KEF LS50 Wireles Review

[RDSChicago]

Digital Audio Review just reported that these speakers simply hit it out of the park. John Darko's product of the year. So long separates?

http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/20...comment-139420

[Kuoppis]

He did not really compare them to the Phantom, did he? He did make a reference, but did not specify which Phantom he was referring to...


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[kzhtoo]

One thing I don't get about "wireless" speakers is they really aren't wireless, are they. They just replace speaker cables with power cables. In many cases, for audiophiles anyway, its harder to find a power socket than a set of speaker cables. I get the life style approach and system-in-a-box convenience for modern day space constraints, but these shouldn't really be called or promoted as wireless because they aren't.

[RDSChicago]

I think the wireless nomenclature is that the speakers do away with the need for amps, preamps, DACs, speaker cables and the like. One cable to connect from the source (computer, phono, CD player, music server, etc.) to the applicable input is all that is required.

[sheltie1]

These are supposed to start shipping in the US soon (2nd week of Jan is what I am hearing at this point). I have several pairs on order and really looking forward to getting to try them out.

[sheltie1]

As an update to this, LS50 Wireless are now shipping within the US! Received a pair today with several more on the way.

[RDSChicago]

Awesome! Have you gotten a chance to listen?

[sheltie1]

Not yet....the first few pairs are already spoken for, but I have several more coming..... so I'll get to pop open one of those pairs and "play" around with them.

[RDSChicago]

Which color do you think has the highest WAF since as it stands she won't let me bring anything above basement level!

[sheltie1]

My guess would be white, but probably depends a bit on house decor. I really like the grey color that they have now, and the gloss black looks really nice as well.

[wisnon]

White almost sold out on Amazon. They are here in CH, but no change to get a demo listen yet. 15 mins drive away from work.

http://www.audio-visual-factory.ch/i...-fil-2128.html

[RDSChicago]

Would love to hear some listening impressions.

[wisnon]

2'490.00 CHF(la paire)

2'490.00 CHF(each pair) Brilliant white Frosted Black Titan KEF LS50 Wireless

The new active LS50 and wireless delivers clear, precise, and transparent sound that creates an intense, rich and multi-dimensional sound experience. The beauty of the wireless LS50, its simplicity of use and its elegance will make you shudder with emotions.






2'490.00 CHF

(Each pair)

Brilliant white Frosted Black Titanium


LS50 Wireless
LS50 Wireless LS50 Wireless LS50 Wireless Video The KEF LS50 wireless is an LS50 wired model. The look remains unchanged just like the design. The Uni-Q technology is based on the placement of the tweeter (25 mm aluminum dome) in the center of the woofer (130 mm magnesium alloy). The amplification system also evolves as each enclosure incorporates bi-amplification (200 + 30 watts), to an optimized DSP filter with phase corrector to synchronize the membranes as well as possible.
The pair of speakers does not work completely "wireless" since each speaker must be connected to each other via RJ45 cable. The right speaker, mistress, hosts all the connections. In wireless, there is Wi-Fi (2.4 and 5 GHz) as well as Bluetooth 4.0 aptX. For the wired, it is possible to connect the system in RCA, USB type B as well as S / PDIF Toslink and RJ45. The KEF LS50 Wireless can process music streams at up to 192 kHz / 24 bits. Via USB Type B and up to 96 kHz in optics. A subwoofer output is also present.
It is still the right speaker. You can adjust the listening volume, select the source and start the Bluetooth pairing procedure. In the rear, the speaker also offers correction EQs according to the position: desktop or standing, near a wall or not. An application under iOS and Android is available to optimize even more efficiently the sound rendering

[wisnon]

OK so I just auditioned them...and I love 'em!

Great price, great sound, great convenience. For European/Asian in apartments, its almost PERFECT. For you yanks with tons of retail space in your home, this is an ideal 2nd system that is gentle enough on the pockets.

The new little active KEF should sell like hot cakes to the audiophile crowd living in condos in the big cities. It is the Phantom Killer. White, piano black and titanium are the colour choices. I demoed the black.


I sat in a near field position as the loudspeaker postioning was not great. They sat beside some average size floorstanders and the dealer gentleman didnt want to move too much stuff around. Originally the speakers were about 5 feet apart and he moved them closer to 6ft apart, but almost touching the floorstanders. Despite this, the imaginging was exemplary and the tweeter beats the upgraded one in the Phantom Gold. Very coherent sound, but you would expect this from a standmount, and this is a VERY good one.

The music selection were from 3 of my system demo albums. Markus Miller/Kodo Giant drums, Mussorgsky Gnomus, Fairfield 4 Swing Low/Sweet Chariot, Lofgren Keith dont go, Ozone Percussion Group, Diana Krall - Case of you, etc, were just some of the cuts played. All was done via digital out optical connection from a Cambridge Audio spinner (they only had Ethernet setup there, no wifi).

