KEF's latest Dolby Atmos soundbar defies the conventional notion of a soundbar, boasting features beyond mere audio output.
KEF XIO: A High-Performance Dolby Atmos Soundbar
The KEF XIO, a standalone Dolby Atmos soundbar, has made a strong impression at Audio Advice Live 25 with its immersive and detailed audio performance. This all-in-one soundbar system, boasting a 5.1.2-channel configuration, delivers audiophile-grade sound quality that could potentially dominate the high-end all-in-one soundbar space.
The KEF XIO is equipped with 12 total drivers, each individually amplified by Class D amplifiers, delivering a total power of 820 watts. The soundbar features six 2-inch Uni-Q MX mid/high drivers, two 2-inch full-range drivers, and four 7-inch bass drivers arranged in a force-cancelling configuration. This advanced driver technology allows the KEF XIO to produce clear, dynamic sound with exceptional sound effects positioning.
The KEF XIO supports various streaming services, including Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, and more, which can be streamed over Wi-Fi via the KEF Connect app. It also offers wireless music streaming via Bluetooth, AirPlay, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect.
At Audio Advice Live 25, the KEF XIO was demonstrated with popular demo tracks like the We Will Rock You scene from the Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody and the motorcycle race/King Kong scene from Ready Player One. Porter's vocals and instruments like guitar, standup bass, and drums were natural and clear in the mix on the KEF XIO. The super-compact KC92 subwoofer added an extra layer of low-frequency depth to the demo.
The KEF XIO has a premium design with an aluminum top plate and fabric mesh grilles in black or silver finishes. It is available now, and a full review of it will be posted on our platform shortly.
Key Features and Specifications of KEF XIO:
- Drivers: Six 2-inch Uni-Q MX mid/high drivers, two 2-inch full-range drivers, four 7-inch bass drivers
- Amplification: 12 Class D amplifiers (8 for mids/highs, 4 for bass)
- Frequency Response: 34 Hz – 20 kHz (±3 dB)
- Max SPL: ~102 dB @ 1 m
- Connectivity: HDMI eARC, Optical, Subwoofer RCA out, Ethernet, USB-C (service)
- Wireless: Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi (2.4/5/6 GHz), AirPlay, compatible with Spotify/Tidal/Qobuz streaming services
- Sound Processing: Includes music-calibrating DSP and an internal gyroscope that adjusts output depending on installation orientation (wall-mounted or shelf)
- Design: Elegant aluminum top plate, fabric covering, available in Slate Black or Silver Grey, wall or shelf mountable
- Compatibility: Supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, MPEG-H, Sony 360 Reality Audio, and works with wired or wireless subwoofers and upcoming wireless surround speakers for 5.1.4 upgrade
Ideal for large-screen home theaters or luxury apartments where audiophile sound quality and simplicity are valued, the soundbar replaces a traditional multi-speaker setup with a sophisticated all-in-one system.
When compared to the Sonos Arc Ultra and Samsung HW-QS700F, the KEF XIO stands out for its audiophile-grade sound with advanced driver tech and powerful amplification. The Sonos Arc Ultra excels through ecosystem integration and user-friendly tuning (Trueplay), but is similarly priced to the KEF and may lack the depth of bass and powerful drivers of the XIO. The Samsung HW-QS700F targets a different segment with a 3.1.2 layout, innovative gyro-based speaker configuration for placement flexibility, and a more affordable price, positioned as a versatile but less audiophile-centric soundbar.
In summary, the KEF XIO is a premium, audiophile-oriented Dolby Atmos soundbar with a high-power, sophisticated driver and DSP system designed for immersive home theater performances, while the Sonos Arc Ultra focuses on ecosystem and tuning, and the Samsung HW-QS700F offers excellent value and placement flexibility for a mid-tier price point. The KEF XIO’s unique features like the internal gyroscope for sound optimization and VECO bass technology elevate it above many other standalone soundbars in terms of pure sound quality and technical innovation.
Adding a single KC92 subwoofer to the KEF XIO system will double the total system price. The KEF XIO will be available at a price of $1,999 - $2,499 / AU$3,600.
The KEF XIO, a premium all-in-one soundbar system, is not only equipped with high-performance drivers but also supports wireless streaming from popular platforms like Amazon Music and Qobuz. Moreover, this technology-driven device can be paired with wireless speakers and headphones for a more immersive audio experience.
For audiophiles seeking a superior sound system, the KEF XIO, along with wireless speakers or headphones, could potentially dominate the high-end gadget space, offering a seamless blend of clear, dynamic sound effects and advanced technology for an immersive audio experience at home or on the go.
