For those that struggle to make room for a high-end pair of loudspeakers, the new KEF LSX II LT wireless speakers might offer a rather promising compact solution. At just 9.5-inches tall, they are flexible for desktop or home stereo use, and retain the same dimensions and speaker drivers as the previous model, LSX II (reviewed here), but cost less.
What’s new?
The KEF LSX II LT wireless speakers are a slightly updated version of the LSX II with a few less features for less money. Although both are sized the same, share the same drivers, and should essentially sound the same, there are a few key differences. The LT version costs $300 less, but requires both speakers to be tethered together via interspeaker cable. On the plus side the main speaker provides power and amplification to the other, so only one AC wall connection is needed.
The prior LSX II also includes MQA support, ROON compatibility, provides both Wireless and Wired interspeaker connectivity, supports Bluetooth 4.2 instead of Bluetooth 5.0, and offers up to six finish options instead of three. The LSX II is priced higher at $1,299 versus just $999 for the LT model.
Wireless Music Streaming
With either LSX II model, just use your favorite music streaming service to send audio to the speakers wirelessly via AirPlay 2, Chromecast, or Bluetooth. Supported music services include Spotify, TIDAL, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. In addition, both TIDAL Connect and Spotify Connect are supported.
The KEF Connect app (iOS/Android) guides users through the setup process upon first use. The app also includes powerful EQ DSP (Digital Signal Processing) that lets users adjust the sound to best suit the room.
Designed to enhance everyday life, users can seamlessly integrate LSX II LT into their home to browse and play music, select sources, use controls such as play and pause, and adjust the volume via their smart home app or control interface. The LSX II LT only requires a single power cord, as the primary speaker powers the secondary one via the interspeaker cable. This is extremely helpful when power sockets are in short supply.
Wired Connectivity
Additional wired connectivity options include HDMI ARC, USB-C, and optical, to connect to a TV, desktop PC, laptop, or gaming console. For additional low bass impact an optional subwoofer, such as the KEF KC62, can be connected through the subwoofer output. However, any powered subwoofer will also work.
Each LSX II LT uses KEF’s 11th generation Uni-Q driver array, an innovative piece of technology which disperses sound evenly and ensures everyone hears the same detailed tune from any position. KEF’s proprietary Music Integrity Engine ensures a perfectly timed performance with clear, accurate and balanced sound, seamlessly optimized with the Uni-Q driver array to deliver complete clarity.
Accessories
The LSX II LT has been carefully designed for various implementations, but its accessories can add to its overall cost. Optional items include the P1 desk pad ($179 at Amazon) for secure placement on a desktop or shelf and the S1 floor stand ($349/pair at Crutchfield) enables stereo placement in any room.
Sold separately, the LSX II LT is compatible with the specially designed C-Link USB-C PD interspeaker cable ($79.99 at Crutchfield), made with high tenacity fabric for enhanced durability and protection. With an impressive length of 8 meters, the C-Link cable offers 5 meters more flexibility than the supplied cable, granting greater freedom in positioning the speakers according to personal preference.
LSX II LT vs. LSX II
LSX II LT | LSX II | |
RELEASED | 2024 | 2022 |
MSRP | $999/pair | $1,299/pair |
DRIVER UNIT | 11th Gen 4.5” Uni-Q | 11th Gen 4.5” Uni-Q |
BUILT-IN AMPLIFIER POWER (PER SYSTEM) | 200W | 200W |
Frequency response (±3dB) measured at 85dB/1m | 54Hz – 28kHz | 54Hz – 28kHz |
MAX. SOURCE RESOLUTION | Up to 24bit/384kHz | Up to 24bit/384kHz |
DSD | DSD | |
– | MQA | |
WIRELESS PLATFORM | W2 Wireless Platform | W2 Wireless Platform |
STREAMING PROTOCOLS SUPPORTED | AirPlay 2 | AirPlay 2 |
Google Chromecast | Google Chromecast | |
UPnP Compatible | UPnP Compatible | |
Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 4.2 | |
– | ROON Ready | |
STREAMING SERVICES | Spotify | Spotify |
Tidal | Tidal | |
Amazon Music | Amazon Music | |
Qobuz | Qobuz | |
Deezer | Deezer | |
QQ Music | QQ Music | |
Internet Radio | Internet Radio | |
Podcast | Podcast | |
INPUTS | HDMI ARC | HDMI ARC |
TOSLINK Optical | TOSLINK Optical | |
USB Type C | USB Type C | |
USB Type C (interspeaker) | RJ45 Ethernet (interspeaker) | |
RJ45 Ethernet (network) | RJ45 Ethernet (network) | |
– | Analog 3.5mm Auxiliary | |
– | Digital Coaxial | |
OUTPUT | RCA Subwoofer output x 1 | RCA Subwoofer output x 1 |
COLORS | 3 total: Graphite Grey, Stone White, Sage Green | 6 total: Carbon Black Mineral White, Olive Green, Cobalt Blue, Lava Red, Soundwave by Terence Conran Edition |
DIMENSIONS | 240 × 155 × 180 mm (9.5 × 6.1 × 7.1 in.) | 240 × 155 × 180 mm (9.5 × 6.1 × 7.1 in.) |
WEIGHT | 6.8kg (15.0lbs) | 7.2kg (15.6lbs) |
Price & Availability
The new KEF LSX II LT are available for $999.99/pair at Crutchfield in Graphite Grey, Stone White and Sage Green.
For more information: us.kef.com/pages/lsx-2-lt
Related video: Better Than Sonos? KEF LSX II Wireless Speakers Review (YouTube)