They dont take up much space, play to 106 dB without subwoofer (only needed for bassheads and HT...not for normal listening...I checked with some depth plumbing organ music).

Lack of DSD is NOT a deal-killing drawback, as you can wifi or USB connect your laptop and with HQP/JRiver convert on the fly to PCM 24/192. The elegance and simplicity of the setup makes up for this minor shortfall.

Careful though, this may make you less audiophile and more musicophile given the turnkey nature of this beast! LoL

[sheltie1]

Thanks for the great review! Nice to hear you loved them.

Sold a pair yesterday to a good customer for his daughter to use in the apartment she is living in currently. Like you mention, they do make a fantastic little setup for a smaller space, and without taking up much room.

As an FYI, KEF is also going to start selling matching (color) stands for these as well. Should start seeing those next month (hopefully).

[RDSChicago]

Thanks Norman. Great review! I have ordered a pair. Now what am I going to do with all of my tube and solid state amps, preamps, cables and DAC's (and speakers)?

OK so I just auditioned them...and I love 'em!

Great price, great sound, great convenience. For European/Asian in apartments, its almost PERFECT. For you yanks with tons of retail space in your home, this is an ideal 2nd system that is gentle enough on the pockets.

The new little active KEF should sell like hot cakes to the audiophile crowd living in condos in the big cities. It is the Phantom Killer. White, piano black and titanium are the colour choices. I demoed the black.


I sat in a near field position as the loudspeaker postioning was not great. They sat beside some average size floor standers and the dealer gentleman didnt want to move too much stuff around. Originally the speakers were about 5 feet apart and he moved them closer to 6ft apart, but almost touching the floorstanders. Despite this, the imaginging was exemplary and the tweeter beats the upgraded one in the Phantom Gold. Very coherent sound, but you would expect this from a standmount, and this is a VERY good one.

The music selection were from 3 of my system demo albums. Markus Miller/Kodo Giant drums, Mussorgsky Gnomus, Fairfiled 4 Swing Low, Lofgren Keith dont go, Ozone Percussion Group, Diana Krall - Case of you, etc, were just some of the cuts played. All was done via digital out optical connection from a Cambridge Audio spinner (they only had Ethernet setup there, no wifi).

They dont take up much space, play to 106 dB without subwoofer (only needed for bassheads and HT...not for normal listening...I checked with some deep plumbing organ music).

No DSD is NOT a deal-killing drawback as you can wifi or USB connect your laptop and with HQP/JRiver convert on the fly to PCM 24/192. The elegance and simplicity of the setup makes up for this minor shortfall.

Careful though, this may make you less audiophile and more musicophile given the turnkey nature of this beast! LoL

[erniejade]

RDSChicago, please post a review of them after you get them. If you are coming from tubes, I wonder how the transition will go for you.
Myself I tried to change from a tube preamp several times over the years but always went back to a tube preamp. My listening room has shrunk down in size over the past few years to 10X9'. The wireless KEF's has my interest.

[wisnon]

Thanks for the great review! Nice to hear you loved them.

Sold a pair yesterday to a good customer for his daughter to use in the apartment she is living in currently. Like you mention, they do make a fantastic little setup for a smaller space, and without taking up much room.

As an FYI, KEF is also going to start selling matching (color) stands for these as well. Should start seeing those next month (hopefully).

Yup, the demo units were on Black dedicated KEF stands. CHF650, so about $600 a pair. Heavy.

[wisnon]

Thanks Norman. Great review! I have ordered a pair. Now what am I going to do with all of my tube and solid state amps, preamps, cables and DAC's (and speakers)?

2nd System...its AND not or. LoL

[RDSChicago]

Or 5th system for many of us ;-)

[Kuoppis]

RDSC, now you are exaggerating, it is only the 4th .


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[RDSChicago]

I wish it were only the 5th!

[RDSChicago]

The LS50 wireless speakers arrived yesterday. They generally sound excellent. I think they need a break in period. The one disappointing aspect is that as of yet, one cannot stream Tidal from an iPhone or iPad wirelessly over AirPlay; only over Bluetooth which still sounds great. You can stream local files on your phone or iPad via WIFI. I called Kef tech support and they hope to add Tidal integration with software updates once licensing arrangements are implemented. The guy at Kef thinks the Bluetooth aptx codec sounds as good as AirPlay/WIFI streaming. I'm sure some audiophiles will differ but Bluetooth streaming sounds pretty good to me with these speakers. Finally, using my laptop Tidal app via the PC connection, the MQA files sound fantastic, unfolding once and streaming either at 88.2 or 96.

It is is a shame the speakers need to be connected by cable as it detracts from the wireless functionality/appearance, unless the speakers are sitting on a credenza where the cable can be hidden.

