Assessed KEF's debut soundbar: highlights and drawbacks expressed
The KEF XIO soundbar has made a name for itself in the world of premium audio equipment, with its precision in sound rendering and delivery of low-level dynamics. This single soundbar offers 5.1.2 immersive surround sound support, courtesy of its eight Uni-Q MX drivers and four 'P185' bass drivers.
The XIO's sound is described as exciting yet precise, delivering a high-impact, immersive sound experience with both high-resolution audio and spatial audio capabilities. The Uni-Q MX drivers, smaller versions of KEF's iconic Uni-Q technology, provide a wide soundstage and precise imaging, while the P185 racetrack-shaped low-frequency drivers offer surprisingly deep bass for its size.
Powered by 12 Class-D amplifier channels, the XIO ensures robust sound quality. It also boasts support for wireless connectivity with AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Bluetooth 5.3, and Wi-Fi 6. The soundbar includes KEF's W2 Wireless Platform, Music Integrity Engine (MIE), and patent-pending Velocity Control Technology (VECO) for distortion-free bass.
Compared to similar ambition soundbars with separate subwoofers and/or satellite speakers, the XIO has a relatively compact design. However, it lacks a display on the soundbar itself, and its buttons blend in with the chassis, making them less tactile. The XIO's companion app acts as a gateway to streaming connections like Amazon Music, Qobuz, Tidal Connect, Deezer, and Spotify Connect.
The XIO soundbar has one HDMI 2.1 eARC socket, one optical connection, and Bluetooth. Unfortunately, it does not support 4k/120Hz passthrough or have HDMI passthrough, which may be a drawback for some users. Connecting sources to the XIO soundbar instead of the TV would require multiple cables, and the soundbar's rear panel does not offer a more generous spread of connections. The XIO also lacks multiple HDMI 2.1 inputs.
When comparing the KEF XIO soundbar to the Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max, the XIO is noted for its advanced driver technology, including the Uni-Q MX arrays and P-Flex bass drivers, which provide clear spatial imaging and deep bass. The Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max is known for its high-quality audio and ability to upscale stereo tracks to immersive formats, but specific comparisons to the KEF XIO's bass would depend on detailed reviews.
For details on which model is "best," it would depend on specific preferences for sound quality, connectivity options, and additional features like the KEF Connect app for customisation. The KEF XIO is the best high-end model in the best soundbars buying guide and the best premium model in the best Dolby Atmos soundbars page.
- For those looking to buy a high-end speaker, the KEF XIO soundbar is a contender, known for its precision in sound and immersive surround sound support.
- The XIO soundbar is powered by 12 Class-D amplifier channels, offering robust sound quality and support for wireless connectivity options.
- The companion app for the KEF XIO soundbar allows streaming connections to services like Amazon Music, Qobuz, Tidal Connect, Deezer, and Spotify Connect.
- In technology news, the KEF XIO soundbar has been praised for its advanced driver technology, with the Uni-Q MX arrays and P-Flex bass drivers providing clear spatial imaging and deep bass.
- While the KEF XIO soundbar offers impressive sound quality, it lacks a display on the soundbar itself and does not support 4k/120Hz passthrough or have HDMI passthrough, which may be a deal-breaker for some users.
- In a preview of the latest gadgets and technology, the Sennheiser Ambeo Soundbar Max is noted for its high-quality audio and ability to upscale stereo tracks to immersive formats, but comparisons with the KEF XIO's bass would require a detailed review.
