KEF Debuts Revolutionary 'XIO' Soundbar Featuring Pioneering Smart Positioning Technology
In a groundbreaking move, British audio pioneer KEF has entered the soundbar market with its new high-end offering, the KEF XIO. This sleek, vertical-profile soundbar promises to deliver a sophisticated, immersive home cinema experience with a suite of advanced technologies and connectivity options.
## Key Features
The KEF XIO is a 5.1.2-channel Dolby Atmos system, powered by 12 Class-D amplifiers. This setup enables a three-dimensional soundstage that reproduces height and surround effects for true cinematic immersion. The soundbar integrates KEF’s renowned Uni-Q® coaxial drivers, with up to eight models placed for wide horizontal and vertical dispersion. This design widens the “sweet spot” and delivers precise imaging, making it suitable for both music and movies.
Four large, rectangular P185 bass drivers utilize P-Flex surround technology, borrowed from KEF’s high-end subwoofers, for deeper, more controlled bass than typically found in soundbars this size. The KEF XIO’s low frequency performance is further enhanced by an arrangement of twin KEF P185 LF drivers positioned back to back in a mechanical distortion-reducing force-cancelling configuration.
Patent-pending Velocity Control Technology (VECO) monitors and adjusts the bass drivers’ movement to minimize distortion and optimize low-frequency performance. The KEF XIO also includes Intelligent Placement Technology, a built-in calibration tool that adapts the soundstage to account for objects around the soundbar.
## Advanced Connectivity
The KEF XIO includes HDMI 2.1 eARC for high-quality audio transmission and synchronization with modern TVs. It also offers optical input, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB for versatile source connection. Comprehensive streaming support is available through Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Amazon Music, Qobuz, and Deezer. Wireless subwoofer support is provided via an optional KW2 RX adapter, as well as a standard subwoofer output.
## Modern Smart Features
The KEF XIO is equipped with Wi-Fi 6, AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, and the KEF Connect app for seamless integration and control. It also features Night, Music, and Dialogue Modes for different listening preferences.
## Innovations
The KEF XIO marks KEF’s debut in the soundbar market, incorporating decades of loudspeaker expertise into a compact, premium format. It delivers performance approaching full-size home theater systems, yet is easy to integrate into a range of environments. Wireless subwoofer compatibility with a simple adapter adds to its flexibility.
Intelligent Placement Technology ensures optimal sound regardless of installation, removing the need for manual calibration. The KEF XIO also features a new W2 Wireless Platform, adapted from KEF’s LS Wireless Speaker Collection, for premium streaming results from services like Tidal, Amazon Music, Qobuz, and Deezer.
## Availability and Pricing
Early access to KEF's new premium XIO soundbar is available now via KEF’s US and UK Websites. The KEF XIO is priced at $2,499.99/£1,999.
In conclusion, the KEF XIO stands out as a premium, all-in-one audio solution that blends KEF’s engineering heritage with cutting-edge innovation for both music and home cinema enthusiasts.
- This high-end soundbar, the KEF XIO, is not just a soundbar - it's a gadget that demonstrates the intersection of technology and musical excellence, offering a 5.1.2-channel immersive sound experience with innovative features like Uni-Q drivers, Velocity Control Technology, and Adaptive Room EQ.
- With its advanced connectivity options, powerful performance, and sleek design, the KEF XIO Enhances your gadget arsenal, bringing a cinema-like experience to your living room while resonating with the tech-savvy and audiophiles alike.