[sheltie1]

Glad you are enjoying them!!!

[wisnon]

The LS50 wireless speakers arrived yesterday. They generally sound excellent. I think they need a break in period. The one disappointing aspect is that as of yet, one cannot stream Tidal from an iPhone or iPad wirelessly over AirPlay; only over Bluetooth which still sounds great. You can stream local files on your phone or iPad via WIFI. I called Kef tech support and they hope to add Tidal integration with software updates once licensing arrangements are implemented. The guy at Kef thinks the Bluetooth aptx codec sounds as good as AirPlay/WIFI streaming. I'm sure some audiophiles will differ but Bluetooth streaming sounds pretty good to me with these speakers. Finally, using my laptop Tidal app via the PC connection, the MQA files sound fantastic, unfolding once and streaming either at 88.2 or 96.

It is is a shame the speakers need to be connected by cable as it detracts from the wireless functionality/appearance, unless the speakers are sitting on a credenza where the cable can be hidden.

Maybe you can run the cable in the innards of the stands and then flat on the ground between the stands? Carpet/rug to cover it?

[RDSChicago]

Hi Norman,

The stands aren't yet available in the States. It would be great if they have wire management capability as you suggested!

Maybe you can ru. the cable in the u=innards of the stands and then flat on the ground between the stands? Carpet/rug to cover it?

[wisnon]

Hi Norman,

The stands aren't yet available in the States. It would be great if they have wire management capability as you suggested!

My demo was with the stands here in Switz.

In any case, i was talking about suitable generic stands like I have that can accept cables inside the column and haide the worst bits...

I know you are loving 'em!

[Mgard]

Does anyone know how long the CAT6 cable is that ties the two speakers together? Could I purchase an off the shelf CAT6 cable, say 15 foot to have a little more width to work with? I would like to put a pair of these in my living room.

~Mike

[RDSChicago]

I believe it is 9 feet. Here is a very helpful file of FAQ's provided to me last week by Kef Technical Support. I am enjoying the speakers immensely:

https://file.ac/CHfbDjTEvU8/

[Mgard]

I believe it is 9 feet. Here is a very helpful file of FAQ's provided to me last week by Kef Technical Support. I am enjoying the speakers immensely:

https://file.ac/CHfbDjTEvU8/

Thank you RDSChicago. Just curious what color you purchased? I have two black subs that could be used sometime in the future if needed but I am leaning toward the White enclosures. It is great to hear you are impressed with the sound of yours.

~Mike

[RDSChicago]

I chose white. I think all the colors look great, but being a diplomat, I asked my wife which color she found least objectionable, knowing she doesn't like (putting it mildly) any audio equipment I acquire, her viewpoint being that all speakers should be built into the wall and all electronics hidden away in closets. Her answer was white, so white it was!

As to the sound, I am anxious to see the reviews on the speaker. There haven't been very many thus far, although Darko from Digital Audio Revolution named them his product of the year for 2016.

[Mgard]

I see your home situation is the same as mine. I already have 4 pair of speakers in my sound room in the basement but not anywhere else in our home. The first comment will be, why do you need another pair? So like your wife's choice, white is the most unobjectionable. But I am going to surprise her. How does that saying go... " It's Better to Beg For Forgiveness that to Ask for Permission". And like you pointed out, I don't need a lot of audio gear in the room. I was leaning toward a Naim muso until I ran across the Kef LS50. No comparison in the sound.

~Mike

[RDSChicago]

Mike, I laughed out loud when I read your post. Your wife must be talking to mine. I too can't have any systems above ground level. How pathetic that I put up with this!!! But being a divorce lawyer, the old adage, "cheaper to keep 'er," applies in spades. (Please don't share this post with my wife!). So my lower level is filled with a dedicated home theater, several tube and solid state amps, and at least six pairs of excellent speakers. This is in addition to another area, sub-level, of courser, where I listen to my Linkwitz Orion setup with eight channels of Pass Labs amplification driving them. Being limited to the location in the house where I can keep my audio stuff is kind of like the forbidden fruit, if you know what I mean. If my wife let me have a system above the basement level, I'd probably have a fewer number of systems.

The Kef's do sound great and it is so nice to now have to deal with external amplification and DAC's to drive them. If the integrated stands coming out next month do a good job of hiding the cable and power cords, I just might sneak the Kef system upstairs to see if I can get away with it (doubtful).

[sheltie1]

Does anyone know how long the CAT6 cable is that ties the two speakers together? Could I purchase an off the shelf CAT6 cable, say 15 foot to have a little more width to work with? I would like to put a pair of these in my living room.

~Mike

I don't have a pair in front of me to measure, but I do believe that RDSChicago is right on the 9' length (that seems about right). I've not asked KEF if the speakers can support a longer a CAT cable, but don't see why there would be any issues there if you need it longer.

