogg Vorbis.
The KEF LS50 Wireless II is not only hi-fi stereo speakers, they have KEF’s specialized Music Integrity Engine, which optimizes the drivers in the stereo speakers to improve the sound KEF LS50 delivers.
KEF says users can tune the sound to their personal preferences with the dedicated KEF app. This app tuning ability includes the mid bass, bass, and highs and lows and boosted performance for better imaging.
Although the hi-fi stereo speakers don’t feature advanced sound technologies, this all-in-one speaker doesn’t need it with all the dedicated components.
Connections
The LS50 features both wired and wireless connections. You can choose to play content via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi [1] for wireless connection or opt for analog 3.5mm auxiliary cable.
However, LS50 does have HDMI eARC, which KEF says is the best, and our experts wholeheartedly agree.
For wired connection, there is also an ethernet port, coaxial, optical and auxiliary inputs, a subwoofer output and of course, the mentioned 3.5mm.
All the connections are conveniently located on the back of the components to keep everything gathered together and out of sight.
Wireless Connectivity
When speakers offer wireless connectivity, our experts usually recommend this form of connection versus wired. This is for the convenience of placement and clean setup. The LS50 offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. The speakers can connect to your home network system in a matter of seconds and play music from apps.
Then there is Bluetooth, which is the most common form of wireless connection offered by most media devices. Having Bluetooth will further ensure compatibility with your laptop, tablet, or TV.
App Compatibility
The wireless features also allow for app compatibility. The LS50 can be controlled with the KEF Connect app, which can act as a remote control or connect to music apps such as Tidal, Amazon Music, Qobuz, Spotify, and more. You can also connect to internet radio stations if you wish.
The KEF connect app is very easy to use and the equalizer is easily accessed to tune the speakers to your liking.
KEF LS50 Wireless II Setup
The setup of the KEF LS50 Wireless II is a simple one. Not only should products have excellent sound, the setup shouldn’t take more than a few minutes to get our audio team’s star of approval.
These bookshelf speakers come with everything you need in the box and come ready to pair with streaming apps. The cables and user manual also come with the speakers.
Bookshelf speakers can be used as a primary speaker system or satellite speakers, so it’s important for them to be easily integrated into your setup.
Price
Our team understands that the price of the KEF LS50 is a huge deterrent for many individuals. We will admit it’s a hefty price tag, but one way to save on cash is to choose a more affordable color.
Manufacturers often price the same product differently not according to sound, but according to the shade.
Our team finds it amusing that the special edition red is actually a lower price than the matte black. Regardless of the color you choose, the price is still a steep one. Our experts hope to put your mind at ease by telling you the sound quality from the LS50 is unmatched and high end.
Aside from the sound, the price also goes to the innovative technology, added bonus features and compatibility. One thing our experts wish KEF did was include the speaker stands with the purchase.
If you plan on using the LS50 solely as bookshelf or satellite speakers, this would be less of an issue. However, the stands can transform them into tower speakers with elevated sound.
Unfortunately, if you want them to be floorstanding, you have to shell out extra cash for the stands. Our team suggests placing them on an elevated surface you have in your home to save on the price.
FAQ
How good are KEF LS50?
The KEF LS50 is incredible. These bookshelf speakers are the epitome of innovative technology and design. The speakers are designed and engineered in England and are outfitted with advanced features such as Metamaterial Absorption Technology, support for multiple audio formats, high quality amplifiers and a Music Integrity Engine.
How do I reset my KEF LS50 wireless?
You can reset your KEF LS50 Wireless by pressing the reset button. The reset button is located on the back panel of the speaker. You will need to find a pin or something small enough to reach the button and press down. Only release when the blinking light is solid. This will take you back to the factory settings of the LS50.
How do I update my KEF LS50 wireless firmware?
You can update your KEF LS50 wireless firmware by going to the KEF support page. You will need to install the KEF firmware update tool. On the page, select the right program for your computer, install it, then follow the instructions to update the firmware.
Where are KEF LS50 speakers made?
KEF LS50 speakers are made in China. The LS50 speakers are designed and engineered in England, but the manufacturing of the parts and construction of the device is conducted in China.
KEF LS50 Wireless II Review Conclusion
Our experts’ in-depth KEF LS50 Wireless II review has very positive results. Our team has concluded that these wireless bookshelf speakers are packed full of proprietary technology such as Metamaterial Absorption Technology and a Music Integrity Engine.
Not only that, but the included amplifiers will propel the sound, filling the room with a dynamic soundstage.
The KEF LS50 Wireless II is also highly compatible with other devices, thanks to the wireless support and app integration that make it convenient to use and pleasant to hear.
The post KEF LS50 Wireless II Review — New Speakers Promising Impressive Audio appeared first on The Product Analyst.
from The Product Analyst https://theproductanalyst.com/kef-ls50-wireless-ii-review/
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