They are fun speakers for sure!! Already sold several pairs of them.

[Mgard]

I can totally sympathize with you. And by the way you named off some sweet audio equipment that you have strategically located at your home. Yes I believe the matching stands will complete the package. Your wife will fall in love with them. ~Mike

[RDSChicago]

Fall in love is extremely optimistic

[Mgard]

Sheltie1, thank you for your post. I missed it earlier as I was huddled in the bathroom sending my last post. Gotta keep these new speakers a surprise! I already have the couch picked out I will be sleeping on after they arrive. Just kidding... I hope. I have a bay window and I would like to put them on either side. It may be around 10 foot across . I can pull the drapes to hide the glass if needed. I think glass behind speakers are a no no.

~Mike

[wisnon]

Fall in love is extremely optimistic

As long as you dont have your family acting as customs agents for all new incoming packages, you will be OK.

Those Linkwitz speakers are NICE!

[RDSChicago]

With the new administration all of my purchases would be held up at the US airport and sent back to their country of origin.

[Mgard]

Kef tech support got back with me on the cable length between speakers.

Hello Mike, we have tested the speakers with a 30 foot cat6 cable and had no issues. You should be absolutely fine with 20 feet.Best,
Technical Services

[Mr Peabody]

I heard a set of these over the weekend. I expected them to sound good, however, I was impressed at how good. They were a bit to close to a corner and a wall on the other side, the owner used the app and had the bass turned down some to compensate, so I suspect they could sound even better with a more optimum set up. So, yes, to get a total package at that price and have it sound that good, I'm sure they must be selling well.

The overall sound was good, no one area of frequency dominated, I was impressed mostly by the bass, both quantity & quality. I heard KEF used the Ref 1 to voice the powered LS50.

[sheltie1]

They are really quite good....I'm also still very impressed with what you get at their price point. It's a pretty darn good deal.

[wisnon]

I heard a set of these over the weekend. I expected them to sound good, however, I was impressed at how good. They were a bit to close to a corner and a wall on the other side, the owner used the app and had the bass turned down some to compensate, so I suspect they could sound even better with a more optimum set up. So, yes, to get a total package at that price and have it sound that good, I'm sure they must be selling well.

The overall sound was good, no one area of frequency dominated, I was impressed mostly by the bass, both quantity & quality. I heard KEF used the Ref 1 to voice the powered LS50.

My EXACT experience too. See my post a few pages back. They sounded great even when not optimally placed and a SW is NOT a must...Total Phantom killer!

If I were to start this hobby over tomorrow, that is where my journey would begin...and possibly end (with SW and source tweaking).

[wisnon]

They are really quite good....I'm also still very impressed with what you get at their price point. It's a pretty darn good deal.

It has to be said...

In a year or 2 when these hit the USED market at say..$1500. They will be the BIGGEST bargain in audio!

[Kuoppis]

My EXACT experience too. See my post a few pages back. They sounded great even when not optimally placed and a SW is NOT a must...Total Phantom killer!

If I were to start this hobby over tomorrow, that is where my journey would begin...and possibly end (with SW and source tweaking).

Heard them, they're quite nice.

But Phantom killer is ridiculous, as Silver Phantoms outplay these little things by a mile. Which is of course not surprising, as the Phantoms are double the price.


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[Mike]

Heard them, they're quite nice.

But Phantom killer is ridiculous, as Silver Phantoms outplay these little things by a mile. Which is of course not surprising, as the Phantoms are double the price.


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Agreed.


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[sheltie1]

Heard them, they're quite nice.

But Phantom killer is ridiculous, as Silver Phantoms outplay these little things by a mile. Which is of course not surprising, as the Phantoms are double the price.


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I would agree that Phantom killer is a bit of stretch, but not sure if I would say that the Phantoms outplay the KEF's by a mile either.

[Kuoppis]

Yes, well, I think they might be comparable in the mids and highs, but the Silver Phantoms go down to 20 Hz - the Kefs just have not much to offer in that region or quite a bit above that for that matter.


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[wisnon]

I would agree that Phantom killer is a bit of stretch, but not sure if I would say that the Phantoms outplay the KEF's by a mile either.

Outplay as in boomy bass?

The KEFs sound WAY more refined and cost half as much. In audiophile terms...that translates to Killer!

[wisnon]

Yes, well, I think they might be comparable in the mids and highs, but the Silver Phantoms go down to 20 Hz - the Kefs just have not much to offer in that region or quite a bit above that for that matter.


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Not comparable at all, and I am talking about the Gold. I have heard all the phantoms and many times.

If all you want is boomy bass, go get a Peachree Audio DeepBlue 1 or 2 and save a ton!